Mercer Alternatives leaders Raelan Lambert, John Jackson, and Erik Sebusch discuss the firm's hedge fund research, blind pool assets, building relationships with managers, concerns about vesting schedules for hedge funds, client needs, team empowerment, and the importance of hard work.

John Jackson, Global Head of Hedge Fund Research at Mercer, shares his expertise on hedge fund selection and portfolio construction. He discusses the critical role of manager selection and how top-down strategies integrate into this process. The conversation highlights the importance of diversification and active management, particularly in volatile markets. John emphasizes the value of emerging managers, the challenges of launching new funds, and the need for transparency in hedge fund management. His insights shed light on optimizing allocations in a shifting financial landscape.