Alternative investments have become the 'brooding omnipresence' of modern finance. As such, they are at the core of any significant discussion relating to asset allocation, risk management, and portfolio design. The topics outlined and discussed in this text provide a meaningful stop on the road toward understanding the complexities and rewards of these instruments. -Garry Crowder, Director, Institute for Alternative Investment Education and Research Sponsored by the CAIA Association, the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) program consists of a two-tier exam process (Level I and Level II) through which you may earn the CAIA charter. The Level I exam challenges your understanding of the alternative investment market's tools and terms, and tests your knowledge of various trading strategies and performance measurements. The Level II exam assesses how you would apply the knowledge and analytics learned in Level I within an asset allocation framework. CAIA Level II: Advanced Core Topics in Alternative Investments contains virtually all of the material on alternative investments that potential Level II candidates would need to know as they prepare for the exam-a multifaceted assembly of questions and problem-solving tasks. Since the tools and terms introduced in Level I provide the basis for the second level of this program, the information found here will continue to focus on alternative investments-hedge funds, private equity, commodities and managed futures, and credit derivatives-but in greater depth and in the context of risk management and asset allocation. Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to explore new areas within the alternative investment arena or a new industry participant seeking to establish a solid understanding of alternative investments, CAIA Level II: Advanced Core Topics in Alternative Investments is the best way to achieve these goals, and the smartest way to prepare for such a demanding exam. Take your first steps toward attaining the CAIA charter by picking up CAIA Level I: An Introduction to Core Topics in Alternative Investments.