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Qualified Professional Asset Manager (QPAM)

A Qualified Professional Asset Manager, or a QPAM, is a professional manager of funds and investments who holds an SEC- registered investment adviser certification. This enables the QPAM to work in areas that are otherwise barred to managers due to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974. In order to be qualified as a QPAM, an investment adviser must have at least $85 million in Assets Under Management (AUM) and $1 million in shareholder equity.

A QPAM is readily sought out by various institutions and particularly pension plan administrators. The role of the QPAM is to provide guidance to such administrators on investments and to ensure that potential investments are compliant with ERISA, as well as making sure that all possible risks have been taken into consideration. The QPAM looks to actively manage investments with the goal of minimizing risks, as well as maximizing gains. As a result, a QPAM must possess extensive knowledge in the fields of market analysis, finance and investment strategies in order to form the best possible strategies for their client.

A QPAM is also tasked with monitoring investment markets for potential opportunities and for changes in the markets that could affect their client’s investments. The QPAM also keeps accurate records of all trade activity and may need to perform required backtesting procedures to ensure that investments are performing in-line with established investment strategies. Additionally, they must also ensure that any investments made aren't violating any existing legal regulations.

QPAMs are professionals who are highly experienced in investment management. They are entrusted with the task of navigating the complex regulations established by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974. Furthermore, their roles include providing guidance to their clients on the best possible investments, ensuring that the investments are compliant with ERISA, actively managing investments, and monitoring markets for potential opportunities or changes. In short, these professionals are responsible for maximizing gains for their clients, while also minimizing risks.

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