The index seeks to enhance U.S. large cap exposure by offering a long/short portfolio comprised of the 500 largest U.S. stocks by market capitalization, while providing additional return potential through the careful and systematic selection and shorting of stocks based on forensic accounting analysis. Forensic accounting critically dissects companies’ financial statements with the goal of identifying the “red flags” of aggressive accounting and revenue recognition practices. The index construction process aims to identify and allocate capital to higher quality stocks with more sustainable revenues, cash flows and earnings, while at attractive valuations. It also attempts to detect and short lower quality stocks where aggressive accounting practices may have been employed and revenues, cash flows and earnings may be less persistent in the future. The index is constructed with a 100% net equity exposure (130% long, 30% short).
