What Is Crystallisation?
In quantitative finance, “crystallisation” typically refers to the process by which the value of a fund investment is determined or realized. It involves calculating the net asset value (NAV) of the fund and providing investors with a clear picture of their investment’s worth.
Crystallisation in funds occurs at specific intervals, such as daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly, depending on the fund’s valuation frequency. At these intervals, the fund’s assets are evaluated, and the NAV per share or unit is calculated. The NAV represents the total value of the fund’s assets minus its liabilities, divided by the number of outstanding shares or units.
Investors use the crystallized NAV to assess the value and performance of their fund investments. It allows them to understand the current worth of their holdings and make informed decisions regarding buying, selling, or redeeming fund shares.
Crystallisation is particularly significant in open-end mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) where shares can be bought or sold on a regular basis. It provides transparency and liquidity to investors by ensuring that the value of their investments is regularly determined and accessible.
It’s important to note that crystallisation in funds does not refer to the same process as crystallisation in investments, where it signifies the realization of gains or losses. Instead, in the fund context, it pertains to the determination of the fund’s value for the benefit of investors.
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