Q & A Database

The GIPS Standards Q&A database contains questions and answers (Q&As) on various searchable topics that provide additional interpretation on an issue. Q&As are considered to be authoritative guidance and must be followed in order to claim compliance with the GIPS standards.

Content from prior Q&As was included in the GIPS Standards Handbook as much as possible and many Q&As were archived. Change the Status drop-down filter to "Archived" to see the archived Q&As.

The GIPS Standards Helpdesk is available for individual questions and typically responds to inquiries within 3 business days.

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Effective

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Archived

Effective: 1 October, 2007 - 31 October, 2012

Categories: Benchmarks

Source: GIPS Executive Committee

Can portfolios included in the same composite have different benchmarks?

Yes. A firm may decide that is appropriate to include portfolios with different benchmarks in the same composite. Additionally the firm may present multiple benchmarks in the composite presentation. Provision 5.A.6 states the total return for the benchmark (or benchmarks) that reflects the investment strategy or mandate represented by the composite must be presented for each annual period.

Please also see updated Q&A