What documents make up the typical AIF documentation set?
The core suite includes the trust deed, Private Placement Memorandum, contribution / subscription agreement, investment management agreement, sponsor commitment letter, side letters with specific investors, and various manager and trustee constitutional documents. Together they govern the fund's structure, operations, and investor relationships.
Why is the PPM so important?
The PPM is the principal disclosure document of the AIF. SEBI requires PPMs to follow a prescribed template and to fully disclose strategy, risks, fees, conflicts of interest, and investor rights. Investors rely on the PPM as the primary basis of their investment decision, and any inconsistency between the PPM and actual operations can attract regulatory action.
What is a side letter and is it permitted?
A side letter is an agreement between the AIF and a specific investor providing terms that differ from those offered to other investors — for example, fee discounts, co-investment rights, or reporting preferences. SEBI permits side letters subject to conditions, including the prohibition of terms that discriminate against other investors with respect to economic rights and governance.
What is a PPM audit?
SEBI requires AIFs to undergo an annual audit of their compliance with the terms of the PPM. The audit checks whether the AIF's actual operations — investments, fees, expenses, and disclosures — are consistent with what is committed in the PPM. The audit report is submitted to SEBI within prescribed timelines.
How often is the PPM updated?
The PPM is updated whenever there is a material change in the fund's terms — for example, change in strategy, fees, key persons, or regulatory framework. Even in the absence of material changes, periodic refresh of certain disclosures may be required to remain aligned with current regulations and circulars.
What role does the trustee play?
The trustee holds the assets of the AIF in trust for the benefit of investors and is responsible for oversight of the manager's compliance with the trust deed, PPM, and applicable law. While day-to-day investment decisions are made by the investment manager, the trustee plays a key role in safeguarding investor interests.
Can existing AIF documents be reviewed and improved?
Yes. Sponsors and managers often ask us to review existing documentation when they are about to launch a new scheme, raise a new commitment, or address SEBI observations. The review focuses on alignment with current regulations, internal consistency, clarity of commercial terms, and reduction of ambiguity that could create disputes.