N-CSR 1 imsfllc-html8061_ncsr.htm IRONWOOD MULTI-STRATEGY FUND LLC - N-CSR
 

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM N-CSR

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

 

Investment Company Act file number 811 - 22464

 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

One Market Plaza, Steuart Tower, Suite 2500

San Francisco, CA 94105
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip code)

 

_________________________________________

 

Jonathan Gans

Chief Executive Officer and President

c/o Ironwood Capital Management
One Market Plaza, Steuart Tower, Suite 2500
San Francisco, CA 94105
(Name and address of agent for service)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (415) 777-2400

 

Date of fiscal year end: April 30

 

Date of reporting period: April 30, 2024

 

Form N-CSR is to be used by management investment companies to file reports with the Commission not later than 10 days after the transmission to stockholders of any report that is required to be transmitted to stockholders under Rule 30e-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30e-1). The Commission may use the information provided on Form N-CSR in its regulatory, disclosure review, inspection, and policymaking roles.

 

A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-CSR and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-CSR unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the burden to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20549-0609. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507.

 

Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.

 

As permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports will not be sent by mail, unless a member specifically requests paper copies of the reports from the Fund or its transfer agent, BNY Mellon. Instead, the reports will be made available on www.ironwoodpartners.com, and members will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.

 

Members continue to have the ability to receive any, or all, of the Fund’s reporting electronically including monthly account statements, financial statements, tax documents, the prospectus, and tender offers.

 

Instructions on how to sign up for electronic delivery are available by contacting Ironwood Investor Services at investorservices@ironwoodpartners.com.

 

Members may elect to receive all future reports in paper, free of charge, by informing BNY Mellon. The phone number is (888) 999-2678.

 

The Fund’s annual report transmitted to members pursuant to Rule 30e-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) (17 CFR 270.30e-1) is as follows:

 
 

 

Financial Statements

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Year Ended April 30, 2024

With Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   

 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Financial Statements

Year Ended April 30, 2024

 

Contents
Management Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited) 1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 4
Statement of Assets and Liabilities 5
Statement of Operations 6
Statements of Changes in Net Assets 7
Statement of Cash Flows 8
Financial Highlights 9
Notes to Financial Statements 10

 

Audited consolidated financial statements of Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Master Fund”)

   

 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC 

Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited)

 

Investment Approach

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC’s (“IMS” or the “Fund”) investment objective is capital appreciation with limited variability of returns. The Fund seeks to achieve this objective by investing substantially all of its assets in Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (“IIMS” or the “Master Fund”), which has the same investment objective as the Fund. IIMS allocates capital to a select group of alternative asset managers and the investment funds they operate. IIMS primarily invests across four core hedge fund sectors: relative value, market neutral and hedged equity, event driven, and distressed and credit securities. These sectors are described in more detail in the Fund’s prospectus and the Master Fund’s audited financial statements.

 

Performance Overview

For the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC returned 7.67% net while the HFRI FOF: Conservative Index (“HFRI FOF”) returned 7.46% for the same period.

 

Performance and Portfolio Discussion

Over the last twelve months, the primary macroeconomic drivers that shaped market and investor sentiment included decade-high interest rates, elevated inflation, a regional banking crisis, and escalating geopolitical tensions. Despite these top-down headwinds, both equity and bond markets responded with a broad-based rally at year-end 2023, due in large part to better-than-expected economic resilience and the prospect of multiple rate cuts in 2024. However, as of April 2024, previous rate cut expectations have since sharply moderated as inflation data has surprised to the upside and the labor market remains tight.

 

The Fund generated consistent returns throughout the fiscal year in an uncorrelated manner to both equity and bond markets; during the twelve months ended April 30, 2024, the Fund returned 7.67% net with an annualized standard deviation of 1.46% and a beta of 0.06 and 0.12 to the S&P 500 Total Return Index and Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index, respectively. All four of the Fund’s sectors were positive over the fiscal year, and the leading drivers of performance included Market Neutral and Hedged Equity and Relative Value. Looking ahead, while Ironwood is not subject to any formal diversification requirements, Ironwood will continue to seek to diversify its investments in underlying funds across sectors and strategies, while opportunistically seeking to take advantage of compelling opportunities.

 

At the end of the fiscal period, the Master Fund’s exposure by sector was as follows: Relative Value (51%), Market Neutral and Hedged Equity (26%), Event Driven (14%), and Distressed and Credit Securities (6%).

1 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC 

Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited)

 

Fund Performance

The graph below illustrates the growth of a hypothetical $50,000 investment in the Fund over the ten years ended April 30, 2024 compared to the HFRI FOF.

 

 

The table below presents the Fund’s average annual total returns through the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024.

 

 

 

Return information is unaudited, estimated, and subject to change. Fund Returns shown are net of fees (including an advisory fee of 1.20% per annum and an account servicing fee of 0.75% per annum) and expenses and reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other investment income. Fund Returns shown do not include any commissions or transaction charges that may be charged by certain broker-dealers upon investing in the Fund and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that an investor would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund units. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Depending on an investor’s investment date, holding period, and other factors, an investor may have overall performance that underperforms or outperforms that reflected above.

2 

 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited)

 

Index and Statistical Definitions

 

Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the performance of any specific investment. Index returns do not include expenses, fees or charges, which would lower performance. The indices are unmanaged and an investor cannot invest directly in an index. In reviewing the performance of the Fund, investors should not consider any of the indices presented herein to be performance benchmarks.

 

HFRI FOF: Conservative Index: The HFRI FOF: Conservative Index is an equal-weighted index representing funds of funds that invest with multiple managers focused on consistent performance and lower volatility via absolute return strategies. The Index includes funds of funds tracked by Hedge Fund Research, Inc. The Index is a proxy for the performance of the universe of conservative funds of funds focused on absolute return strategies. Returns are net of fees and are denominated in USD. SOURCE: HFR, Inc. www.HFR.com. The HFR Indices are being used under license from HFR Holdings, LLC, which does not approve of or endorse any of the products or the contents discussed in this these materials.

 

Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index: The Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is a broad-based fixed income benchmark that measures the investment grade, U.S. dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market. The index includes Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities, mortgage backed securities (agency fixed-rate pass-throughs), asset backed securities and commercial mortgage backed securities (agency and non-agency). For more information, please visit www.bloomberg.com/indices.

 

S&P 500 Index: The S&P 500 Index includes 500 leading companies in leading industries of the U.S. economy, capturing 75% coverage of U.S. equities. It is intended as an indicator of large-cap public U.S. equities. For more information, please visit www.standardandpoors.com.

 

Beta: Beta is the slope of the regression line. Beta measures the risk of a particular investment relative to the market as a whole (the “market” can be any index or investment you specify). It describes the sensitivity of the investment to broad market movements.

 

Correlation: Correlation measures the degree to which two financial variables, such as a particular investment and a benchmark index, move in relation to each other. High correlation implies that one variable tends to increase as the other variable increases, or vice versa. Low correlation implies that there is little-to-no linear relationship between the two variables.

 

Standard Deviation: Standard Deviation measures the degree of variation of returns around the mean (average) return. The higher the volatility of the investment returns, the higher the standard deviation will be. For this reason, standard deviation is often used as a measure of investment risk. All values are presented annualized.

3 
           
   

Ernst & Young LLP

155 North Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606-1787

 

 

Tel: +1 312 879 2000

Fax: +1 312 879 4000

ey.com

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Members and the Board of Directors of Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Fund”) as of April 30, 2024, and the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund at April 30, 2024, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Fund is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audit, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

We have served as the Fund’s auditor since 2010.

June 19, 2024

4 


Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

April 30, 2024

 

Assets
Cash   $ 2,212
Investment in the Master Fund, at fair value (cost $2,544,014,406)     2,576,743,507
Advance subscription to the Master Fund     19,579,063
Other assets     6,203
Total assets     2,596,330,985
       
Liabilities
Subscriptions received in advance     19,579,063
Payable to Adviser     4,754,733
Accrued expenses     81,958
Total liabilities     24,415,754
Net assets   $ 2,571,915,231
       
Net assets consist of:
  Paid-in capital   $ 2,533,602,051
  Accumulated earnings     38,313,180
Net assets   $ 2,571,915,231
       
Net asset value per unit
2,229,995.98 units issued and outstanding, no par value   $ 1,153.33

 

See accompanying notes and attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

5 


Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
Statement of Operations
Year Ended April 30, 2024
 
Investment income  
  Dividend income from the Master Fund   $ 109,635,462
  Other income     12,068
Total investment income     109,647,530
       
Expenses  
  Account servicing fees     18,718,433
  Printing and communication fees     376,387
  Professional fees     175,030
  Directors’ fees     155,000
  Sub transfer agency fees     125,093
  Filing fees     56,357
  Administration fees     50,302
  Other     1,689
Total expenses     19,658,291
       
Net investment income     89,989,239
       
Realized and unrealized gain on investment in the Master Fund      
Net capital gain distribution received from the Master Fund     11,999,475
Net realized gain on investment in the Master Fund     910,886
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investment in the Master Fund     80,988,622
Net realized and unrealized gain on investment in the Master Fund     93,898,983
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations   $ 183,888,222

 

See accompanying notes and attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

6 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

  Year
Ended
April 30, 2024
  Year
Ended
April 30, 2023
Operations
Net investment income $ 89,989,239   $ 104,940,132
Net capital gain distribution received from the Master Fund   11,999,475     40,670,286
Net realized gain on investment in the Master Fund   910,886     372,600
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investment in the Master Fund   80,988,622     (135,374,745)
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations   183,888,222     10,608,273
           
Distributions to Members
Distributions from net investment income   (90,455,781)   (108,634,961)
Distributions from net realized gains   (38,434,217)   (9,631,713)
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to Members   (128,889,998)   (118,266,674)
           
Member transactions
Subscriptions   229,775,799     369,380,533
Reinvestment of distributions   116,479,204     110,019,789
Redemptions   (228,101,702)   (78,453,851)
Net increase in net assets resulting from Member transactions   118,153,301     400,946,471
           
Net increase in net assets 173,151,525   293,288,070
Net assets, beginning of year   2,398,763,706     2,105,475,636
Net assets, end of year $ 2,571,915,231   $ 2,398,763,706
           
Unit transactions
Units outstanding, beginning of year   2,127,226.88     1,779,235.64
Units issued   200,867.37     318,587.65
Units issued for reinvestment of distributions   103,716.41     98,836.24
Units redeemed   (201,814.68)   (69,432.65)
Units outstanding, end of year   2,229,995.98     2,127,226.88

 

See accompanying notes and attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

7 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC 

Statement of Cash Flows 

Year Ended April 30, 2024

 

Operating activities    
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations  $183,888,222
Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets resulting from operations to net cash used in operating activities:    
Net realized gain on investment in the Master Fund   (910,886)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investment in the Master Fund   (80,988,622)
Purchases of investment in the Master Fund   (322,017,548)
Proceeds from sales of investment in the Master Fund   200,328,460
Decrease in other assets   2,000
Increase in accrued expenses   34,531
Increase in payable to Adviser   303,510
Net cash used in operating activities   (19,360,333)
     
Financing activities    
Subscriptions received   232,013,867
Redemptions paid   (200,340,528)
Distributions paid   (12,410,794)
Net cash provided by financing activities   19,262,545
     
Net change in cash   (97,788)
Cash, beginning of year   100,000
Cash, end of year  $2,212
     
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities    
Reinvestment of distributions  $116,479,204
Non-cash redemptions  $27,761,174

 

See accompanying notes and attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

8 
Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
Financial Highlights

 

  Year
Ended
April 30, 2024
  Year
Ended
April 30, 2023
  Year
Ended
April 30, 2022
  Year
Ended
April 30, 2021
  Year
Ended
April 30, 2020
Net asset value, beginning of year $1,127.65  $1,183.36  $1,207.42  $1,099.16  $1,114.74
Net investment income(a)  41.56   33.24   60.55   69.24   22.66
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment in the Master Fund  43.37   (29.88)   (24.64)   112.66   (15.20)
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations  84.93   3.36   35.91   181.90   7.46
Distributions paid from:                   
Net investment income  (41.58)   (54.26)   (55.03)   (70.20)   (22.78)
Net realized gains  (17.67)   (4.81)   (4.94)   (3.44)   (0.26)
Total distributions  (59.25)   (59.07)   (59.97)   (73.64)   (23.04)
Net asset value, end of year $1,153.33  $1,127.65  $1,183.36  $1,207.42  $1,099.16
Total return(b)  7.67%   0.35%   2.92%   16.68%   0.62%
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets before expense waivers and recaptures(c)  0.80%   0.79%   0.80%   0.80%   0.80%
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets after expense waivers and recaptures(c)  0.80%   0.79%   0.80%   0.80%   0.80%
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(c)  3.64%   4.63%   4.44%   5.90%   2.06%
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets after expense waivers and recaptures of the Master Fund(d)  1.37%   1.37%   1.36%   1.38%   1.37%
Net assets, end of year $2,571,915,231  $2,398,763,706  $2,105,475,636  $1,645,344,740  $1,344,429,302

 

(a) Calculated based on the average units outstanding methodology.
(b) Total return assumes a subscription of a unit in the Fund at the beginning of the year, a repurchase of the unit on the last day of the year, and the re-investment of all distributions during the year.
(c) Ratios do not reflect the Fund’s proportionate share of the income and expenses of the Master Fund.
(d) Ratios do not reflect the Master Fund’s proportionate share of the expenses of the investment funds.
   
The above ratios and total return have been calculated for the Members taken as a whole. An individual Member’s return and ratios may vary from these returns and ratios due to the timing of unit transactions.

 

See accompanying notes and attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

9 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements

Year Ended April 30, 2024

 

1. Organization

 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Fund”) was organized under the laws of the state of Delaware as a limited liability company on August 25, 2010 and commenced operations on January 1, 2011. The Fund is registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) as a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company. The Fund is also registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”). The Fund currently complies, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), as such requirements are described in Note 2.

 

The Fund’s investment objective is capital appreciation with limited variability of returns. The Fund attempts to achieve this objective by investing substantially all of its assets in Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Master Fund”), which has the same investment objective as the Fund. As of April 30, 2024, the Fund’s investment in the Master Fund represented 50.50% of the Master Fund’s net assets. The consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund, including the consolidated schedule of investments, are attached to this report and should be read in conjunction with the Fund’s financial statements.

 

Eligible investors in the Fund (referred to as “Members”) include high net worth individuals, foundations, pensions, and other institutions.

 

Ironwood Capital Management serves as the Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) and is responsible for providing day-to-day investment management services to the Fund, subject to the oversight of the Fund’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). The Adviser is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) under the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser is also registered as a Commodity Pool Operator with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and is a member of the National Futures Association. The Board has overall responsibility for monitoring and overseeing the Fund’s investment program and its management and operations. The majority of the members of the Board are not “interested persons” (as defined by the 1940 Act) of the Fund or the Adviser.

 

The Fund utilizes the Bank of New York Mellon (the “Administrator”) as its independent administrator.

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

10 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

2. Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The following significant accounting policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). Such policies are consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. The financial statements are expressed in U.S. dollars

 

The Fund is an investment company as described in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 946, Financial Services-Investment Companies (“ASC 946”), which defines investment companies and prescribes specialized accounting and reporting requirements for investment companies. The Fund follows the accounting and reporting guidance in ASC 946.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of these financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the Adviser to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, including the estimated fair value of investments. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Net Asset Value Determination

 

The net asset value of the Fund is determined as of the close of business at the end of any fiscal period, generally monthly, in accordance with the valuation principles set forth below or as determined pursuant to policies established by the Board.

 

Investment in the Master Fund

 

The Fund records its investment in the Master Fund at fair value which is represented by the Fund’s units held in the Master Fund valued at the per unit net asset value. Valuation of investment funds held by the Master Fund is discussed in the notes to the Master Fund’s consolidated financial statements. The performance of the Fund is directly affected by the performance of the Master Fund. The consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund, which are attached, are an integral part of these financial statements. Refer to the accounting policies disclosed in the consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund for additional information regarding significant accounting policies that affect the Fund.

 

Cash

 

In the normal course of business, the Fund maintains its cash balances in accounts that are affiliated with the Administrator, which at times may exceed federally insurable limits. The Adviser monitors the financial condition of the Administrator and does not anticipate any losses.

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

11 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Income and Expense Recognition

 

The Fund records investment transactions on a trade date basis and recognizes income and expenses on an accrual basis. Income, expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are recorded monthly. The change in the Master Fund’s net asset value is included in net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investment in the Master Fund on the statement of operations. Realized gain (loss) from investment in the Master Fund is calculated using the specific identification methodology.

 

Income dividends and capital gains distributions received by the Fund from the Master Fund are automatically reinvested in additional units of the Master Fund, to the extent that the Fund’s Members have elected to reinvest dividends in accordance with the Fund’s dividend reinvestment plan.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Fund currently complies, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Code applicable to Regulated Investment Companies (“RICs”) and distributes substantially all of its taxable income to its Members. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. The Fund files tax returns with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and state(s) as applicable. The Fund has concluded there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the financial statements as of April 30, 2024. If applicable, the Fund recognizes interest accrued related to liabilities for unrecognized tax in interest expense and penalties in other expenses on the statement of operations. The open tax years under potential examination vary by jurisdiction, but in general tax authorities can examine all tax returns filed for the last three tax years.

 

The Fund has a tax year that ends on April 30.

 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

 

Each Member will have all income distributions and capital gains distributions automatically reinvested in additional units unless such Member specifically elects to receive all income distributions and capital gains distributions in cash.

 

3. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The units of account that are valued by the Fund are its units in the Master Fund and not the underlying holdings of the Master Fund. Thus, the inputs used by the Fund to value its investment in the Master Fund may differ from the inputs used to value the underlying holdings of the Master Fund.

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

12 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

4. Members’ Units

 

The stated minimum initial investment by Members is $50,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $10,000. The Adviser may waive these minimums, but in no event will the initial investment be less than $25,000. Members may purchase units as of the first business day of the month.

 

Subscriptions received in advance represent the amounts received on or prior to April 30, 2024 for subscriptions with an effective date of May 1, 2024.

 

Foreside Fund Services, LLC acts as the distributor (the “Distributor”) of the Fund’s units. The Distributor has entered into, and may continue to enter into, selected dealer agreements with various brokers and dealers (“Selling Agents”) that agree to participate in the distribution of the Fund’s units. Neither the Fund nor the Distributor impose an initial sales charge. If a Member purchases units through a Selling Agent, the Selling Agent may directly charge the Member a transaction or other fees in such amount as the Selling Agent may determine. Any such transaction or other fees charged by a Selling Agent is in addition to the subscription price for units and does not form a part of a Member’s investment in the Fund.

 

The Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, may authorize the Fund to make a tender offer to repurchase Members’ units (an “Offer”). An Offer to repurchase Members’ units will only be made to Members at the same time as, and in parallel with, each repurchase offer made by the Master Fund to its members, including the Fund. Members of the Fund will be treated as if they are members of the Master Fund and subject to the terms of the Master Fund’s repurchase offer.

 

In determining whether the Fund should make an Offer to repurchase units from Members, the Board will consider, among other things, the recommendation of the Adviser. The Adviser expects that it will recommend to the Board that the Fund make an Offer to repurchase units from Members semi-annually on June 30 and December 31. While there can be no guarantee that it will continue this practice, to date, the Master Fund has offered to repurchase 10 – 20% of its units at each of its June 30 and December 31 Offers.

 

As part of each Offer, Members of the Fund may request to tender units and immediately subscribe the resulting proceeds to the Master Fund. As part of the Master Fund’s tender offers, Members of the Master Fund may request to tender units and immediately subscribe the resulting proceeds to the Fund. In these circumstances, the Fund and the Master Fund process the transactions without requiring the payment or receipt of cash. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the total amount of non-cash redemptions was $27,761,174 and there were no non-cash subscriptions for the year.

 

A 5% early repurchase fee is charged on repurchased units that have been held less than one year, payable to the Fund. The Board or the Adviser may waive the imposition of the early repurchase fee. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the Fund charged early repurchase fees of $12,068. Such amount is included in other income on the statement of operations.

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

13 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

In no event shall any Member have any liability for the repayment or discharge of debts and obligations of the Fund except to the extent provided by the Fund’s prospectus or as required by law.

 

5. Account Servicing Fee, Related Party Transactions, and Other Expenses

 

The Fund pays to the Adviser an account servicing fee (the “Account Servicing Fee”). The Account Servicing Fee will accrue monthly at a rate equal to 0.0625% (0.75% per annum) of the Fund’s net asset value as of the close of business on the last calendar day of each month, before adjustments for any repurchases effective on that day. The Account Servicing Fee is payable in arrears as of the last calendar day of the applicable quarter. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, pay up to the entire amount of the Account Servicing Fee relating to units to a Selling Agent that assists in the servicing of accounts. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the Fund incurred Account Servicing Fees of $18,718,433, of which $4,754,733 was payable to the Adviser as of April 30, 2024.

 

The Fund incurs all ongoing ordinary administrative and operational costs of the Fund including (but not limited to) legal costs, audit and tax preparation fees, fees paid to the Administrator, filing fees, fees paid to sub-transfer agencies, taxes, bank charges, and any extraordinary operating expenses. The Fund also incurs certain expenses indirectly via its investment in the Master Fund, including a monthly advisory fee of 0.10% (1.20% per annum) payable to the Adviser. Such indirect expenses are included in the net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investment in the Master Fund on the statement of operations.

 

The Adviser will bear all ongoing ordinary administrative and operational costs of the Adviser, including employees’ salaries, office rent, travel costs, computer and equipment costs, telephone bills, office supplies, research and data costs, legal costs, accounting costs, filing costs, and communication expenses.

 

The Adviser has entered into an agreement (the “Expense Limitation Agreement”) with the Fund and the Master Fund whereby it has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or reimburse the Fund’s and Master Fund’s monthly expenses (excluding taxes, brokerage commissions, interest expense and commitment fees incurred in connection with any credit facility, other transaction related expenses, custody fees, bank charges, any extraordinary expenses of the Fund, any acquired fund fees and expenses, the advisory fee paid by the Master Fund, and the Account Servicing Fee paid by the Fund) to the extent necessary to ensure that the monthly expenses of the Fund will not exceed 0.020833% (0.25% per annum) of the Fund’s net assets as of each month end during the term of the Expense Limitation Agreement (the “Expense Limitation”). The Fund will carry forward, for a period not to exceed 3 years from the date on which a waiver or reimbursement is made by the Adviser, any expenses in excess of the Expense Limitation and repay the Adviser such amounts; provided that the Fund is able to effect such reimbursement and remain in compliance with the Expense Limitation disclosed in the prospectus that was in effect at the time of the original waiver.

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

14 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Eligible expenses were below the Expense Limitation and no eligible expenses were recaptured under the Expense Limitation Agreement during the year ended April 30, 2024. There are no amounts subject to potential future reimbursement to the Adviser.

 

Compensation to the independent directors for the year ended April 30, 2024 was $155,000.

 

6. Income Taxes

 

Net investment income (loss) and net realized gain (loss) from sales of units of the Master Fund may not be treated the same for financial statement and for U.S. tax purposes. Temporary book-tax differences may result when the Fund holds units of the Master Fund and will generally become permanent upon disposal of such units.

 

As of April 30, 2024, the aggregate cost and related gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation for tax purposes of the Fund’s investments were as follows:

 

Cost of investments for tax purposes  $2,544,150,488
     
Gross tax unrealized appreciation  $72,194,515
Gross tax unrealized depreciation   (39,601,496)
Net tax unrealized appreciation on investments  $32,593,019

 

Distribution of Income and Gains

 

The Fund declares and pays dividends annually from net investment income. Net realized gains, if any, are distributed at least annually. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income for tax purposes.

 

The tax character of distributions paid during the tax years ended April 30, 2024 and April 30, 2023 were as follows:

 

Tax Character  April 30, 2024  April 30, 2023
Ordinary income  $90,449,671   $108,627,470 
Long-term capital gain   38,440,327    9,639,204 

 

As of April 30, 2024, the components of distributable earnings/(losses) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed long-term capital gains  $12,292,529
Qualified late-year losses   (6,572,368)
Net unrealized appreciation   32,593,019
Accumulated earnings  $38,313,180

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

15 

Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Qualified late-year losses represent ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2023. For income tax purposes, these losses are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the Fund intends to defer late-year ordinary losses of $6,572,368 to May 1, 2024.

 

As of April 30, 2024, the Fund did not have any available unused short-term capital losses or unused long-term capital losses for federal income tax purposes.

 

7. Indemnification

 

In the normal course of business, the Fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications and that contain a variety of representations and warranties. The Fund’s maximum exposure in connection with these contracts is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. However, no claims have been made under these indemnities in the past, and while there can be no assurances in this regard, the Fund is not aware of any such claims that may be made in the future.

 

8. Subsequent Events

 

The Adviser has performed a subsequent events review and determined that there were no subsequent events which would have a significant impact on the Fund’s financial position or results of operations.

 

See attached consolidated financial statements of the Master Fund.

16 

Consolidated Financial Statements

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Year Ended April 30, 2024

With Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Financial Statements

Year Ended April 30, 2024

 

Contents

 

Management Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited) 1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 4
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities 5
Consolidated Schedule of Investments 6
Consolidated Statement of Operations 11
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets 12
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 13
Consolidated Financial Highlights 14
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 15

 

 

 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited)

 

Investment Approach

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC’s (“IIMS” or the “Fund”) investment objective is capital appreciation with limited variability of returns. IIMS seeks to achieve this objective by allocating capital to a select group of alternative asset managers and the investment funds they operate. The Fund primarily invests across four core hedge fund sectors: relative value, market neutral and hedged equity, event-driven, and distressed and credit securities. These sectors are described in more detail in the Fund’s prospectus and audited financial statements.

 

Performance Overview

For the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC returned 8.52% net while the HFRI FOF: Conservative Index (“HFRI FOF”) returned 7.46% for the same period.

 

Performance and Portfolio Discussion

Over the last twelve months, the primary macroeconomic drivers that shaped market and investor sentiment included decade-high interest rates, elevated inflation, a regional banking crisis, and escalating geopolitical tensions. Despite these top-down headwinds, both equity and bond markets responded with a broad-based rally at year-end 2023, due in large part to better-than-expected economic resilience and the prospect of multiple rate cuts in 2024. However, as of April 2024, previous rate cut expectations have since sharply moderated as inflation data has surprised to the upside and the labor market remains tight.

 

The Fund generated consistent returns throughout the fiscal year in an uncorrelated manner to both equity and bond markets; during the twelve months ended April 30, 2024, the Fund returned 8.52% net with an annualized standard deviation of 1.46% and a beta of 0.06 and 0.12 to the S&P 500 Total Return Index and Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index, respectively. All four of the Fund’s sectors were positive over the fiscal year, and the leading drivers of performance included Market Neutral and Hedged Equity and Relative Value. Looking ahead, while Ironwood is not subject to any formal diversification requirements, Ironwood will continue to seek to diversify its investments in underlying funds across sectors and strategies, while opportunistically seeking to take advantage of compelling opportunities.

 

At the end of the fiscal period, the Fund’s exposure by sector was as follows: Relative Value (51%), Market Neutral and Hedged Equity (26%), Event Driven (14%), and Distressed and Credit Securities (6%).

1 

 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited)

 

Fund Performance

The graph below illustrates the growth of a hypothetical $50,000 investment in the Fund over the ten years ended April 30, 2024 compared to the HFRI FOF.

 

 

The table below presents the Fund’s average annual total returns through the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024.

 

Return information is unaudited, estimated, and subject to change. Fund Returns shown are net of fees (including an advisory fee of 1.20% per annum) and expenses and reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other investment income. Fund Returns shown do not include any commissions or transaction charges that may be charged by certain broker-dealers upon investing in the Fund and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that an investor would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund units. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Depending on an investor’s investment date, holding period, and other factors, an investor may have overall performance that underperforms or outperforms that reflected above.

2 

 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (Unaudited)

 

Index and Statistical Definitions

Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the performance of any specific investment. Index returns do not include expenses, fees or charges, which would lower performance. The indices are unmanaged and an investor cannot invest directly in an index. In reviewing the performance of the Fund, investors should not consider any of the indices presented herein to be performance benchmarks.

HFRI FOF: Conservative Index: The HFRI FOF: Conservative Index is an equal-weighted index representing funds of funds that invest with multiple managers focused on consistent performance and lower volatility via absolute return strategies. The Index includes funds of funds tracked by Hedge Fund Research, Inc. The Index is a proxy for the performance of the universe of conservative funds of funds focused on absolute return strategies. Returns are net of fees and are denominated in USD. SOURCE: HFR, Inc. www.HFR.com. The HFR Indices are being used under license from HFR Holdings, LLC, which does not approve of or endorse any of the products or the contents discussed in this these materials.

Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index: The Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is a broad-based fixed income benchmark that measures the investment grade, U.S. dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market. The index includes Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities, mortgage backed securities (agency fixed-rate pass-throughs), asset backed securities and commercial mortgage backed securities (agency and non-agency). For more information, please visit www.bloomberg.com/indices.

S&P 500 Index: The S&P 500 Index includes 500 leading companies in leading industries of the U.S. economy, capturing 75% coverage of U.S. equities. It is intended as an indicator of large-cap public U.S. equities. For more information, please visit www.standardandpoors.com.

Beta: Beta is the slope of the regression line. Beta measures the risk of a particular investment relative to the market as a whole (the “market” can be any index or investment you specify). It describes the sensitivity of the investment to broad market movements.

Correlation: Correlation measures the degree to which two financial variables, such as a particular investment and a benchmark index, move in relation to each other. High correlation implies that one variable tends to increase as the other variable increases, or vice versa. Low correlation implies that there is little-to-no linear relationship between the two variables.

Standard Deviation: Standard Deviation measures the degree of variation of returns around the mean (average) return. The higher the volatility of the investment returns, the higher the standard deviation will be. For this reason, standard deviation is often used as a measure of investment risk. All values are presented annualized.

3 

Ernst & Young LLP

155 North Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606-
1787

Tel: +1 312 879 2000

Fax: +1 312 879 4000

ey.com

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Members and the Board of Directors of Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of assets and liabilities of Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Fund”), including the consolidated schedule of investments, as of April 30, 2024, and the related consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, the consolidated statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the consolidated financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Fund at April 30, 2024, the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, the consolidated changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its consolidated financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Fund is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audit, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of investments owned as of April 30, 2024, by correspondence with the investment managers or administrators of the investment funds or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from the investment managers or administrators of the investment funds were not received. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

We have served as the Fund’s auditor since 2010.

June 19, 2024

4 
Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities
April 30, 2024
 
Assets
Cash   $ 56,644,395
Short-term investments, at fair value (cost $148,086,016)     148,086,016
Investments in investment funds, at fair value (cost $3,547,517,091)     4,956,090,757
Dividends receivable     505,525
Other assets     100,563
Total assets     5,161,427,256
       
Liabilities
Subscriptions received in advance     24,099,942
Subscriptions received in advance from Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC     19,579,063
Payable to Adviser     15,100,228
Payable on credit facility     80,038
Accrued expenses     565,704
Total liabilities     59,424,975
       
Commitments (see Note 10)
 
Net assets   $ 5,102,002,281
 
Net assets consist of:
  Paid-in capital   $ 5,019,802,650
  Accumulated earnings     82,199,631
Net assets   $ 5,102,002,281
 
Net asset value per unit
4,344,387.57 units issued and outstanding, no par value   $ 1,174.39

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

5 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Schedule of Investments

April 30, 2024

 

Description   First
Acquisition
Date
  Number of
Shares (1)
    Cost     Fair Value     Percent of
Net Assets
    Next
Available
Redemption
Date (2)
Liquidity (3)
Investment Funds
 
Relative Value:
Alphadyne Global Rates Fund II, Ltd.   7/1/2018   164,254   $ 172,000,000   $ 234,435,862     4.59 %   6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Alphadyne International Fund, Ltd.   7/1/2019   13,489     16,000,000     21,875,770     0.43     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Brevan Howard Alpha Strategies Fund Limited   8/1/2022   1,966,056     219,000,000     224,191,469     4.39     5/31/2024  Monthly (5)
D.E. Shaw Composite International Fund   1/1/2011   n/a     55,111,147     196,741,954     3.86     6/30/2024  Quarterly (5)
D.E. Shaw Lithic International Fund, L.P.   7/1/2022   n/a     85,000,000     94,982,022     1.86     5/31/2024  Monthly
D.E. Shaw Valence International Fund, LP   1/1/2015   n/a     26,448,979     94,383,677     1.85     6/30/2024  Quarterly (6)
Eisler Capital Multi Strategy Fund Ltd   7/1/2021   219,304     230,635,560     283,671,434     5.56     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
ExodusPoint Partners International Fund, Ltd.   6/1/2018   150,000     150,000,000     214,843,513     4.21     6/30/2024  Quarterly (7)
Kirkoswald Global Macro Fund Limited   5/1/2021   1,796,875     186,000,000     234,510,803     4.60     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Millennium International, Ltd.   1/1/2011   247,939     194,072,870     465,063,665     9.12     6/30/2024  Quarterly (8)
Point72 Capital International, Ltd.   4/1/2022   2,345,099     349,500,000     419,028,390     8.21     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Two Sigma Absolute Return Cayman Fund, Ltd.   2/1/2016   48,089     76,000,000     106,356,953     2.08     5/31/2024  Monthly
Two Sigma Spectrum Cayman Fund, Ltd.   6/1/2018   5,205     18,442,620     26,502,519     0.52     6/30/2024  Quarterly
Total Relative Value             1,778,211,176     2,616,588,031     51.28        
Market Neutral and Hedged Equity:
Coatue Offshore Fund, Ltd.   3/1/2021   132,584     92,000,000     100,825,580     1.98     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
D1 Capital Partners Offshore LP   3/13/2020   n/a     153,000,000     241,260,168     4.73     6/30/2024  Quarterly (9)
Dragoneer Global Offshore Feeder II, LP   4/1/2021   n/a     109,951,781     78,028,419     1.53     6/30/2024  Semi-annually (10)
FGP Redwood Offshore Fund Ltd.   1/1/2024   89,945     90,000,000     91,643,389     1.80     12/31/2025  Quarterly (4)
Holocene Advisors Offshore Fund Ltd.   4/1/2017   124,703     128,500,000     245,327,967     4.81     6/30/2024  Quarterly (11)
Ilex Offshore Fund Limited   7/1/2023   50,000     50,000,000     53,021,963     1.04     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Polymer Asia (Cayman) Fund Ltd.   3/1/2022   135,377     135,863,192     146,998,622     2.88     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Suvretta Offshore Fund, Ltd   3/1/2013   2,109     1,041,906     600,776     0.01     n/a  Other (12)
Suvretta Partners, LP*   1/1/2017   n/a     981,056     144,626     0.00     n/a  Other (12)
Tiger Global Crossover (Cayman) L.P.   11/16/2021   n/a     113,000,000     80,943,653     1.59     6/30/2024  Annually (13)
Woodline Offshore Fund Ltd.   8/1/2019   120,672     127,650,000     202,853,635     3.98     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
XN Exponent Offshore Fund LP   10/1/2020   n/a     75,160,226     83,298,813     1.63     6/30/2024  Annually (14)
Total Market Neutral and Hedged Equity             1,077,148,161     1,324,947,611     25.98      
                                   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

6 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

April 30, 2024

 

 
Description   First
Acquisition
Date
  Number of
Shares (1)
    Cost     Fair Value     Percent of
Net Assets
    Next
Available
Redemption
Date (2)
Liquidity (3)
Investment Funds (continued)
 
Event-Driven:
Elliott International Limited   1/1/2011   194,603   $ 248,655,822   $ 428,554,710     8.39 %   6/30/2024  Semi-annually (15)
HG Vora Opportunistic Capital Fund (Cayman) LP   11/14/2019   n/a     4,684,800     21,004,977     0.41     n/a  Other (16)
HG Vora Special Opportunities Fund, LP*   4/1/2017   n/a     53,330,833     78,902,101     1.55     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
HG Vora Special Opportunities Fund, Ltd.   7/1/2013   62,028     136,521,706     180,924,238     3.55     6/30/2024  Quarterly (4)
Total Event-Driven             443,193,161     709,386,026     13.90        
 
Distressed and Credit Securities:
Apollo Accord Offshore Fund V, L.P.   6/14/2022   n/a     2,158,833     4,182,929     0.08     n/a  Other (16)
Apollo Offshore Credit Strategies Fund Ltd.   3/1/2022   205,833     191,000,000     209,112,567     4.10     6/30/2024  Annually (17)
Cerberus Global NPL Feeder Fund, LP   1/11/2019   n/a     7,179,798     16,386,399     0.32     n/a  Other (16)
Cerberus Global NPL Fund AIV II S.C.A.**   1/1/2021   n/a     21,584,838     38,700,115     0.76     n/a  Other (16)
Cerberus Global NPL Fund AIV, L.P. *   12/3/2019   n/a     303,092     127,269     0.00     n/a  Other (16)
Cerberus International II, LP*   1/1/2021   n/a     26,692,865     36,551,680     0.72     n/a  Other (12)
Cerberus International SPV, Ltd.   3/1/2012   23     33,658     82,063     0.00     n/a  Other (12)
Cerberus International, Ltd.***   2/1/2011   0.01     11,509     26,067     0.00     n/a  Other (12)
Total Distressed and Credit Securities             248,964,593     305,169,089     5.98        
 
Total investments in Investment Funds           $ 3,547,517,091   $ 4,956,090,757     97.14 %      
                                   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

7 
Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)
April 30, 2024

 

Description     Number of
Shares (1)
    Cost     Fair Value     Percent of
Net Assets
     
Short-Term Investments    
     
Money Market Funds:    
Fidelity Investments Money Market Government Portfolio (yield 5.20%)*(18)     50,049,229   $ 50,049,229   $ 50,049,229     0.98 %    
Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Instruments Fund (yield 5.17%)*(18)     49,079,352     49,079,352     49,079,352     0.96      
JPMorgan U.S. Government Money Market Fund (yield 5.16%)*(18)     48,957,435     48,957,435     48,957,435     0.96      
Total Short-Term Investments         $ 148,086,016   $ 148,086,016     2.90 %    
     
Total Investments         $ 3,695,603,107   $ 5,104,176,773     100.04 %    
     
Other assets, less liabilities                 (2,174,492 )   (0.04 )    
     
Net assets               $ 5,102,002,281     100.00 %    
                               

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

8 
Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)
April 30, 2024
 
All investments are domiciled in the Cayman Islands except as noted.
* Investment is domiciled in the United States.
** Investment is domiciled in Luxembourg.
*** Investment is domiciled in the Bahamas.
  Complete information about all of the investment funds’ underlying investments is not readily available.
(1) Investments in investment funds may be composed of multiple share classes that may have different net asset values per share.
(2) Investments in investment funds may be composed of multiple tranches. The Next Available Redemption Date relates to the earliest date after April 30, 2024 that a redemption from a tranche is available without a redemption fee.
(3) Available frequency of redemptions without a redemption fee after initial lock-up period, if any. Different tranches may have different liquidity terms. Redemption notice periods range from 30 to 90 days. If applicable, lock-up periods range from 12 to 36 months. It is unknown when restrictions will lapse for any fund level gates, suspensions, term vehicles, or private investments.
(4) Subject to a 25% quarterly investor level gate.
(5) Subject to a 12.5% quarterly investor level gate.
(6) Subject to an 8.33% quarterly investor level gate. If fund level redemptions are less than 8.33%, then the 8.33% investor level gate does not apply.
(7) Approximately 81% of this investment is available for redemption quarterly, subject to a 25% investor level gate. The remaining 19% of this investment is available for redemption quarterly, subject to a 12.5% investor level gate.
(8) Subject to a 5% quarterly investor level gate.
(9) Approximately 36% of this investment is available for redemption quarterly, subject to a 12.5% investor level gate. Less than 1% of this investment is earmarked for potential private investments. The earmarked balance is available for redemption quarterly, subject to a 12.5% investor level gate, only after the aforementioned non-earmarked balance has been fully redeemed. Approximately 64% of this investment is invested in private investments, which do not have set redemption timeframes.
(10) Approximately 85% of this investment is available for redemption semi-annually, subject to a 16.67% investor level gate. The remaining 15% of this investment is invested in private investments, which do not have set redemption timeframes.

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

9 
Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)
April 30, 2024
 
(11) Approximately 86% of this investment is available for redemption quarterly, subject to a 25% investor level gate. The remaining 14% of this investment is available for redemption quarterly, subject to a 12.5% investor level gate.
(12) The investment fund does not have a set redemption timeframe but is a liquidating investment and making distributions as underlying investments are sold.
(13) Approximately 72% of this investment is available for redemption annually, subject to a 25% investor level gate. The remaining 28% of this investment is invested in private investments, which do not have set redemption timeframes.
(14) Approximately 72% of this investment is available for redemption annually, subject to a 25% investor level gate. The remaining 28% of this investment is invested in private investments, which do not have set redemption timeframes.
(15) Approximately 79% of this investment is available for redemption semi-annually, subject to a 25% investor level gate. The remaining 21% of this investment is available for redemption semi-annually, subject to a 12.5% investor level gate.
(16) The investment fund is a term vehicle and does not have a set redemption timeframe.
(17) This investment is available for redemption annually. If the redemption request amount is 50% of this investment or less, the entire requested amount will be redeemed as of the annual redemption date. If the redemption request amount is greater than 50% of this investment, the requested redemption amount will be redeemed over four equal quarterly redemptions, the first of which takes place on the annual redemption date.
(18) The rate shown is the annualized 7-day yield as of April 30, 2024.

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

10 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Statement of Operations

Year Ended April 30, 2024  

 

Investment income  
  Dividend income   $ 9,278,612
  Other income     18,442
Total investment income     9,297,054
       
Expenses  
  Advisory fees     58,693,647
  Administration fees     2,207,417
  Commitment fees     1,891,959
  Professional fees     1,310,323
  Custody fees     698,643
  Filing fees     365,663
  Sub-transfer agency fees     325,802
  Risk monitoring fees     318,256
  Printing and communication fees     213,327
  Directors’ fees     155,000
  Interest expense     3,939
  Other     163,399
Total expenses     66,347,375
       
Net investment loss     (57,050,321)
       
Realized and unrealized gain from investments      
Net realized gain on redemptions from investments     53,214,254
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments     402,372,259
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments     455,586,513
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations   $ 398,536,192

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

11 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   Year
Ended
April 30, 2024
   Year
Ended
April 30, 2023
Operations
Net investment loss  $(57,050,321)  $(52,354,420)
Net realized gain on redemptions from investments   53,214,254    24,960,191
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments   402,372,259    82,909,652
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations   398,536,192    55,515,423
          
Distributions to Members         
Distributions from net investment income   (213,546,091)   (238,111,253)
Distributions from net realized gains   (23,372,373)   (78,831,404)
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to Members   (236,918,464)   (316,942,657)
          
Member transactions         
Subscriptions   498,035,032    717,997,489
Reinvestment of distributions   210,649,308    291,947,751
Redemptions   (441,240,610)   (157,665,432)
Net increase in net assets resulting from Member transactions   267,443,730    852,279,808
          
Net increase in net assets   429,061,458    590,852,574
Net assets, beginning of year   4,672,940,823    4,082,088,249
Net assets, end of year  $5,102,002,281   $4,672,940,823
          
Unit transactions         
Units outstanding, beginning of year   4,114,057.85    3,381,814.44
Units issued   430,703.69    609,027.33
Units issued for reinvestment of distributions   184,682.15    261,047.00
Units redeemed   (385,056.12)   (137,830.92)
Units outstanding, end of year   4,344,387.57    4,114,057.85

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

12 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Year Ended April 30, 2024

   

Operating activities
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations   $ 398,536,192
Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets resulting from operations to net cash used in operating activities:  
  Net realized gain on redemptions from investments     (53,214,254)
  Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments     (402,372,259)
  Purchases of investments in investment funds     (249,374,251)
  Proceeds from sales of investments in investment funds     219,397,564
  Proceeds from sales of short-term investments, net     74,744,889
  Decrease in dividends receivable     302,481
  Increase in other assets     (19,188)
  Increase in payable to Adviser     1,241,637
  Increase in accrued expenses     38,618
  Increase in payable on credit facility     10,000
Net cash used in operating activities     (10,708,571)
       
Financing activities
Subscriptions received     474,913,067
Redemptions paid     (413,479,436)
Distributions paid     (26,269,156)
Net cash provided by financing activities     35,164,475
       
Net change in cash     24,455,904
Cash, beginning of year     32,188,491
Cash, end of year   $ 56,644,395
       
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Interest paid   $ 3,939
       
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities
Reinvestment of distributions   $ 210,649,308
Non-cash subscriptions   $ 27,761,174

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

13 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Consolidated Financial Highlights

 

   Year
Ended
April 30, 2024
   Year
Ended
April 30, 2023
   Year
Ended
April 30, 2022
   Year
Ended
April 30, 2021
   Year
Ended
April 30, 2020
Net asset value, beginning of year  $1,135.85   $1,207.07   $1,231.50   $1,119.70   $1,135.11
Net investment income (loss)(a)   (13.61)   (11.70)   (18.32)   (16.48)   (13.33)
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments   108.70    24.11    64.87    211.72    30.17
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations   95.09    12.41    46.55    195.24    16.84
Distributions paid from:                        
Net investment income   (50.97)   (62.83)   (64.55)   (81.03)   (32.25)
Net realized gains   (5.58)   (20.80)   (6.43)   (2.41)   
Total distributions   (56.55)   (83.63)   (70.98)   (83.44)   (32.25)
Net asset value, end of year  $1,174.39   $1,135.85   $1,207.07   $1,231.50   $1,119.70
Total return(b)   8.52%   1.14%   3.73%   17.60%   1.43%
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets before expense waivers and recaptures(c)   1.37%   1.37%   1.36%   1.38%   1.37%
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets after expense waivers and recaptures(c)   1.37%   1.37%   1.36%   1.38%   1.37%
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets(d)   (1.18%)   (1.19%)   (1.35%)   (1.37%)   (1.16%)
Portfolio turnover   5.28%   2.35%   14.16%   17.05%   15.87%
Senior security, end of year(e)  $80,038   $70,038   $-   $-   $-
Asset coverage per $1,000 of senior security principal amount(f)  $63,745,750   $66,721,078   $-   $-   $-
Net assets, end of year  $5,102,002,281   $4,672,940,823   $4,082,088,249   $3,183,173,052   $2,536,055,056

 

(a)   Calculated based on the average units outstanding methodology.
(b)   Total return assumes a subscription of a unit in the Fund at the beginning of the year, a repurchase of the unit on the last day of the year, and the re-investment of all distributions during the year.
(c)   Ratios do not reflect the Fund’s proportionate share of the expenses of the investm+ent funds.
(d)   Ratios do not reflect the Fund’s proportionate share of the income and expenses of the investment funds.
(e)   The Fund’s senior securities during this time period were comprised only of borrowings made pursuant to the Fund’s credit agreements or note purchase agreements.  
(f)   Calculated by subtracting the Fund’s liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities from the Fund’s total assets, dividing the result by the aggregate amount of the Fund’s senior securities representing indebtedness then outstanding, and multiplying the result by 1,000.  
The above ratios and total return have been calculated for the Members taken as a whole. An individual Member’s return and ratios may vary from these returns and ratios due to the timing of unit transactions.
                                         

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

14 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Year Ended April 30, 2024

 

1. Organization

 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Fund”) was organized under the laws of the state of Delaware as a limited liability company on August 25, 2010 and commenced operations on January 1, 2011. The Fund is registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) as a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company. The Fund is also registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”). The Fund currently complies, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), as such requirements are described in Note 2.

 

The Fund’s investment objective is capital appreciation with limited variability of returns. The Fund attempts to achieve this objective by allocating capital among a number of pooled investment vehicles. Each is managed by an independent investment manager pursuant to various alternative investment strategies across four sectors: relative value, market neutral and hedged equity, event-driven, and distressed and credit securities.

 

The Fund is a master fund in a master-feeder structure whereby Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Feeder Fund”) invests substantially all of its assets in the Fund. As of April 30, 2024, the Feeder Fund owned 50.50% of the Fund’s net assets. Other eligible investors (together with the Feeder Fund, “Members”) in the Fund include high net worth individuals, foundations, pensions, and other institutions.

 

Ironwood Capital Management serves as the Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) and is responsible for providing day-to-day investment management services to the Fund, subject to the oversight of the Fund’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). The Adviser is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) under the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser is also registered as a Commodity Pool Operator with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and is a member of the National Futures Association. The Board has overall responsibility for monitoring and overseeing the Fund’s investment program and its management and operations. The majority of the members of the Board are not “interested persons” (as defined by the 1940 Act) of the Fund or the Adviser.

 

The Fund utilizes the Bank of New York Mellon (the “Administrator” and “Custodian”) as its independent administrator and custodian.

15 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

2. Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The following significant accounting policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). Such policies are consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements. The consolidated financial statements are expressed in U.S. dollars.

 

The Fund is an investment company as described in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 946, Financial Services-Investment Companies (“ASC 946”), which defines investment companies and prescribes specialized accounting and reporting requirements for investment companies. The Fund follows the accounting and reporting guidance in ASC 946.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the Adviser to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, including the estimated fair value of investments. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Basis of Consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the financial position and the results of operations of the Fund and its wholly owned subsidiary, Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund Ltd. (“CFC”), a Cayman Islands controlled foreign corporation. CFC has the same investment objective as the Fund and is primarily used to invest in investment funds which do not allow U.S. entities to invest directly. As of April 30, 2024 and for the year then ended, no investment funds were held by the wholly owned subsidiary.

 

Net Asset Value Determination

 

The net asset value of the Fund is determined as of the close of business at the end of any fiscal period, generally monthly, in accordance with the valuation principles set forth below or as determined pursuant to policies established by the Board.

 

Portfolio Valuation

 

The Fund’s portfolio valuation is subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act and SEC Rule 2a-5 (“Rule 2a-5”). As permitted by Rule 2a-5, the Board has appointed the Adviser as the Fund’s valuation designee (“Valuation Designee”), subject to its oversight, with respect to the Fund’s investments that do not have readily available market quotations. The Adviser, as Valuation Designee, is responsible for performing fair value determination of these investments in accordance with the requirements of Rule 2a-5, which includes selecting and consistently applying an appropriate valuation methodology.

16 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

The Fund’s investments are valued at fair value in accordance with ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”). See Note 4 for more information.

 

Cash

 

The Fund places its cash in accounts that are affiliated with the Administrator and the Custodian and, at times, such balances may be in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits. The Adviser monitors the financial condition of the Administrator and the Custodian and does not anticipate any losses from these counterparties.

 

Income and Expense Recognition

 

The Fund records investment transactions on a trade date basis and recognizes income and expenses on an accrual basis. Income, expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are recorded monthly. Changes in the investment funds’ fair values are included in net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments on the consolidated statement of operations. Realized gain (loss) from investments in investment funds is calculated using the specific identification methodology.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Fund currently complies, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Code applicable to Regulated Investment Companies (“RICs”) and distributes substantially all of its taxable income to its Members. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. The Fund files tax returns with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and state(s) as applicable. The Fund has concluded there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the consolidated financial statements as of April 30, 2024. If applicable, the Fund recognizes interest accrued related to liabilities for unrecognized tax in interest expense and penalties in other expenses on the consolidated statement of operations. The open tax years under potential examination vary by jurisdiction, but in general tax authorities can examine all tax returns filed for the last three tax years.

 

The Fund has a tax year that ends on April 30.

 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

 

Each Member will have all income distributions and capital gains distributions automatically reinvested in additional units unless such Member specifically elects to receive all income distributions and capital gains distributions in cash.

 

17 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

3. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk

 

In the normal course of business, the investment funds in which the Fund invests trade various financial instruments and enter into various investment activities with off-balance sheet risk. These include, but are not limited to, short selling activities, written option contracts, and swaps. The Fund’s risk of loss in these investment funds is limited to the value of the Fund’s interest in these investment funds as reported by the Fund.

 

4. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

ASC 820 provides for the use of net asset value (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient to estimate fair value of investments in investment funds, provided certain criteria are met. Accordingly, the Fund values its investments in investment funds at fair value, which is an amount equal to the sum of the Fund’s proportionate interests in the investment funds, as determined from financial information provided by the respective administrators or investment managers of the investment funds. These fair values represent the amounts the Fund would receive if it were able to liquidate its investments in the investment funds as of the measurement date, prior to any early withdrawal charges, if applicable. Some values received are estimates, subject to subsequent revision by the respective administrators or investment managers. Values received are generally net of management fees and incentive fees or allocations payable to the investment funds’ investment managers pursuant to the investment funds’ operating agreements. The investment funds value their underlying investments in accordance with policies established by each investment fund, as described in each of their financial statements or offering memoranda.

 

The investment funds hold positions in readily marketable investments and derivatives that are valued at quoted market values and/or less liquid non-marketable investments and derivatives that are valued at estimated fair value. The mix and concentration of more readily marketable investments and less liquid non-marketable investments varies across the investment funds based on various factors, including the nature of their investment strategy. The Fund’s investments in investment funds are subject to the terms and conditions of the respective operating agreements and offering memoranda.

 

The Adviser has designed ongoing due diligence processes with respect to investment funds, their administrators, and their investment managers. The Adviser assesses the quality of information provided and determines whether such information continues to be reliable or whether further investigation is necessary. Such investigation, as applicable, may require the Adviser to forego its normal reliance on the value provided and to independently determine the fair value of the Fund’s interest in the investment fund.

 

The Adviser has designated a committee to oversee the valuation of the Fund’s investments (the “Valuation Committee”). The Valuation Committee is comprised of senior personnel, the majority of whom are separate from the Fund’s portfolio management team, and is responsible for developing written valuation policies and procedures, conducting periodic reviews of those policies and procedures, and evaluating the overall fairness and consistent application of the valuation policies and procedures. The Valuation Committee meets on a quarterly basis or more frequently as needed.

18 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

If no value is readily available from an investment fund or if a value supplied by an investment fund is deemed by the Valuation Committee not to be indicative of its fair value, the Valuation Committee would determine, in good faith, the fair value of the investment fund under procedures adopted by the Board and subject to Board oversight. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the fair values of the investment funds held by the Fund may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market for the investment funds been available. As of and for the year ended April 30, 2024, all investments in investment funds were valued using the values provided by the investment funds or their administrators.

 

Short-term investments consist of investments in money market funds valued at $148,086,016 as of April 30, 2024. These investments are valued using readily available market quotations at their respective net asset value per share and are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy, as defined in ASC 820.

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, investments in investment funds that are valued at net asset value as a practical expedient are not required to be included in the fair value hierarchy. All investments in investment funds were valued at their respective net asset value as of April 30, 2024, and are excluded from the fair value hierarchy.

 

As of April 30, 2024, approximately 0.73% of the Fund’s net assets were invested in investment funds that do not have set redemption timeframes but are liquidating investments and making distributions as underlying investments are sold. Additionally, approximately 5.75% of the Fund’s net assets were invested in designated private investments maintained by the investment funds or in term vehicles, which do not have set redemption timeframes. The timing of when these investments will be liquidated is unknown.

 

The following is a summary of the Fund’s investment sectors as of April 30, 2024.

 

Relative value strategies attempt to capture pricing anomalies between assets that for all economic purposes are identical. Relative value strategies capture these inefficiencies by utilizing a combination of assets including bonds, stocks, swaps, options, exchange traded funds, currencies, futures, etc. One such strategy is capital structure arbitrage which involves the purchase and short sale of different classes of securities of the same issuer where there is a relative mispricing between two classes of securities. An example of this strategy is the purchase of undervalued senior secured debt and the short sale of overvalued subordinated unsecured debt or common equity. Other examples of relative value strategies include fixed income arbitrage, relative value interest rates, convertible bond arbitrage, relative value energy, and quantitative strategies. Generally, investment funds within this sector require a 30 to 90 day notice period to redeem at the next available redemption date.

19 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

Market neutral and hedged equity strategies involve the purchase of a stock or basket of stocks that is relatively underpriced as well as selling short a stock or basket of stocks that is relatively overpriced. Depending on the manager’s investment strategy, the determination of whether a stock is overpriced or underpriced can be made through fundamental analysis (a fundamental strategy) or by complex statistical models that examine numerous factors that affect the price of a stock (a quantitative strategy). The Adviser will utilize equity managers that target well-hedged and low net exposures and/or use a balanced approach to investing, i.e., they are short approximately the same dollar value of stocks they are long. Generally, investment funds within this sector require a 45 to 90 day notice period to redeem at the next available redemption date.

 

Event-driven strategies involve the assessment of how, when, and if specific transactions will be completed and the effect on corporations and financial assets. A common event-driven strategy is merger arbitrage (also called risk arbitrage). This involves the purchase of the stock of a target company involved in a potential merger and, in the case of a stock-for-stock offer, the short sale of the stock of the acquiring company. The target company’s stock would typically trade at a discount to the offer price due to the uncertainty of the completion of the transaction. The positions may be reversed if the manager feels the acquisition may not close. This strategy aims to capture the spread between the value of the security at the close of the transaction and its discounted value at the time of purchase. Other examples of event-driven strategies and opportunities include corporate restructurings, spin-offs, operational turnarounds, activism, asset sales, and liquidations. Generally, investment funds within this sector require a 60 to 90 day notice period to redeem at the next available redemption date.

 

Distressed strategies involve the purchase or short sale of debt or equity securities of issuers experiencing financial distress. These securities may be attractive because of the market’s inaccurate assessment of the issuer’s future potential or the values and timing of recoveries. Managers may obtain voting rights or control blocks and actively participate in the bankruptcy or reorganization process while other investors may remain passive investors. Examples of distressed securities trades include bankruptcies, liquidations, post-restructured equities, structured credit, and balance sheet restructurings. Credit strategies involve a variety of strategies intended to exploit inefficiencies in the high-yield and related credit markets. Generally, investment funds within this sector require a 90 day notice period to redeem at the next available redemption date.

 

5. Investment Transactions

 

Total purchases of investment funds for the year ended April 30, 2024 were $278,581,479. Total redemptions from investment funds for the year ended April 30, 2024 were $248,702,806.

20 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

6. Members’ Units

 

The stated minimum initial investment by Members is $50,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $10,000. The Adviser may waive these minimums, but in no event will the initial investment be less than $25,000. Members may purchase units as of the first business day of the month.

 

Subscriptions received in advance and subscriptions received in advance from Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC represent the amounts received on or prior to April 30, 2024 for subscriptions with an effective date of May 1, 2024.

 

Foreside Fund Services, LLC acts as the distributor (the “Distributor”) of the Fund’s units. The Distributor has entered into, and may continue to enter into, selected dealer agreements with various brokers and dealers (“Selling Agents”) that agree to participate in the distribution of the Fund’s units. Neither the Fund nor the Distributor impose an initial sales charge. If a Member purchases units through a Selling Agent, the Selling Agent may directly charge the Member a transaction or other fees in such amount as the Selling Agent determines. Any such transaction or other fees charged by a Selling Agent is in addition to the subscription price for units and does not form a part of a Member’s investment in the Fund.

 

The Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, may authorize the Fund to make a tender offer to repurchase Members’ units (an “Offer”). In determining whether the Fund should make an Offer to repurchase units from Members, the Board will consider, among other things, the recommendation of the Adviser. The Adviser expects that it will recommend to the Board that the Fund make an Offer to repurchase units from Members semi-annually on June 30 and December 31. While there can be no guarantee that it will continue this practice, to date, the Fund has offered to repurchase 10 – 20% of its units at each of its June 30 and December 31 Offers.

 

As part of each Offer, Members of the Fund may request to tender units and immediately subscribe the resulting proceeds to the Feeder Fund. As part of the Feeder Fund’s tender offers, Members of the Feeder Fund may request to tender units and immediately subscribe the resulting proceeds to the Fund. In these circumstances, the Fund and the Feeder Fund process the transactions without requiring the payment or receipt of cash. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the total amount of non-cash subscriptions was $27,761,174 and there were no non-cash redemptions for the year.

 

A 5% early repurchase fee is charged on repurchased units that have been held less than one year, payable to the Fund. The Board or the Adviser may waive the imposition of the early repurchase fee. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the Fund charged early repurchase fees of $7,256. Such amount is included in other income on the consolidated statement of operations.

 

In no event shall any Member have any liability for the repayment or discharge of debts and obligations of the Fund except to the extent provided by the Fund’s prospectus or as required by law.

21 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

7. Advisory Fee, Related Party Transactions, and Other Expenses

 

In consideration of the advisory and other services provided by the Adviser to the Fund, the Fund pays the Adviser a monthly advisory fee (the “Advisory Fee”) of 0.10% (1.20% per annum) of the Fund’s month end net asset value. The Advisory Fee is an expense paid out of the Fund’s assets and is computed based on the value of the net assets of the Fund as of the close of business on the last calendar day of each month, before adjustments for any repurchases effective on that day. The Advisory Fee is payable in arrears as of the last calendar day of the applicable fiscal quarter and is in addition to the asset-based management fees and incentive fees or allocations charged by the investment funds and indirectly borne by Members in the Fund. For the year ended April 30, 2024, the Fund incurred Advisory Fees of $58,693,647, of which $15,100,228 was payable to the Adviser as of April 30, 2024.

 

The Fund pays all investment expenses, including, but not limited to, brokerage commissions and all other costs of executing transactions, interest expense, commitment fees, custody fees, its share of expenses of the investment funds, including management fees to the investment managers of the investment funds (ranging from 0.00% to 3.50% of net asset value) and incentive fees or allocations to such investment managers (ranging from 0% to 40% of net profits). The Fund also pays all ongoing ordinary administrative and operational costs of the Fund, including (but not limited to) legal costs, audit and tax preparation fees, fees paid to the Administrator, fees paid to the regulatory and compliance administrator, risk monitoring fees, filing fees, insurance expense, fees paid to sub-transfer agencies, bank charges, and taxes. The Fund will also pay any extraordinary operating expenses. Among the Fund’s operating expenses are certain costs that may be associated in part with the Feeder Fund that are not clearly allocable on a separate basis, such as joint vendor contracts. The Feeder Fund is the largest member of the Fund and as such bears a significant pro rata share of all expenses of the Fund.

 

The Adviser will bear all ongoing ordinary administrative and operational costs of the Adviser, including employees’ salaries, office rent, travel costs, computer and equipment costs, telephone bills, office supplies, research and data costs, legal costs, accounting costs, filing costs, and communication expenses.

 

The Adviser has entered into an agreement with the Fund (the “Expense Limitation Agreement”) whereby it has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or reimburse the Fund’s expenses to the extent necessary to ensure that the monthly expenses of the Fund (excluding taxes, brokerage commissions, interest expense and commitment fees incurred in connection with any credit facility, other transaction related expenses, custody fees, bank charges, any extraordinary expenses of the Fund, any acquired fund fees and expenses, and the Advisory Fee) will not exceed 0.020833% (0.25% per annum) of the Fund’s net assets as of each month end during the term of the Expense Limitation Agreement (the “Expense Limitation”). The Fund will carry forward, for a period not to exceed 3 years from the date on which a waiver or reimbursement is made by the Adviser, any expenses in excess of the Expense Limitation and repay the Adviser such amounts; provided that the Fund is able to effect such reimbursement and remain in compliance with the Expense Limitation disclosed in the prospectus that was in effect at the time of the original waiver.

22 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

Eligible expenses were below the Expense Limitation and no eligible expenses were recaptured under the Expense Limitation Agreement during the year ended April 30, 2024. There are no amounts subject to potential future reimbursement to the Adviser.

 

Compensation to the independent directors for the year ended April 30, 2024 was $155,000.

 

As of April 30, 2024, directors, officers, and the Adviser and its employees held units in the Fund as follows:

 

    Units   Percent of Net
Assets
Directors   1,377.09   0.03%
Officers   150.49   0.01%
Adviser and its employees   2,624.91   0.06%
Total   4,152.49   0.10%

 

8. Credit Facility

 

The Fund maintains a secured credit agreement with an unaffiliated bank (“Credit Facility I”). Credit Facility I has a maximum availability of $200,000,000, subject to specific asset-based covenants. Borrowings are collateralized in full by certain assets of the Fund and bear interest at an annual rate of Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.45%. The Fund also pays an annual commitment fee of 0.45% on the amount by which the maximum availability exceeds the outstanding loan balance. Interest and commitment fees are calculated and accrued daily. Credit Facility I matures on June 27, 2025.

 

Effective May 17, 2023, the Fund entered into a secured credit agreement with an unaffiliated bank (“Credit Facility II”). Credit Facility II has a maximum availability of $200,000,000, subject to specific asset-based covenants. Borrowings are collateralized in full by certain assets of the Fund and bear interest at an annual rate of 1-month Term SOFR plus 1.50%. The Fund also pays an annual commitment fee of 0.50% on the amount by which the maximum availability exceeds the outstanding loan balance. Any outstanding principal, along with accrued interest and fees, must be repaid within 183 calendar days following the date of each borrowing. Interest and commitment fees are calculated and accrued daily. Credit Facility II matures on May 15, 2026, subject to an annual renewal process.

 

Interest expense and commitment fees incurred for the year ended April 30, 2024 are included on the consolidated statement of operations. Under Credit Facility I for the year ended April 30, 2024, the average loan balance and average interest rate were $57,111 and 6.75%, respectively. Under Credit Facility II, for the year ended April 30, 2024, the Fund had no outstanding loan balance.

23 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

9. Income Taxes

 

The Fund generally invests in investment funds organized outside the United States that are treated as corporations for U.S. tax purposes and are expected to be classified as passive foreign investment companies (“PFICs”). Certain PFICs provide information regarding the amount of U.S. taxable income and gain. For such PFICs, the Fund has made Qualified Electing Fund (“QEF”) elections for tax purposes.

 

For other PFICs that do not provide information regarding taxable income and gain, the Fund has made mark-to-market (“MTM”) elections which convert any unrealized gain to ordinary taxable income.

 

The Fund also invests in investment funds organized in the U.S. that are treated as partnerships for U.S. income tax purposes.

 

Net investment income (loss) and net realized gain (loss) from investments in investment funds may not be treated the same for financial statement and for U.S. tax purposes. Temporary book-tax differences result when the Fund holds an investment in an investment fund, and such temporary book-tax differences generally become permanent upon disposal of the investment fund.

 

As of April 30, 2024, the aggregate cost and related gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation for tax purposes of the Fund’s investments were as follows:

 

Cost of investments for tax purposes  $5,107,666,405
     
Gross tax unrealized appreciation  $70,952,990
Gross tax unrealized depreciation   (74,442,622)
   Net tax unrealized depreciation on investments  $(3,489,632)

 

Permanent differences, due to deemed distributions attributable to redemptions of Units, resulted in the following reclassifications among the Fund’s components of net assets as of April 30, 2024:

 

Accumulated losses  $(4,273,407)
Paid-in capital   4,273,407

 

Distribution of Income and Gains

 

The Fund declares and pays dividends annually from net investment income. Net realized gains, if any, are distributed at least annually. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income for tax purposes.

24 

Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

For the years ended April 30, 2024 and April 30, 2023, the tax character of distributions paid was as follows:

 

Tax Character  April 30, 2024   April 30, 2023
Ordinary income  $213,546,091   $243,668,966
Long-term capital gains   23,372,373    73,273,691

 

As of April 30, 2024, the components of distributable earnings/(losses) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed ordinary income  $58,882,488
Undistributed long-term capital gains   26,806,775
Net unrealized depreciation   (3,489,632)
Accumulated earnings  $82,199,631

 

As of April 30, 2024, the Fund did not have any available unused short-term capital losses or unused long-term capital losses for federal income tax purposes.

 

10. Commitments

 

As of April 30, 2024, the Fund had unfunded capital commitments to investment funds of $199,579,387.

 

11. Indemnification

 

In the normal course of business, the Fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications and that contain a variety of representations and warranties. The Fund’s maximum exposure in connection with these contracts is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. However, no claims have been made under these indemnities in the past, and while there can be no assurances in this regard, the Fund is not aware of any such claims that may be made in the future.

 

12. Subsequent Events

 

The Adviser has performed a subsequent events review and determined that there were no subsequent events which would have a significant impact on the Fund’s financial position or results of operations.

25 

Federal Tax Information (Information Unaudited)

 

The Fund is required by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“the Code”), to advise you about the federal tax status of dividends paid by the Company during the Company’s fiscal year ended April 30, 2024: 1) 0.30% of ordinary income dividends paid during the year constitutes qualified dividend income in accordance with Section 854(b)(1)(B) of the Code, and 2) 0% of ordinary income dividends paid during the year are eligible for the corporate dividends received deduction provided under Section 243 of the Code in accordance with Section 854(b)(1)(A) of the Code.

 

In February 2025, shareholders will receive federal income tax information on all distributions declared in the calendar year 2024, including any distributions paid to their accounts between May 1, 2024 and January 31, 2025.

 

Fund Management (Information Unaudited)

 

The Fund’s officers are appointed by the Board of Directors and oversee the management of the day-to-day operations of the Fund subject to the oversight of the Board of Directors. One of the directors and all of the officers of the Fund are officers or employees of Ironwood Capital Management (the “Adviser” or “Ironwood”). The other directors (the “Independent Directors”) are not affiliated with the Adviser and are not “interested persons” as defined under Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). A list of the directors of the Fund and a brief statement of their present positions and principal occupations during the past five years are set out below.

 

Directors

 

Name and Age Position(s) Held
with Fund
Term of Office(1)
and Length of
Time Served
Principal Occupation(s) During
the Past 5 Years
Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex Overseen by Director
Other Public Company Directorships
Disinterested Directors
Richard W. Meadows
Age: 74
Independent Director Term - Indefinite
Length - Since inception
Retired since 2010; prior thereto Executive Vice President of mutual fund administration firm 2 0
M. Kelley Price
Age: 74
Independent Director Term - Indefinite
Length - Since inception
Retired since 2010; prior thereto Executive Vice President of mutual fund administration firm 2 0
David Sung
Age: 70
Independent Director Term - Indefinite
Length - Since October 1, 2015
Retired since 2014; prior thereto Partner of Ernst & Young LLP 2

The Hartford Group of Funds (83 portfolios);

Coller Secondaries Private Equity Opportunities Fund; also directorships with multiple private wealth and fund management businesses

Interested Directors(2)
Jonathan Gans
Age: 52
Director, Chairman of the Board Term - Indefinite
Length - Since inception
Chief Executive Officer and President of Ironwood 2 0

 

(1) Each Director will serve for the duration of the Fund, or until his death, resignation, termination, removal, or retirement.

 

(2) “Interested person,” as defined in the 1940 Act, of the Fund (“Interested Director”) because of the affiliation with the Fund and Ironwood.

 

 

Officers

 

Set forth below is the Fund’s officers’ name, age, position with the Fund, length of term of office, and the principal occupation for the last five years, as of April 30, 2024. The business address of each officer is care of Ironwood Capital Management, One Market Plaza, Steuart Tower, Suite 2500, San Francisco, California 94105.

 

Name and Age Position(s) Held
with Fund
Term of Office and Length of
Time Served
Principal Occupation(s) During
the Past 5 Years

Jonathan Gans

Age: 52

Chief Executive Officer, President

Term - Indefinite

Length - Since inception

Chief Executive Officer and President of Ironwood

Alison Sanger

Age: 52

Secretary

Term - Indefinite

Length - Since January 1, 2022

Chief Operating Officer of Ironwood

Martha Boero

Age: 41

Treasurer

Term - Indefinite

Length - Since March 15, 2013

Chief Financial Officer of Ironwood since January 2023; prior thereto Chief Accounting Officer of Ironwood

Michael Mazur

Age: 40

Chief Compliance Officer

Term - Indefinite

Length - Since January 1, 2022

Chief Compliance Officer of Ironwood since January 2022; prior thereto Vice President, Regulatory & Compliance of Ironwood

 

 

Item 2. Code of Ethics.

 

(a)The Fund, as of the end of the period covered by this report, has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the Fund’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the Fund or third party.

 

(b)No items to be disclosed pursuant to this paragraph.

 

(c)There have been no amendments, during the period covered by this report, to a provision of its code of ethics that applies to the Fund’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the Fund or third party, that relates to any element of the code of ethics description.

 

(d)The Fund has not granted any waivers, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of ethics that applies to the Fund’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the Fund or third party, that relates to any element of the code of ethics description.

 

(e)Not applicable

 

(f)The Fund’s Code of Ethics is attached hereto as Exhibit (a)(1) pursuant to Item 12(a)(1).

 

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

As of the end of the period covered by the report, the Fund’s Board of Directors has determined that David Sung is qualified to serve as an audit committee financial expert serving on its Audit Committee and that he is “independent” as defined by Item 3 of Form N-CSR.

 

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

 

Audit Fees

 

(a)The aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the Fund’s annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements are $62,400 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, and $59,400 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

(b)The aggregate fees billed for assurance and related services by the principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the Fund’s financial statements and are not reported under paragraph (a) of this Item are $0 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, and $0 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.

 

Tax Fees

 

(c)The aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning are $16,400 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, and $15,580 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023, all of which required pre-approval by the Board’s Audit Committee.

 

All Other Fees

 

(d)The aggregate fees billed for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than the services reported in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this Item are $0 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, and $0 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.
 

 

(e)(1) The Audit Committee has adopted an Audit and Non-Audit Services Pre-Approval Policy, which specifies the procedures and conditions under which services may be pre-approved. If the proposed service is not specifically included in the Pre-Approval Policy, it must be pre-approved on a case-by-case basis. The Audit Committee considers whether the proposed services would impair the auditor’s independence and whether the auditor is in the best position to provide the most effective and efficient service. The Audit Committee may delegate pre-approval authority to one or more of its members. A member to whom such authority is delegated must report all approval decisions to the Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting. The Audit Committee may not delegate to management its responsibility to pre-approve services to be performed by the Fund’s independent auditor.

 

The following services are considered pre-approved by the Audit Committee for the period ending April 30, 2024: audits of the Fund required by regulatory or statutory bodies; audits of management assertions related to the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting as required under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; services associated with SEC registration statements, periodic reports and other documents filed with the SEC; consultation on accounting or disclosure treatment of transactions or events; assistance in dealing with and responding to the SEC or any other regulatory agency on financial matters; tax compliance, including the preparation of federal, state, local and international tax returns; tax planning and advice.

The Audit Committee must specifically approve audit engagement and estimated tax return preparation fees.

 

(e)(2) The percentage of services described in each of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this item that were approved by the Audit Committee pursuant to paragraph (c) (7) (i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X are as follows:

 

(b) 0

(c) 100

(d) 0

 

(f)The percentage of hours expended on the principal accountant’s engagement to audit the Fund’s financial statements for the most recent fiscal year that were attributed to work performed by persons other than the principal accountant’s full-time, permanent employees was less than fifty percent.

 

(g)The aggregate non-audit fees billed by the Fund’s accountant for services rendered to the Fund, and rendered to the Fund’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the adviser that provides ongoing services to the Fund were $0 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, and $0 for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.

 

(h)The Fund’s Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the Fund’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the Fund that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence.

 

(i)Not applicable
  
(j)Not applicable

 

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

 

  (a)Not applicable

 

  (b)Not applicable
 

 

Item 6. Investments.

 

(a)Schedule of Investments in securities of unaffiliated issuers as of the close of the reporting period is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.

 

(b)Not applicable

 

Item 7. Financial Statements and Financial Highlights for Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 8. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants for Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9. Proxy Disclosures for Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 10. Remuneration Paid to Directors, Officers, and Others of Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 11. Statement Regarding Basis for Approval of Investment Advisory Contract.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 12. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

 

The Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures of the Fund and its investment adviser are as follows:

The Fund is a feeder fund in a “master-feeder” structure whereby it invests all of its assets in Ironwood Institutional Multi-Strategy Fund LLC (the “Master Fund”). The Master Fund invests in other private investment funds (the “Underlying Funds”), each managed by an independent investment adviser (collectively, the “Underlying Advisers”). As such, it is expected that proxies and consent requests received by Ironwood will deal with matters related to the operative terms and business details of such Underlying Funds. Ironwood is not responsible for, and these procedures are not applicable to, proxies received by Underlying Advisers (related to issuers invested in by the related Underlying Fund).

To the extent that the Master Fund receives notices or proxies from Underlying Funds (or to the extent the Master Fund receives proxy statements or similar notices in connection with any other portfolio securities), the Master Fund has delegated proxy voting responsibilities to Ironwood. Ironwood will vote proxies and respond to investor consent requests in the best interests of the Master Fund, as applicable, in accordance with Ironwood’s Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures (the “Policies”).

 

 

The Policies provide the following general guidelines for determining the best interests of the Fund:

(i)         Ironwood will generally vote in favor of normal corporate housekeeping proposals including, but not limited to, the following:

 

(A)       election of directors (where there are no related corporate governance issues);

(B)       selection or reappointment of auditors; or

(C)       increasing or reclassification of common stock.

(ii)       Ironwood will generally vote against proposals that:

(A)      make it more difficult to replace members of the issuer’s board of directors or board of managers; and

(B)      introduce unequal voting rights (although there may be regulatory reasons that would make such a proposal favorable to certain clients of Ironwood).

For proxies or consent requests addressing any other issues (which may include proposals related to fees paid to investment managers of underlying investment funds, redemption rights provided by underlying investment funds, investment objective modifications, etc.), Ironwood shall determine (which may be based upon the advice of external lawyers or accountants) whether a proposal is in the best interest of the Fund. In doing so, Ironwood will evaluate a number of factors which may include (but are not limited to): (i) the performance of the Underlying Fund in question; and (ii) a comparison of the proposed changes in terms to customary terms in the industry.

The Fund files Form N-PX, with its complete proxy voting record for the twelve months ended June 30, no later than August 31 of each year. Once filed, the Fund’s Form N-PX are available: (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund at (415)-777-2400; or (ii) by visiting the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov).

Item 13. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

 

(a)(1) Identification of Portfolio Manager and Description of Role of Portfolio Manager(s)

The following information is as of April 30, 2024.

The portfolio managers of Ironwood primarily responsible for the investment management of the Fund include Jonathan Gans, Simon Hong, and Benjamin Zack (the “Portfolio Managers”). The Portfolio Managers each serve on the Fund’s Investment & Risk Committee, which has ultimate authority for determining whether the Fund will invest in (or withdraw from) any particular investment. A unanimous vote of the Investment & Risk Committee is required for the Fund to take action with respect to any particular investment. Below are the names and biographical information of the Portfolio Managers.

Jonathan Gans is the Chief Executive Officer and President of Ironwood. He joined the firm in 1996 and is a member of Ironwood’s Investment & Risk Committee, Management Committee, and Valuation Committee. He also serves as a Director for Ironwood’s offshore and registered funds. Jon was previously employed at St. Claire Capital Management, where he was General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer. His prior professional experience also includes positions at the Securities and Exchange Commission Division of Enforcement and Glenwood Financial Group. Jon earned a B.A., cum laude, from Williams College, a J.D. from the University of California at Los Angeles School of Law, and is a member of the State Bar of California. Jon is a chapter member of YPO Golden Gate and a Trustee of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), where he has chaired the Investment Committee and served on the Executive Committee.

Simon Hong joined Ironwood in 2008 and is a Partner and Managing Director. Simon is responsible for overseeing Ironwood’s investment team and process. He is a member of the firm’s Investment & Risk Committee. Prior to Ironwood, Simon worked in the Investment Banking Division and Global Capital Markets group at Morgan Stanley where he helped advise clients on a wide variety of strategic and financial alternatives. Simon’s prior experience also includes positions in the Investment Management Division of Morgan Stanley and the Private Client Group of Merrill Lynch. Simon received a B.A. in Business Economics from Brown University. Simon is a CAIA designee and is a member of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association. Simon is a member of the Investment Committee of the Catholic Diocese of Oakland.

 

 

Benjamin Zack joined Ironwood in 2004 and is a Partner and Managing Director. Ben is responsible for overseeing Ironwood’s investment team and process. He is a member of the firm’s Investment & Risk Committee. Prior to Ironwood, Ben worked in the Health Care Investment Banking Group of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown where he helped advise life sciences and medical technology clients on a wide variety of strategic and financial alternatives including mergers and acquisitions, equity and debt issuances, and restructurings. Ben earned a B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Texas at Austin and an M.B.A. in Finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

(a)(2)(i-iii) Other SEC-Registered Investment Companies Managed as of April 30, 2024

Name of Portfolio
Manager
Number of
Registered
Investment
Companies
Total Assets of
Registered Investment
Companies
Number of
Investment
Company
Accounts with
Performance-
Based Fees
Total Assets of
Performance-
Based Fee
Accounts
Jonathan Gans 1(1) $5.10 billion 0 $0
Simon Hong 1(1) $5.10 billion 0 $0
Benjamin Zack 1(1) $5.10 billion 0 $0

(1)   The other registered investment company managed by this portfolio manager is the Master Fund.

Other Pooled Investment Vehicles Managed as of April 30, 2024

Name of Portfolio
Manager
Number of Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
Total Assets of
Pooled Investment
Vehicles
Number of Pooled
Investment
Vehicles with
Performance-
Based Fees
Total Assets of
Performance-
Based Fee
Accounts
Jonathan Gans 2 $1.93 billion 0 $0
Simon Hong 2 $1.93 billion 0 $0
Benjamin Zack 2 $1.93 billion 0 $0

 

Other Accounts Managed as of April 30, 2024

Name of Portfolio
Manager
Number of Other
Accounts
Total Assets of
Other Accounts
Number of Other
Accounts with
Performance-
Based Fees
Total Assets of
Performance-
Based Fee
Accounts
Jonathan Gans 0 $0 0 $0
Simon Hong 0 $0 0 $0
Benjamin Zack 0 $0 0 $0

 

(a)(2)(iv) Potential Conflicts of Interest

 

The following actual and potential conflicts of interest may arise in connection with the Portfolio Managers’ management of the Fund’s investments:

 

1)Other Activities. Ironwood also provides investment advisory services to other investment funds that utilize substantially the same investment strategy as the Fund (the “Other Ironwood Funds”). The Fund has no interest in these activities. Ironwood and the investment professionals who, on behalf of Ironwood, provide investment advisory services to the Fund are engaged in substantial activities other than on behalf of the Fund, may have differing economic interests in respect of such activities, and may have conflicts of interest in allocating their time and activity between the Fund and the Other Ironwood Funds.

 

2)Preferential Terms. Ironwood, its affiliates, or accounts other than the Fund managed by Ironwood or its affiliates may invest in Underlying Funds on terms more favorable than those available to the Fund, and, as investors in such Underlying Fund, may act in ways adverse to the interests of the Funds.
 

 

 

3)Allocation of Investments with Underlying Funds Between the Fund and Other Ironwood Funds. Ironwood is also the investment adviser of the Other Ironwood Funds. Ironwood often selects Underlying Funds for investment by the Fund that are managed by Underlying Advisers that advise parallel funds (the “Underlying Parallel Funds”) in which the Other Ironwood Funds may have made or may make an investment. In some cases, the Fund may invest in the same Underlying Funds as the Other Ironwood Funds. Conflicts of interest may arise with the allocation of investment transactions and opportunities, as well as in the amount or timing of when redemption notices are placed. The Fund may waive voting rights to address regulatory implications that might arise under the 1940 Act. The Fund and Ironwood have adopted policies and procedures regarding the allocation of investment opportunities, which generally require that investment opportunities be allocated among the Fund and Other Ironwood Funds in a manner that is fair, equitable and consistent with their fiduciary obligations to each.

 

4)Proprietary Trading by Ironwood, the Underlying Funds and Their Principals. Ironwood, the Underlying Funds and their respective principals and employees may trade securities or other investments for their own accounts and may have actual or potential conflicts of interest with respect to investments made on behalf of the Fund or an Underlying Fund in which the Fund invests. Furthermore, certain principals and employees of Ironwood have made direct investments in Underlying Funds managed by Underlying Advisers and Ironwood’s advisory clients have made investments in the same Underlying Funds or other pooled investment vehicles managed by such Underlying Advisers. Such proprietary trading may be in competition with the Fund and may be conducted at brokerage commission rates, if applicable, substantially lower than rates charged to the Fund.

 

(a)(3) Portfolio Manager Compensation Structure

 

The following information is as of April 30, 2024.

 

Jonathan Gans is an employee and owner of Ironwood and is compensated solely by Ironwood. As an owner of Ironwood, he receives base compensation and also participates in Ironwood’s profits and losses. Mr. Gans does not receive any additional compensation for serving as portfolio manager of the funds managed by Ironwood.

Simon Hong is an employee and owner of Ironwood and is compensated solely by Ironwood. Mr. Hong receives a combination of base compensation, discretionary compensation and compensation related to equity ownership in Ironwood. The discretionary compensation is based on a variety of factors, including the overall annual performance of the “Ironwood Composite”, which includes results of all private investment vehicles managed by Ironwood, execution of managerial responsibilities, and other qualitative factors. Mr. Hong may elect to defer a portion of his discretionary year-end compensation and notionally invest the deferred amount in the Ironwood Composite. Mr. Hong does not receive any additional compensation for serving as portfolio manager of the funds managed by Ironwood.

Benjamin Zack is an employee and owner of Ironwood and is compensated solely by Ironwood. As an owner of Ironwood, he receives base compensation and also participates in Ironwood’s profits and losses. He also receives discretionary compensation. The discretionary compensation is based on a variety of factors, including the overall annual performance of the “Ironwood Composite”, which includes results of all private investment vehicles managed by Ironwood, execution of managerial responsibilities, and other qualitative factors. Mr. Zack may elect to defer a portion of his discretionary year-end compensation and notionally invest the deferred amount in the Ironwood Composite. Mr. Zack does not receive any additional compensation for serving as portfolio manager of the funds managed by Ironwood.

(a)(4) Disclosure of Securities Ownership as of April 30, 2024

 

Name of Portfolio Manager Dollar Range of Equity Securities in
the Fund as of April 30, 2024
Jonathan Gans $0
Simon Hong $0
Benjamin Zack $0

 

(b) Not applicable

 

 

Item 14. Purchases of equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.

 

Not applicable

 

Item 15. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

 

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which the shareholders may recommend nominees to the Fund’s board of directors, where those changes were implemented after the Fund last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 407(c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-K (17 CFR 229.407) (as required by Item 22(b)(15) of Schedule 14A (17 CFR 240.14a-101)), or this Item.

 

Item 16. Controls and Procedures.

 

(a) The Fund’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, have concluded that the Fund’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(c))) are effective, as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(b)) and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) (17 CFR 240.13a-15(b) or 240.15d-15(b)).

 

(b) There were no changes in the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(d)) that occurred during the Fund’s second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 17. Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

 

(a) Not applicable.

 

(b) Not applicable.

 

Item 18. Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation.

 

(a) Not applicable.

 

(b) Not applicable.

 

Item 19. Exhibits.

 

(a)(1) Code of ethics that is the subject of disclosure required by Item 2 is attached hereto.

 

(a)(2) Not applicable

 

(a)(3) Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2(a)) are attached hereto.

 

(a)(3)(1) Not applicable

 

(a)(3)(2) Not applicable

 

(b) Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2(b)), Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13a-14(b) or 240.15d-14(b)), and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. 1350) are attached hereto.

 

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

   
(Registrant)       Ironwood Multi-Strategy Fund LLC
 
By  
   
/s/ Jonathan Gans  
Jonathan Gans, Chief Executive Officer and President
(principal executive officer)
   
Date: July 8, 2024

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By  
   
/s/ Jonathan Gans  
Jonathan Gans, Chief Executive Officer and President  
(principal executive officer)  
   
Date: July 8, 2024  
   
By  
   
/s/ Martha Boero  
Martha Boero, Treasurer  
(principal financial officer)  
   
Date: July 8, 2024