From big data to real-world insight

https://www.cmich.edu/news/details/from-big-data-to-real-world-insight

Publish Date: 2026-05-07 15:03:00

Source Domain: www.cmich.edu

Holly Ireton, a Central Michigan University student, explores AI’s impact on asset management in her research titled “AI in Asset Management: A Performance Comparison Between AI-Powered Mutual Funds and Quantitative Hedge Funds.”
Ireton’s project compares AI-driven mutual funds and traditional quantitative hedge funds to assess whether AI-powered strategies genuinely outperform traditional methods, finding that AI funds tend to achieve higher returns due to higher market risk exposure rather than superior stock selection.
Her research shows a high correlation between the returns of AI-powered mutual funds and quantitative hedge funds, indicating similar market reaction tendencies.
Ireton highlights the accessibility of AI-driven strategies via mutual funds, making investment strategies traditionally exclusive to wealthy investors more available to small-scale investors.
Presenting her research at the 2026 National Conference on Undergraduate Research in Richmond, Virginia, underscores its academic significance and potential real-world impact.
Ireton’s work challenges common assumptions about AI’s transformative potential in asset management, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing genuine innovation from marketing hype.
Her research bridges the gap between theoretical finance and real-world implications, reflecting Central Michigan University’s commitment to applied, real-world learning.
Ireton’s research serves as a model of how undergraduate students can contribute valuable scholarship that meets peer-reviewed academic standards.