For the one-year period ending June 30, 2013, Emory's managed funds reported an investment return of 11.3 percent. This figure reflects the return earned between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013, a period representing the fiscal year for many universities. Emory's fiscal year ends Aug. 31; however, the university reports the June 30 figure to NACUBO (the National Association of College and University Business Officers) for purpose of comparison to these other institutions.

For the fiscal year ending Aug. 31, 2013, the Emory University endowment's managed funds earned 8.5 percent and the endowment was valued at $5.8 billion. The portfolio benefitted from double digit returns across public and private equities, with the strongest gains coming from the U.S., as markets reacted to improving economic news around the globe, says Mary Cahill, vice president of investments and chief investment officer.

Negative returns in fixed income markets and commodities during the period offset some of these gains. Emory Investment Management continues to focus on adding value over the long term, maintaining purchasing power after spending, and managing risk and liquidity at the appropriate level, says Cahill.

Comprehensive results for all leading endowments will be finalized and reported by NACUBO in January 2014.