NAVIGATION

What is Preferred Returns?

Definition

Preferred Returns

Preferred Returns (also known as hurdle rates) are the minimum profits that must be distributed to investors before fund managers can collect performance fees.

Why It Matters for Startups

Directly dictates the cap table and dilution structure during fundraising; understanding Preferred Returns helps founders model equity distributions when structuring rounds for venture fund term sheet drafting and lp payouts.

Detailed Deep Dive

Preferred Returns set a performance threshold for fund managers. General partners can only collect carried interest once the fund has met this minimum return target for limited partners.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is a typical preferred return rate?

Typically 6% to 8% annualized, aligning fund performance goals with LP expectations.

Q:Are preferred returns standard in venture capital?

They are more common in private equity and real estate, but some late-stage venture funds include them.

Quick Facts

  • CategoryFunding
  • Key ApplicationVenture fund term sheet drafting and LP payouts

Coverage Trend12 Weeks

12w agoToday

Cite This Term

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[Preferred Returns | SPIDITS Glossary](https://spidits.com/startup-glossary/preferred-returns)

Preferred Returns Media Coverage & Intelligence

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