In 2019, we adopted our current investment strategy, and reallocated more than 90% of our investments accordingly. We expect a 4% average annual real return over the long run. Our realized return has averaged 12.6% per annum since January 2019.
Our financial securities investment activities are guided by our Principles for Responsible Investments and Investment Plan. In short, they build on the central values that guide the University of Helsinki overall; truth, bildung, freedom and inclusivity.
Market efficiency is one of the most thoroughly tested hypotheses in financial economics, and we acknowledge it in our investment activities. Furthermore, we recognize our exposure to environmental, social and governance (ESG) related uncertainty, and consequently seek to manage them for ourselves, our partners, society, and sustainable development at large. In summary, handful of cost-efficient index funds that mitigate ESG related uncertainty are the bedrock of our securities investments. Our neutral allocation and benchmark index is 70% global equities and 30% global bonds, and we refrain from rebalancing unless necessary, to minimize trading costs.
On top of our investments into the global economy through diversified and cost-efficient index funds, we add extremely selective venture investments related to research-based innovations from the University of Helsinki itself.
We support the process of turning University of Helsinki related research-based innovations into business through spinout companies. Our goal is specifically to support and accelerate their early development. Our Technology Transfer Office often supports these cases initially, in addition to managing our IPR management and other duties.
When cases mature into a spinout companies, we seek to provide financial support by offering 10—50 thousand Euros pre-seed investments. We furthermore make 50—300 thousand Euros follow-up investments together with other investors.
We seek to honor the Principle of Public Access to Information by regular and detailed information disclosures regarding our financial investments, including annual reports and semi-annual third-party portfolio reports.