Investment Managers from around the world (including the US, UK, Switzerland etc.) use Ireland as a domicile and Waystone are is a leading provider in establishing AIFs in Ireland and in other European countries.
They market the fund to asset owners/investors such as Insurance Companies, Pension firms, banks etc.
They are used to provide funding to the real economy and to give investors the ability to get exposure to investment opportunities and financial markets.
Retail investors cannot invest in AIFs as they are considered too complex for the direct retail market.