September 27, 2024
The total value of Columbia’s endowment as of June 30, 2024 was $14.8 billion, reflecting a return of 11.5% on the assets managed by Columbia University Investment Management Company, as well as gifts and transfers, and spending from the endowment in fiscal 2024. The University’s trailing five and ten-year returns are 8.5% and 7.4%, respectively.
“Fiscal 2024 was a strong year for public market performance. We benefitted both from our exposure to public markets and from strong performance of individual managers relative to benchmarks,” stated Columbia IMC President and CEO Kim Lew. “While private assets lagged our marketable assets portfolio, it contributed positive performance in the past year. We continue to implement a deliberately paced re-positioning of the private portfolio, and we are optimistic that the current market cycle presents investment opportunities that will benefit performance in the long term. We remain focused on building an asset base that supports Columbia’s core mission.”
Columbia’s endowment is a critical form of support for University academic programs, faculty research, and student financial aid. Due in large part to the generosity of donors and endowment support, Columbia was able to provide financial aid to more than 50% of undergraduates in fiscal 2024. Total financial aid expenditures at the University increased by 7% in fiscal 2024.