Alaska Dividend Equivalent Shares are a unique investment instrument offered by the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC), specifically designed to provide shareholders with a portion of the income generated by the Alaska Permanent Fund (APF). These shares enable individuals to indirectly participate in the growth and success of the APF, which is a sovereign wealth fund established to manage the state's oil and mineral royalties. The concept of Dividend Equivalent Shares allows Alaskan residents to receive a share of the fund's annual earnings, mirroring the dividends paid out directly to Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) recipients. By investing in these shares, Alaskans can enjoy the benefits of receiving a steady income stream from the APF. There are two main types of Alaska Dividend Equivalent Shares available. The first is the Original Alaska Dividend Equivalent Share (FADES), which was initially distributed in 1982. FADES holders receive a payment equivalent to dividends paid to Alaska residents who qualify for the PFD program. These shares were distributed on a one-time basis and are no longer available for purchase. The second type is the New Alaska Dividend Equivalent Share (NAMES), launched in 2010 as a result of a special legislation enacted to create additional shares. NAMES owners are entitled to a portion of the APF's annual earnings, just like PFD recipients. Unlike FADES, NAMES are available for purchase on the open market through authorized brokers. Investing in Alaska Dividend Equivalent Shares can be appealing to individuals seeking a way to diversify their investment portfolios and capitalize on Alaska's resource-based economy. These shares offer the potential for growth as the APF's assets expand over time, driven by the prudent management of the fund and the performance of oil, gas, and mineral investments. In summary, Alaska Dividend Equivalent Shares offer Alaskan residents and investors a unique opportunity to indirectly participate in the financial success of the Alaska Permanent Fund. While FADES were distributed on a one-time basis, the NAMES remain available for purchase and offer a means for individuals to benefit from the fund's annual earnings. By investing in these shares, individuals can gain exposure to Alaska's resource-rich wealth and potentially earn income through dividends similar to the state's Permanent Fund Dividend program.