As shown in Figure A, the LTF enjoyed strong investment returns for the third consecutive year in Fiscal Year 2005, helping assets to grow to $4,000.9 million, versus $3,136.2 million in 2001, an increase of 27.6%, over the past five years.

Figure B illustrates the substantial long term growth in the LTF's net asset value from contributions and investment return (after distributions and expenses). Twenty-five years ago, at the end of fiscal year 1980, the net asset value of the LTF was $78.3 million, substantially below the $4.0 billion reached at the end of fiscal year 2005. The tremendous growth of the LTF over this period reflects the generosity of the many benefactors supporting UT System as well as investment returns earned by the LTF. FY 2005 was another remarkable year for gifts, with contributions to the LTF reaching $140.6 million. Over the twenty-five year period, the sum of the contributions received was $2.2 billion. The investment return over this same period was $3.5 billion. However, since distributions are paid out of investment income, the net investment addition to the total LTF was $1.8 billion.