Featured Allocator | Christina Xing of the California Institute of Technology Investment Office
EAA: What drew you to the LP space and how did your background shape your path here?
Christina: I come from a unique blend of psychology and applied math for my Bachelor’s from Brandeis, and with a Master’s in financial technology from Duke. What drew me to the LP space, especially within an endowment context, is the dual mission: not only generating returns but also supporting world-changing research and education. I love that this role sits at the intersection of human behavior and quantitative analysis. It’s a space where I can apply both sides of my academic background while contributing to something bigger than myself.
EAA: Tell us more about your organization. What’s its origin story and core mission?
Christina: I work at the Caltech Investment Office. Our mission is to steward the Institute’s endowment to support its world-class research, education, and innovation. Caltech’s legacy of scientific breakthroughs and transformative ideas makes it incredibly meaningful to be part of the team that helps fund that future.
EAA: What’s been a defining moment in your allocator journey so far?
Christina: One moment that stood out was attending the New Generation Allocator Retreat. It was incredibly powerful to connect with both veterans and newcomers in the industry. Hearing stories that mirrored my own—about navigating this space, finding purpose, and building conviction—was both grounding and inspiring. It reminded me that we’re all part of a larger journey, and that community matters.
EAA: What’s a current idea, market shift, or emerging thesis that’s on your radar?
Christina: I’m fascinated by the overlap between AI and human interaction. As AI becomes more integrated into our lives, the way we design, regulate, and invest in these technologies will shape not just markets, but society. I’m particularly interested in how AI can augment—not replace—human decision-making in fields like healthcare, education, and mental health.
EAA: What podcasts do you listen to? What books do you recommend?
Christina: I love this question! For fun, I listen to The Basement Yard: it’s hilarious and a great way to unwind. I’m also a true crime enthusiast, so Crime Junkie is my favorite. In a way, being an allocator is like being an investigator—digging into stories, patterns, and red flags. For work, Capital Allocators is a must-listen. It offers deep insights into the allocator world and features some of the most thoughtful voices in the industry.
EAA: If you weren’t in investing, what would you be doing?
Christina: I’d be a psychiatrist. My life motto is to change the world—even just a little—and psychiatry is one of the most direct ways to do that. That said, I still feel like I’m living that mission by investing in world-class tech and healthcare innovations, and by helping fund Caltech’s brightest minds as they tackle global challenges.
EAA: What do you like to do outside of work?
Christina: I’m pretty active—I go to the gym regularly and I’m currently training for my first HYROX competition. I also love watching Netflix, and I play Dungeons & Dragons with friends. It’s a great creative outlet and a fun way to stay connected.
EAA: What’s the best way to get in touch with you?
Christina: Email is best: jxing@caltech.edu.