10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
Q	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2014
or
o	TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to

Commission File Number: 001-34516

Cowen Group, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)	27-0423711 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
599 Lexington Avenue New York, New York (Address of Principal Executive Offices)	10022 (Zip Code)

(646) 562-1000

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes Q    No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  Q  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer Q Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o    No Q

APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS:

As of November 5, 2014 there were 113,635,176 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.

Item No.			Page No.
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION			4
	1. Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements		4
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition	4
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations	5
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	6
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity	7
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	8
		Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	9
	2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		51
	3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		82
	4. Controls and Procedures		82
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION			82
	1. Legal Proceedings		82
	1A. Risk Factors		83
	2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds		85
	3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities		86
	4. Mine Safety Disclosures		86
	5. Other Information		86
	6. Exhibits		86
SIGNATURES			87
EXHIBIT INDEX			E - 1

2

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

We have made statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (including in “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”) that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify these statements by forward-looking terms such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “possible,” “potential,” “intend,” “seek” or “continue,” the negative of these terms and other comparable terminology or similar expressions. In addition, our management may make forward-looking statements to analysts, representatives of the media and others. These forward-looking statements represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events (many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond our control) and are predictions only, based on our current expectations and projections about future events. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In particular, you should consider the risks contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 as well as Item 1A of this periodic report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2014.

Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance or achievements. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. We undertake no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements after the date of this filing to conform our prior statements to actual results or revised expectations.

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are presented for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013. The Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2013 were audited.

3

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

Cowen Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

(dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

	As of September 30, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	66,166		$	54,720
Cash collateral pledged	8,862			10,907
Securities owned, at fair value	660,602			311,039
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	35,966			10,075
Securities borrowed	2,321,556			927,773
Other investments	130,584			99,483
Receivable from brokers	95,149			66,980
Fees receivable, net of allowance	43,566			45,067
Due from related parties	29,716			26,910
Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $24,437 and $21,853, respectively	27,390			26,999
Goodwill	37,240			37,240
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $26,189 and $26,610, respectively	9,985			12,094
Other assets	26,622			17,561
Consolidated Funds
Cash and cash equivalents	368			2,048
Other investments	197,001			187,480
Other assets	691			5,624
Total Assets	$	3,691,464		$	1,842,000
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Liabilities
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	$	209,089		$	130,954
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	—			3,657
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	31,369			7,674
Securities loaned	2,324,682			918,577
Payable to brokers	246,797			75,420
Compensation payable	66,140			51,807
Short-term borrowings and other debt	4,608			2,564
Convertible debt	117,031			—
Fees payable	10,164			6,324
Due to related parties	413			382
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	50,774			45,290
Consolidated Funds
Capital withdrawals payable	—			5,222
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	94			549
Total Liabilities	3,061,161			1,248,420
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 13)
Redeemable non-controlling interests	91,429			85,814
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding	—			—
Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share: 250,000,000 shares authorized, 135,143,171 shares issued and 113,634,803 outstanding as of September 30, 2014 and 130,900,182 shares issued and 115,026,633 outstanding as of December 31, 2013, respectively (including 424,479 and 482,522 restricted shares, respectively)	1,160			1,160
Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share: 250,000,000 authorized, no shares issued and outstanding	—			—
Additional paid-in capital	766,961			737,341
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(158,498		)	(183,243		)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	272			592
Less: Class A common stock held in treasury, at cost, 21,508,368 and 15,873,549 shares, respectively	(71,021		)	(48,084		)
Total Stockholders' Equity	538,874			507,766
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$	3,691,464		$	1,842,000

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

4

Cowen Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014			2013			2014			2013
Revenues
Investment banking	$	45,799		$	27,694		$	125,653		$	70,431
Brokerage	34,334			28,462			100,475			86,583
Management fees	9,796			9,327			28,412			28,518
Incentive income	(837		)	2,521			4,385			7,086
Interest and dividends	13,725			10,969			35,437			30,905
Reimbursement from affiliates	2,473			2,175			7,391			6,451
Other revenues	1,120			556			2,427			1,519
Consolidated Funds
Interest and dividends	642			255			1,783			414
Other revenues	49			190			717			267
Total revenues	107,101			82,149			306,680			232,174
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	65,806			53,614			197,771			145,344
Floor brokerage and trade execution	5,125			5,421			16,638			17,669
Interest and dividends	12,429			6,281			29,694			20,886
Professional, advisory and other fees	4,621			4,022			12,596			10,878
Service fees	1,933			2,351			6,161			7,615
Communications	3,286			3,481			9,554			9,991
Occupancy and equipment	6,650			6,752			19,371			19,019
Depreciation and amortization	2,274			2,624			7,036			7,786
Client services and business development	6,577			3,493			16,726			12,251
Other expenses	3,364			3,248			9,750			8,785
Consolidated Funds
Interest and dividends	218			96			517			157
Professional, advisory and other fees	348			230			622			717
Floor brokerage and trade execution	1			91			7			196
Other expenses	68			33			189			167
Total expenses	112,700			91,737			326,632			261,461
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	13,836			14,680			48,227			30,507
Consolidated Funds
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions	532			3,096			8,474			11,274
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives	1,899			(32		)	1,688			430
Net gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions	2			168			(17		)	1
Total other income (loss)	16,269			17,912			58,372			42,212
Income (loss) before income taxes	10,670			8,324			38,420			12,925
Income tax expense (benefit)	141			(46		)	266			288
Net income (loss)	10,529			8,370			38,154			12,637
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006			4,759			13,409			10,509
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	6,523		$	3,611		$	24,745		$	2,128
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic	114,969			118,359			115,407			116,012
Diluted	118,801			122,708			120,027			119,891
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.06		$	0.03		$	0.21		$	0.02
Diluted	$	0.05		$	0.03		$	0.21		$	0.02

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

5

Cowen Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(dollars in thousands)

(unaudited)

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014							Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
Net income (loss)					$	38,154						$	12,637
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation			(233	)						(10	)
Defined benefit pension plan:
Net gain/(loss) arising during the period	(87	)						(223	)
Add: amortization of prior service cost included in net periodic pension cost	—		(87	)				16		(207	)
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax					(320		)					(217		)
Comprehensive income (loss)					$	37,834						$	12,420

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

6

Cowen Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

(dollars in thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)

	Common Shares Outstanding		Common Stock		Treasury Stock			Additional Paid-in Capital		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings/ (Accumulated deficit)			Total Stockholders' Equity			Redeemable Non-controlling Interest
Balance, December 31, 2013	115,026,633		$	1,160	$	(48,084	)	$	737,341	$	592		$	(183,243	)	$	507,766		$	85,814
Net income (loss)	—		—		—			—		—			24,745			24,745			13,409
Defined benefit plan	—		—		—			—		(87		)	—			(87		)	—
Foreign currency translation	—		—		—			—		(233		)	—			(233		)	—
Capital contributions	—		—		—			—		—			—			—			10,273
Capital withdrawals	—		—		—			—		—			—			—			(18,067		)
Restricted stock awards issued	4,242,989		—		—			—		—			—			—			—
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost	(5,634,819	)	—		(22,937		)	—		—			—			(22,937		)	—
Warrants issued (see Note 5)	—		—		—			15,218		—			—			15,218			—
Stock options exercised (See Note 10)	—		—		—			116		—			—			116
Amortization of share based compensation	—		—		—			14,286		—			—			14,286			—
Balance, September 30, 2014	113,634,803		$	1,160	$	(71,021	)	$	766,961	$	272		$	(158,498	)	$	538,874		$	91,429
	Common Shares Outstanding		Common Stock		Treasury Stock			Additional Paid-in Capital		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings/ (Accumulated deficit)			Total Stockholders' Equity			Redeemable Non-controlling Interest
Balance, December 31, 2012	112,447,892		$	1,135	$	(31,728	)	$	713,211	$	356		$	(187,865	)	$	495,109		$	85,703
Net income (loss)	—		—		—			—		—			2,128			2,128			10,509
Defined benefit plan	—		—		—			—		(207		)	—			(207		)	—
Foreign currency translation	—		—		—			—		(10		)	—			(10		)	—
Capital contributions	—		—		—			—		—			—			—			11,656
Capital withdrawals	—		—		—			—		—			—			—			(17,689		)
Restricted stock awards issued	4,288,108		—		—			—		—			—			—			—
Common stock issued upon acquisition (See Note 2)	2,514,468		25		—			6,272		—			—			6,297			—
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost	(1,863,684	)	—		(5,879		)	—		—			—			(5,879		)	—
Treasury stock re-issuance	24,744		—		90			—		—			(25		)	65			—
Amortization of share based compensation	—		—		—			13,803		—			—			13,803			—
Balance, September 30, 2013	117,411,528		$	1,160	$	(37,517	)	$	733,286	$	139		$	(185,762	)	$	511,306		$	90,179

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensedconsolidated financial statements.

7

Cowen Group, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (dollars in thousands)  (unaudited)
	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014			2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	$	38,154		$	12,637
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	7,036			7,786
Amortization of debt discount	3,241			—
Share-based compensation	14,286			13,803
Deferred rent obligations	(1,629		)	(2,467		)
Net loss on disposal of fixed assets	311			350
Purchases of securities owned, at fair value	(3,362,237		)	(5,948,964		)
Proceeds from sales of securities owned, at fair value	3,013,982			6,179,204
Proceeds from sales of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	1,371,216			2,417,838
Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	(1,268,348		)	(2,458,420		)
Net (gains) losses on securities, derivatives and other investments	(38,181		)	(33,530		)
Consolidated Funds
Purchases of securities owned, at fair value	—			(298,220		)
Proceeds from sales of securities owned, at fair value	—			287,412
Proceeds from sales of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	—			42,701
Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	—			(42,387		)
Purchases of other investments	(19,568		)	(973		)
Proceeds from sales of other investments	21,367			39,195
Net realized and unrealized (gains) losses on investments and other transactions	(11,320		)	(12,729		)
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
Cash acquired upon transaction	—			10,747
Cash collateral pledged	2,045			143
Securities owned, at fair value, held at broker dealer	4,300			13,078
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	9,820			9,184
Securities borrowed	(1,393,783		)	(494,476		)
Receivable from brokers	(28,169		)	4,628
Fees receivable, net of allowance	1,501			(4,237		)
Due from related parties	(2,806		)	(5,636		)
Other assets	(5,702		)	(10,215		)
Consolidated Funds
Cash and cash equivalents	1,680			2,071
Other assets	4,933			(362		)
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value, held at broker dealer	(19,839		)	(9,305		)
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	(12,016		)	(917		)
Securities loaned	1,406,105			484,349
Payable to brokers	171,377			(39,512		)
Compensation payable	8,636			(34,020		)
Fees payable	3,840			2,933
Due to related parties	31			(196		)
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	6,521			(10,021		)
Consolidated Funds
Payable to brokers	—			1,030
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	(455		)	(249		)
Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities	$	(73,671	)	$	122,253
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
	Nine Months Ended September 30,
(continued)	2014			2013
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of other investments	$	(80,153	)	$	(19,406	)
Cash convertible note economic hedge transaction	(35,710		)	—
Proceeds from sales of other investments	75,622			25,668
Tenant allowance	1,240			—
Purchase of fixed assets	(6,890		)	(784		)
Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities	(45,891		)	5,478
Cash flows from financing activities:
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	(3,657		)	(159,634		)
Proceeds from issuance of convertible debt	149,500			—
Deferred debt issuance cost	(3,720		)	—
Proceeds from sale of warrant	15,218			—
Borrowings on short-term borrowings and other debt	6,217			2,044
Repayments on short-term borrowings and other debt	(2,913		)	(2,807		)
Proceeds from stock options exercised	116			—
Purchase of treasury stock	(17,327		)	(2,658		)
Cash paid to acquire net assets (contingent liability payment)	(518		)	(73		)
Capital contributions by redeemable non-controlling interests in operating entities	705			501
Capital withdrawals to redeemable non-controlling interests in operating entities	(9,575		)	(2,282		)
Consolidated Funds
Capital contributions by redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds	9,568			11,155
Capital withdrawals to redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds	(12,606		)	(18,298		)
Net cash provided by / (used in) financing activities	131,008			(172,052		)
Change in cash and cash equivalents	11,446			(44,321		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	54,720			83,538
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	66,166		$	39,217
Supplemental non-cash information
Non compete agreements and covenants with limiting conditions acquired (see Note 2)	$	—		$	460
Common stock issuance upon close of acquisition (see Note 2)	$	—		$	6,297
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost, through net settlement (see Note 15)	$	5,610		$	3,156
Cash conversion option (See Note 5)	$	35,710		$	—
Re-issuance of treasury stock for services provided	$	—		$	65
Net assets transferred to Merger Master (see Note 5)	$	—		$	22,152

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensedconsolidated financial statements.

8

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

1. Organization and Business

Cowen Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation formed in 2009, is a diversified financial services firm and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, “Cowen,” “Cowen Group” or the “Company”), provides alternative investment management, investment banking, research, and brokerage (including market-making, sales and trading and securities lending services) through its two business segments: alternative investment and broker-dealer. Ramius, the Company's alternative investment segment, includes hedge funds, replication products, liquid alternative risk premia products, customized solutions, mutual funds, managed futures funds, fund of funds, real estate and healthcare royalty funds. Cowen's broker-dealer segment offers research, brokerage and investment banking services to companies and institutional investor clients primarily in the healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, consumer, aerospace and defense, industrials, real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), clean technology, energy, metals and mining, transportation, chemicals and agriculture sectors.

2. Acquisitions

On March 11, 2013, the Company completed its acquisition of all of the outstanding interests in Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC ("Dahlman"), a privately-held investment bank specializing in the energy, metals and mining, transportation, chemicals and agriculture sectors. This acquisition was an all-stock transaction. In the aggregate, the purchase price, assets acquired and liabilities assumed were not significant and the near term impact to the Company and its consolidated results of operations and cash flows was not expected to be significant. Dahlman was subsequently renamed to Cowen Securities LLC ("Cowen Securities"). Following the acquisition, the Cowen Securities broker-dealer ceased operations and its business was fully integrated into Cowen and Company.

The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP"). As such, results of operations for the Cowen Securities are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations since the date of the acquisition, and the assets acquired, liabilities assumed and the resulting goodwill were recorded at their fair values within their respective line items on the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. The goodwill is fully deductible for tax purposes.

3. Significant Accounting Policies

a. Basis of Presentation

These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) related to interim financial statements. Results for interim periods should not be considered indicative of results for any other interim period or for the full year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 and for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, included in the Form 10-K of Cowen Group as filed with the SEC on March 3, 2014. The financial information contained herein is unaudited; however, management believes all adjustments have been made that are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods. The year-end condensed balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by US GAAP.

These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its operating and other subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest or a substantive controlling general partner interest.

All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain fund entities that are consolidated in these condensed consolidated financial statements, as further discussed below, are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their own investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.

The Company serves as the managing member/general partner and/or investment manager to affiliated fund entities which it sponsors and manages. Funds in which the Company has a controlling financial interest are consolidated with the Company pursuant to US GAAP as described below. Consequently, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of these funds on a gross basis. The ownership interests in these funds that are not owned by the Company are reflected as redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from these funds are eliminated in consolidation.

9

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

b. Principles of consolidation

The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a voting operating entity ("VOE") or a variable interest entity ("VIE") under US GAAP.

Voting Operating Entities—VOEs are entities in which (i) the total equity investment at risk is sufficient to enable the entity to finance its activities independently and (ii) the equity holders at risk have the obligation to absorb losses, the right to receive residual returns and the right to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance.

Under US GAAP, the usual condition for a controlling financial interest in a VOE is ownership of a majority voting interest. Accordingly, the Company consolidates VOEs in which it owns a majority of the entity's voting shares or units. US GAAP also provides that a general partner of a limited partnership (or a managing member, in the case of a limited liability company) is presumed to control the partnership, and thus should consolidate it, unless a simple majority of the limited partners has the right to remove the general partner without cause or to terminate the partnership. In accordance with these standards, the Company presently consolidatesfiveentities deemed to be VOEs for which it acts as the general partner and investment manager.

As of and during the period endedSeptember 30, 2014the Company consolidated the following funds: Ramius Enterprise LP (“Enterprise LP”) and Ramius Merger Fund LLC (the "Merger Fund") (collectively the "2014 Consolidated Funds"). As of December 31, 2013 and during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company consolidated the following funds: Enterprise LP, Ramius Multi‑Strategy Master FOF LP (“Multi‑Strat Master FOF”), Ramius Vintage Multi‑Strategy Master FOF LP (“Vintage Master FOF”), Ramius Levered Multi‑Strategy FOF LP (“Levered FOF”), and the Merger Fund (collectively the "2013 Consolidated Funds"). As of December 31, 2013, Levered FOF, Multi-Strat Master FOF and Vintage Master FOF, all of which are investment companies managed by Ramius Alternative Solutions LLC, were fully liquidated. RTS Global 3X LP was consolidated through March 31, 2013 when it was liquidated.Collectively, the 2013 Consolidated Funds and the 2014 Consolidated Funds are referred to as the "Consolidated Funds".

As of September 30, 2014, the Company also consolidated three investment companies i) RCG Linkem II LLC, formed to make an investment in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy, ii) Ramius Co-Investment II LLC, formed to make an investment in a biomedical company that develops gene therapies for severe genetic disorders and iii) Cowen AV Investment LLC, formed to make an investment in a biotechnology company focused on developing gene therapies for certain medical needs. Ramius Co-Investment I LLC, formed for the same purpose as Ramius Co-Investment II LLC, was consolidated as of December 31, 2013 but was deconsolidated during the first quarter of 2014 when Ramius Co-Investment I LLC was liquidated. The Company determined that RCG Linkem II, LLC, Ramius Co-Investment I LLC (up until the first quarter of 2014), Ramius Co-Investment II LLC and Cowen AV Investment LLC are VOE's due to its controlling equity interests held through the managing member and/or affiliates and control exercised by the managing member who is not subject to substantive removal rights. Ramius Co-Investment II LLC was liquidated during the quarter ended September 30, 2014.

Variable Interest Entities—VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a VOE. In accordance with US GAAP, an enterprise must consolidate all VIEs of which it is the primary beneficiary. Under the US GAAP consolidation model for VIEs, an enterprise that (1) has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impacts the VIE's economic performance, and (2) has an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE, is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

However, the FASB has deferred the application of the revised consolidation model for VIEs that meet the following conditions: (a) the entity has all the attributes of an investment company as defined under AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or does not have all the attributes of an investment company but is an entity for which it is acceptable based on industry practice to apply measurement principles that are consistent with investment companies, (b) the reporting entity does not have explicit or implicit obligations to fund any losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity, and (c) the entity is not a securitization entity, asset-backed financing entity or an entity that was formerly considered a qualifying special-purpose entity. The Company's involvement with its funds is such that allthreeof the above conditions are met for substantially all of the funds managed by the Company. Where the VIEs have qualified for the deferral, the analysis is based on previous consolidation rules. These rules require an analysis to (a) determine whether an entity in which the Company holds a variable interest is a variable interest entity and (b) whether the Company's involvement, through holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually through other variable interests (e.g., management and performance related fees), would be expected to absorb a majority of the VIE's expected losses, receive a majority of the VIEs expected residual

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

returns, or both. If these conditions are met, the Company is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

The Company reconsiders whether it is the primary beneficiary of a VIE by performing a periodic qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of the VIE that includes a review of, among other things, its capital structure, contractual agreements between the Company and the VIE, the economic interests that create or absorb variability, related party relationships and the design of the VIE. As of September 30, 2014, the Company consolidated four VIEs and as of December 31, 2013 the Company consolidated threeVIEs.As ofSeptember 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the total net assets of the consolidated VIEs are $4.0 million and $11.3 million, respectively. The VIEs act as managing members/general partners and/or investment managers to affiliated fund entities which they sponsor and/or manage. The VIEs are financed through their operations and/or loan agreements with the Company.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company holds a variable interest in Ramius Enterprise Master Fund Ltd (“Enterprise Master”) throughoneof its Consolidated Funds, Enterprise LP and the Company holds a variable interest in Ramius Merger Master Fund Ltd through one of its Consolidated Funds, Merger Fund, (the “Unconsolidated Master Funds”). Investment companies, which account for their investments under the specialized industry accounting guidance for investment companies prescribed under US GAAP, are not subject to the consolidation provisions for their investments. Therefore, the Company has not consolidated the Unconsolidated Master Funds.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company also sponsors various other entities that it has determined to be VIEs. These VIEs are primarily funds and real estate entities for which the Company serves as the general partner, managing member and/or investment manager with decision-making rights.

The Company does not consolidate any of these funds or real estate entities that are VIEs as it has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary in each instance. Fund investors are entitled to all of the economics of these VIEs with the exception of the management fee and incentive income, if any, earned by the Company. The Company's involvement with funds and real estate entities that are unconsolidated VIEs is limited to providing investment management services in exchange for management fees and incentive income. Although the Company may advance amounts and pay certain expenses on behalf of the funds and real estate entities that it considers to be VIEs, it does not provide, nor is it required to provide, any type of substantive financial support to these entities outside of regular investment management services. (See Note 5 for additional disclosures on VIEs)

Equity Method Investments—For operating entities over which the Company exercises significant influence but which do not meet the requirements for consolidation as outlined above, the Company uses the equity method of accounting. The Company's investments in equity method investees are recorded in other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company's share of earnings or losses from equity method investees is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The Company evaluates for impairment its equity method investments whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The difference between the carrying value of the equity method investment and its estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge when the loss in value is deemed other than temporary.

Other—If the Company does not consolidate an entity, apply the equity method of accounting or account for an investment under the cost method, the Company accounts for such entities (primarily, all securities of such entity which are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term as trading securities) in accordance with US GAAP, at fair value with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Retention of Specialized Accounting—The Consolidated Funds are investment companies and apply specialized industry accounting for investment companies. The Company has retained this specialized accounting for these funds pursuant to US GAAP. The Company reports its investments on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition at their estimated fair value, with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions. Accordingly, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect different accounting policies for investments depending on whether or not they are held through a consolidated investment company. In addition, the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries, Cowen and Company, LLC (“Cowen and Company”), ATM Execution LLC ("ATM Execution"), ATM USA, LLC ("ATM USA"), and Cowen Equity Finance LP ("Cowen Equity Finance"), apply the specialized industry accounting for brokers and dealers in securities also prescribed under US GAAP. The Company also retains specialized accounting in consolidation.

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

c. Use of estimates

The preparation of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires the management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the fair value of securities and other investments, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the accounting for goodwill and identifiable intangible assets and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts in order to conform with current period presentation.

d. Valuation of investments and derivative contracts

US GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). Thethreelevels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 Inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has

the ability to access at the measurement date;

Level 2     Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, including

inputs in markets that are not considered to be active; and

Level 3 Fair value is determined based on pricing inputs that are unobservable and includes situations where there is little,

if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The determination of fair value for assets and liabilities in this

category requires significant management judgment or estimation.

Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may include price information, volatility statistics, specific and broad credit data, liquidity statistics, and other factors. A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. The Company considers observable data to be that market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, and provided by independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of a financial instrument within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the instrument and does not necessarily correspond to the Company's perceived risk of that instrument.

The Company and its operating subsidiaries act as the manager for the Consolidated Funds. Both the Company and the Consolidated Funds hold certain investments which are valued by the Company, acting as the investment manager. The fair value of these investments is generally estimated based on proprietary models developed by the Company, which include discounted cash flow analysis, public market comparables, and other techniques and may be based, at least in part, on independently sourced market information. The material estimates and assumptions used in these models include the timing and expected amount of cash flows, the appropriateness of discount rates used, and, in some cases, the ability to execute, timing of, and estimated proceeds from expected financings. Significant judgment and estimation goes into the selection of an appropriate valuation methodology as well as the assumptions used in these models, and the timing and actual values realized with respect to investments could be materially different from values derived based on the use of those estimates. The valuation methodologies applied impact the reported value of the Company's investments and the investments held by the Consolidated Funds in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's investments are relatively illiquid or thinly traded and may not be immediately liquidated on demand if needed. Fair values assigned to these investments may differ significantly from the fair values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed and such differences could be material.

The Company primarily uses the “market approach” to value its financial instruments measured at fair value. In determining an instrument's level within the hierarchy, the Company categorizes the Company's financial instruments intothreecategories: securities, derivative contracts and other investments. To the extent applicable, each of these categories can further be divided between those held long or sold short.

Securities—Securities with values based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets are classified within level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. These securities include active listed equities, certain U.S. government and sovereign

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

obligations, ETF's and certain money market securities. The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.

Certain positions for which trading activity may not be readily visible, consisting primarily of convertible debt, corporate debt and loans, are stated at fair value and classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair values assigned by management are determined in good faith and are based on available information considering, trading activity, broker quotes, quotations provided by published pricing services, counterparties and other market participants, and pricing models using quoted inputs, and do not necessarily represent the amounts which might ultimately be realized. As level 2 investments include positions that are not always traded in active markets and/or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability.

Derivative contracts—Derivative contracts can be exchange-traded or privately negotiated over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives, such as futures contracts and exchange-traded option contracts, are typically classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on whether or not they are deemed to be actively traded. OTC derivatives, such as generic forwards, swaps and options, have inputs which can generally be corroborated by market data and are therefore classified within level 2. OTC derivatives, such as swaps, options and warrants where market data is not readily available or observable are classified as level 3.

Other investments—Other investments consist primarily of portfolio funds, real estate investments and equity method investments, which are valued as follows:

i. Portfolio funds—Portfolio funds (“Portfolio Funds”) include interests in funds and investment companies which may be managed by the Company or its affiliates. The Company follows US GAAP regarding fair value measurements and disclosures relating to investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value (“NAV”) per share (or its equivalent). The guidance permits, as a practical expedient, an entity holding investments in certain entities that either are investment companies as defined by the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or have attributes similar to an investment company, and calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent for which the fair value is not readily determinable, to measure the fair value of such investments on the basis of that NAV per share, or its equivalent, without adjustment.

The Company categorizes its investments in Portfolio Funds within the fair value hierarchy dependent on its ability to redeem the investment. If the Company has the ability to redeem its investment at NAV at the measurement date or within the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 2 investment within the fair value hierarchy. If the Company does not know when it will have the ability to redeem its investment or cannot do so in the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy.See Notes 5 and 6 for further details of the Company's investments in Portfolio Funds.

ii. Real estate investments—Real estate debt and equity investments are valued at fair value. The fair value of real estate investments are estimated based on the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants at the measurement date. Real estate investments without a public market are valued based on assumptions and valuation techniques used by the Company. Such valuation techniques may include discounted cash flow analysis, prevailing market capitalization rates or earnings multiples applied to earnings from the investment, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sale negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, consideration of the amount that currently would be required to replace the asset, as adjusted for obsolescence, as well as independent external appraisals. In general, the Company considers several valuation techniques when measuring the fair value of a real estate investment. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. Real estate investments are reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Company for significant changes at the property level or a significant change in the overall market which would impact the value of the real estate investment resulting in unrealized appreciation or depreciation.

Real estate and capital markets are cyclical in nature. Property and investment values are affected by, among other things, the availability of capital, occupancy rates, rental rates and interest and inflation rates. In addition, the Company invests in real estate and real estate related investments for which no liquid market exists. The market prices for such investments may be volatile and may not be readily ascertainable. Amounts ultimately realized by the Company from investments sold may differ from the fair values presented, and the differences could be material.

The Company's real estate investments are typically categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy as management uses significant unobservable inputs in determining their estimated fair value.

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

See Notes 5 and 6 for further information regarding the Company's investments, including equity method investments, and fair value measurements.

e. Securities borrowed and securities loaned

Securities borrowed and securities loaned are carried at the amounts of cash collateral advanced or received on a gross basis. The related rebates are recorded in the statement of operations as interest income and interest expense. Securities borrowed transactions require the Company to deposit cash collateral with the lender. With respect to securities loaned, the Company receives cash collateral from the borrower. The initial collateral advanced or received approximates or is greater than the market value of securities borrowed or loaned. The Company monitors the market value of securities borrowed and loaned on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained or returned, as necessary. Securities borrowed and loaned may also result in credit exposures for the Company in an event that the counterparties are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company minimizes its credit risk by continuously monitoring  its credit exposure and collateral values by demanding additional or returning excess collateral in accordance with the netting provisions available in the master securities lending contracts in place with the counterparties.

Fees and interest received or paid are recorded in interest and dividend income and interest expense, respectively, on an accrual basis. In cases where the fair value basis of accounting is elected, any resulting change in fair value is reported in trading revenues. Accrued interest income and expense are recorded in the same manner as under the accrual method. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company does not have any securities lending transactions for which fair value basis of accounting was elected.

f. Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

The Company uses securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“Repurchase Agreements”) as part of its liquidity management activities and to support its trading and risk management activities. In particular, securities purchased and sold under Repurchase Agreements are used for short-term liquidity purposes. As of December 31, 2013, Repurchase Agreements were secured predominantly by liquid corporate credit and/or government issued securities. The use of Repurchase Agreements will fluctuate with the Company's need to fund short term credit or obtain competitive short term credit financing. The Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase were transacted pursuant to agreements with one counterparty as ofDecember 31, 2013. The Company does not hold any Repurchase Agreements as ofSeptember 30, 2014.

Collateral is valued daily and the Company and its counterparties may adjust the collateral or require additional collateral to be deposited when appropriate. Collateral held by counterparties may be sold or re-hypothecated by such counterparties, subject to certain limitations sometimes imposed by the Company and in accordance with the master netting agreements in place with the counterparty. Collateralized Repurchase Agreements may result in credit exposure in the event the counterparties to the transactions are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company minimizes the credit risk associated with this activity by monitoring credit exposure and collateral values, and by requiring additional collateral to be promptly deposited with or returned to the Company when deemed necessary.

g.    Debt

Long-term debt is carried at the principal amount borrowed net of any discount/premium. The discount is accreted to interest expense using the effective interest method over the remaining life of the underlying debt obligations. Accrued but unpaid coupon interest is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

h.    Deferred rent

Deferred rent primarily consists of step rent, allowances from landlords and valuing the Company's lease properties in accordance with US GAAP. Step rent represents the difference between actual operating lease payments due and straight-line rent expense, which is recorded by the Company over the term of the lease, including the build-out period. This amount is recorded as deferred rent in the early years of the lease, when cash payments are generally lower than straight-line rent expense, and reduced in the later years of the lease when payments begin to exceed the straight-line expense. Landlord allowances are generally comprised of amounts received and/or promised to the Company by landlords and may be received in the form of cash or free rent. These allowances are part of the negotiated terms of the lease. The Company records a receivable from the landlord and a deferred rent liability when the allowances are earned. This deferred rent is amortized into income (through lower rent expense) over the term (including the pre-opening build-out period) of the applicable lease, and the receivable is reduced as amounts are received from the landlord. Liabilities resulting from valuing the Company's leased properties acquired

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

through business combinations are quantified by comparing the current fair value of the leased space to the current rental payments on the date of acquisition. Deferred rent, included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is $13.9 million and $14.6 million, respectively.

i.     Recently issued accounting pronouncements

In April 2014, the FASB issued a new pronouncement regarding Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The guidance changes the criteria for disposals to qualify as discontinued operations and requires new disclosures about disposals of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the new definition. The guidance is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015. The Company does not expect the guidance to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance which amends and supersedes the revenue recognition requirements and most industry-specific guidance and creates a single source of revenue guidance. The new guidance outlines the principles an entity must apply to measure and recognize revenue and related cash flows. The guidance also provides a model for the measurement and recognition of gains and losses on the sale of certain non-financial assets. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance which requires all entities to perform an interim and annual assessment of their ability to continue as a going concern for one year from the date of issuance of the financial statements. The guidance also requires disclosures if there is “substantial doubt” of the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2016. The Company does not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our financial position and results of operations.

4. Cash collateral pledged

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company pledged cash collateral in the amount of $8.9 million and $10.9 million, respectively, which relates to letters of credit issued to the landlords of the Company's premises in New York City, Boston and San Francisco (see Note 14).

5. Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

a. Operating Entities

Securities owned, at fair value

Securities owned, at fair value are held by the Company and are considered held for trading. Substantially all equity securities are pledged to the clearing broker under terms which permit the clearing broker to sell or re-pledge the securities to others subject to certain limitations.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, securities owned, at fair value consisted of the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
U.S. Government securities (a)	$	1,009	$	9
Preferred stock	574		324
Common stocks	430,941		176,939
Restricted common stock	11,993		—
Convertible bonds (b)	7,501		5,958
Corporate bonds (c)	188,832		121,372
Warrants and rights	3,370		5,912
Mutual funds	16,382		525
	$	660,602	$	311,039

(a) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from May 2015 to April 2016 and an interest rates ranged between 0% to 5.95%. As of December 31, 2013, the maturity was April 2016 with an interest rate of 5.95%.

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Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

(b) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from October 2014 to November 2014 and interest rates ranged between 4.00% to 10.00%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from May 2014 to October 2014 and interest rates ranged between 5.00% to 10.00% .

(c) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2015 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% to 11.54%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from January 2014 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 3.38% to 11.75%.

Receivable on and Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value

The Company's direct involvement with derivative financial instruments includes futures, currency forwards, equity swaps, options and warrants and rights. Open equity positions in futures transactions are recorded as receivables from and payables to broker-dealers or clearing brokers, as applicable. The Company's derivatives trading activities exposes the Company to certain risks, such as price and interest rate fluctuations, volatility risk, credit risk, counterparty risk, foreign currency movements and changes in the liquidity of markets.

On the date of issuance of the Company's cash convertible unsecured senior notes ("Convertible Notes") (see Note 14), the Company recognized the embedded cash conversion option of $35.7 million which is valued as of September 30, 2014 at $28.8 million and is included in payable for derivative contracts in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. Also, on the date of issuance of the Convertible Notes, the Company entered into a separate cash convertible note economic hedge transaction (the "Hedge Transaction") with a counterparty (the “Option Counterparty”) whereby, the Company purchased a cash settled option contract with terms identical to the conversion option embedded in the Convertible Notes and simultaneously sold an equity settled warrant with a higher strike price. The Hedge Transaction is expected to reduce the Company’s exposure to potential cash payments in excess of the principal amount of converted notes that the Company may be required to make upon conversion of the Convertible Notes. On the date of issuance of the Convertible Notes, the Company paid a premium of $35.7 million for the option under the Hedge Transaction and received a premium of $15.2 million for the equity settled warrant transaction, for a net cost of $20.5 million. The Hedge Transaction is valued at $28.8 million as of September 30, 2014 and is included in receivable on derivative contracts in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. Aside from the initial premium paid, the Company will not be required to make any cash payments under the Hedge Transaction and could be entitled to receive an amount of cash from the Option Counterparty generally equal to the amount by which the market price per share of common stock exceeds the strike price of the Hedge Transaction during the relevant valuation period. The warrants cover 28,048,786 shares of the Company's Class A common stock and have an initial exercise price of $7.18 per share. The warrants expire over a period of 80 trading days beginning on November 14, 2018. The warrant transaction could have a dilutive effect to the extent that the market value per share of the Company’s Class A common stock exceeds the applicable strike price of the warrants.

The Company's long and short exposure to derivatives is as follows:

Receivable on derivative contracts	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Commodity Future	$	177	$	285
Cross Rate	291		22
Equity Swap (a)	1,541		70
Options (b)	33,957		9,698
	$	35,966	$	10,075

(a) The notional values of equity swaps classified as receivable on derivative contracts are $5.6 million and $21.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(b) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 349,989 and 71,129 contracts held, respectively.

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Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Payable for derivative contracts	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Futures	$	24	$	275
Currency forwards	—		301
Equity and credit default swaps (a)	51		525
Options (b)	31,294		6,573
	$	31,369	$	7,674

(a) The notional values of equity and credit default swaps classified as payable for derivative contracts are $5.5 million and $16.5 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(b) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 20,224 and 38,221 contracts held, respectively.

The following tables present the gross and net derivative positions and the related offsetting amount, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
As of September 30, 2014
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	$	35,966	$	—	$	35,966	$	—	$	1,832	$	34,134
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	31,369		—		31,369		—		51		31,318
As of December 31, 2013
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	10,075		—		10,075		—		92		9,983
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	7,674		—		7,674		—		826		6,848

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

The realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to derivatives trading activities were $5.1 million and $0.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $1.4 million and $(3.6) million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and are included in other income in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Pursuant to the various derivatives transactions discussed above, except for the cash convertible note hedge (See Note 14) and exchange traded derivatives, the Company is required to post/receive collateral. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, collateral consisting of $14.1 million and $10.0 million of cash, respectively, is included in receivable from brokers on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 all derivative contracts were with multiple major financial institutions.

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Other investments

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, other investments included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value	$	97,004	$	71,051
(2) Real estate investments, at fair value	2,285		2,088
(3) Equity method investments	30,935		25,966
(4) Lehman claims, at fair value	360		378
	$	130,584	$	99,483

(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value

The Portfolio Funds, at fair value as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
HealthCare Royalty Partners (a)(*)	$	11,242	$	9,741
HealthCare Royalty Partners II (a)(*)	6,445		4,961
Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (b)(*)	13,925		12,674
Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP (c)(*)	19,205		17,495
Starboard Partners Fund LP (d)(*)	14,961		—
Formation 8 Partners Fund I (e)	6,295		2,788
RCG LV Park Lane LLC (f) (*)	1,425		678
RCGL 12E13th LLC (g) (*)	640		558
RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. (g) (*)	12,976		11,979
Other private investment (h)	7,141		7,772
Other affiliated funds (i)(*)	2,749		2,405
	$	97,004	$	71,051

* These portfolio funds are affiliates of the Company.

The Company has no unfunded commitments regarding the portfolio funds held by the Company except as noted in Note 13.

(a) HealthCare Royalty Partners, L.P. and HealthCare Royalty Partners II, L.P. are private equity funds and therefore distributions will be made when cash flows are received from the underlying investments, typically on a quarterly basis.

(b) Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (formerly known as Ramius Global Credit Fund LP) has a quarterly redemption policy with a 60 day notice period and a 4% penalty on redemptions of investments of less than a year in duration.

(c) Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP permits quarterly withdrawals upon 90 days notice.

(d) Starboard Partners Fund LP permits redemptions on a semi-annual basis on 180 days prior written notice subsequent to an initial two year period when redemptions are not permitted.

(e) Formation 8 Partners Fund I is a private equity fund which invests in equity of early stage and growth transformational information and energy technology companies. Distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(f) RCG LV Park Lane LLC  is a single purpose entity formed to participate in a joint venture which acquired, at a discount, the mortgage notes on a portfolio of multifamily real estate properties located in Birmingham, Alabama.  RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a private equity structure and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(g) RCGL 12E13th LLC and RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. are real estate private equity structures and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

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Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

(h) Other private investment represents the Company's closed end investment in a portfolio fund that invests in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy.

(i) The majority of these funds are affiliates of the Company or are managed by the Company and the investors can redeem from these funds as investments are liquidated.

(2) Real estate investments, at fair value

Real estate investments as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are carried at fair value and include real estate equity investments held by RCG RE Manager, LLC (“RE Manager”), a real estate operating subsidiary of the Company, of $2.3 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

(3) Equity method investments

Equity method investments include investments held by the Company in several operating companies whose operations primarily include the day to day management of a number of real estate funds, including the portfolio management and administrative services related to the acquisition, disposition, and active monitoring of the real estate funds' underlying debt and equity investments. The Company's ownership interests in these equity method investments range from 20% to 55%. The Company holds a majority of the outstanding ownership interest (i.e., more than 50%) in three of these entities: RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC, RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Partners, LLC and RCG Longview Partners II, LLC. The operating agreements that govern the management of day-to-day operations and affairs of each of these three entities stipulate that certain decisions require support and approval from other members in addition to the support and approval of the Company. As a result, all operating decisions made in these three entities require the support of both the Company and an affirmative vote of a majority of the other managing members who are not affiliates of the Company. As the Company does not possess control over any of these entities, the presumption of consolidation has been overcome pursuant to current accounting standards and the Company accounts for these investments under the equity method of accounting. Also included in equity method investments are the investments in (a) HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners (b) an investment in the CBOE (Chicago Board Options Exchange) Stock Exchange LLC ("CBOE SE") representing a 9.5% stake in the exchange service provider for which the Company exercises significant influence over through representation on the CBOE Board of Directors, and (c) Starboard Value (and certain related parties) which serves as an operating company whose operations primarily include the day to day management (including portfolio management) of a deep value small cap hedge fund and related managed accounts.

During the second quarter of 2014, CBOE SE initiated a plan to wind down its operations and liquidate its assets and liabilities. As a result, the Company determined that the carrying value of its investment in CBOE SE was no longer recoverable and reassessed it for impairment. As a result, the Company recognized an impairment loss of $0.8 million, during the second quarter of 2014, which was deemed to be other than temporary. The impairment loss was measured based on the estimated recovery under the liquidation plan submitted to the creditors and the regulators and potential sale to a third party and is included in other income (loss) on the condensed consolidated statement of operations. The Company recorded no other impairment charges in relation to its equity method investments for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014

19

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The following table summarizes equity method investments held by the Company:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC	$	728	$	1,533
RCG Longview Debt Fund V Partners, LLC	2,049		1,497
HealthCare Royalty GP, LLC	917		794
HealthCare Royalty GP II, LLC	1,297		840
HealthCare Royalty GP III, LLC	52		47
CBOE Stock Exchange, LLC	435		1,351
Starboard Value LP	19,766		14,263
RCG Longview Partners, LLC	237		1,839
RCG Longview Management, LLC	1,034		308
RCG Urban American, LLC	396		316
RCG Urban American Management, LLC	344		238
RCG Longview Equity Management, LLC	250		292
Urban American Real Estate Fund II, LLC	2,208		1,785
RCG Kennedy House, LLC	533		502
Other	689		361
	$	30,935	$	25,966

For the period ended September 30, 2014, an equity method investment held by the Company has met the significance criteria as defined under SEC guidance. As such, the Company is required to present summarized financial information for this significant investee for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013. The summarized income statement information for the Company's investment in the individually significant investee is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	3,432	$	2,979	$	10,171	$	7,264
Expenses	—		—		—		—
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)	34		43		89		95
Net Income	$	3,466	$	3,022	$	10,260	$	7,359

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's share of losses in its equity method investment in RCG Longview Partners II, LLC has exceeded the carrying amount recorded in this investee. These amounts are included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. RCG Longview Partners II, LLC, as general partner to a real estate fund, has reversed previously recorded incentive income allocations and has recorded a current clawback obligation to the limited partners in the fund. This obligation is due to a change in unrealized value of the fund on which there have previously been distributed carried interest realizations; however, the settlement of a potential obligation is not due until the end of the life of the respective fund. As the Company is obligated to return previous distributions it received from RCG Longview Partners II, LLC, it has continued to record its share of gains/losses in the investee including reflecting its share of the clawback obligation in the amount of $6.2 million.

The Company's income (loss) from equity method investments was $7.2 million and $5.2 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $17.5 million and $12.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

(4) Lehman Claims, at fair value

Lehman Brothers International (Europe) (“LBIE”), through certain affiliates, was a prime broker to the Company, and the Company held cash and cash equivalent balances with LBIE. On September 15, 2008, LBIE was placed into administration (the “Administration”) in the United Kingdom and, as a result, the assets held by the Company in its LBIE accounts were frozen at LBIE. The assets which the Company believed were held at LBIE at the time of Administration (the “Total Net Equity Claim”) consisted of $1.0 million, which the Company believed would represent an unsecured claim against LBIE. On November 2,

20

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

2012, the Company executed a Claims Determination Deed with respect to this claim.  By entering into this deed, the Company and LBIE reached agreement on the amount of the Company's unsecured claim, which was agreed to be approximately $0.9 million.  As a result of entering into this deed, the Company is entitled to participate in dividends to unsecured creditors of LBIE. At the end of November 2012, the Company received its first dividend in an amount equal to 25.2% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.2 million, at the end of June 2013 the Company received its second dividend in an amount equal to 43.3% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.4 million, at the end of November 2013, the Company received its third dividend in an amount equal to 23.7% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.2 million, and at the end of April 2014 the Company received its fourth dividend in an amount equal to 7.8% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.1 million. The total amounts received to date in respect of the Company’s unsecured claim against LBIE are approximately $1.0 million, representing 100.0% of its agreed claim. LBIE also indicated that no further distributions will be possible until such time as matters concerning how the surplus remaining in the estate will be distributed are resolved. Accordingly, the Company does not know the timing with respect to future dividends to unsecured creditors or the ultimate value that will be received, with respect to its claim. The claim described above does not include claims held by the Company against LBIE through its investment in Enterprise Master discussed in Note 5b(2).

Given the fact that LBIE has made multiple distributions to unsecured creditors and the increased trading levels for unsecured claims of LBIE, the Company decided to record the estimated fair value of the Total Net Equity Claim at 138.3% and 131.5% as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, which represented management's best estimate at the respective dates of the value that ultimately may be recovered with respect to the Total Net Equity Claim (the “Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim”). The Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim was recorded at estimated fair value considering a number of factors including the status of the assets under U.K. insolvency laws and the trading levels of LBIE unsecured debt. In determining the estimated value of the Total Net Equity Claim, the Company was required to use considerable judgment and is based on the facts currently available. As additional information on the LBIE proceeding becomes available, the Company may need to adjust the valuation of the Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim. The actual recovery that may ultimately be received by the Company with respect to the pending LBIE claim is not known and could be different from the estimated value assigned by the Company. (See Note 5b(2)).

Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value

Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value represent obligations of the Company to deliver a specified security at a contracted price and, thereby, create a liability to purchase that security at prevailing prices. The Company's liability for securities to be delivered is measured at their fair value as of the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements. However, these transactions result in off-balance sheet risk, as the Company's ultimate cost to satisfy the delivery of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value may exceed the amount reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Substantially all equity securities and options are pledged to the clearing broker under terms which permit the clearing broker to sell or re-pledge the securities to others subject to certain limitations. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value consisted of the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks	$	209,031	$	130,899
Corporate bonds (a)	58		55
	$	209,089	$	130,954

(a) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the maturity was January 2026 with an interest rate of 5.55%.

Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

The Company held no securities purchased under agreements to resell or securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of September 30, 2014. The following table represents the Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of December 31, 2013:

	As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
Agreements with Royal Bank of Canada bearing interest of 1.75% due June 2015 to November 2015	$	3,657
	$	3,657

21

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The following tables present the gross and net repurchase agreements and the related offsetting amount, as of December 31, 2013.

As of December 31, 2013
							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	$	3,657	$	—	$	3,657	$	—	$	3,657	$	—

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

For all of the Company's holdings of repurchase agreements as of December 31, 2013, the repurchase dates were open and the agreement could be terminated by either party at any time. The agreements rolls over on a day-to-day basis.

Transactions involving the purchase or sale of securities under repurchase/resell agreements are carried at their contract value, which approximates fair value, and are accounted for as collateralized financings. In connection with these financings, as of December 31, 2013, the Company had pledged collateral of $4.6 million (consisting of corporate bonds), which is included in securities owned, at fair value in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

Securities lending and borrowing transactions

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company has loaned to brokers and dealers, securities having a market value of $2.2 billion and $881.7 million, respectively.  In addition, the Company has borrowed from brokers and dealers, securities having a market value of $2.2 billion and $892.8 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

The following tables present the contractual gross and net securities borrowing and lending agreements and the related offsetting amount, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
As of September 30, 2014
Securities borrowed	$	2,321,556	$	—	$	2,321,556	$	—	$	2,321,556	$	—
Securities loaned	2,324,682		—		2,324,682		—		2,324,682		—
As of December 31, 2013
Securities borrowed	927,773		—		927,773		—		927,773		—
Securities loaned	918,577		—		918,577		—		918,577		—

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of cash collateral held/posted.

22

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Variable Interest Entities

The total assets and liabilities of the variable interest entities for which the Company has concluded that it holds a variable interest, but for which it is not the primary beneficiary, are $2.4 billion and $247.7 million as of September 30, 2014 and $1.7 billion and $242.5 million as of December 31, 2013, respectively. In addition, the maximum exposure relating to these variable interest entities as of September 30, 2014 was $190.5 million, and as of December 31, 2013 was $193.9 million, all of which is included in other investments, at fair value in the Company's condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The exposure to loss primarily relates to the Consolidated Feeder Funds' investment in their Unconsolidated Master Funds as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

b. Consolidated Funds

Other investments, at fair value

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 other investments, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds are comprised of:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds	$	196,640	$	182,638
(2) Lehman claims	361		4,842
	$	197,001	$	187,480

(1) Investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value, included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Investments of Enterprise LP	$	146,987	$	155,530
Investments of Merger Fund	49,653		26,963
Investments of consolidated fund of funds	—		145
	$	196,640	$	182,638

Consolidated investments of Enterprise LP    

Enterprise LP operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Enterprise Master's shareholders are Enterprise LP and RCG II Intermediate Fund, L.P. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Enterprise LP's investment of $147.0 million and $155.5 million in Enterprise Master as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. On May 12, 2010, the Company announced its intention to close Enterprise Master. Prior to this announcement, strategies utilized by Enterprise Master included merger arbitrage and activist investing, investments in distressed securities, convertible hedging, capital structure arbitrage, equity market neutral, investments in private placements of convertible securities, proprietary mortgages, structured credit investments, investments in mortgage backed securities and other structured finance products, investments in real estate and real property interests, structured private placements and other relative value strategies. Enterprise Master had broad investment powers and maximum flexibility in seeking to achieve its investment objective. Enterprise Master was permitted to invest in equity securities, debt instruments, options, futures, swaps, credit default swaps and other derivatives. Enterprise Master has been selling, and will continue to sell, its positions and return capital to its investors. There are no unfunded commitments at Enterprise LP.

Consolidated investments of Merger Fund    

The Merger Fund operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Ramius Merger Master Ltd's ("Merger Master") shareholders are Merger Fund and Ramius Merger Fund Ltd. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Merger Fund's investment of $49.7 million and $27.0 million in Merger Master as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The Merger Master’s investment objective is to achieve consistent absolute returns while emphasizing the preservation of investor capital. The Merger Master seeks to achieve these objectives by taking a fundamental, research-driven approach to investing, primarily in the securities of issuers engaged in, or subject to, announced (or unannounced but otherwise anticipated) extraordinary corporate transactions, which may include, but are not limited to, mergers, acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, tender offers, hostile takeover bids, sale processes, exchange offers, and recapitalizations. Merger Master invests in the securities of one or more issuers engaged in or subject to such extraordinary corporate transactions. Merger Master typically

23

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

seeks to derive a profit by realizing the price differential, or “spread,” between the market price of securities purchased or sold short and the market price or value of securities realized in connection with the completion or termination of the extraordinary corporate transaction, or in connection with the adjustment of market prices in anticipation thereof, while seeking to minimize the market risk associated with the aforementioned investment activities. Merger Master will, depending on markets conditions, generally focus the majority of its investment program on announced transactions. If the investment manager of Merger Master considers it necessary, it may either alone or as part of a group, also initiate shareholder actions seeking to maximize value. Such shareholder actions may include, but are not limited to, re-orienting management’s focus or initiating the sale of the company (or one or more of its divisions) to a third party. There are no unfunded commitments at Merger Fund.

Investment of a consolidated fund of funds investment company

The investment of the consolidated fund of fund investment company was $0.1 million as of December 31, 2013, which was the remaining investment of Vintage Master FOF that was transferred to a third party during the three months ended March 31, 2014. Vintage Master FOF's investment objective was to allocate its capital among portfolio managers that invest through investment pools or managed accounts thereby forming concentrated investments in high conviction managers designed to achieve attractive risk adjusted returns with moderate relative volatility. The investment held at December 31, 2013 was a hedged equity strategy held in an externally managed portfolio fund. The hedged equity strategy focused on equity strategies with some directional market exposure. The strategy attempted to profit from market efficiencies and direction. There are no fund of fund investment companies consolidated as of September 30, 2014.

(2) Lehman Claims, at fair value

With respect to the aforementioned Lehman claims, the Total Net Equity Claim of Enterprise Master based on the value of assets at the time of Lehman's insolvency held directly by Enterprise Master and through Enterprise Master's ownership interest in affiliated funds consisted of $24.3 million. Included in this claim were assets with a value of $9.5 million at the time LBIE entered Administration that were returned to Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds in June 2010. Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds sold the returned assets for an aggregate $10.7 million, and distributed this amount to Enterprise Master's investors in July 2010. In December 2011, Enterprise Master received an aggregate of approximately $2.4 million relating to securities, interest and dividends earned with respect to securities held by LBIE on behalf of Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds. A distribution of $2.9 million occurred in February of 2012. On November 2, 2012, Enterprise Master executed a Claims Determination Deed with respect to the unsecured portion of its direct claim against LBIE.  By entering into this deed, Enterprise Master and LBIE reached agreement on the amount of Enterprise Master's unsecured claim, which was agreed to be approximately $1.3 million.  As a result of entering into this deed, Enterprise Master was entitled to participate in dividends to unsecured creditors of LBIE and at the end of November 2012 Enterprise Master received its first dividend in an amount equal to 25.2% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.3 million. In February 2013, Enterprise Master sold its unsecured claim, including the amount received in connection with the first dividend, for $1.3 million, or par. Enterprise Master distributed the proceeds of the sale to the Company in March 2013. Of the original remaining net equity claim, $10.6 million represented claims to trust assets that the Company believes were held by LBIE through Lehman Brothers, Inc. (“LBI”). LBIE made a corresponding claim for these assets and other trust assets held at LBI by LBIE on behalf of other prime brokerage clients pursuant to an omnibus customer claim (the “LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim”). LBIE was only going to be able to return trust assets held at LBI to Enterprise Master once LBIE received a distribution from LBI in respect of the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. In February 2013, LBIE, Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. and LBI announced that they entered into two separate agreements settling all intercompany claims between LBI on the one part, and LBHI and LBIE on the other part. The settlement agreements were subject to the approval by the U.S. Bankruptcy Judge in the LBI Securities Investor Protection Act (SIPA) proceeding and, in the case of the agreement between LBI and LBIE, an order of the English High Court. The U.S. Banking Judge approved the settlement agreement in April 2013 and the English High Court issued an order approving the settlement in May 2013. The settlements allowed the trustee appointed under SIPA (the “SIPA Trustee”) to proceed with plans to allocate and distribute sufficient cash and securities to LBI's customer claimants, including LBIE with respect to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim, to enable the SIPA Trustee to satisfy valid customer claims in full. In March 2013, LBIE made a consensual proposal to the clients holding trust assets pursuant to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim to facilitate the return of the amounts recovered from LBI with respect to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. Under the consensual proposal, LBIE indicated that it intended to liquidate any securities received from LBI with respect to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim and then allocate the value received from LBI among all of the LBIE clients who had trust assets held at LBI under the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. In allocating the amounts received from LBI, LBIE indicated that it intended to allow clients to determine their entitlements on a portfolio basis based on the higher of (i) the market value of the portfolio as of September 19, 2008 or (ii) the market value of the portfolio together with accrued income thereon as of November 30, 2012 (the “Best Claim”). LBIE's purpose in seeking a consensual arrangement with its clients relating to the liquidation and allocation described above was to ensure that a distribution could be made without having to seek UK court direction on these issues,

24

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

which would otherwise have substantially delayed any distribution. On April 2, 2013, LBIE announced that the consensual proposal had been accepted by a sufficient number of clients to satisfy the acceptance threshold and would therefore become effective. The settlement agreement between LBI and LBIE also became effective and LBIE announced in June 2013 that it had recovered the majority of the cash and securities from LBI and that it had liquidated approximately 90% of the aggregate value of securities received or to be received from LBI and that it intended to make its first distribution to trust asset claimants at the end of September 2013. On September 26, 2013, LBIE announced that it had made a first interim distribution to trust claimants of 100% of the claimant's Best Claim amount. As previously announced by LBIE, LBIE requested guidance from the US Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") with regard to the character and source of the settlement payments. In order to balance LBIE's objective of making a significant distribution to claimants with the requirement to pay the appropriate US withholding tax in respect of distributions, as an interim solution LBIE deposited 30% of the gross distribution to claimants with the IRS as a reserve, except with respect to claimants who provided LBIE with a validly executed Form W-9. Once the appropriate US withholding tax treatment of the distributions is finally determined by the IRS, LBIE expects to be in a position to promptlyreceive back funds and release any excess reserves back to the appropriate claimants. On June 12, 2014, LBIE made a distribution to trust claimants in order to release excess reserves from the amounts withheld with respect to the September 26, 2013 distribution back to the appropriate claimants. The amount of the distribution received by Enterprise Master on September 26, 2013 was $14.9 million and the amount reserved by LBIE with respect to this distribution was $1.0 million. The amount received by Enterprise Master on June 12, 2014 as a release of excess reserves was $1.0 million. On January 30, 2014, LBIE made a second distribution to trust claimants of 6% of the claimant’s Best Claim amount. LBIE has also requested guidance from the IRS with respect to the character and source of this settlement payment and as an interim solution the withholding agent has reserved 30% of the distribution amount paid, except with respect to claimants who provided LBIE with a validly executed Form W-9. As of September 30, 2014, after giving effect to the receipt of the distributions described above, the Company is valuing Enterprise Master's remaining trust asset claim at 101.5% of its Best Claim, or $0.2 million. In June 2014, Enterprise Master received a distribution with respect to certain foreign denominated trust assets that were not within the control of LBIE. In this distribution, Enterprise Master received assets that Enterprise Master had valued at $0.8 million. Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds sold the returned assets for an aggregate $0.8 million. In July 2014, Enterprise Master made a distribution of $5.7 million to its investors. In September 2014, Enterprise Master received an additional distribution of approximately $35,000 in cash with respect to certain foreign denominated trust assets that were not within the control of LBIE and that were not returned by LBIE. After giving effect to all of these distributions, the remaining Net Equity Claim for Enterprise Master held directly and through its ownership interest in affiliated funds was $0.5 million as of September 30, 2014. Of the $0.5 million current valuation of Enterprise Master's claim, $0.4 million was attributable to Enterprise LP based on its ownership percentage in Enterprise Master at the time of the Administration.

In addition to Enterprise Master's claims against LBIE, LBI was a prime broker to Enterprise Master and Enterprise Master held cash balances of $4.9 million at LBI. These are not part of the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. On September 19, 2008, LBI was placed in a Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”) liquidation proceeding after the filing for bankruptcy of its parent Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. The settlement agreements between LBI, LBHI and LBIE discussed above have permitted the trustee appointed under the Securities Investor Protection Act (the “SIPA Trustee”) to make distributions to LBI customers and the SIPA Trustee announced that it expected to be able to make 100% distributions to its customers. In July 2013, Enterprise Master received a distribution of $4.9 million from LBI in respect of this claim.

As a result of Enterprise Master and certain of the funds managed by the Company having assets held at LBIE frozen in their LBIE prime brokerage account and the degree of uncertainty as to the status of those assets and the process and prospects of the return of those assets, Enterprise Master and the funds managed by the Company decided that only the investors who were invested at the time of the Administration should participate in any profit or loss relating to the Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim. As a result, Enterprise Master and certain of the funds managed by the Company with assets held at LBIE granted a 100% participation in the Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claims to Special Purpose Vehicles (the “SPVs” or “Lehman Segregated Funds”) incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on September 29, 2008, whose shares were distributed to each of their investor funds. Fully redeeming investors of Enterprise LP will not be paid out on the balance invested in the SPV until the claim with LBIE is settled and assets are returned by LBIE.

Indirect Concentration of the Underlying Investments Held by Consolidated Funds

From time to time, either directly or indirectly through its investments in the Consolidated Funds, the Company may maintain exposure to a particular issue or issuer (both long and/or short) which may account for 5% or more of the Company's equity. Based on information that is available to the Company as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company assessed whether or not its interests in an issuer for which the Company's pro-rata share exceeds 5% of the Company's equity. There were no indirect concentrations that exceed 5% of the Company's equity as of September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

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Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Underlying Investments of Unconsolidated Funds Held by Consolidated Funds

Enterprise Master and Merger Master

Enterprise LP's investment in Enterprise Master represents Enterprise LP's proportionate share of Enterprise Master's net assets; as a result, the investment balances of Enterprise Master reflected below may exceed the net investment which Enterprise LP has recorded. Merger Fund's investment in Merger Master represents Merger Fund's proportionate share of Merger Master's net assets; as a result, the investment balances of Merger Master reflected below may exceed the net investment which Merger Fund has recorded.The following tables present summarized investment information for the underlying investments and derivatives held by Enterprise Master and Merger Master as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

Securities owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Bank debt	$	6	$	5
Common stock	2,516		2,677
Preferred stock	973		973
Private equity	413		406
Restricted stock	124		124
Rights	2,321		2,528
Trade claims	128		128
Asset backed securities	1		—
	$	6,482	$	6,841

Derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Enterprise Master, net

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
Description	(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards	$	—	$	(21	)
	$	—	$	(21	)

Portfolio Funds, owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value

		As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Strategy	(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Equity Fund, LP*	Real Estate	$	8,848	$	8,470
RCG Longview II, LP*	Real Estate	800		800
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV, LP*	Real Estate	6,249		17,641
RCG Longview, LP*	Real Estate	40		319
RCG Soundview, LLC*	Real Estate	441		442
RCG Urban American Real Estate Fund, L.P.*	Real Estate	1,166		1,812
RCG International Sarl*	Multi-Strategy	1,574		1,795
RCG Special Opportunities Fund, Ltd*	Multi-Strategy	87,430		82,119
RCG Endeavour, LLC*	Multi-Strategy	—		6
RCG Energy, LLC *	Energy	2,832		2,842
RCG Renergys, LLC*	Energy	1		1
Other Private Investments	Various	12,585		12,952
Real Estate Investments	Real Estate	10,982		15,024
		$	132,948	$	144,223

* Affiliates of the Company.

26

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Merger Master

Securities owned by Merger Master, at fair value

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks	$	88,975	$	33,901
Corporate bonds (a)	21,977		14,444
Options	455		200
	$	111,407	$	48,545

(a) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2017 to October 2022 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% and 9.75%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from April 2016 to October 2020 and interest rates ranged between 7.00% and 10.88%.

Securities sold, not yet purchased, by Merger Master, at fair value

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, Merger Master held common stock, sold not yet purchased, of $33.1 million and $19.5 million, respectively.

Derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Merger Master, net

	As of September 30, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
Description	(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards	$	41		$	(10	)
Options	(137		)	(54		)
Equity swaps	500			(92		)
	$	404		$	(156	)

6. Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

The following table presents the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition by caption and by level within the valuation hierarchy as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

27

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Operating Entities

	Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Securities owned and derivatives
US Government securities	$	1,009	$	—	$	—	$	1,009
Preferred stock	—		—		574		574
Common stocks	428,145		2,506		290		430,941
Restricted Common stocks	—		11,993		—		11,993
Convertible bonds	—		5,751		1,750		7,501
Corporate bonds	—		188,832		—		188,832
Warrants and rights	762		—		2,608		3,370
Mutual funds	16,382		—		—		16,382
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	177		—		—		177
Currency forwards	—		291		—		291
Equity swaps	—		1,541		—		1,541
Options	5,172		—		28,785		33,957
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		36,530		60,474		97,004
Real estate investments	—		—		2,285		2,285
Lehman claim	—		—		360		360
	$	451,647	$	247,444	$	97,126	$	796,217

	Liabilities at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased and derivatives
Common stocks	$	208,990	$	41	$	—	$	209,031
Corporate bonds	—		58		—		58
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	24		—		—		24
Equity and credit default swaps	—		51		—		51
Options	2,509		—		28,785		31,294
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
Contingent consideration liability (a)	$	—	$	—	$	6,419	$	6,419
	$	211,523	$	150	$	35,204	$	246,877

(a) In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts as of September 30, 2014 can range from $1.5 million to $10.9 million.

28

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Securities owned and derivatives
US Government securities	$	9	$	—	$	—	$	9
Preferred stock	—		—		324		324
Common stocks	171,277		2,103		3,559		176,939
Convertible bonds	—		4,008		1,950		5,958
Corporate bonds	—		121,372		—		121,372
Warrants and rights	107		—		5,805		5,912
Mutual funds	525		—		—		525
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	285		—		—		285
Currency forwards	—		22		—		22
Equity swaps	—		70		—		70
Options	9,698		—		—		9,698
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		19,402		51,649		71,051
Real estate investments	—		—		2,088		2,088
Lehman claim	—		—		378		378
	$	181,901	$	146,977	$	65,753	$	394,631

	Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased and derivatives
Common stocks	$	130,899	$	—	$	—	$	130,899
Corporate bonds	—		55		—		55
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	275		—		—		275
Currency forwards	—		301		—		301
Equity swaps	—		525		—		525
Options	6,573		—		—		6,573
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
Contingent consideration liability (a)	—		—		6,937		6,937
	$	137,747	$	881	$	6,937	$	145,565

(a) In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts can range from $2.1 million to $13.8 million.

Consolidated Funds' investments

	Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	$	—	$	49,653	$	146,987	$	196,640
Lehman claims	—		—		361		361
	$	—	$	49,653	$	147,348	$	197,001

29

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		26,964		155,674		182,638
Lehman claims	—		—		4,842		4,842
	$	—	$	26,964	$	160,516	$	187,480

The following table includes a rollforward of the amounts for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, for financial instruments classified within level 3. The classification of a financial instrument within level 3 is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
	Balance at June 30, 2014		Transfers in		Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2014		Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	2,574	$	—	$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	574	$	—
Common stocks	419		—		—				—		(1		)	(128		)	290		(14		)
Convertible bonds	1,750		—		—				—		—			—			1,750		—
Options, asset	37,658		—		—				—		—			(8,873		)	28,785		(8,873		)
Options, liability	37,658		—		—				—		—			(8,873		)	28,785		(8,873		)
Warrants and rights	3,346		—		—				57		(57		)	(738		)	2,608		(434		)
Portfolio Funds	62,437		—		—				3,049		(5,320		)	308			60,474		373
Real estate	2,262		—		—				—		—			23			2,285		23
Lehman claim	418		—		—				—		—			(58		)	360		(58		)
Contingent consideration liability	6,783		—		—				—		(364		)	—			6,419		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	145,371		—		—				—		(409		)	2,025			146,987		1,962
Lehman claim	4,090		—		—				—		(3,731		)	2			361		2

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Balance at June 30, 2013		Transfers in		Transfers out		Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2013		Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	333	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	333	$	—
Common stocks	2,273		—		—		—		(2		)	(162		)	2,109		(161		)
Warrants and rights	2,136		—		—		—		—			531			2,667		(76		)
Portfolio Funds	43,343				—		6,491		(289		)	2,158			51,703		1,446
Real estate	2,158		—		—		—		—			(31		)	2,127		(31		)
Lehman claim	278		—		—		—		—			280			558		280
Contingent consideration liability	7,928		—		—		—		(94		)	—			7,834		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	177,848		—		—		—		(17,886		)	1,124			161,086		635
Lehman claim	15,434		—		—		—		—			1,049			16,483		1,049

30

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
	Balance at December 31, 2013		Transfers in		Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2014		Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	324	$	—	$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	2,250	$	—		$	—		$	574	$	—
Common stocks	3,559		—		(3,150		)	(b)	9		(1		)	(127		)	290		(13		)
Convertible bonds	1,950		—		—				—		(200		)	—			1,750		—
Options, asset	—		—		—				35,710		—			(6,925		)	28,785		(6,925		)
Options, liability	—		—		—				35,710		—			(6,925		)	28,785		(6,925		)
Warrants and Rights	5,805		—		—				57		(1,385		)	(1,869		)	2,608		(432		)
Portfolio Funds	51,649		—		—				12,234		(8,340		)	4,931			60,474		3,585
Real estate	2,088		—		—				50,000		(50,027		)	224			2,285		224
Lehman claim	378		—		—				—		(76		)	58			360		58
Contingent consideration liability	6,937		—		—				—		(518		)	—			6,419		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	155,674		—		—				—		(16,439		)	7,752			146,987		7,689
Lehman claim	4,842		—		—				—		(4,711		)	230			361		230

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Balance at December 31, 2012		Transfers in			Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2013		Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	2,332	$	—		$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	—	$	—		$	1		$	333	$	1
Common stocks	2,549		—			—				—		(275		)	(165		)	2,109		(424		)
Corporate Bond	515		—			—				2,735		(3,346		)	96			—		—
Warrants and Rights, asset	1,713		290		(a)	—				166		(110		)	608			2,667		760
Warrants and Rights, liability	3		—			—				—		—			(3		)	—		—
Portfolio Funds	25,670		13,128			—				16,560		(7,821		)	4,166			51,703		4,542
Real estate	1,864		—			—				—		—			263			2,127		263
Lehman claim	706		—			—				—		(382		)	234			558		234
Contingent consideration liability	8,116		—			—				—		(282		)	—			7,834		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	182,920		—			—				—		(27,835		)	6,001			161,086		5,092
Lehman claim	14,124		—			—				—		(1,449		)	3,808			16,483		2,448

(1) Unrealized gains/losses are reported in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of

operations.

(a) The security was acquired through an acquisition (See Note 2).

(b) The company completed an initial public offering.

All realized and unrealized gains (losses) in the table above are reflected in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and therefore are not included in the tables above.

The Company recognizes all transfers and the related unrealized gain (loss) at the beginning of the reporting period.

Transfers between level 1 and 2 generally relate to whether the principal market for the security becomes active or inactive. Transfers between level 2 and 3 generally relate to whether significant relevant observable inputs are available for the fair value measurements or due to change in liquidity restrictions for the investments.

31

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

During the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, there were no transfers between level 1 and level 2 assets and liabilities.

The following table includes quantitative information as of September 30, 2014 for financial instruments classified within level 3. The table below quantifies information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company's level 3 financial instruments.

	Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value at September 30, 2014		Valuation techniques	Unobservable Inputs	Range
Level 3 Assets
Common and preferred stocks	$	324	Market multiples and option pricing method	Volatility Market multiples	45% 2x to 3x
Warrants and rights, net	2,608		Model based	Volatility	20% to 60% (weighted average 39%)
Options	28,785		Option pricing models, credit valuation adjustment, debt valuation adjustment	Volatility Credit spreads	30% to 45% 600bps - 750 bps
Other level 3 assets (a)	212,757
Total level 3 assets	244,474
Level 3 Liabilities
Options	28,785		Option pricing models, credit valuation adjustment, debt valuation adjustment	Volatility Credit spreads	30% to 45% 600bps - 750 bps
Contingent consideration	6,419		Discounted cash flows	Projected cash flow and discount rate	6% to 9%
Total level 3 liabilities	$	35,204

(a) Quantitative disclosures of unobservable inputs and assumptions are not required for investments for which NAV per share is used as a practical expedient to determine fair value, as their redemption features rather than observability of inputs cause them to be classified as a level 3 type asset within the fair value hierarchy. In addition, the fair value of the Consolidated Funds' investments are determined based on net asset value and therefore quantitative disclosures are not included in the table above. The quantitative disclosures also exclude financial instruments for which the determination of fair value is based on prices from prior transactions.

During the three months ended June 30, 2014, the Company wrote down the value of its investment in CBOE SE as a result of an impairment which was considered other than temporary. The level of impairment is based on the fair value of the investment as measured on a non-recurring basis as of June 30, 2014 (See Note 5). The Company classified its investment in CBOE as level 3 on this date. The fair value reflects the weighted average of both the indicative bid level and the liquidation value.

The Company has established valuation policies and procedures and an internal control infrastructure over its fair value measurement of financial instruments which includes ongoing oversight by the valuation committee as well as periodic audits performed by the Company's internal audit group. The valuation committee is comprised of senior management, including non-investment professionals, who are responsible for overseeing and monitoring the pricing of the Company's investments, including the review of the results of the independent price verification process, approval of new trading asset classes and use of applicable pricing models and approaches.

The US GAAP fair value leveling hierarchy is designated and monitored on an ongoing basis. In determining the designation, the Company takes into consideration a number of factors including the observability of inputs, liquidity of the investment and the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement. Designations, models, pricing vendors, third party valuation providers and inputs used to derive fair market value are subject to review by the valuation committee and the internal audit group. The Company reviews its valuation policy guidelines on an ongoing basis and may adjust them in light of, improved valuation metrics and models, the availability of reliable inputs and information, and prevailing market conditions. The Company reviews a daily profit and loss report, as well as other periodic reports, and analyzes material changes from period-to-period in the valuation of its investments as part of its control procedures. The Company also performs back testing on a regular basis by comparing prices observed in executed transactions to previous valuations.

32

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The fair market value for level 3 securities may be highly sensitive to the use of industry standard models, unobservable inputs and subjective assumptions. The degree of fair market value sensitivity is also contingent upon the subjective weight given to specific inputs and valuation metrics. The Company holds various equity and debt instruments where different weight may be applied to industry standard models representing standard valuation metrics such as: discounted cash flows, market multiples, comparative transactions, capital rates, recovery rates and timing, and bid levels. Generally, changes in the weights ascribed to the various valuation metrics and the significant unobservable inputs in isolation may result in significantly lower or higher fair value measurements. Volatility levels for warrants and options are not readily observable and subject to interpretation. Changes in capital rates, discount rates and replacement costs could significantly increase or decrease the valuation of the real estate investments. The interrelationship between unobservable inputs may vary significantly amongst level 3 securities as they are generally highly idiosyncratic. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation can result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.

7. Receivables from and Payable to Brokers

Receivables from and payable to brokers includes cash held at the clearing brokers, amounts receivable or payable for unsettled transactions, monies borrowed and proceeds from short sales (including commissions and fees related to securities transactions) equal to the fair value of securities sold, not yet purchased, which are restricted until the Company purchases the securities sold short. Pursuant to the master netting agreements the Company entered into with its brokers, these balances are presented net (assets less liabilities) across balances with the same broker. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, receivable from brokers was $95.1 million and $67.0 million, respectively. Payable to brokers was $246.8 million and $75.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The Company's receivables from and payable to brokers balances are held at multiple financial institutions.

8. Goodwill

In accordance with US GAAP, the Company tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or at an interim period if events or changed circumstances would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Under US GAAP, the Company first assesses the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts as a basis for determining if it is necessary to perform the two-step approach. Periodically estimating the fair value of a reporting unit requires significant judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant effect on whether or not an impairment charge is recorded and the magnitude of such a charge.

As a result of the Company's acquisition of Dahlman, during the first quarter of 2013, the Company recognized goodwill in the amount of $8.7 million within the broker dealer reporting unit (See Note 2).

No impairment charges for goodwill were recognized during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

9. Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries and Funds

Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds and the related net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds are comprised as follows:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
Operating companies	$	11,721	$	12,009
Consolidated funds	79,708		73,805
	$	91,429	$	85,814

33

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
Operating companies	$	3,223	$	3,884	$	9,690	$	7,280
Consolidated funds	783		875		3,719		3,229
	$	4,006	$	4,759	$	13,409	$	10,509

On September 29, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement with Neuberger Berman to sell its interest in Orchard Square Partners (“OSP”), which manages a global long/short credit investment strategy with approximately $448.0 million in client assets. The transaction is expected to close on December 31, 2014 subject to customary closing conditions.  The Company currently consolidates the assets, liabilities and results of operations of OSP and will cease to consolidate OSP upon closing as the Company’s interest is transferred to Neuberger Berman. As of September 30, 2014, the total assets, liabilities and net assets attributable to the Company and non-controlling interest holders were not significant.  In accordance with the terms of the agreement, prior to the closing of the transaction all of the net assets of OSP will be allocated to the Company and the non-controlling members of OSP in accordance with the respective ownership interests and will be distributed soon thereafter.  After the distribution of net assets, the Company expects to recognize an immaterial gain/loss which will be included in realized gain/loss in the consolidated statements of operations.

10. Share-Based and Deferred Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans

The Company issues share based compensation under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, the 2007 Equity and Incentive Plan (both established prior to the November 2009 transaction between Ramius and Cowen) and the Cowen Group, Inc. 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan (collectively, the “Equity Plans”). The Equity Plans permit the grant of options, restricted shares, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights ("SAR's") and other equity based awards to the Company's employees, consultants and directors for up to 17,725,000 shares of common stock plus any approved additional shares in accordance with the Equity Plans. Stock options granted generally vest over two-to-five-year periods and expire seven years from the date of grant. Restricted shares and restricted share units issued may be immediately vested or may generally vest over a two-to-five-year period. SAR's vest and expire after five years from grant date. Awards are subject to the risk of forfeiture. As of September 30, 2014, there were approximately 1.6 million shares available for future issuance under the Equity Plans.

Under the 2010 Equity Plan, the Company awarded $29.3 million of deferred cash awards to its employees in the first nine months of 2014. These awards vest over a period of five years and accrue interest between 0.70% to 0.75% per year. As of September 30, 2014, the Company had unrecognized compensation expense related to deferred cash awards of $38.7 million.

The Company measures compensation cost for share based awards according to the equity method. In accordance with the expense recognition provisions of those standards, the Company amortizes unearned compensation associated with share based awards on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the option or award. In relation to awards under the Equity Plans, the Company recognized expense of $3.8 million and $4.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $14.3 million and $13.8 million, for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The income tax effect recognized for the Equity Plans was a benefit of $1.4 million and $2.9 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $4.4 million and $8.5 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively; however, these benefits were offset by a valuation allowance.

Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights

The Company values options and SAR's on grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model which requires the Company to make assumptions regarding the expected term, volatility, risk-free rate and dividend yield:

Expected term.    Expected term represents the period of time that awards granted are expected to be outstanding. The Company elected to use the "simplified" calculation method, as applicable to companies that lack extensive historical data. The mid-point between the vesting date and the contractual expiration date is used as the expected term under this method.

Expected volatility.    The Company bases its expected volatility on its own stock price history.

Risk free rate.    The risk-free rate for periods within the expected term of the award is based on the interest rate of a traded zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond with a term equal to the awards' expected term on the date of grant.

Dividend yield.    The Company has not paid and does not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the assumed dividend yield is zero.

34

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The following table summarizes the Company's stock option activity for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Shares Subject to Option		Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share		Weighted Average Remaining Term	Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
					(in years)	(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	300,006		$	7.19	2.40	$	—
Options granted	—		—		—	—
Options exercised	(33,334	)	3.50		—	—
Options expired	(33,334	)	17.61		—	—
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	233,338		$	6.22	1.72	$	—
Options exercisable at September 30, 2014	233,338		$	6.22	1.72	$	—

(1) Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

As of September 30, 2014, the unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of stock options was insignificant.

The following table summarizes the Company's SAR's for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Shares Subject to Option	Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share		Weighted Average Remaining Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
				(in years)		(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	400,000	$	2.90	4.21		$	608
SAR's granted	—	—		—		—
SAR's acquired	—	—		—		—
SAR's expired	—	—		—		—
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	400,000	$	2.90	3.46		$	591
SAR's exercisable at September 30, 2014	—	$	—	$	—

(1) Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of SAR's was $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units Granted to Employees

Restricted shares and restricted stock units are referred to collectively as restricted stock. The following table summarizes the Company's restricted share and restricted stock unit activity for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Nonvested Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	13,551,544		$	3.37
Granted	8,840,838		3.82
Vested	(4,028,129	)	3.27
Canceled	—		—
Forfeited	(852,784	)	3.26
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014 (1)	17,511,469		$	3.63

(1) Included in the outstanding balance are 1,925,750 performance linked restricted stock units awarded to employees of the Company in December 2013 and January 2014. Of the awards granted, 281,250 have been forfeited during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. The remaining awards will vest on June 10, 2019 and will be earned only to the extent that the Company attains specified performance goals relating to its volume-weighted average share price and the aggregate net income for the years from 2014 to 2018. The actual number of RSUs ultimately earned could vary from zero, if performance goals are not met, to as much as 100% of the targeted award. Each RSU is equal to the one share of the Company’s Class A common stock. Compensation expense is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the Company will attain the performance goals.

35

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The fair value of restricted stock (excluding performance linked units which are valued using the Monte Carlo valuation model) is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant.

As of September 30, 2014, there was $44.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of nonvested restricted shares and restricted stock units to employees. Unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested restricted shares and restricted stock units granted to employees is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.95 years.

Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units Granted to Non-employee Board Members

There were 158,791 restricted stock units awarded during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. Vested awards of 216,834 were delivered during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. As of September 30, 2014 there were 424,479 restricted stock units outstanding.

11. Defined Benefit Plan

The amounts contained in the following table relate to the Company's defined benefit plan for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014			2013			2014			2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Components of net periodic benefit cost included in employee compensation and benefits
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Interest cost	18			54			85			152
Expected return on plan assets	(168		)	(64		)	(300		)	(186		)
Amortization of loss / (gain)	(7		)	—			(7		)	—
Amortization of prior service cost	—			5			—			16
Effect of settlement	—			—			—			(95		)
Net periodic benefit cost	$	(157	)	$	(5	)	$	(222	)	$	(113	)

12. Income Taxes

The taxable results of the Company’s U.S. operations are included in the consolidated income tax returns of Cowen Group, Inc. as well as stand-alone state and local tax returns. The Company has subsidiaries that are resident in foreign countries where tax filings have to be submitted on a stand‑alone basis. These subsidiaries are subject to tax in their respective countries and the Company is responsible for and, thus, reports all taxes incurred by these subsidiaries. The countries where the Company owns subsidiaries that file tax returns are United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Gibraltar, and Hong Kong.

The Company calculates its U.S. tax provision using the estimated annual effective tax rate methodology. The tax expense or benefit caused by an unusual or infrequent item is recorded in the quarter in which it occurs. The Company uses the discrete methodology to calculate its income tax provision for its foreign subsidiaries. Based on these methodologies, the Company’s effective income tax rate was 0.69% and 2.22% for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the unusual or infrequent item whose tax impact was recorded discretely primarily related to the tax provisions of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries.

For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the effective tax rate differs from the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to a change in the Company's valuation allowance, stock compensation and other nondeductible expenses.

The Company records deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax benefit or expense that will result from differences between the carrying value of its assets for income tax purposes and for financial reporting purposes, as well as for operating or capital loss and tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance is recorded to bring the net deferred tax assets to a level that, in management's view, is more likely than not to be realized in the foreseeable future. This level will be estimated based on a number of factors, especially the amount of net deferred tax assets of the Company that are actually expected to be realized, for tax purposes, in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax liabilities that cannot be realized in a similar future time

36

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

period and thus that cannot offset the Company’s deferred tax assets are not taken into account when calculating the Company’s net deferred tax assets. The Company weighs all positive and negative evidence to reach its conclusion to record a full or partial valuation allowance for its deferred tax assets. Positive factors include sustainability of profitable operations, carry-forward periods for net operating losses and the effect of reversing taxable temporary differences, while negative factors include the Company’s three-year cumulative loss position, which is heavily weighted. Based on this analysis, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance against substantially all of its net deferred tax assets as of September 30, 2014. Due to recent and current positive operating results and, because the losses from 2011 are rolled off from the three-year rolling analysis, the Company anticipates to be in a three-year cumulative income position later in 2014. As a result of this development and other positive factors as indicated above, it is possible that the Company could release a large part of the Company’s valuation allowance in the fourth quarter of 2014, which would have a material and favorable effect on Net income and Stockholders’ equity. At September 30, 2014, the Company’s valuation allowance was $137.4 million, of which $135.2 million is related to the Company’s US operations.

The Company is subject to examination by the United States Internal Revenue Service, the United Kingdom Inland Revenue Service as well as state, local and foreign tax authorities in jurisdictions where the Company has significant business operations, such as New York. Currently, the Company is under audit by New York State for the 2009-2012 tax years. The Company does not expect to incur material tax liabilities from these audits.

The Company intends to permanently reinvest the capital and accumulated earnings of its foreign subsidiaries in the respective subsidiary, but remits the current earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to the United States to the extent permissible under local regulatory rules. The undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries totaled$1.0 million and $1.2 million as of September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, respectively, and the tax liability that would arise if these earnings were remitted to the United States would be approximately$0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

13. Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Obligations

The Company has entered into non-cancellable leases for office space and equipment. These leases contain rent escalation clauses. The Company records rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, including any rent holiday periods. Rent expense was $4.3 million and $4.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $12.5 million and $12.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

As of September 30, 2014, future minimum annual lease and service payments for the Company were as follows:

	Equipment Leases (a)		Service Payments		Facility Leases (b)
	(dollars in thousands)
2014	$	727	$	3,970	$	4,829
2015	2,603		11,708		18,481
2016	2,284		6,019		15,109
2017	2,198		3,039		11,676
2018	2,198		2,709		11,358
Thereafter	813		22		41,644
	$	10,823	$	27,467	$	103,097

(a) Equipment Leases include the Company's commitments relating to operating and capital leases. See Note 14 for further information on the capital lease minimum payments which are included in the table.

(b) The Company has entered into various agreements to sublease certain of its premises. The Company recorded sublease income related to these leases of $0.5 million and $0.4 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $1.3 million and $1.0 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013.

Clawback Obligations

For financial reporting purposes, the general partners have recorded a liability for potential clawback obligations to the limited partners of a real estate fund, due to changes in the unrealized value of the fund's remaining investments and where the fund's general partner has previously received carried interest distributions. The actual clawback liability, however, does not become realized until the end of the fund's life. The fund is currently winding-down and as of both September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the clawback obligation was $6.2 million.

37

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The Company serves as the general partner/managing member and/or investment manager to various affiliated and sponsored funds. As such, the Company is contingently liable for obligations for those entities. These amounts are not included above as the Company believes that the assets in these funds are sufficient to discharge any liabilities.

Unfunded Commitments

As of September 30, 2014, the Company had unfunded commitments of$12.1 millionpertaining to capital commitments inthreereal estate investments held by the Company, all of which pertain to related party investments. Such commitments can be called at any time, subject to advance notice. The Company, as a limited partner of the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds and also as a member of HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners, has committed to invest $45.2 millionin the Healthcare Royalty Partners funds which are managed by Healthcare Royalty Management. This commitment is expected to be called over atwo tofive year period. The Company will make its pro-rata investment in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds along with the other limited partners. ThroughSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has funded$34.9 milliontowards these commitments.In April 2013, the Company committed$1.0 million to Starboard Leaders Fund LP, which may increase or decrease over time, and, as ofSeptember 30, 2014, has funded$0.7 milliontowards this commitment. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Formation 8 Partners Fund I LP of$5.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over afouryear period.

Litigation

In the ordinary course of business, the Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries and current and former officers, directors and employees (the "Company and Related Parties") are named as defendants in, or as parties to, various legal actions and proceedings. Certain of these actions and proceedings assert claims or seek relief in connection with alleged violations of securities, banking, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering, employment and other statutory and common laws. Certain of these actual or threatened legal actions and proceedings include claims for substantial or indeterminate compensatory or punitive damages, or for injunctive relief.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company and Related Parties are also subject to governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests (both formal and informal), certain of which may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions or other relief. Certain affiliates and subsidiaries of the Company are investment banks, registered broker-dealers, futures commission merchants, investment advisers or other regulated entities and, in those capacities, are subject to regulation by various U.S., state and foreign securities, commodity futures and other regulators. In connection with formal and informal inquiries by these regulators, the Company and such affiliates and subsidiaries receive requests, and orders seeking documents and other information in connection with various aspects of their regulated activities.

Due to the global scope of the Company's operations, and its presence in countries around the world, the Company and Related Parties may be subject to litigation, and governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal), in multiple jurisdictions with legal and regulatory regimes that may differ substantially, and present substantially different risks, from those the Company and Related Parties are subject to in the United States.

The Company seeks to resolve all litigation and regulatory matters in the manner management believes is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, and contests liability, allegations of wrongdoing and, where applicable, the amount of damages or scope of any penalties or other relief sought as appropriate in each pending matter.

In accordance with GAAP, the Company establishes reserves for contingencies when the Company believes that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses a contingency if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss may have been incurred and there is no reserve for the loss because the conditions above are not met. The Company's disclosure includes an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for those matters, for which an estimate can be made. Neither a reserve nor disclosure is required for losses that are deemed remote.     

The Company appropriately reserves for certain matters where, in the opinion of management, the likelihood of liability is probable and the extent of such liability is reasonably estimable. Such amounts are included within accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in thecondensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and currently available information and involve a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type and nature of the litigation, claim or proceeding, the progress of the matter, the advice of legal counsel, the Company's defenses and its experience in similar cases or proceedings as well as its assessment of matters, including settlements, involving other defendants in similar or related cases or proceedings. The Company may increase or decrease its legal reserves in the future, on a matter-by-matter basis, to account for developments in such matters. The Company accrues legal fees as incurred.

38

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The following information reflects developments with respect to the Company's legal proceedings that occurred in the third quarter of 2014. These items should be read together with the Company's discussion in Note 19 "Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part IV and the Company's discussion set forth under Legal Proceedings in Part I, Item 3 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.

On May 28, 2014, Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK (collectively, "EIG") filed a lawsuit against Cowen and Company, LLC in the United States Court for the Southern District of New York (Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK v. Cowen and Company, LLC, No. 14-CV-3789). The complaint alleges copyright infringement based on alleged impermissible distribution of EIG's publication, Oil Daily, by Cowen and Company, LLC, and Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC, as Cowen's alleged predecessor-in-interest. EIG is seeking statutory damages based on alleged willful infringement of their copyrights. The Company believes it has substantial defenses to the claims asserted and intends to vigorously defend itself against this lawsuit if a satisfactory settlement is not ultimately approved. On July 22, 2014, the action was referred to a federal Magistrate Judge for the purpose of settlement, staying Cowen's time to answer until the parties have completed settlement discussions. On September 18, 2014, the parties attended a mediation before the federal Magistrate Judge. The case is in its preliminary stages so the Company cannot predict the outcome. The Company does not expect this case to have a material effect on its financial position.

14. Convertible Debt and Short Term Borrowings

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's outstanding debt was as follows:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Convertible debt	$	117,031	$	—
Note payable	357		41
Capital lease obligations	4,251		2,523
	$	121,639	$	2,564

Convertible Debt

On March 10, 2014, the Company issued$149.5 million of 3.0%cash convertible senior notes ("Convertible Notes"). The Convertible Notes are due on March 15, 2019 unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder into cash in accordance with their terms prior to such date. The interest on the Convertible Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The Convertible Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payments to other obligations. The Convertible Notes may be converted into cash, upon the occurrence of certain events, whereby a holder will receive, per$1,000principal amount of notes being converted, an amount equal to the sum of principal amount outstanding and the conversion amount based on the current conversion price (the "Conversion Option"). The Convertible Notes were issued with an initial conversion price of $5.33per share.

The Company recorded interest expense related to the coupon of$1.1 millionand $2.5 millionfor thethree and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, respectively.The initial unamortized discount on the Convertible Notes was$35.7 millionand is shown net in convertible debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.Amortization on the discount for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, included within interest expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations, was$1.5 millionand$3.2 million, respectively,based on an effective interest rate of 8.89%. The Convertible Notes are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. As of September 30, 2014the estimated fair value of the Convertible Notes, which includes the conversion option, was $148.8 million, and is based on the last broker quote of the Convertible Notes on September 30, 2014. The carrying amount of the debt as ofSeptember 30, 2014was$117.0 millionnet of the unamortized discount of$32.5 million. The Company capitalized the debt issuance costs in the amount of$3.7 million, which is included in other assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and will be amortized over the life of the Convertible Notes. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the Company is in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes.

Of the net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes, approximately$20.5 millionwas applied to pay the net cost of a cash convertible note economic hedge and warrant transaction which increases the effective conversion price to$7.18 (See Note 5), and approximately$0.3 millionwas applied to repurchase shares of Cowen Class A common stock. The remainder of the net proceeds is being used for general corporate purposes.

39

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Note Payable

During January 2014, the Company borrowed $2.0 millionto fund insurance premium payments. This note bears interest at1.55%and is due on December 1, 2014, with monthly payment requirements of$0.2 million. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the outstanding balance on this note payable was$0.4 million. Interest expense for thethree and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014was insignificant.

Capital Lease Obligations

The Company entered into several capital leases for computer equipment during the fourth quarter of 2010 and one in January 2014. These leases amount to$7.6 millionand are recorded in fixed assets and as capital lease obligations, which are included in short-term borrowings and other debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and have lease terms that range from48 to 60months and interest rates that range from 0.60% to 6.03%. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the remaining balance on these capital leases was$4.3 million. Interest expense was$0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Annual scheduled maturities of debt and minimum payments for debt outstanding as of September 30, 2014, is as follows:

	Convertible Debt			Notes payable			Capital Lease Obligation
	(dollars in thousands)
2014	$	—		$	362		$	412
2015	4,411			—			1,343
2016	4,411			—			1,025
2017	4,411			—			938
2018	4,411			—			938
Thereafter	151,688			—			79
Subtotal	169,332			362			4,735
Less: Amount representing interest (a)	(52,301		)	(5		)	(484		)
Total	$	117,031		$	357		$	4,251

(a) Amount necessary to reduce net minimum payments to present value calculated at the Company's implicit rate at inception. This amount also includes the unamortized discount on the convertible debt.

Letters of Credit

As of September 30, 2014, the Company has the following seven irrevocable letters of credit related to leased office space, for which there is cash collateral pledged, which the Company pays a fee on the stated amount of the letter of credit.

Location	Amount		Maturity
	(dollars in thousands)
San Francisco	$	82	May 2015
Boston	$	382	March 2015
New York	$	893	August 2015
New York	$	4,497	December 2014
New York	$	1,000	February 2015
New York	$	1,861	June 2015
New York	$	127	September 2015

To the extent any letter of credit is drawn upon, interest will be assessed at the prime commercial lending rate. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there were no amounts due related to these letters of credit.

15. Treasury stock

Treasury stock of $71.0 million as of September 30, 2014, compared to $48.1 million as of December 31, 2013, resulted from $5.6 million acquired through repurchases of shares to cover employee minimum tax withholding obligations related to

40

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

stock compensation vesting events under the Company's Equity Plan or other similar transactions and $17.3 million purchased in connection with a share repurchase program.

The following represents the activity relating to the treasury stock held by the Company during the nine months ended September 30, 2014:

	Treasury stock shares	Cost (dollars in thousands)		Average cost per share
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	15,873,549	$	48,084	$	3.03
Shares purchased for minimum tax withholding under the Equity Plan or other similar transactions	1,367,262	5,610		4.10
Purchase of treasury stock	4,267,557	17,327		4.06
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	21,508,368	$	71,021	$	3.30

16. Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive income includes the after tax change in unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency translation adjustments and net gain (loss) and amortization of prior service costs related to the Company's defined benefit plans.

	Foreign currency translation (a)			Defined benefit plans (a)			Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2013	248			344			592
Net change	(233		)	(87		)	(320		)
Balance at September 30, 2014	$	15		$	257		$	272
	Foreign currency translation (a)			Defined benefit plans (a)			Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	258		$	98		$	356
Net change	(10		)	(207		)	(217		)
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	248		$	(109	)	$	139

(a) During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.

17. Earnings Per Share

The Company calculates its basic and diluted earnings per share in accordance with US GAAP. Basic earnings per common share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to the Company's stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. As of September 30, 2014, there were 113,634,803 shares outstanding. The Company has included 424,479 fully vested, unissued restricted stock units in its calculation of basic earnings per share.

Diluted earnings per common share are calculated by adjusting the weighted average outstanding shares to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive nonvested restricted stock and stock options. The Company uses the treasury stock method to reflect the potential dilutive effect of the unvested restricted shares, restricted stock units, unexercised stock options, warrants and SAR's. In calculating the number of dilutive shares outstanding, the shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted shares and restricted stock units are assumed to have been delivered, and options and warrants are assumed to have been exercised, on the grant date. The assumed proceeds from the assumed vesting, delivery and exercising were calculated as the sum of (a) the amount of compensation cost attributed to future services and not yet recognized and (b) the amount of tax benefit that would be credited to additional paid-in capital assuming vesting and delivery of the restricted stock. The tax benefit is the amount resulting from a tax deduction for compensation in excess of compensation expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes. All outstanding stock options and warrants were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per common share for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.

41

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The computation of earnings per share is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Net income (loss)	$	10,529	$	8,370	$	38,154	$	12,637
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006		4,759		13,409		10,509
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	6,523	$	3,611	$	24,745	$	2,128
Shares for basic and diluted calculations:
Weighted average shares used in basic computation	114,969		118,359		115,407		116,012
Warrants	—		—		—		—
Stock options	—		—		—		—
Stock appreciation rights	59		311		57		296
Restricted stock	3,773		4,038		4,563		3,583
Weighted average shares used in diluted computation	118,801		122,708		120,027		119,891
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.06	$	0.03	$	0.21	$	0.02
Diluted	$	0.05	$	0.03	$	0.21	$	0.02

18. Segment Reporting

The Company conducts its operations through two segments: the alternative investment segment and the broker‑dealer segment. These activities are conducted primarily in the United States and substantially all of its revenues are generated domestically. The performance measure for these segments is Economic Income (Loss), which management uses to evaluate the financial performance of and make operating decisions for the segments including determining appropriate compensation levels.

In general, Economic Income (Loss) is a pre-tax measure that (i) eliminates the impact of consolidation for consolidated funds and (ii) excludes certain other acquisition-related and/or reorganization expenses (See Note 2). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) revenues include investment income that represents the income the Company has earned in investing its own capital, including realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest and dividends, net of associated investment related expenses. For US GAAP purposes, these items are included in each of their respective line items. Economic Income (Loss) revenues also include management fees, incentive income and investment income earned through the Company's investment as a general partner in certain real estate entities and the Company's investment in the activist business. For US GAAP purposes, all of these items are recorded in other income (loss). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) expenses are reduced by reimbursement from affiliates, which for US GAAP purposes is presented gross as part of revenue.

As further stated below, one major difference between Economic Income (Loss) and US GAAP net income (loss) is that Economic Income (Loss) presents the segments' results of operations without the impact resulting from the full consolidation of any of the Consolidated Funds. Consolidation of these funds results in including in income the pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to other owners of such entities which is reflected in net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. This pro rata share has no effect on the overall financial performance for the alternative investment segment, as ultimately, this income or loss is not income or loss for the alternative investment segment itself. Included in Economic Income (Loss) is the actual pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to the Company as an investor in such entities, which is relevant in management making operating decisions and evaluating financial performance.

The following tables set forth operating results for the Company's alternative investment and broker dealer segments and related adjustments necessary to reconcile the Company's Economic Income (Loss) measure to arrive at the Company's consolidated US GAAP net income (loss):

42

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
									Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)		Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	45,799	$	45,799		$	—		$	—			$	45,799
Brokerage	15			35,568		35,583			—			(1,249		)	(e)	34,334
Management fees	16,319			—		16,319			(246		)	(6,277		)	(a)	9,796
Incentive income	4,746			—		4,746			(34		)	(5,549		)	(a)	(837		)
Investment Income	4,064			3,399		7,463			—			(7,463		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—		—			—			13,725			(c)(e)	13,725
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—		—			119			2,354			(f)	2,473
Other revenue	43			353		396			—			724			(c)	1,120
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—		—			691			—				691
Total revenues	25,187			85,119		110,306			530			(3,735		)		107,101
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	11,307			53,661		64,968			—			838				65,806
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,887			14,880		23,767			—			(23,767		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,648			8,509		12,157			—			(12,157		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—		—			—			33,830			(c)(d)	33,830
Interest and dividends	1,852			812		2,664			—			9,765			(c)(e)	12,429
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,830		)	—		(1,830		)	—			1,830			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—		—			635			—				635
Total expenses	23,864			77,862		101,726			635			10,339				112,700
Other income (loss)
Net gain (loss) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—		—			—			13,836			(c)	13,836
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—		—			888			1,545				2,433
Total other income (loss)	—			—		—			888			15,381				16,269
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	1,323			7,257		8,580			783			1,307				10,670
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—		—			—			141			(b)	141
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	1,323			7,257		8,580			783			1,166				10,529
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(1,877		)	—		(1,877		)	(783		)	(1,346		)		(4,006		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	(554	)	$	7,257	$	6,703		$	—		$	(180	)		$	6,523

(1) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $1.9 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $0.7 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

43

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
										Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)			Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	27,694		$	27,694		$	—		$	—			$	27,694
Brokerage	—			32,035			32,035			—			(3,573		)	(e)	28,462
Management fees	14,299			—			14,299			(275		)	(4,697		)	(a)	9,327
Incentive income	5,666			—			5,666			—			(3,145		)	(a)	2,521
Investment Income	10,031			2,296			12,327			—			(12,327		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—			—			—			10,969			(c)(e)	10,969
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—			—			(75		)	2,250			(f)	2,175
Other revenue	156			(38		)	118			—			438			(c)	556
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—			—			445			—				445
Total revenues	30,152			61,987			92,139			95			(10,085		)		82,149
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	12,551			40,291			52,842			—			772				53,614
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,938			14,836			23,774			—			(23,774		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	1,597			6,833			8,430			—			(8,430		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—			—			—			31,392			(c)(d)	31,392
Interest and dividends	52			23			75			—			6,206			(c)(e)	6,281
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,461		)	—			(1,461		)	—			1,461			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—			—			450			—				450
Total expenses	21,677			61,983			83,660			450			7,627				91,737
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—			—			—			14,680			(c)	14,680
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—			—			1,230			2,002				3,232
Total other income (loss)	—			—			—			1,230			16,682				17,912
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	8,475			4			8,479			875			(1,030		)		8,324
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—			—			—			(46		)	(b)	(46		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	8,475			4			8,479			875			(984		)		8,370
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(4,813		)	—			(4,813		)	(875		)	929				(4,759		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	3,662		$	4		$	3,666		$	—		$	(55	)		$	3,611

(1) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $3.0 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.0 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

44

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
									Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)		Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	125,653	$	125,653		$	—		$	—			$	125,653
Brokerage	40			104,943		104,983			—			(4,508		)	(e)	100,475
Management fees	46,574			—		46,574			(723		)	(17,439		)	(a)	28,412
Incentive income	17,665			—		17,665			(188		)	(13,092		)	(a)	4,385
Investment Income	29,025			8,207		37,232			—			(37,232		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—		—			—			35,437			(c)(e)	35,437
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—		—			(45		)	7,436			(f)	7,391
Other revenue	140			354		494			—			1,933			(c)	2,427
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—		—			2,500			—				2,500
Total revenues	93,444			239,157		332,601			1,544			(27,465		)		306,680
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	43,360			152,197		195,557			—			2,214				197,771
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	27,944			41,652		69,596			—			(69,596		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	6,195			27,064		33,259			—			(33,259		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—		—			—			97,832			(c)(d)	97,832
Interest and dividends	5,083			878		5,961			—			23,733			(c)(e)	29,694
Reimbursement from affiliates	(5,313		)	—		(5,313		)	—			5,313			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—		—			1,335			—				1,335
Total expenses	77,269			221,791		299,060			1,335			26,237				326,632
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—		—			—			48,227			(c)	48,227
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—		—			3,509			6,636				10,145
Total other income (loss)	—			—		—			3,509			54,863				58,372
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	16,175			17,366		33,541			3,718			1,161				38,420
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—		—			—			266			(b)	266
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	16,175			17,366		33,541			3,718			895				38,154
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(8,320		)	—		(8,320		)	(3,718		)	(1,371		)		(13,409		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	7,855		$	17,366	$	25,221		$	—		$	(476	)		$	24,745

(1) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $7.5 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $2.5 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

45

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
										Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)			Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	70,431		$	70,431		$	—		$	—			$	70,431
Brokerage	—			93,352			93,352			—			(6,769		)	(e)	86,583
Management fees	43,050			—			43,050			(871		)	(13,661		)	(a)	28,518
Incentive income	14,558			—			14,558			—			(7,472		)	(a)	7,086
Investment Income	22,169			4,593			26,762			—			(26,762		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—			—			—			30,905			(c)(e)	30,905
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—			—			(206		)	6,657			(f)	6,451
Other revenue	381			(427		)	(46		)	—			1,565			(c)	1,519
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—			—			681			—				681
Total revenues	80,158			167,949			248,107			(396		)	(15,537		)		232,174
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	35,500			108,202			143,702			—			1,642				145,344
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	26,293			41,679			67,972			—			(67,972		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,996			23,710			27,706			—			(27,706		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—			—			—			93,994			(c)(d)	93,994
Interest and dividends	183			88			271			—			20,615			(c)(e)	20,886
Reimbursement from affiliates	(4,291		)	—			(4,291		)	—			4,291			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—			—			1,237			—				1,237
Total expenses	61,681			173,679			235,360			1,237			24,864				261,461
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—			—			—			30,507			(c)	30,507
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—			—			4,862			6,843				11,705
Total other income (loss)	—			—			—			4,862			37,350				42,212
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			3,229			(3,051		)		12,925
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—			—			—			288			(b)	288
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			3,229			(3,339		)		12,637
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(8,880		)	—			(8,880		)	(3,229		)	1,600				(10,509		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	9,597		$	(5,730	)	$	3,867		$	—		$	(1,739	)		$	2,128

(1) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $5.6 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.8 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

The following is a summary of the adjustments made to US GAAP net income (loss) for the segment to arrive at

Economic Income (Loss):

Funds Consolidation: The impacts of consolidation and the related elimination entries of the Consolidated Funds are not included in Economic Income (Loss). Adjustments to reconcile to US GAAP net income (loss) include elimination of incentive income and management fees earned from the Consolidated Funds and addition of fund expenses excluding management fees paid, fund revenues and investment income (loss).

46

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Other Adjustments:

(a)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes revenues (i) net of distribution fees paid to agents and (ii) our proportionate share

of management and incentive fees of certain real estate operating entities and the activist business.

(b)    Economic Income (Loss) excludes income taxes as management does not consider this item when evaluating the

performance of the segment.

(c)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes Company income from proprietary trading net of related expenses.

(d)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes the Company's proportionate share of expenses for certain real estate and other

operating entities for which the investments are recorded under the equity method of accounting for investments.

(e)    Economic Income (Loss) recognizes stock borrow/loan activity and other brokerage dividends as brokerage revenue

(f)    Reimbursement from affiliates is shown as a reduction of Economic Income expenses, but is included as a part of

revenues under US GAAP.

For the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, there was noone fund or other customer which represented more than 10% of the Company's total revenues.

19. Regulatory Requirements

As registered broker-dealers, Cowen and Company, ATM Execution (formerly known as Cowen Capital LLC), ATM USA, and Cowen Equity Finance are subject to the SEC's Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 (the “Rule”), which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Under the alternative method permitted by the Rule, Cowen and Company's minimum net capital requirement, as defined, is$1.0 million. Under the alternative method, ATM Execution, ATM USA and Cowen Equity Finance are each required to maintain minimum net capital, as defined, equal to$250,000. The broker-dealers are not permitted to withdraw equity if certain minimum net capital requirements are not met. As of September 30, 2014, Cowen and Company had total net capital of approximately$109.4 million, which was approximately $108.4 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$1.0 million. As of September 30, 2014, ATM Execution had total net capital of approximately$2.1 million, which was approximately$1.9 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$250,000. As of September 30, 2014, ATM USA had total net capital of approximately $0.9 million, which was approximately $0.7 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. As of September 30, 2014, Cowen Equity Finance had total net capital of approximately$14.5 millionwhich was approximately$14.3 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$250,000.

Cowen and Company and ATM Execution are exempt from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as their activities are limited to those set forth in the conditions for exemption appearing in paragraph (k)(2)(ii) of the Rule. Similarly, ATM USA and Cowen Equity Finance are exempt from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under (k)(2)(i).

Proprietary accounts of broker dealers (“PAB”) held at the clearing broker are considered allowable assets for net capital purposes, pursuant to agreements between Cowen and Company and ATM Execution and the clearing broker, which require, among other things, that the clearing broker performs computations for PAB and segregates certain balances on behalf of Cowen and Company and ATM Execution, if applicable.

Ramius UK Ltd. ("Ramius UK") and Cowen International Limited ("CIL") are subject to the capital requirements of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) of the UK. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the requirement of the FCA. As of September 30, 2014, Ramius UK's Financial Resources of$0.34 millionexceeded its minimum requirement of$0.11 million by $0.23 million. As of September 30, 2014, CIL's Financial Resources of$3.4 millionexceeded its minimum requirement of$2.1 million by $1.3 million.

Cowen and Company (Asia) Limited (“CCAL”) is subject to the financial resources requirements of the Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) of Hong Kong. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the Total Financial Resources requirement of the SFC. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, CCAL's Financial Resources of $0.7 millionexceeded the minimum requirement of $0.4 million by $0.3 million.

20. Related Party Transactions

The Company and its affiliated entities are the managing member, general partner and/or investment manager to the Company's alternative asset management products and certain managed accounts. Management fees and incentive income are primarily earned from affiliated entities. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, $12.3 million and $18.9 million, respectively, included in fees receivable are earned from related parties.

The Company may, at its discretion, reimburse certain fees charged to the funds that it manages to avoid duplication of fees when such funds have an underlying investment in another affiliated investment fund. For the three months ended

47

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

September 30, 2014, the Company reimbursed the funds it manages an immaterial amount. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company reimbursed the funds it manages $0.4 million. For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company reimbursed the funds it manages $0.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, which were recorded net in management fees and incentive income in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, related amounts still payable were $0.4 million and $1.7 million, respectively, and were reflected in fees payable in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

The Company may also make loans to employees or other affiliates, excluding executive officers of the Company. These loans are interest bearing and settle pursuant to the agreed-upon terms with such employees or affiliates and are included in due from related parties in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, loans to employees of $7.5 million and $6.0 million, respectively, were included in due from related parties on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Of these amounts $5.0 million and $3.8 million, respectively, are related to forgivable loans. These forgivable loans provide for a cash payment up-front to employees, with the amount due back to the Company forgiven over a vesting period.  An employee that voluntarily ceases employment, or is terminated with cause, is generally required to pay back to the Company any unvested forgivable loans granted to them.  The forgivable loans are recorded as an asset to the Company on the date of grant and payment, and then amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.  The vesting period on forgivable loans is generally one to three years. The Company recorded compensation expense of $1.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively, related to amortization of forgivable loans for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, and $3.2 million and $2.3 million, for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. This expense is included in employee compensation and benefits in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. For the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, and 2013, the interest income was insignificant for all loans and advances. The remaining balance included in due from related parties primarily relates to amounts due to the Company from affiliated funds and real estate entities due to expenses paid on their behalf.

In April 2011, the Company entered into a credit agreement with Starboard Value LP (see Note 5), whereby the Company was able to loan up to $3.0 million to Starboard Value LP at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 3.75% (payable quarterly). This loan matured on March 30, 2014 and was fully repaid. As of December 31, 2013, $1.5 million , related to this loan, was included in due from related parties in the accompanying consolidated statement of financial condition. For the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, and 2013, interest charged for this loan was insignificant.

Included in due to related parties is approximately $0.4 million and $0.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, related to a subordination agreement with an investor in certain real estate funds. This total is based on a hypothetical liquidation of the real estate funds as of the balance sheet date.

The Company entered into three real estate loan participation agreements during the first and second quarters of 2014 with related parties amounting to $50.0 million. All principal and interest balances were repaid to the Company as of June 30, 2014. Interest earned on these loans was $0.5 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 .    

21. Guarantees and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Guarantees

US GAAP requires the Company to disclose information about its obligations under certain guarantee arrangements. Those standards define guarantees as contracts and indemnification agreements that contingently require a guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on changes in an underlying security (such as an interest or foreign exchange rate, security or commodity price, an index or the occurrence or nonoccurrence of a specified event) related to an asset, liability or equity security of a guaranteed party. Those standards also define guarantees as contracts that contingently require the guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on another entity's failure to perform under an agreement as well as indirect guarantees of the indebtedness of others.

In the normal course of its operations, the Company enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations and warranties and which provide general indemnifications. The Company's maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Company that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Company expects the risk of loss to be remote.

The Company indemnifies and guarantees certain service providers, such as clearing and custody agents, trustees and administrators, against specified potential losses in connection with their acting as an agent of, or providing services to, the Company or its affiliates. The Company also indemnifies some clients against potential losses incurred in the event specified third-party service providers, including sub-custodians and third-party brokers, improperly execute transactions. The maximum

48

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnifications cannot be estimated. However, the Company believes that it is unlikely it will have to make significant payments under these arrangements and has not recorded any contingent liability in the condensed consolidated financial statements for these indemnifications.

The Company is a member of various securities exchanges. Under the standard membership agreements, members are required to guarantee the performance of other members and, accordingly, if another member becomes unable to satisfy its obligations to the exchange, all other members would be required to meet the shortfall. The Company's liability under these arrangements is not quantifiable and could exceed the cash and securities it has posted as collateral. However, management believes that the potential for the Company to be required to make payments under these arrangements is remote. Accordingly, no contingent liability is recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition for these arrangements.

The Company also provides representations and warranties to counterparties in connection with a variety of commercial transactions and occasionally indemnifies them against potential losses caused by the breach of those representations and warranties. The Company may also provide standard indemnifications to some counterparties to protect them in the event additional taxes are owed or payments are withheld, due either to a change in or adverse application of certain tax laws. These indemnifications generally are standard contractual terms and are entered into in the normal course of business. The maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnifications cannot be estimated. However, the Company believes it is unlikely it will have to make material payments under these arrangements and has not recorded any contingent liability in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for these indemnifications.

Through the Company's securities lending program (see Note 5(a)), the Company can borrow and lend customers' securities, via custodial and non-custodial arrangements, to third parties. As part of this program, the Company provides a guarantee in an aggregate amount of$150.0 millionto counterparties of the securities lending agreements, which protects the lender against the failure of the third-party borrower to return the lent securities in the event the Company did not obtain sufficient collateral. To minimize its liability under these indemnification agreements, the Company obtains cash collateral with a value exceeding 100% of the market value of the securities on loan from the borrower. Collateral is marked to market daily to assure that collateralization is adequate. Additional collateral is called from the borrower if a shortfall exists, or collateral may be released to the borrower in the event of overcollateralization. If a borrower defaults, the Company would use the collateral held to purchase replacement securities in the market or to credit the lending customer with the cash equivalent thereof.

In conjunction with the acquisition of Cowen Securities (See Note 2) the Company has agreed to guarantee loans which were issued to employees of Cowen Securities by a third-party bank prior to the acquisition that closed in March 2013. The value of these loans at September 30, 2014 was$0.2 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company has no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. However, through indemnification provisions in the clearing agreement, customer activities may expose the Company to off-balance-sheet credit risk. Pursuant to the clearing agreement, the Company is required to reimburse the Company's clearing broker, without limit, for any losses incurred due to a counterparty's failure to satisfy its contractual obligations. However, these transactions are collateralized by the underlying security, thereby reducing the associated risk to changes in the market value of the security through the settlement date.

In addition, during the normal course of business, the Company has exposure to a number of risks including market risk, currency risk, credit risk, operational risk, liquidity risk and legal risk. As part of the Company's risk management process, these risks are monitored on a regular basis throughout the course of the year.

22. Subsequent Events

On October 10, 2014 the Company completed its public offering of$63.3 millionaggregate principal amount of8.25%senior notes due on October 15, 2021 ("2021 Notes"). Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on January 15, 2015. The Company incurred debt issuance costs of approximately$2.9 million. The Company intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to capitalize a new commercial finance company being formed by the Company that would structure, underwrite and syndicate a broad range of

49

Cowen Group, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

loans to middle market commercial borrowers. The remainder of the net proceeds of the offering will be used for general corporate purposes.

The Company has evaluated events that have occurred after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued and has determined that there were no additional subsequent events requiring adjustment or disclosure in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

50

Item 2.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

This discussion contains forward-looking statements, which involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those described in the section titled “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K. This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes of Cowen Group, Inc. included elsewhere in this quarterly report. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

Overview

Cowen Group, Inc. (the "Company") is a diversified financial services firm and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, provides alternative investment management, investment banking, research, and brokerage (including market-making, sales and trading and securities lending services) through its two business segments: alternative investment and broker-dealer. The alternative investment segment includes hedge funds, replication products, liquid alternative risk premia products, customized solutions, mutual funds, managed futures funds, fund of funds, real estate and healthcare royalty funds. The broker-dealer segment offers industry focused investment banking for growth-oriented companies including advisory and global capital markets origination and domain knowledge-driven research and a sales and trading platform for institutional investors, primarily under the Cowen name.

Ramius is an alternative investment platform offering innovative products and solutions across the liquidity spectrum to institutional and private clients. The predecessor to this business was founded in 1994 and, through one of its subsidiaries, has been a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 since 1997. Ramius offers investors access to strategies to meet their specific needs including small-cap activism, healthcare royalties, customized solutions, event driven equity, real estate, long/short credit and managed futures. Ramius focuses on attracting and retaining talented in-house and affiliated investment teams and providing them with institutional infrastructure, robust sales and marketing and industry knowledge. A significant portion of the Company’s capital is invested alongside Ramius’s alternative investment clients. Our alternative investment business had approximately $12.2 billion of assets under management as of October 1, 2014.

Our broker-dealer businesses include research, brokerage and investment banking services to companies and institutional investor clients primarily in our target sectors ("Target Sectors") which include healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, consumer, aerospace and defense, industrials, real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), clean technology, energy, metals and mining, transportation, chemicals and agriculture. We provide research and brokerage services to over 1,000 domestic and international clients seeking to trade securities, principally in our Target Sectors. Historically, we have focused our investment banking efforts on small to mid-capitalization public companies as well as private companies.

Certain Factors Impacting Our Business

Our alternative investment business and results of operations are impacted by the following factors:

• Assets under management.  Our revenues from management fees are directly linked to assets under management. As a result, the future performance of our alternative investment business will depend on, among other things, our ability to retain assets under management and to grow assets under management from existing and new products. In addition, positive performance increases assets under management which results in higher management fees. As previously disclosed, redemptions in Ramius Multi-Strategy Fund Ltd triggered certain contractual rights of affiliates of UniCredit S.p.A (“UniCredit S.p.A”), which would have allowed them to withdraw their assets held in that fund upon 30 days notice. Such affiliates of UniCredit S.p.A instead agreed, pursuant to a modification agreement, to extend the time period pursuant to which the Company was required to return the bulk of its assets in our funds by the end of 2010. The Company returned a significant portion of the assets during 2010 and as of September 30, 2014, including redemptions effective on October 1, 2014, we have returned approximately $662.9 million to affiliates of UniCredit S.p.A with a remaining investment balance of approximately $87.7 million invested in our investment vehicles, including a fund of funds managed account.

• Investment performance.  Our revenues from incentive income are linked to the performance of the funds and accounts that we manage. Performance also affects assets under management because it influences investors' decisions to invest assets in, or withdraw assets from, the funds and accounts managed by us.

• Fee and allocation rates.  Our management fee revenues are linked to the management fee rates we charge as a percentage of assets under management. Our incentive income revenues are linked to the incentive allocation rates we charge as a percentage of performance-driven asset growth. Our incentive allocations are generally subject to “high-water marks,” whereby incentive income is generally earned by us only to the extent that the net asset value of a fund at the end of a measurement period exceeds the highest net asset value as of the end of the earlier measurement period for which we earned incentive income. Our incentive allocations, in some cases, are subject to performance hurdles.

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• Investment performance of our own capital.  We invest our own capital and the performance of such invested capital affects our revenues. As of September 30, 2014, we had investments of approximately $94.6 million, $223.7 million, $16.4 million, $15.0 million and $27.0 million in Enterprise Fund (an entity which invests its capital in Ramius Enterprise Master Fund Ltd), Cowen Overseas Investment LP (“COIL”), Ramius Optimum Investments LLC ("ROIL"), Starboard Partners Fund LP, and other investments, respectively. Enterprise Fund is a fund vehicle that currently has external investors, is closed to new investors and is in liquidation. COIL and ROIL are wholly owned entities managed by Ramius which the Company uses solely for the firm's invested capital.

Our broker-dealer business and results of operations are impacted by the following factors:

• Underwriting, private placement and strategic/financial advisory fees.  Our revenues from investment banking are directly linked to the underwriting fees we earn in equity and debt securities offerings in which the Company acts as an underwriter, private placement fees earned in non-underwritten transactions, sales commissions earned in at-the-market offerings and success fees earned in connection with advising both buyers and sellers, principally in mergers and acquisitions. As a result, the future performance of our investment banking business will depend on, among other things, our ability to secure lead manager and co-manager roles in clients capital raising transactions as well as our ability to secure mandates as a client's strategic financial advisor.

• Commissions.  Our commission revenues depend for the most part on our customer trading volumes.

• Principal transactions. Principal transactions revenue includes net trading gains and losses from the Company's market-making activities and net trading gains and losses on inventory and other firm positions. Commissions associated with these transactions are also included herein. In certain cases, the Company provides liquidity to clients buying or selling blocks of shares of listed stocks without previously identifying the other side of the trade at execution, which subjects the Company to market risk.

• Equity research fees.  Equity research fees are paid to the Company for providing equity research. The Company also permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their commissions to pay for research products and other services provided by third parties. Our ability to generate revenues relating to our equity research depends on the quality of our research and its relevance to our institutional customers and other clients.

External Factors Impacting Our Business

Our financial performance is highly dependent on the environment in which our businesses operate. We believe a favorable business environment is characterized by many factors, including a stable geopolitical climate, transparent financial markets, low inflation, low interest rates, low unemployment, strong business profitability and high business and investor confidence. Unfavorable or uncertain economic or market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence, limitations on the availability (or increases in the cost of) credit and capital, increases in inflation or interest rates, exchange rate volatility, unfavorable global asset allocation trends, outbreaks of hostilities or other geopolitical instability, corporate, political or other scandals that reduce investor confidence in the capital markets, or a combination of these or other factors. Our businesses and profitability have been and may continue to be adversely affected by market conditions in many ways, including the following:

• Our alternative investment business was affected by the conditions impacting the global financial markets and the hedge fund industry during 2008, which was characterized by substantial declines in investment performance and unanticipated levels of requested redemptions. While the environment for investing in alternative investment products has since improved, the variability of redemptions could continue to affect our alternative investment business, and it is possible that we could intermittently experience redemptions above historical levels, regardless of fund performance.

• Our broker-dealer business has been, and may continue to be, adversely affected by market conditions. Increased competition continues to affect our investment banking and capital markets businesses. The same factors also affect trading volumes in secondary financial markets, which affect our brokerage business. Commission rates, market volatility, increased competition from larger financial firms and other factors also affect our brokerage revenues and may cause these revenues to vary from period to period.

• Our broker-dealer business focuses primarily on small to mid-capitalization and private companies in specific industry sectors. These sectors may experience growth or downturns independent of general economic and market conditions, or may face market conditions that are disproportionately better or worse than those impacting the economy and markets generally. In addition, increased government regulation has had, and may continue to have, a disproportionate effect on capital formation by smaller companies. Therefore, our broker-dealer business could be affected differently than overall market trends.

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Our businesses, by their nature, do not produce predictable earnings. Our results in any period can be materially affected by conditions in global financial markets and economic conditions generally. We are also subject to various legal and regulatory actions that impact our business and financial results.

Recent Developments

Effective September 15, 2014, Ramius engaged State Street Global Advisors (“State Street”) as sub-advisor to the Ramius Trading Strategies Managed Futures Fund and re-named the fund State Street/Ramius Managed Futures Strategy Fund.  As part of the transaction, the fund’s investment manager, Ramius Trading Strategies, became a wholly owned subsidiary of Ramius and State Street hired the fund’s existing portfolio management team.  As the primary advisor to the fund, Ramius Trading Strategies continues to provide the fund’s back-office platform, operational due diligence and marketing support.

On September 24, 2014, Ramius announced a partnership with Quadratic Capital Management LLC (“Quadratic Capital”) to launch their options-based, fundamental global macro strategy.  Quadratic Capital will employ options and swaptions across asset classes and will seek to deliver a fundamental global macro strategy with absolute returns, low volatility and defined risk.

On September 29, 2014, the Company announced plans to organize Cowen Finance, a commercial finance company, that will structure, underwrite and syndicate a broad range of loans to middle market commercial borrowers.  It is expected that Cowen Finance will syndicate the loans originated or arranged by it to third party investors, while selectively holding a small portion of this originated or arranged volume in a loan portfolio.  The Company also anticipates that Cowen Finance will work together with Cowen and Company’s investment banking and debt capital markets businesses to originate, syndicate and utilize the Company’s capital to provide a broad range of credit solutions to the Company's corporate clients. The Company currently expects to make an initial equity investment of up to $125.0 million in Cowen Finance, with the investment funded by the Company over time.  The Company’s total investment in Cowen Finance may be increased from time to time in the future and may be in the form of equity, loans or other credit support. In addition, as part of Cowen Finance’s ongoing operations, the Company expects that Cowen Finance will incur substantial indebtedness. As of September 30, 2014 Cowen Finance has not yet conducted business.

On September 29, 2014, Ramius entered into an agreement with Neuberger Berman to sell Ramius' interest in Orchard Square Partners LLC, which manages a global long/short credit investment strategy with approximately $448.0 million in client assets. The transaction is expected to close on December 31, 2014.

On October 10, 2014 the Company completed its public offering of$63.3 millionaggregate principal amount of8.25%senior notes due on October 15, 2021 ("2021 Notes"). Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on January 15, 2015. The Company incurred debt issuance costs of approximately$2.9 million. The Company intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to capitalize a new commercial finance company being formed by the Company that would structure, underwrite and syndicate a broad range of loans to middle market commercial borrowers. The remainder of the net proceeds of the offering will be used for general corporate purposes.

Basis of presentation

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company in this Form 10-Q are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America ("US GAAP") as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") through Accounting Standards Codification as the source of authoritative accounting principles in the preparation of financial statements and include the accounts of the Company, its subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest or a substantive, controlling general partner interest. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain fund entities that are consolidated in the condensed consolidated financial statements, are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their own investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.

The Company serves as the managing member/general partner and/or investment manager to affiliated fund entities which it sponsors and manages. Certain of these funds in which the Company has a substantive, controlling general partner interest are consolidated with the Company pursuant to US GAAP as described below (the “Consolidated Funds”). Consequently, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of these funds on a gross basis. The ownership interests in these funds which are not owned by the Company are reflected as redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries in the condensed consolidated financial statements appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-Q. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from these funds are eliminated in consolidation.

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Revenue recognition

Our principal sources of revenue are derived from two segments: an alternative investment segment and a broker-dealer segment, as more fully described below.

Our alternative investment segment generates revenue through two principal sources: management fees and incentive income.

Our broker-dealer segment generates revenue through two principal sources: investment banking and brokerage.

Management fees

The Company earns management fees from affiliated funds and certain managed accounts that it serves as the investment manager based on assets under management. The actual management fees received vary depending on distribution fees or fee splits paid to third parties either in connection with raising the assets or structuring the investment.

Management fees are generally paid on a quarterly basis at the beginning of each quarter in arrears and are prorated for capital inflows and redemptions. While some investors may have separately negotiated fees, in general the management fees are as follows:

• Hedge Funds. Management fees for the Company's hedge funds are generally charged at an annual rate of up to2%of assets under management. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income.

• Mutual Funds.Management fees for the Company’s mutual funds (State Street/Ramius Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ramius Event Driven Equity Fund, Ramius Hedged Alpha Fund (formerly known as Ramius Dynamic Replication Fund) and Ramius Strategic Volatility Fund) are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 1.60%of assets under management (subject to an overall expense cap of up to2.1%).

• Alternative Solutions. Management fees for the Alternative Solutions business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to2%of assets under management. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income or based on assets under management at the beginning of the month. Management fees earned from the Alternative Solutions business are based and initially calculated on estimated net asset values and actual fees ultimately earned could be impacted to the extent of any changes in these estimates.

• Real Estate. Management fees from the Company's real estate business are generally charged by their general partners at an annual rate from0.75% to 1.50%of total capital commitments during the investment period and of invested capital or net asset value of the applicable fund after the investment period has ended. Management fees are typically paid to the general partners on a quarterly basis, at the beginning of the quarter in arrears, and are prorated for changes in capital commitments throughout the investment period and invested capital after the investment period. The general partners of the funds on the RCG Longview platform are owned jointly by the Company and third parties. Accordingly, the management fees (in addition to incentive income and investment income) generated by these real estate funds are split between the Company and the other general partners. Pursuant to US GAAP, these fees and other income received by the general partners that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are reflected under net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

• HealthCare Royalty Partners. During the investment period (as defined in the management agreement of the HealthCare Royalty Partners' funds), management fees for the funds advised by HealthCare Royalty Partners are generally charged at an annual rate of up to2%of committed capital. After the investment period, management fees are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2%of the net asset value or invested capital of the funds or the aggregate cost basis of the unrealized investments held by the funds. Management fees for the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds are calculated on a quarterly basis.

• Ramius Trading Strategies. Management fees and platform fees for the Company's private commodity trading advisory business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to1%. Management and platform fees are generally calculated monthly based on each account's notional trading level at the end of each month.

Incentive income

The Company earns incentive income based on net profits (as defined in the respective investment management agreements) with respect to certain of the Company's funds and managed accounts, allocable for each fiscal year that exceeds cumulative unrecovered net losses, if any, that have been carried forward from prior years. For the products we offer, incentive

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income earned is typically up to20% for hedge funds and up to 10%for alternative solutions products (in certain cases on performance in excess of a benchmark), of the net profits earned for the full year that are attributable to each fee-paying investor. Generally, incentive income on real estate funds is earned after the investor has received a full return of their invested capital, plus a preferred return. However, for certain real estate funds, the Company is entitled to receive incentive fees earlier, provided that the investors have received their preferred return on a current basis. These funds are subject to a potential clawback of these incentive fees upon the liquidation of the fund if the investor has not received a full return of its invested capital plus the preferred return thereon. Incentive income in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds is earned only after investors receive a full return of their capital plus a preferred return.

In periods following a period of a net loss attributable to an investor, the Company generally does not earn incentive income on any future profits attributable to that investor until the accumulated net loss from prior periods is recovered, an arrangement commonly referred to as a “high-water mark.” The Company has elected to record incentive income revenue in accordance with “Method 2” of US GAAP. Under Method 2, the incentive income from the Company's funds and managed accounts for any period is based upon the net profits of those funds and managed accounts at the reporting date. Any incentive income recognized in the condensed consolidated statement of operations may be subject to future reversal based on subsequent negative performance prior to the conclusion of the fiscal year, when all contingencies have been resolved.

Carried interest in the real estate funds is subject to clawback to the extent that the carried interest actually distributed to date exceeds the amount due to the Company based on cumulative results. As such, the accrual for potential repayment of previously received carried interest, which is a component of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, represents all amounts previously distributed to the Company, less an assumed tax liability, that would need to be repaid to certain real estate funds if these funds were to be liquidated based on the current fair value of the underlying funds' investments as of the reporting date. The actual clawback liability does not become realized until the end of a fund's life.

Investment Banking

The Company earns investment banking revenue primarily from fees associated with public and private capital raising transactions and providing strategic advisory services. Investment banking revenues are derived primarily from small and mid-capitalization companies within the Company's Target Sectors.

Investment banking revenue consists of underwriting fees, strategic/financial advisory fees and placement and sales agent fees.    

• Underwriting fees.The Company earns underwriting revenues in securities offerings in which the Company acts as an underwriter, such as initial public offerings, follow-on equity offerings, debt offerings, and convertible security offerings. Underwriting revenues include management fees, selling concessions and underwriting fees. Fee revenue relating to underwriting commitments is recorded when all significant items relating to the underwriting process have been completed and the amount of the underwriting revenue has been determined. This generally is the point at which all of the following have occurred: (i) the issuer's registration statement has become effective with the SEC, or the other offering documents are finalized; (ii) the Company has made a firm commitment for the purchase of securities from the issuer; and (iii) the Company has been informed of the number of securities that it has been allotted.

When the Company is not the lead manager for an underwriting transaction, management must estimate the Company's share of transaction-related expenses incurred by the lead manager in order to recognize revenue. Transaction-related expenses are deducted from the underwriting fee and therefore reduce the revenue the Company recognizes as co-manager. Such amounts are adjusted to reflect actual expenses in the period in which the Company receives the final settlement, typically within 90 days following the closing of the transaction.

• Strategic/financial advisory fees.The Company's strategic advisory revenues include success fees earned in connection with advising companies, principally in mergers and acquisitions and liability management transactions. The Company also earns fees for related advisory work such as providing fairness opinions. The Company records strategic advisory revenues when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.

• Placement and sales agent fees. The Company earns agency placement fees and sales agent commissions in non-underwritten transactions such as private placements of loans and debt and equity securities, including, private investment in public equity transactions (“PIPEs”), and as sales agent in at-the-market offerings of equity securities. The Company records placement revenues when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. The Company records sales agent commissions on a trade date basis. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.

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Brokerage

Brokerage revenue consists of commissions, principal transactions, and equity research fees.

• Commissions.Commission revenue includes fees from executing client transactions. These fees are recognized on a trade date basis. The Company permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their commissions to pay for research products and other services provided by third parties. The amounts allocated for those purposes are commonly referred to as soft dollar arrangements. Commissions on soft dollar brokerage are recorded net of the related expenditures on an accrual basis. Commission revenues also includes fees from making algorithms available to clients.

• Principal Transactions.Principal transaction, net revenue includes net trading gains and losses from the Company's market-making activities in over-the-counter equity securities, trading of convertible securities, and trading gains and losses on inventory and other firm positions, which include warrants previously received as part of investment banking transactions. Commissions associated with these transactions are also included herein. In certain cases, the Company provides liquidity to clients buying or selling blocks of shares of listed stocks without previously identifying the other side of the trade at execution, which subjects the Company to market risk. These positions are typically held for a very short duration.

• Equity Research Fees.Equity research fees are paid to the Company for providing equity research. Revenue is recognized once an arrangement exists, access to research has been provided, the fee amount is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured.

Interest and dividends

Interest and dividends are earned by the Company from various sources. The Company receives interest and dividends primarily from investments held by its Consolidated Funds and its brokerage balances from invested capital and securities lending business. Interest is recognized on an accrual basis and interest income is recognized on the debt of those issuers that is deemed collectible. Interest income and expense includes premiums and discounts amortized and accreted on debt investments based on criteria determined by the Company using the effective yield method, which assumes the reinvestment of all interest payments. Dividends are recognized on the ex-dividend date.

Reimbursement from affiliates

The Company allocates, at its discretion, certain expenses incurred on behalf of its hedge fund, fund of funds and real estate businesses. These expenses relate to the administration of such subsidiaries and assets that the Company manages for its funds. In addition, pursuant to the funds' offering documents, the Company charges certain allowable expenses to the funds, including charges and personnel costs for legal, compliance, accounting, tax compliance, risk and technology expenses that directly relate to administering the assets of the funds. Such expenses that have been reimbursed at their actual costs are included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as employee compensation and benefits, professional, advisory and other fees, communications, occupancy and equipment, client services and business development and other.

Expenses

The Company's expenses consist of compensation and benefits, interest expense and general, administrative and other expenses.

• Compensation and Benefits.  Compensation and benefits is comprised of salaries, benefits, discretionary cash bonuses and equity-based compensation. Annual incentive compensation is variable, and the amount paid is generally based on a combination of employees' performance, their contribution to their business segment, and the Company's performance. Generally, compensation and benefits comprise a significant portion of total expenses, with annual incentive compensation comprising a significant portion of total compensation and benefits expenses.

• Interest and Dividends.  Interest and dividend expense relates primarily to trading activity with respect to the Company's investments and interest expense on cash convertible debt issued during March 2014.

• General, Administrative and Other.  General, administrative and other expenses are primarily related to professional services, occupancy and equipment, business development expenses, communications, insurance and other miscellaneous expenses. These expenses may also include certain one-time charges and non-cash expenses.

• Consolidated Funds Expenses.  Certain funds are consolidated by the Company pursuant to US GAAP. As such, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the expenses of these consolidated entities and the portion attributable to other investors is allocated to a redeemable non-controlling interest.

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Income Taxes

The taxable results of the Company’s U.S. operations are subject to U.S. federal, state and city taxation as a corporation. The Company is also subject to foreign taxation on income it generates in certain countries.

The Company records deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax benefit or expense that will result from differences between the carrying value of its assets for income tax purposes and for financial reporting purposes, as well as for operating or capital loss and tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance is recorded to bring the net deferred tax assets to a level that, in management’s view, is more likely than not to be realized in the foreseeable future. This level will be estimated based on a number of factors, especially the amount of net deferred tax assets of the Company that are actually expected to be realized, for tax purposes, in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax liabilities that cannot be realized in a similar future time period and thus that cannot offset the Company’s deferred tax assets are not taken into account when calculating the Company’s net deferred tax assets. As of September 30, 2014, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against substantially all of its net deferred tax assets.

Redeemable Non-controlling Interests

Redeemable non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the other owners of such entities. Due to the fact that the non-controlling interests are redeemable at the option of the holder they have been classified as temporary equity.

Assets Under Management and Fund Performance

Assets Under Management

Assets under management refer to all of our alternative investment products, solutions and services including hedge funds, replication products, liquid alternative risk premia products, customized solutions, mutual funds, managed futures funds, fund of funds, real estate and healthcare royalty funds. Assets under management also include the fair value of assets we manage pursuant to separately managed accounts, collateralized debt obligations for which we are the collateral manager, and, as indicated in the footnotes to the table below, proprietary assets which the Company has invested in these products. Also, as indicated, assets under management for certain products represent committed capital and certain products where the Company owns a portion of the general partners.

As of October 1, 2014, the Company had assets under management of $12.2 billion, a 29.1%increase as compared to assets under management of $9.4 billion as of January 1, 2014. The $2.7 billion increase in assets under management during the nine months ended 2014 primarily resulted from $0.8 billion in our alternative solutions product, $1.0 billion related to our healthcare royalty products and $0.9 billion related to our hedge fund products.

The following table is a breakout of total assets under management by platform as of October 1, 2014 (which excludes cross investments from other Ramius platforms):

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	Platform
	Hedge Funds (a) (b) (j) (p)			Alternative Solutions (a) (c) (k)			Ramius Trading Strategies (d) (l)			Real Estate (a) (m)			Healthcare Royalty Partners (e) (f) (n)			Other (g) (o)			Total
	(dollars in millions)
January 1, 2012	$	1,917		$	2,750		$	262		$	1,628		$	1,473		$	2,235		$	10,265
Subscriptions	392			1,407			—			—			—			3,163			4,962
Redemptions	(333		)	(1,777		)	(111		)	(95		)	—			(5,293		)	(7,609		)
Performance (h)	373			85			(5		)	—			—			—			453
Net Return (i)	19.46		%	3.09		%	(1.91		)%	—		%	—		%	—		%	4.41		%
January 1, 2013	2,349			2,465			146			1,533			1,473			105			8,071
Subscriptions	819			1,450			—			222			50			—			2,541
Redemptions	(368		)	(792		)	(53		)	(116		)	—			(38		)	(1,367		)
Performance (h)	368			(187		)	1			—			—			—			182
Net Return (i)	15.67		%	(7.59		)%	0.68		%	—		%	—		%	—		%	2.25		%
January 1, 2014	3,168			2,936			94			1,639			1,523			67			9,427
Subscriptions	1,044			1,031			—			204			973			—			3,252
Redemptions	(461		)	(231		)	25			(180		)	—			(16		)	(863		)
Performance (h)	348			(4		)	6			—			—			—			350
Net Return (i)	10.98		%	(0.14		)%	6.38		%	—		%	—		%	—		%	3.71		%
October 1, 2014	$	4,099		$	3,732		$	125		$	1,663		$	2,496		$	51		$	12,166

(a) The Company owns between 20% and 55% of the general partners or managing members of the real estate business, the activist business, the long/short credit business (as of July 2013) (the single strategy hedge funds) and the alternative solutions business (as of September 2013).

(b) These amounts include the Ramius Event Driven Equity Fund and the Company's invested capital of approximately $181.4 million, $155.6 million and $147.3 million as of October 1, 2014, January 1, 2014 and January 1, 2013, respectively.

(c) These amounts include the Company's invested capital of approximately $2.5 million as of January 1, 2013, respectively. There are no amounts related to the Company's invested capital as of January 1, 2014.

(d) These amounts include Ramius Trading Strategies Managed Futures Fund and the Company's invested capital of approximately $19.4 million as of January 1, 2013. RTS Global 3X was liquidated on March 31, 2013, therefore, the notional amount of the Company's investment in RTS Global 3X Fund LP is only included in the Company's assets under management as of January 1, 2013 and prior years.

(e) These amounts include the Company's invested capital of approximately $20.0 million, $16.4 million and $16.0 million as of October 1, 2014, January 1, 2014 and January 1, 2013, respectively.

(f) This amount reflects committed capital.

(g) The Company's cash management services business provided clients with investment guidelines for managing cash and established investment programs for managing their cash in separately managed accounts.  Given the current focus of the Company's alternative investment business and the areas where the Company believes it can achieve long term growth, as of November 1, 2012, the Company no longer offered cash management services and arranged for the transfer of the remaining assets under management related to such business to another asset manager.  This transfer was completed in December 2012. The Company continues to provide mortgage advisory services where the Company manages collateralized debt obligations held by investors.

(h) Performance and net returns are net of all management and incentive fees and includes the effect of any foreign exchange translation adjustments and leverage in certain funds.

(i) Net returns are calculated on the platform as a whole. Net return of individual funds will vary based on the timing and strategy the respective funds.

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(j) The Company’s actively marketed hedge fund products have varying liquidity terms typically ranging from daily to quarterly liquidity with less liquidity applying to certain co-investment vehicles. In 2010, the Company suspended redemption rights with respect to certain hedge funds that are being wound down. The hedge funds that have suspended redemption rights represent approximately 9.53% of the total hedge fund assets under management.

(k) The Company’s actively marketed alternative solutions products have varying liquidity terms typically ranging from daily to quarterly liquidity. Since 2008, the Company has suspended redemption rights for a number of alternative solutions funds that are being wound down. The alternative solutions funds that have suspended redemption rights represent approximately 0.35% of the total alternative solutions assets under management.

(l) The Ramius Trading Strategies products offer investors daily liquidity.

(m) The real estate business does not provide investors with redemption rights. Investors receive distributions upon dispositions of the underlying real estate investments.

(n) The Healthcare Royalty funds do not provide investors with redemption rights. Investors receive distributions upon realizations of the funds’ investments.

(o) The collateralized debt obligations managed by the Company is an amortizing pool of assets with cash returned to investors in periodic distributions as it becomes available.

(p) These amounts include Orchard Square Partner assets under management of $448.0 million. The Company has agreed to sell its interest in Orchard Square Partners effective December 31, 2014.

Fund Performance

Financial markets’ performance in the third quarter of 2014 was mixed after a strong second quarter, when equities, bonds and commodities all had positive gains. There was greater dispersion of returns among asset classes throughout the third quarter, which increased as September came to a close and positive investor sentiment rapidly eroded due to signs of slowing economic growth and various international events creating uncertainty in the markets.

Given market conditions in the third quarter, the Company's hedge fund vehicles had positive results relative to their respective benchmarks. The long/short credit fund's performance in the quarter was slightly negative but less so than the Merrill Lynch High Yield II Index due to its hedges and short positions. The activist strategy has now exceeded the returns generated by the Russell 2000 by over 11.5% in the first nine months of the year. The merger arbitrage fund is managed with a focused portfolio that employs credit and option strategies as well as equities. Short term results can deviate from those generated by a broad-based merger arbitrage index such as HFRXMA. Despite what the media called “Arbageddon” as a result of the US Treasury statement against corporate tax inversions and the subsequent expansion of deal spreads, the fund exceeded the index for the quarter and has substantially outperformed the index on a year to date basis. While the merger strategy has been able to produce attractive returns in a tough M&A environment, it continues to find multiple opportunities in large liquid transactions where available arbitrage capital cannot compress spreads and various securities can be utilized in positioning exposures. It is encouraging to note that global M&A reached $2.8 trillion in the first nine months of 2014 (Dealogic), an increase of 34% compared to 2013 and the highest level of transactions seen since 2007.

The liquid alternative mutual funds (offering hedge fund exposures, multi-manager managed futures access, a long volatility strategy and a new event-driven equity fund) had varying results for the period. The hedge fund exposure vehicle (renamed Ramius Hedged Alpha) was reconfigured during the first quarter, changing from a multi-asset replication portfolio to one focused on using customized liquid instruments to provide market-neutral exposure to several equity investment disciplines employed by top hedge fund managers. The fund’s returns during the ensuing transition period have been negative and lagged its representative, investable hedge fund index (HFRXEH). The managed futures fund had a strong quarter in an environment that finally began to present opportunities to the asset class, and year to date has slightly underperformed its benchmark CTA index. Equity market volatility remained subdued until late September, and the strategic volatility fund also declined for the quarter. The fund will lag sharp movements in the VIX, and as such, trails its benchmark, the SPVXMP (S&P 500 VIX Futures Index Series) for the year. The Ramius Event-Driven Equity Fund completed its first year of operation. Its goal is to provide equity market returns with lower volatility through a liquid portfolio of selected activist positions, special situations and merger arbitrage. Having overtaken its event-driven benchmark (HFRXED) in early July, underperformance in activist names caused it to lag for the third quarter and also on a year to date basis.

The internally managed multi-strategy funds maintained their focus on capital preservation, while executing opportunistic transactions linked to certain assets in order to make distributions to investors. In terms of longer-dated investment vehicles, the Longview real estate debt funds were positive for the quarter and year to date through September. The primary real estate equity fund was marginally negative for the third quarter but still a positive contributor thus far in 2014. Both debt and equity real estate funds, which are in the process of winding down their investment portfolios, have enjoyed substantial recoveries in

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valuation from the lows of 2009.  In another longer-term alternative asset class, our current health care royalty fund is approaching full deployment of its committed capital.

Invested Capital

The Company invests a significant portion of its capital base to help drive results and facilitate the growth of its alternative investment and broker/dealer businesses. Management allocates capital to three primary investment categories: (i) trading strategies; (ii) merchant banking investments; and (iii) real estate investments. The Company seeks to make strategic and opportunistic investments in varying capital structures across a diverse array of businesses, hedge funds and mutual funds. Much of the Company's trading strategy portfolio is invested along side the Company's alternative investment clients and includes liquid investment strategies such as corporate credit trading, event driven, macro trading, and enhanced cash management. Within its merchant banking investments, management generally takes a long-term view that typically involves investing directly in public and private companies globally, private equity funds and along side its alternative investment clients. The Company's real estate investment strategy focuses on making investments along side the alternative investment clients invested in the RCG Longview funds, as well as in direct investments in commercial real estate projects.

As of September 30, 2014, the Company's invested capital amounted to a net value of $594.0 million (supporting a long market value of $945.5 million), representing approximately 110% of Cowen Group's stockholders' equity presented in accordance with US GAAP. The table below presents the Company's invested equity capital by strategy and as a percentage of Cowen Group's stockholders' equity as of September 30, 2014. The net values presented in the table below do not tie to Cowen Group's condensed consolidated statement of financial condition as of September 30, 2014 because they are included in various line items of the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition, including “securities owned, at fair value”, “other investments”, “cash and cash equivalents”, and “consolidated funds-securities owned, at fair value”.

Strategy	Net Value		% of Stockholders' Equity
	(dollars in millions)
Trading	$	422.8	78%
Merchant Banking	112.5		21%
Real Estate	58.7		11%
Total	594.0		110%
Stockholders' Equity	$	538.9	100%

The allocations shown in the table above will change over time.

Results of Operations

To provide comparative information of the Company's operating results for the periods presented, a discussion of Economic Income (Loss) of our alternative investment and broker-dealer segments follows the discussion of our total consolidated US GAAP results. Economic Income (Loss) reflects, on a consistent basis for all periods presented in the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements, income earned from the Company's funds and managed accounts and from its own invested capital. Economic Income (Loss) excludes certain adjustments required under US GAAP. See the section titled “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of the Company-Segment Analysis and Economic Income (Loss),” and Note 18 to the accompanying condensed Company's consolidated financial statements, appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, for a reconciliation of Economic Income (Loss) to total Company US GAAP net income (loss).

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Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 Compared with the Three Months Ended September 30, 2013

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
	(unaudited)
	Three Months Ended September 30,						Period to Period
	2014			2013			$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	45,799		$	27,694		$	18,105		65	%
Brokerage	34,334			28,462			5,872			21	%
Management fees	9,796			9,327			469			5	%
Incentive income	(837		)	2,521			(3,358		)	(133	)%
Interest and dividends	13,725			10,969			2,756			25	%
Reimbursement from affiliates	2,473			2,175			298			14	%
Other revenues	1,120			556			564			101	%
Consolidated Funds revenues	691			445			246			55	%
Total revenues	107,101			82,149			24,952			30	%
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	65,806			53,614			12,192			23	%
Interest and dividends	12,429			6,281			6,148			98	%
General, administrative and other expenses	33,830			31,392			2,438			8	%
Consolidated Funds expenses	635			450			185			41	%
Total expenses	112,700			91,737			20,963			23	%
Other income (loss)
Net gain (loss) on securities, derivatives and other investments	13,836			14,680			(844		)	(6	)%
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	2,433			3,232			(799		)	(25	)%
Total other income (loss)	16,269			17,912			(1,643		)	(9	)%
Income (loss) before income taxes	10,670			8,324			2,346			28	%
Income taxes expense (benefit)	141			(46		)	187			(407	)%
Net income (loss)	10,529			8,370			2,159			26	%
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006			4,759			(753		)	(16	)%
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	6,523		$	3,611		$	2,912		81	%

Revenues

Investment Banking

Investment banking revenues increased$18.1 million to $45.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $27.7 millionin the prior year period. During the three months ended September 30, 2014, the Company completed 23 underwriting transactions, three strategic advisory transactions and 10 debt capital market transactions. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company completed 20 underwriting transactions, one strategic advisory transaction and seven debt capital market transactions.

Brokerage

Brokerage revenues increased$5.8 million to $34.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $28.5 million in the prior year period. This was attributable to higher commission revenue due to an increase in customer trading volume in our cash equities and options businesses as well as an increase in electronic trading revenues. Customer trading volumes across the industry (according to Bloomberg) increased 2% for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the same period in the prior year.

Management Fees

Management fees increased$0.5 million to $9.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $9.3 million in the prior year period.

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Incentive Income

Incentive income decreased$3.3 million to a loss of $0.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $2.5 million in the prior year period. This decrease was primarily related to a decrease in performance fees from our credit and alternative solutions businesses.

Interest and Dividends

Interest and dividends increased$2.7 million to $13.7 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $11.0 million in the prior year period. This was primarily attributable to the activity in our stock loan business.

Reimbursements from Affiliates

Reimbursements from affiliates increased$0.3 million to $2.5 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $2.2 million in the prior year period.

Other Revenues

Other revenues increased$0.5 million to $1.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $0.6 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to sublease income.

Consolidated Funds Revenues

Consolidated Funds revenues increased$0.3 million to $0.7 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $0.4 million in the prior year period.

Expenses

Employee Compensation and Benefits

Employee compensation and benefits expenses increased$12.2 million to $65.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $53.6 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily due to $25.0 million higher revenues during the third quarter of 2014 as compared to 2013 and thus resulting in a higher compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The Company's headcount increased 3.9%. The compensation to revenue ratio, based on total revenues only, was 61% for the three months ended September 30, 2014, compared with 65% for the prior year period. The decrease in the compensation to revenue ratio resulted from a 23% increase in total compensation combined with a 30% increase in total revenues. The compensation to revenue ratio, including other income (loss), was 53% for the three months ended September 30, 2014, compared with 54% for the prior year period.

Interest and Dividends

Interest and dividend expenses increased$6.1 million to $12.4 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $6.3 million in the prior year period. Interest and dividend expenses relates to trading activity with respect to the Company's investments, activity in our stock loan business and interest on debt. The increase primarily relates to the cash convertible debt issued during the first quarter of 2014.

General, Administrative and Other Expenses

General, administrative and other expenses increased$2.4 million to $33.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $31.4 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to syndication costs related to a capital raise by an alternative investment asset fund and an increase in client services and business development, which are variable expenses, related to higher revenues partially offset by various firm-wide efforts to reduce fixed expenses.

Consolidated Funds Expenses

Consolidated Funds expenses increased$0.1 million to $0.6 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $0.5 million for the prior year period.

Other Income (Loss)

Other income (loss) decreased$1.6 million to $16.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $17.9 million in the prior year period. The decrease primarily relates to a decrease in the Company's performance in our equity investments offset partially by improved performance in our activist strategy. The gains and losses shown under Consolidated Funds reflect the consolidated total performance for such funds, and the portion of those gains or losses that are attributable to other investors is allocated to redeemable non-controlling interests.

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Income Taxes

Income tax expense increased to $0.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with an income tax benefit of $0.05 million in the prior year period. The Company’s tax expense increased primarily because the Company’s foreign subsidiaries recorded higher foreign taxes resulting from increased pre-tax income.

Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Non-controlling Interests

Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests decreased by $0.8 million to $4.0 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $4.8 million in the prior year period. The period over period change was primarily from the result of an extension of the partnership agreement relating to our alternative solutions business, during the third quarter of 2013, which resulted in a profit split and therefore more allocations of income to non-controlling interest holders. Non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the other owners of such entities.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 Compared with Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
	Nine Months Ended September 30,				Period to Period
	2014		2013		$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	125,653	$	70,431	$	55,222		78	%
Brokerage	100,475		86,583		13,892			16	%
Management fees	28,412		28,518		(106		)	—	%
Incentive income	4,385		7,086		(2,701		)	(38	)%
Interest and dividends	35,437		30,905		4,532			15	%
Reimbursement from affiliates	7,391		6,451		940			15	%
Other revenues	2,427		1,519		908			60	%
Consolidated Funds revenues	2,500		681		1,819			267	%
Total revenues	306,680		232,174		74,506			32	%
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	197,771		145,344		52,427			36	%
Interest and dividends	29,694		20,886		8,808			42	%
General, administrative and other expenses	97,832		93,994		3,838			4	%
Consolidated Funds expenses	1,335		1,237		98			8	%
Total expenses	326,632		261,461		65,171			25	%
Other income (loss)
Net gain (loss) on securities, derivatives and other investments	48,227		30,507		17,720			58	%
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	10,145		11,705		(1,560		)	(13	)%
Total other income (loss)	58,372		42,212		16,160			38	%
Income (loss) before income taxes	38,420		12,925		25,495			197	%
Income taxes expense (benefit)	266		288		(22		)	(8	)%
Net income (loss)	38,154		12,637		25,517			202	%
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	13,409		10,509		2,900			28	%
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	24,745	$	2,128	$	22,617		NM

Revenues

Investment Banking

Investment banking revenues increased$55.3 million to $125.7 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $70.4 millionin the prior year period. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company completed 96 underwriting transactions, six strategic advisory transactions and 13 debt capital market transactions. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company completed 49 underwriting transactions, six strategic advisory transactions and 14 debt capital market transactions.

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Brokerage

Brokerage revenues increased$13.9 million to $100.5 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $86.6 millionin the prior year period. This was attributable to higher commission revenue due to an increase in customer trading volume in our cash equities and options businesses as well as an increase in electronic trading revenues. Customer trading volumes across the industry (according to Bloomberg) increased 5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the prior year period.

Management Fees

Management fees decreased$0.1 million to $28.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $28.5 millionin the prior year period.

Incentive Income

Incentive income decreased$2.7 million to $4.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $7.1 million in the prior year period. This decrease was primarily related to a decrease in performance fees from our credit business.

Interest and Dividends

Interest and dividends increased$4.5 million to $35.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $30.9 millionin the prior year period. This was primarily attributable to the activity in our stock loan business.

Reimbursements from Affiliates

Reimbursements from affiliates increased$0.9 million to $7.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $6.5 million in the prior year period.

Other Revenues

Other revenues increased$0.9 million to $2.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $1.5 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to sublease income.

Consolidated Funds Revenues

Consolidated Funds revenues increased$1.8 million to $2.5 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $0.7 million in the prior year period. This increase is attributable to the consolidation of Merger Fund during the third quarter 2013.

Expenses

Employee Compensation and Benefits

Employee compensation and benefits expenses increased$52.5 million to $197.8 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $145.3 millionin the prior year period. The increase is primarily due to $74.5 millionhigher revenues during the first nine months of 2014 as compared to 2013 and thus resulting in a higher compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The Company's head count increased 3.9%. The compensation to revenue ratio, based on total revenues only, was 64% for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with 63%in the prior year period. The compensation to revenue ratio, including other income (loss), was 54% for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with 53% in the prior year period.

Interest and Dividends

Interest and dividend expenses increased$8.8 million to $29.7 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $20.9 millionin the prior year period. Interest and dividends expenses relate to trading activity with respect to the Company's investments, activity in our stock loan business and interest on debt. The increase primarily relates to the convertible debt issued during the first quarter of 2014.

General, Administrative and Other Expenses

General, administrative and other expenses increased$3.8 million to $97.8 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $94.0 millionin the prior year period. This was primarily due to higher professional fees related to the debt issuance during the first quarter of 2014, syndication costs related to a capital raise by an alternative investment asset fund and an increase in client services and business development, which are variable expenses, related to higher revenues, partially offset byvarious firm-wide efforts to reduce fixed expenses.

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Consolidated Funds Expenses

Consolidated Funds expenses increased$0.1 million to $1.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $1.2 million in the prior year period.

Other Income (Loss)

Other income (loss) increased$16.2 million to $58.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $42.2 millionin the prior year period. The increase primarily relates to an increase in the Company's own invested capital driven by increases in performance in certain investment strategies including activist and increases in performance in our equity investments.  The gains and losses shown under Consolidated Funds reflect the consolidated total performance for such funds, and the portion of those gains or losses that are attributable to other investors is allocated to redeemable non-controlling interests.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense remained unchanged at $0.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with the prior year period.

Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Non-controlling Interests

Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests increased$2.9 million to $13.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $10.5 millionin the prior year period. The period over period change was primarily from the result of additional non-controlling interests related to the consolidation of the Merger Fund in the second quarter of 2013. Non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the other owners of such entities.

Segment Analysis and Economic Income (Loss)

Segments

The Company conducts its operations through two segments: an alternative investment segment and a broker-dealer segment. The Company's alternative investment segment currently includes its hedge funds, replication products, liquid alternative risk premia products, customized solutions, mutual funds, managed futures funds, fund of funds, real estate and healthcare royalty funds. The Company's broker-dealer segment currently includes its investment banking, brokerage and equity research businesses.

Economic Income (Loss)

The performance measure used by the Company for each segment is Economic Income (Loss), which management uses to evaluate the financial performance of and make operating decisions for the firm as a whole and each segment. Accordingly, management assesses its business by analyzing the performance of each segment and believes that investors should review the same performance measure that it uses to analyze its segment and business performance. In addition, management believes that Economic Income (Loss) is helpful to gain an understanding of its segment results of operations because it reflects such results on a consistent basis for all periods presented.

Our Economic Income (Loss) may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. We use Economic Income (Loss) as a measure of each segment's operating performance, not as a measure of liquidity. Economic Income (Loss) should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating income, net income, operating cash flows, investing and financing activities, or other income or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with US GAAP. As a result of the adjustments made to arrive at Economic Income (Loss), Economic Income (Loss) has limitations in that it does not take into account certain items included or excluded under US GAAP, including our Consolidated Funds. Economic Income (Loss) is considered by management as a supplemental measure to the US GAAP results to provide a more complete understanding of each segment's performance as measured by management. For a reconciliation of Economic Income (Loss) to US GAAP net income (loss) for the periods presented and additional information regarding the reconciling adjustments discussed above.

In general, Economic Income (Loss) is a pre-tax measure that (i) eliminates the impact of consolidation for consolidated funds, and (ii) excludes certain other acquisition-related and/or reorganization expenses. In addition, Economic Income (Loss) revenues include investment income that represents the income the Company has earned in investing its own capital, including realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest and dividends, net of associated investment related expenses. For US GAAP purposes, these items are included in each of their respective line items. Economic Income (Loss) revenues also include management fees, incentive income and investment income earned through the Company's investment as a general partner in certain real estate entities and the Company's investment in the activist business. For US GAAP purposes, all of these items are

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recorded in other income (loss). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) expenses are reduced by reimbursement from affiliates, which for US GAAP purposes is presented gross as part of revenue.

Economic Income (Loss) Revenues

The Company's principal sources of Economic Income (Loss) revenues are derived from activities in the following business segments:

Our alternative investment segment generates Economic Income (Loss) revenues through three principal sources: management fees, incentive income and investment income from our own capital. Management fees are directly impacted by any increase or decrease in assets under management, while incentive income is impacted by our funds' performance and resulting increase or decrease in assets under management. Investment income from the Company's own capital is impacted by the performance of the funds and other securities in which our capital is invested. The Company periodically receives other Economic Income (Loss) revenue which is unrelated to our own invested capital or our activities on behalf of the Company's funds.

Our broker-dealer segment generates Economic Income (Loss) revenues through two principal sources: investment banking and brokerage. The Company earns investment banking revenue primarily from fees associated with public and private capital raising transactions and providing strategic advisory services. Investment banking revenues are derived primarily from small and mid-capitalization companies within the Company's Target Sectors. The Company's brokerage revenues consist of commissions, principal transactions and fees paid for equity research. Management reviews brokerage revenue on a combined basis as the vast majority of the revenue is derived from the same group of clients. The Company derives its brokerage revenue primarily from trading equity and equity-linked securities on behalf of institutional investors. The majority of the Company's trading gains and losses are a result of activities that support the facilitation of client orders in both listed and over-the-counter securities, although all trading gains and losses are recorded in brokerage in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.

Economic Income (Loss) Expenses

The Company's Economic Income expenses consist of compensation and benefits, non-compensation expenses—fixed and non-compensation expenses—variable and interest expense, less reimbursement from affiliates.

Non-controlling Interests

Non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the other owners of such entities.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 Compared with the Three Months Ended September 30, 2013

For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company's alternative investment segment includes hedge funds, replication products, liquid alternative premia products, customized solutions, mutual funds, managed futures fund, fund of funds, real estate and healthcare royalty funds operating results and other investment platforms operating results.

For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company's broker-dealer segment includes investment banking, research and brokerage businesses' operating results.

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	Economic Income (Loss)
	Three Months Ended September 30,
	2014								2013									Total Period-to-Period
	Alternative Investment					Total			Alternative Investment						Total
				Broker-Dealer (a)								Broker-Dealer (a)						$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Economic Income Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	45,799	$	45,799		$	—		$	27,694		$	27,694		$	18,105		65	%
Brokerage	15			35,568		35,583			—			32,035			32,035			3,548			11	%
Management fees	16,319			—		16,319			14,299			—			14,299			2,020			14	%
Incentive income (loss)	4,746			—		4,746			5,666			—			5,666			(920		)	(16	)%
Investment income (loss)	4,064			3,399		7,463			10,031			2,296			12,327			(4,864		)	(39	)%
Other revenues	43			353		396			156			(38		)	118			278			236	%
Total economic income revenues	25,187			85,119		110,306			30,152			61,987			92,139			18,167			20	%
Economic Income Expenses
Compensation and benefits	11,307			53,661		64,968			12,551			40,291			52,842			12,126			23	%
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,887			14,880		23,767			8,938			14,836			23,774			(7		)	—	%
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,648			8,509		12,157			1,597			6,833			8,430			3,727			44	%
Interest expense	1,852			812		2,664			52			23			75			2,589			NM
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,830		)	—		(1,830		)	(1,461		)	—			(1,461		)	(369		)	25	%
Total economic income expenses	23,864			77,862		101,726			21,677			61,983			83,660			18,066			22	%
Net economic income (loss) (before non-controlling interest)	1,323			7,257		8,580			8,475			4			8,479			101			1	%
Non-controlling interest	(1,877		)	—		(1,877		)	(4,813		)	—			(4,813		)	2,936			(61	)%
Economic income (loss)	$	(554	)	$	7,257	$	6,703		$	3,662		$	4		$	3,666		$	3,037		83	%

(a) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company has reflected $1.9 million and $3.0 million of investment income, respectively, and related compensation expense of $0.7 million and $1.0 million, respectively, within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to its capital.

Economic Income (Loss) Revenues

Total Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $110.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, an increase of $18.2 million compared to Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $92.1 millionin the prior year period. For purposes of the following section, all references to revenue refer to Economic Income (Loss) revenues. The increase was primarily related to an increase in investment banking and brokerage revenues in addition to increased revenue from the alternative investment business.

Alternative Investment Segment

Alternative investment segment Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $25.2 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, a decrease of $5.0 million compared to Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $30.2 millionin the prior year period.

Management Fees.    Management fees for the segment increased$2.0 million to $16.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $14.3 millionin the prior year period. This increase was primarily related to an increase in management fees for our activist and healthcare businesses.

Incentive Income (Loss).    Incentive income for the segment decreased$1.0 million to $4.7 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $5.7 millionin the prior year period. This decrease was primarily related to a decrease in performance fees from our credit funds partially offset by an increase in performance fees from our activist business.

Investment Income (Loss).    Investment income for the segment decreased$5.9 million to $4.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $10.0 millionin the prior year period. The decrease primarily relates to a

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decrease in the Company's performance in our equity investments offset partially by improved performance in our activist strategy.

Other Revenues.    Other revenues for the segment decreased$0.1 million to at $0.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $0.2 million in the prior year period.

Broker-Dealer Segment

Broker-dealer segment Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $85.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, an increase of $23.1 million compared with Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $62.0 millionin the prior year period.

Investment Banking.    Investment banking revenues increased$18.1 million to $45.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $27.7 millionin the prior year period. During the three months ended September 30, 2014, the Company completed 23 underwriting transactions, three strategic advisory transactions and 10 debt capital market transactions. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company completed 20 underwriting transactions, one strategic advisory transaction and seven debt capital market transactions.

Brokerage.    Brokerage revenues increased$3.6 million to $35.6 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $32.0 millionin the prior year period. This was attributable to higher commission revenue due to an increase in customer trading volume in our cash equities and options businesses as well as an increase in electronic trading revenues. Customer trading volumes across the industry (according to Bloomberg) increased 2% for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the same period in the prior year.

Investment Income (Loss).    Investment income for the segment increased$1.1 million to $3.4 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $2.3 million in the prior year period. The increase is a result of an increase in investment income earned from the broker dealer partially offset by a decreased in overall investment income available for allocation to the broker dealer.

Economic Income (Loss) Expenses

Compensation and Benefits.    Total compensation and benefits expense increased$12.2 million to $65.0 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $52.8 millionin the prior year period. The increase is due to $18.2 million higher revenues during the third quarter of 2014 as compared to 2013 and thus resulting in a higher compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The Company's headcount increased 3.9%. The compensation to revenue ratio was 59% for the three months ended September 30, 2014, compared to 57% for the prior year period.

Compensation and benefits expenses for the alternative investment segment decreased$1.3 million to $11.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $12.6 millionin the prior year period. The compensation to revenue ratio was 45% for the three months ended September 30, 2014, compared to 42% for the prior year period.

Compensation and benefits expenses for the broker-dealer segment increased$13.4 million to $53.7 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $40.3 millionin the prior year period. The compensation to revenue ratio was 63% for three months ended September 30, 2014 compared with 65% for the prior year period.

Non-compensation Expenses—Fixed.    Fixed non-compensation expenses remained fairly flat at $23.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with the prior year period.

Fixed non-compensation expenses for both the alternative investment segment and the broker-dealer segment remained generally consistent for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with the prior year period.

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The following table shows the components of the non-compensation expenses—fixed, for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Period-to-Period
	2014		2013		$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Non-compensation expenses—fixed:
Communications	$	3,284	$	3,452	$	(168	)	(5	)%
Professional, advisory and other fees	3,485		3,084		401			13	%
Occupancy and equipment	6,135		6,329		(194		)	(3	)%
Depreciation and amortization	2,270		2,621		(351		)	(13	)%
Service fees	1,932		2,342		(410		)	(18	)%
Expenses from equity investments	3,792		3,309		483			15	%
Other	2,869		2,637		232			9	%
Total	$	23,767	$	23,774	$	(7	)	—	%

Non-compensation Expenses—Variable.    Variable non-compensation expenses, which primarily are comprised of expenses which are incurred as a direct result of the processing and soliciting of revenue generating activities, increased$3.8 million to $12.2 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $8.4 millionin the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to syndication costs related to a capital raise by an alternative investment asset fund and increased firm wide marketing activity.

The following table shows the components of the non-compensation expenses—variable, for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Period-to-Period
	2014		2013		$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Non-compensation expenses—Variable:
Floor brokerage and trade execution	$	4,176	$	4,246	$	(70	)	(2	)%
HealthCare Royalty Partners syndication costs	2,154		—		2,154			NM
Expenses related to Luxembourg reinsurance companies	825		772		53			7	%
Marketing and business development	4,266		3,243		1,023			32	%
Other	736		169		567			336	%
Total	$	12,157	$	8,430	$	3,727		44	%

Interest expense.    Interest expense, which primarily relates to debt issued during the first quarter of 2014, increased$2.6 million to $2.7 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $0.1 millionin the prior year period.

Reimbursement from Affiliates.    Reimbursements from affiliates, which relate to the alternative investment segment, increased$0.3 million at $1.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $1.5 million in the prior year period.

Non-Controlling Interest.    Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests decreased by $2.9 million to $1.9 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $4.8 millionin the prior year period. The period over period change was primarily from the result of an extension of the partnership agreement relating to our alternative solutions business, during the third quarter of 2013, which resulted in a profit split and therefore more allocations of income to non-controlling interest holders. Non-Controlling interest represents the portion of the net income or loss attributable to certain non-wholly owned subsidiaries that is allocated to other investors.

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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 Compared with the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013

	Economic Income (Loss)
	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014								2013									Total Period-to-Period
	Alternative Investment					Total			Alternative Investment						Total
				Broker-Dealer (a)								Broker-Dealer (a)						$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Economic Income Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	125,653	$	125,653		$	—		$	70,431		$	70,431		$	55,222		78	%
Brokerage	40			104,943		104,983			—			93,352			93,352			11,631			12	%
Management fees	46,574			—		46,574			43,050			—			43,050			3,524			8	%
Incentive income (loss)	17,665			—		17,665			14,558			—			14,558			3,107			21	%
Investment income (loss)	29,025			8,207		37,232			22,169			4,593			26,762			10,470			39	%
Other income (loss)	140			354		494			381			(427		)	(46		)	540			NM
Total economic income revenues	93,444			239,157		332,601			80,158			167,949			248,107			84,494			34	%
Economic Income Expenses
Compensation and benefits	43,360			152,197		195,557			35,500			108,202			143,702			51,855			36	%
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	27,944			41,652		69,596			26,293			41,679			67,972			1,624			2	%
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	6,195			27,064		33,259			3,996			23,710			27,706			5,553			20	%
Interest expense	5,083			878		5,961			183			88			271			5,690			NM
Reimbursement from affiliates	(5,313		)	—		(5,313		)	(4,291		)	—			(4,291		)	(1,022		)	24	%
Total economic income expenses	77,269			221,791		299,060			61,681			173,679			235,360			63,700			27	%
Net economic income (loss) (before non-controlling interest)	16,175			17,366		33,541			18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			20,794			163	%
Non-controlling interest	(8,320		)	—		(8,320		)	(8,880		)	—			(8,880		)	560			(6	)%
Economic income (loss)	$	7,855		$	17,366	$	25,221		$	9,597		$	(5,730	)	$	3,867		$	21,354		552	%

(a) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $7.5 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $2.5 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to its capital. For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $5.6 million of investment income, and related compensation expense of $1.8 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to its capital.

Economic Income (Loss) Revenues

Total Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $332.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, an increase of $84.5 million compared to Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $248.1 millionin the prior year period. The increase was primarily related to an increase in investment banking, brokerage revenues and investment income. For purposes of the following section, all references to revenue refer to Economic Income (Loss) revenues.

Alternative Investment Segment

Alternative investment segment Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $93.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, an increase of $13.2 million compared to Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $80.2 million in the prior year period.

Management Fees.    Management fees for the segment increased$3.5 million to $46.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $43.1 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily related to an increase in management fees for our activist and healthcare businesses.

Incentive Income (Loss).    Incentive income for the segment increased$3.1 million to $17.7 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $14.6 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily related to an increase in performance fees from our activist funds partially offset by a decrease in performance fees from our credit business.

Investment Income (Loss).    Investment income for the segment increased$6.8 million to $29.0 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $22.2 million in the prior year period. The increase primarily relates to an

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increase in the Company's own invested capital driven by increases in performance in certain investment strategies including activist and increases in performance in our equity investments. 

Other Income (Loss).    Other income (loss) for the segment decreased$0.3 million to $0.1 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $0.4 million in the prior year period.

Broker-Dealer Segment

Broker-dealer segment Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $239.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, an increase of $71.3 million compared with Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $167.9 million in the prior year.

Investment Banking.    Investment banking revenues increased$55.3 million to $125.7 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $70.4 millionin the prior year period. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company completed 96 underwriting transactions, six strategic advisory transactions and 13 debt capital market transactions. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company completed 49 underwriting transactions, six strategic advisory transactions and 14 debt capital market transactions.

Brokerage.    Brokerage revenues increased$11.5 million to $104.9 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $93.4 millionin the prior year period. This was attributable to higher commission revenue due to an increase in customer trading volume in our cash equities and options businesses as well as an increase in electronic trading revenues. Customer trading volumes across the industry (according to Bloomberg) increased 5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the prior year period.

Investment Income (Loss).    Investment income for the segment increased$3.6 million to an income of $8.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with income of $4.6 million in the prior year period. The increase is a result of an increase in investment income earned from the broker dealer and an increase in overall investment income available for allocation to the broker dealer.

Other Income (Loss).    Other income (loss) for the segment increased$0.8 million to an income of $0.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with a loss of $0.4 million in the prior year period.

Economic Income (Loss) Expenses

Compensation and Benefits.    Total compensation and benefits expense increased$51.9 million to $195.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared with $143.7 millionin the prior year period. The increase is due to $84.5 millionhigher revenues during the first nine months of 2014 as compared to 2013 and thus resulting in a higher compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The Company's head count increased 3.9%. The compensation to revenue ratio was 59% for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared to 58% for the prior year period.

Compensation and benefits expenses for the alternative investment segment increased$7.9 million to $43.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $35.5 millionin the prior year period. The compensation to revenue ratio was 46% for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, compared to 44% for the prior year period.

Compensation and benefits expenses for the broker-dealer segment increased$44.0 million to $152.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $108.2 millionin the prior year period. The increase is due to $71.3 million higher revenues during 2014 as compared to 2013 and thus resulting in a higher compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The compensation to revenue ratio was 64% for nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with 64% for 2013.

Non-compensation Expenses—Fixed.    Fixed non-compensation expenses increased$1.6 million to $69.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $68.0 millionin the prior year period. This increase was primarily due to higher professional fees related to the debt issuance during the first quarter of 2014 partially offset with various firm-wide efforts to reduce fixed expenses.

Fixed non-compensation expenses for the alternative investment segment increased$1.6 million to $27.9 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $26.3 million in the prior year period. Fixed non-compensation expenses for the broker-dealer segment remained generally consistent at $41.7 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $41.7 million in the prior year period.

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The following table shows the components of the non-compensation expenses—fixed, for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Nine Months Ended September 30,				Period-to-Period
	2014		2013		$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Non-compensation expenses—fixed:
Communications	$	9,551	$	9,267	$	284		3	%
Professional, advisory and other fees	9,635		7,936		1,699			21	%
Occupancy and equipment	18,024		17,922		102			1	%
Depreciation and amortization	7,027		7,763		(736		)	(9	)%
Service fees	6,156		7,566		(1,410		)	(19	)%
Expenses from equity investments	10,686		9,913		773			8	%
Other	8,517		7,605		912			12	%
Total	$	69,596	$	67,972	$	1,624		2	%

Non-compensation Expenses—Variable.    Variable non-compensation expenses, which primarily are comprised of expenses which are incurred as a direct result of the processing and soliciting of revenue generating activities, increased$5.6 million to $33.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $27.7 millionin the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to syndication costs related to a capital raise by an alternative investment asset fund and increased firm wide marketing activity.

The following table shows the components of the non-compensation expenses—variable, for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Nine Months Ended September 30,				Period-to-Period
	2014		2013		$ Change			% Change
	(dollars in thousands)
Non-compensation expenses—Variable:
Floor brokerage and trade execution	$	13,632	$	13,671	$	(39	)	—	%
HealthCare Royalty Partners syndication costs	2,217		—		2,217			NM
Expenses related to Luxembourg reinsurance companies	2,002		1,804		198			11	%
Marketing and business development	14,143		11,501		2,642			23	%
Other	1,265		730		535			73	%
Total	$	33,259	$	27,706	$	5,553		20	%

Interest expense.    Interest expense, which primarily relates to debt issued during the first quarter of 2014, increased$5.7 million to $6.0 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $0.3 million in the prior year period.

Reimbursement from Affiliates.    Reimbursements from affiliates, which relate to the alternative investment segment, increased$1.0 million to $5.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $4.3 million in the prior year period.

Non-Controlling Interest.    Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests decreased by $0.6 million to $8.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 compared with $8.9 million in the prior year period. Non-Controlling interest represents the portion of the net income or loss attributable to certain non-wholly owned subsidiaries that is allocated to other investors.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We continually monitor our liquidity position. The working capital needs of the Company's business have been met through current levels of equity capital, current cash and cash equivalents, and anticipated cash generated from our operating activities, including management fees, incentive income, returns on the Company's own capital, investment banking fees and brokerage commissions. The Company expects that its primary working capital liquidity needs over the next twelve months will be:

• pay our operating expenses, primarily consisting of compensation and benefits, interest on convertible debt and other general and administrative expenses; and

• provide capital to facilitate the growth of our existing business.

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Based on our historical results, management's experience, our current business strategy and current assets under management, the Company believes that its existing cash resources will be sufficient to meet its anticipated working capital and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Our cash reserves include cash, cash equivalents and assets readily convertible into cash such as our securities held in inventory. Securities inventories are stated at fair value and are generally readily marketable. As of September 30, 2014, we had cash and cash equivalents of $66.2 million and net liquid investment assets of $404.4 million. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments held by foreign subsidiaries as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $7.1 million and $12.1 million, respectively. The Company intends to permanently reinvest the capital and accumulated earnings of its foreign subsidiaries in the respective subsidiary, but remits the current earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to the United States to the extent permissible under local regulatory rules. The undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries totaled$1.0 million and $1.2 million as of September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, respectively, and the tax liability that would arise if these earnings were remitted to the United States would be approximately$0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

The timing of cash bonus payments to our employees may significantly affect our cash position and liquidity from period to period. While our employees are generally paid salaries semi-monthly during the year, cash bonus payments, which can make up a significant portion of total compensation, are generally paid once a year by March 15th.

As discussed in “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Certain Factors Impacting Our Business” we entered into a modification agreement with affiliates of Unicredit S.p.A in May 2010 and it is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's liquidity and capital resources.

As of September 30, 2014, the Company had unfunded commitments of$12.1 millionpertaining to capital commitments inthreereal estate investments held by the Company, all of which pertain to related party investments. Such commitments can be called at any time, subject to advance notice. The Company, as a limited partner of the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds and also as a member of HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners, has committed to invest $45.2 millionin the Healthcare Royalty Partners funds which are managed by Healthcare Royalty Management. This commitment is expected to be called over atwo tofive year period. The Company will make its pro-rata investment in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds along with the other limited partners. ThroughSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has funded$34.9 milliontowards these commitments.In April 2013, the Company committed$1.0 million to Starboard Leaders Fund LP, which may increase or decrease over time, and, as ofSeptember 30, 2014, has funded$0.7 milliontowards this commitment. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Formation 8 Partners Fund I LP of$5.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over afouryear period.

Due to the nature of the securities business and our role as a market-maker and execution agent, the amount of our cash and short-term investments, as well as operating cash flow, may vary considerably due to a number of factors, including the dollar value of our positions as principal, whether we are net buyers or sellers of securities, the dollar volume of executions by our customers and clearing house requirements, among others. Certain regulatory requirements constrain the use of a portion of our liquid assets for financing, investing or operating activities. Similarly, due to the nature of our business lines, the capital necessary to maintain current operations and our current funding needs subject our cash and cash equivalents to different requirements and uses.

As registered broker-dealers, Cowen and Company, ATM Execution (formerly known as Cowen Capital LLC), ATM USA, and Cowen Equity Finance are subject to the SEC's Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 (the “Rule”), which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Under the alternative method permitted by the Rule, Cowen and Company's minimum net capital requirement, as defined, is$1.0 million. Under the alternative method, ATM Execution, ATM USA and Cowen Equity Finance are each required to maintain minimum net capital, as defined, equal to$250,000. The broker-dealers are not permitted to withdraw equity if certain minimum net capital requirements are not met. As of September 30, 2014, Cowen and Company had total net capital of approximately$109.4 million, which was approximately $108.4 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$1.0 million. As of September 30, 2014, ATM Execution had total net capital of approximately$2.1 million, which was approximately$1.9 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$250,000. As of September 30, 2014, ATM USA had total net capital of approximately $0.9 million, which was approximately $0.7 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. As of September 30, 2014, Cowen Equity Finance had total net capital of approximately$14.5 millionwhich was approximately$14.3 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$250,000.

Cowen and Company and ATM Execution are exempt from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as their activities are limited to those set forth in the conditions for exemption appearing in paragraph (k)(2)(ii) of the Rule. Similarly, ATM USA and Cowen Equity Finance are exempt from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under (k)(2)(i).

Proprietary accounts of broker dealers (“PAB”) held at the clearing broker are considered allowable assets for net capital purposes, pursuant to agreements between Cowen and Company and ATM Execution and the clearing broker, which require,

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among other things, that the clearing broker performs computations for PAB and segregates certain balances on behalf of Cowen and Company and ATM Execution, if applicable.

Ramius UK Ltd. ("Ramius UK") and Cowen International Limited ("CIL") are subject to the capital requirements of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) of the UK. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the requirement of the FCA. As of September 30, 2014, Ramius UK's Financial Resources of$0.34 millionexceeded its minimum requirement of$0.11 million by $0.23 million. As of September 30, 2014, CIL's Financial Resources of$3.4 millionexceeded its minimum requirement of$2.1 million by $1.3 million.

Cowen and Company (Asia) Limited (“CCAL”) is subject to the financial resources requirements of the Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) of Hong Kong. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the Total Financial Resources requirement of the SFC. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, CCAL's Financial Resources of $0.7 millionexceeded the minimum requirement of $0.4 million by $0.3 million.

The Company may also incur additional indebtedness or raise additional capital under certain circumstances to respond to market opportunities and challenges. Current market conditions may make it more difficult or costly to borrow additional funds or raise additional capital.

The Company uses securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“Repurchase Agreements”) as part of its liquidity management activities and to support its trading and risk management activities. In particular, securities purchased and sold under Repurchase Agreements are used for short-term liquidity purposes. As of September 30, 2014, Repurchase Agreements are secured predominantly by liquid corporate credit and/or government-issued securities. The use of Repurchase Agreements will fluctuate with the Company's need to fund short term credit or obtain competitive short term credit financing. The Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase were transacted pursuant to agreements with one counterparty as ofDecember 31, 2013. The Company does not hold any Repurchase Agreements as ofSeptember 30, 2014.

There were no material differences between the average and period-end balances of the Company's Repurchase Agreements. The Company held no securities purchased under agreements to resell or securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of September 30, 2014. The following table represents the Company's securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of December 31, 2013:

	As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
Agreements with Royal Bank of Canada bearing interest of 1.75% due June 2015 to November 2015	$	3,657
	$	3,657

Cash Flows Analysis

The Company's primary sources of cash are derived from its operating activities, fees and realized returns on its own invested capital. The Company's primary uses of cash include compensation and general and administrative expenses.

Operating Activities.    Net cash used in operating activities of $73.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was primarily related to purchase securities partially offset by an increase in cash held at other brokers. Net cash provided by operating activities of $122.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was predominately related to proceeds from sales of securities owned only partially offset by a) purchases of securities owned, b) cash used to pay for year end bonuses and c) a decrease in payable to brokers.

Investing Activities.    Net cash used in investing activities of $45.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was primarily related to the cash convertible note economic hedge transaction and purchase of fixed assets. Net cash provided by investing activities of $5.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was primarily related to the proceeds from sales of other investments offset partially by purchases of other investments. 

Financing Activities.    Net cash provided by financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 of $131.0 million was primarily related to the issuance of Cash Convertible Notes offset partially by the purchase of treasury stock.  Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 of $172.0 million was primarily related to an increase in repurchase agreement activity, the purchase of treasury stock and payment by the consolidated funds to investors for capital withdrawals.

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Debt

Convertible Debt

On March 10, 2014, the Company issued$149.5 million of 3.0%cash convertible senior notes ("Convertible Notes"). The Convertible Notes are due on March 15, 2019 unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder into cash in accordance with their terms prior to such date. The interest on the Convertible Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year.

The Convertible Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payments to other obligations. The Convertible Notes may be converted into cash, upon the occurrence of certain events, whereby a holder will receive, per$1,000principal amount of notes being converted, an amount equal to the sum of principal amount outstanding and the conversion amount based on the current conversion price (the "Conversion Option"). The Convertible Notes were issued with an initial conversion price of $5.33per share.

The Company recorded interest expense related to the coupon of$1.1 millionand $2.5 millionfor thethree and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, respectively.The initial unamortized discount on the Convertible Notes was$35.7 millionand is shown net in convertible debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.Amortization on the discount for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, included within interest expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations, was$1.5 million, and$3.2 million, respectively,based on an effective interest rate of 8.89%. The Convertible Notes are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. As of September 30, 2014the estimated fair value of the Convertible Notes, which includes the conversion option, was $148.8 million, and is based on the last broker quote of the Convertible Notes on September 30, 2014. The carrying amount of the debt as ofSeptember 30, 2014was$117.0 millionnet of the unamortized discount of$32.5 million. The Company capitalized the debt issuance costs in the amount of$3.7 million, which is included in other assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and will be amortized over the life of the Convertible Notes. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the Company is in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes.

Of the net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes, approximately$20.5 millionwas applied to pay the net cost of a cash convertible note economic hedge and warrant transaction which increases the effective conversion price to$7.18, and approximately$340,000was applied to repurchase shares of Cowen Class A common stock. The remainder of the net proceeds is being used for general corporate purposes.

2021 Notes

On October 10, 2014 the Company completed its public offering of$63.3 millionaggregate principal amount of8.25%senior notes due on October 15, 2021 ("2021 Notes"). Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on January 15, 2015. The Company incurred debt issuance costs of approximately$2.9 million. The Company intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to capitalize a new commercial finance company being formed by the Company that would structure, underwrite and syndicate a broad range of loans to middle market commercial borrowers. The remainder of the net proceeds of the offering will be used for general corporate purposes.

Note Payable

During January 2014, the Company borrowed $2.0 millionto fund insurance premium payments. This note bears interest at1.55%and is due on December 1, 2014, with monthly payment requirements of$0.2 million. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the outstanding balance on this note payable was$0.4 million. Interest expense for thethree and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014was insignificant.

Capital Lease Obligations

The Company entered into several capital leases for computer equipment during the fourth quarter of 2010 and one in January 2014. These leases amount to$7.6 millionand are recorded in fixed assets and as capital lease obligations, which are included in short-term borrowings and other debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and have lease terms that range from48 to 60months and interest rates that range from 0.60% to 6.03%. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the remaining balance on these capital leases was$4.3 million. Interest expense was$0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

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Letters of Credit

As of September 30, 2014, the Company has the following seven irrevocable letters of credit related to leased office space, for which there is cash collateral pledged, with respect to which the Company pays a fee on the stated amount of the letter of credit.

Location	Amount		Maturity
	(dollars in thousands)
San Francisco	$	82	May 2015
Boston	$	382	March 2015
New York	$	893	August 2015
New York	$	4,497	December 2014
New York	$	1,000	February 2015
New York	$	1,861	June 2015
New York	$	127	September 2015

To the extent any letter of credit is drawn upon, interest will be assessed at the prime commercial lending rate. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there were no amounts due related to these letters of credit.

Contractual Obligations

During the first quarter of 2014 the Company entered into a new obligation for convertible debt and the associated interest payments. Payments, representing interest only, during 2015 through 2017 are $13.2 million.  Principle and interest payments from 2018 through maturity of March 15, 2019 are $156.1 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of September 30, 2014. However, through indemnification provisions in our clearing agreement, customer activities may expose us to off-balance-sheet credit risk. Pursuant to the clearing agreement, we are required to reimburse our clearing broker, without limit, for any losses incurred due to a counterparty's failure to satisfy its contractual obligations. However, these transactions are collateralized by the underlying security, thereby reducing the associated risk to changes in the market value of the security through the settlement date.

Cowen and Company and ATM Execution are members of various securities exchanges. Under the standard membership agreement, members are required to guarantee the performance of other members and, accordingly, if another member becomes unable to satisfy its obligations to the exchange, all other members would be required to meet the shortfall. The Company's liability under these arrangements is not quantifiable. Accordingly, no contingent liability is carried in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition for these arrangements.

Securities lending indemnifications

Through the Company's securities lending program, the Company can borrow and lend customers' securities, via custodial and non-custodial arrangements, to third parties. As part of this program, the Company provides a guarantee in an aggregate amount of$150 millionto counterparties of the securities lending agreements, which protects the lender against the failure of the third-party borrower to return the lent securities in the event the Company did not obtain sufficient collateral. To minimize its liability under these indemnification agreements, the Company obtains cash collateral with a value exceeding 100% of the market value of the securities on loan from the borrower. Collateral is marked to market daily to assure that collateralization is adequate. Additional collateral is called from the borrower if a shortfall exists, or collateral may be released to the borrower in the event of overcollateralization. If a borrower defaults, the Company would use the collateral held to purchase replacement securities in the market or to credit the lending customer with the cash equivalent thereof.

In conjunction with the acquisition of Cowen Securities the Company has agreed to guarantee loans which were issued to employees of Cowen Securities by a third-party bank prior to the acquisition that closed in March 2013. The value of these loans at September 30, 2014 was$0.2 million.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Critical accounting policies are those that require the Company to make significant judgments, estimates or assumptions that affect amounts reported in its condensed consolidated financial statements or the notes thereto. The Company bases its judgments, estimates and assumptions on current facts, historical experience and various other factors that the Company believes to be reasonable and prudent. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.

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The following is a summary of what the Company believes to be its most critical accounting policies and estimates.

Consolidation

These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest, including the Consolidated Funds, in which the Company has a controlling general partner interest. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company’s funds are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.

The Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows of the Consolidated Funds on a gross basis. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from the Consolidated Funds were eliminated in consolidation; however, the Company’s allocated share of net income from these funds was increased by the amount of this eliminated income. Hence, the consolidation of these funds had no net effect on the Company’s net earnings.

The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a voting operating entity ("VOE") or a variable interest entity ("VIE") under US GAAP.

Valuation of investments and derivative contracts

US GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). Thethreelevels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 Inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has

the ability to access at the measurement date;

Level 2     Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, including

inputs in markets that are not considered to be active; and

Level 3 Fair value is determined based on pricing inputs that are unobservable and includes situations where there is little,

if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The determination of fair value for assets and liabilities in this

category requires significant management judgment or estimation.

Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may include price information, volatility statistics, specific and broad credit data, liquidity statistics, and other factors. A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. The Company considers observable data to be that market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, and provided by independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of a financial instrument within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the instrument and does not necessarily correspond to the Company's perceived risk of that instrument.

The Company and its operating subsidiaries act as the manager for the Consolidated Funds. Both the Company and the Consolidated Funds hold certain investments which are valued by the Company, acting as the investment manager. The fair value of these investments is generally estimated based on proprietary models developed by the Company, which include discounted cash flow analysis, public market comparables, and other techniques and may be based, at least in part, on independently sourced market information. The material estimates and assumptions used in these models include the timing and expected amount of cash flows, the appropriateness of discount rates used, and, in some cases, the ability to execute, timing of, and estimated proceeds from expected financings. Significant judgment and estimation goes into the selection of an appropriate valuation methodology as well as the assumptions used in these models, and the timing and actual values realized with respect to investments could be materially different from values derived based on the use of those estimates. The valuation methodologies applied impact the reported value of the Company's investments and the investments held by the Consolidated Funds in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's investments are relatively illiquid or thinly traded and may not be immediately liquidated on demand if needed. Fair values assigned to these investments may differ significantly from the fair values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed and such differences could be material.

The Company primarily uses the “market approach” to value its financial instruments measured at fair value. In determining an instrument's level within the hierarchy, the Company categorizes the Company's financial instruments intothree

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categories: securities, derivative contracts and other investments. To the extent applicable, each of these categories can further be divided between those held long or sold short.

Securities— Securities with values based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets are classified within level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. These securities include active listed equities, certain U.S. government and sovereign obligations, ETF's and certain money market securities. The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.

Certain positions for which trading activity may not be readily visible, consisting primarily of convertible debt, corporate debt and loans, are stated at fair value and classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair values assigned by management are determined in good faith and are based on available information considering, trading activity, broker quotes, quotations provided by published pricing services, counterparties and other market participants, and pricing models using quoted inputs, and do not necessarily represent the amounts which might ultimately be realized. As level 2 investments include positions that are not always traded in active markets and/or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability.

Derivative contracts—Derivative contracts can be exchange-traded or privately negotiated over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives, such as futures contracts and exchange-traded option contracts, are typically classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on whether or not they are deemed to be actively traded. OTC derivatives, such as generic forwards, swaps and options, have inputs which can generally be corroborated by market data and are therefore classified within level 2. OTC derivatives, such as swaps, options and warrants where market data is not readily available or observable are classified as level 3.

Other investments—Other investments consist primarily of portfolio funds, real estate investments and equity method investments, which are valued as follows:

i. Portfolio funds—Portfolio funds (“Portfolio Funds”) include interests in funds and investment companies which may be managed by the Company or its affiliates. The Company follows US GAAP regarding fair value measurements and disclosures relating to investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value (“NAV”) per share (or its equivalent). The guidance permits, as a practical expedient, an entity holding investments in certain entities that either are investment companies as defined by the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or have attributes similar to an investment company, and calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent for which the fair value is not readily determinable, to measure the fair value of such investments on the basis of that NAV per share, or its equivalent, without adjustment.

The Company categorizes its investments in Portfolio Funds within the fair value hierarchy dependent on its ability to redeem the investment. If the Company has the ability to redeem its investment at NAV at the measurement date or within the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 2 investment within the fair value hierarchy. If the Company does not know when it will have the ability to redeem its investment or cannot do so in the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy.

ii. Real estate investments—Real estate debt and equity investments are valued at fair value. The fair value of real estate investments are estimated based on the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants at the measurement date. Real estate investments without a public market are valued based on assumptions and valuation techniques used by the Company. Such valuation techniques may include discounted cash flow analysis, prevailing market capitalization rates or earnings multiples applied to earnings from the investment, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sale negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, consideration of the amount that currently would be required to replace the asset, as adjusted for obsolescence, as well as independent external appraisals. In general, the Company considers several valuation techniques when measuring the fair value of a real estate investment. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. Real estate investments are reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Company for significant changes at the property level or a significant change in the overall market which would impact the value of the real estate investment resulting in unrealized appreciation or depreciation.

Real estate and capital markets are cyclical in nature. Property and investment values are affected by, among other things, the availability of capital, occupancy rates, rental rates and interest and inflation rates. In addition, the Company invests in real estate and real estate related investments for which no liquid market exists. The market prices for such investments may be volatile and may not be readily ascertainable. Amounts ultimately realized by the Company from investments sold may differ from the fair values presented, and the differences could be material.

The Company's real estate investments are typically categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy as management uses significant unobservable inputs in determining their estimated fair value.

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Revenue recognition

The Company's principal sources of revenue are derived from two segments: an alternative investment segment and a broker-dealer segment, as more fully described below.

Our alternative investment segment generates revenue through three principal sources: management fees and incentive income.

Our broker-dealer segment generates revenue through two principal sources: investment banking and brokerage.

Management fees

The Company earns management fees from affiliated funds and certain managed accounts that it serves as the investment manager based on assets under management. The actual management fees received vary depending on distribution fees or fee splits paid to third parties either in connection with raising the assets or structuring the investment. Management fees are generally paid on a quarterly basis at the beginning of each quarter in arrears and are prorated for capital inflows and redemptions. While some investors may have separately negotiated fees, in general the management fees are as follows:

• Hedge Funds. Management fees for the Company's hedge funds are generally charged at an annual rate of up to2%of assets under management. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income.

• Mutual Funds.Management fees for the Company’s mutual funds (State Street/Ramius Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ramius Event Driven Equity Fund, Ramius Hedged Alpha Fund (formerly known as Ramius Dynamic Replication Fund) and Ramius Strategic Volatility Fund) are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 1.60%of assets under management (subject to an overall expense cap of up to2.1%).

• Alternative Solutions. Management fees for the Alternative Solutions business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to2%of assets under management. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income or based on assets under management at the beginning of the month. Management fees earned from the Alternative Solutions business are based and initially calculated on estimated net asset values and actual fees ultimately earned could be impacted to the extent of any changes in these estimates.

• Real Estate. Management fees from the Company's real estate business are generally charged by their general partners at an annual rate from0.75% to 1.50%of total capital commitments during the investment period and of invested capital or net asset value of the applicable fund after the investment period has ended. Management fees are typically paid to the general partners on a quarterly basis, at the beginning of the quarter in arrears, and are prorated for changes in capital commitments throughout the investment period and invested capital after the investment period. The general partners of the funds on the RCG Longview platform are owned jointly by the Company and third parties. Accordingly, the management fees (in addition to incentive income and investment income) generated by these real estate funds are split between the Company and the other general partners. Pursuant to US GAAP, these fees and other income received by the general partners that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are reflected under net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

• HealthCare Royalty Partners. During the investment period (as defined in the management agreement of the HealthCare Royalty Partners' funds), management fees for the funds advised by HealthCare Royalty Partners are generally charged at an annual rate of up to2%of committed capital. After the investment period, management fees are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2%of the net asset value or invested capital of the funds or the aggregate cost basis of the unrealized investments held by the funds. Management fees for the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds are calculated on a quarterly basis.

• Ramius Trading Strategies. Management fees and platform fees for the Company's private commodity trading advisory business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to1%. Management and platform fees are generally calculated monthly based on each account's notional trading level at the end of each month.

Incentive income

The Company earns incentive income based on net profits (as defined in the respective investment management agreements) with respect to certain of the Company's funds and managed accounts, allocable for each fiscal year that exceeds cumulative unrecovered net losses, if any, that have been carried forward from prior years. For the products we offer, incentive income earned is typically up to20% for hedge funds and up to 10%for alternative solutions products (in certain cases on performance in excess of a benchmark), of the net profits earned for the full year that are attributable to each fee-paying

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investor. Generally, incentive income on real estate funds is earned after the investor has received a full return of their invested capital, plus a preferred return. However, for certain real estate funds, the Company is entitled to receive incentive fees earlier, provided that the investors have received their preferred return on a current basis. These funds are subject to a potential clawback of these incentive fees upon the liquidation of the fund if the investor has not received a full return of its invested capital plus the preferred return thereon. Incentive income in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds is earned only after investors receive a full return of their capital plus a preferred return.

In periods following a period of a net loss attributable to an investor, the Company generally does not earn incentive income on any future profits attributable to that investor until the accumulated net loss from prior periods is recovered, an arrangement commonly referred to as a “high-water mark.” The Company has elected to record incentive income revenue in accordance with “Method 2” of US GAAP. Under Method 2, the incentive income from the Company's funds and managed accounts for any period is based upon the net profits of those funds and managed accounts at the reporting date. Any incentive income recognized in the condensed consolidated statement of operations may be subject to future reversal based on subsequent negative performance prior to the conclusion of the fiscal year, when all contingencies have been resolved.

Carried interest in the real estate funds is subject to clawback to the extent that the carried interest actually distributed to date exceeds the amount due to the Company based on cumulative results. As such, the accrual for potential repayment of previously received carried interest, which is a component of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, represents all amounts previously distributed to the Company, less an assumed tax liability, that would need to be repaid to certain real estate funds if these funds were to be liquidated based on the current fair value of the underlying funds' investments as of the reporting date. The actual clawback liability does not become realized until the end of a fund's life.

Investment Banking

The Company earns investment banking revenue primarily from fees associated with public and private capital raising transactions and providing strategic advisory services. Investment banking revenues are derived primarily from small and mid-capitalization companies within the Company's Target Sectors.

Investment banking revenue consists of underwriting fees, strategic/financial advisory fees and placement and sales agent fees.

• Underwriting fees.The Company earns underwriting revenues in securities offerings in which the Company acts as an underwriter, such as initial public offerings, follow-on equity offerings, debt offerings, and convertible security offerings. Underwriting revenues include management fees, selling concessions and underwriting fees. Fee revenue relating to underwriting commitments is recorded when all significant items relating to the underwriting process have been completed and the amount of the underwriting revenue has been determined. This generally is the point at which all of the following have occurred: (i) the issuer's registration statement has become effective with the SEC, or the other offering documents are finalized; (ii) the Company has made a firm commitment for the purchase of securities from the issuer; and (iii) the Company has been informed of the number of securities that it has been allotted.

When the Company is not the lead manager for an underwriting transaction, management must estimate the Company's share of transaction-related expenses incurred by the lead manager in order to recognize revenue. Transaction-related expenses are deducted from the underwriting fee and therefore reduce the revenue the Company recognizes as co-manager. Such amounts are adjusted to reflect actual expenses in the period in which the Company receives the final settlement, typically within 90 days following the closing of the transaction.

• Strategic/financial advisory fees.The Company's strategic advisory revenues include success fees earned in connection with advising companies, principally in mergers and acquisitions and liability management transactions. The Company also earns fees for related advisory work such as providing fairness opinions. The Company records strategic advisory revenues when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.

• Placement and sales agent fees. The Company earns agency placement fees and sales agent commissions in non-underwritten transactions such as private placements of loans and debt and equity securities, including, private investment in public equity transactions (“PIPEs”), and as sales agent in at-the-market offerings of equity securities. The Company records placement revenues when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. The Company records sales agent commissions on a trade date basis. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.

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Brokerage

Brokerage revenue consists of commissions, principal transactions, and equity research fees.

• Commissions.Commission revenue includes fees from executing client transactions. These fees are recognized on a trade date basis. The Company permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their commissions to pay for research products and other services provided by third parties. The amounts allocated for those purposes are commonly referred to as soft dollar arrangements. Commissions on soft dollar brokerage are recorded net of the related expenditures on an accrual basis. Commission revenues also includes fees from making algorithms available to clients.

• Principal Transactions.Principal transaction, net revenue includes net trading gains and losses from the Company's market-making activities in over-the-counter equity securities, trading of convertible securities, and trading gains and losses on inventory and other firm positions, which include warrants previously received as part of investment banking transactions. Commissions associated with these transactions are also included herein. In certain cases, the Company provides liquidity to clients buying or selling blocks of shares of listed stocks without previously identifying the other side of the trade at execution, which subjects the Company to market risk. These positions are typically held for a very short duration.

• Equity Research Fees.Equity research fees are paid to the Company for providing equity research. Revenue is recognized once an arrangement exists, access to research has been provided, the fee amount is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price consideration of acquired companies over the estimated fair value assigned to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is allocated to the Company's reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. Once goodwill has been allocated to the reporting units, it generally no longer retains its identification with a particular acquisition, but instead becomes identifiable with the reporting unit. As a result, all of the fair value of each reporting unit is available to support the value of goodwill allocated to the unit.

In accordance with US GAAP, the Company tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or at an interim period if events or changed circumstances would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Under US GAAP, the Company first assesses the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts as a basis for determining if it is necessary to perform the two-step approach. The first step requires a comparison of the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, the related goodwill is not considered impaired and no further analysis is required. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value, there is an indication that the related goodwill might be impaired and the step two is performed to measure the amount of impairment, if any.

The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with its carrying amount to measure the amount of impairment, if any. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. In other words, the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of its assets and liabilities (including any unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Goodwill impairment tests involve significant judgment in determining the estimates of future cash flows, discount rates, economic forecast and other assumptions which are then used in acceptable valuation techniques, such as the market approach (earning and or transactions multiples) and / or income approach (discounted cash flow method). Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the fair value and any resulting impairment of goodwill.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated average useful lives. The Company does not have any intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives. Intangible assets are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that an asset or asset group's carrying value may not be fully recoverable. An impairment loss, calculated as the difference between the estimated fair value and the carrying value of an asset or asset group, is recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations if the sum of the estimated discounted cash flows relating to the asset or asset group is less than the corresponding carrying value.

Legal Reserves

The Company estimates potential losses that may arise out of legal and regulatory proceedings and records a reserve and takes a charge to income when losses with respect to such matters are deemed probable and can be reasonably estimated, in

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accordance with US GAAP. These amounts are reported in other expenses, net of recoveries, in the condensed consolidated statements of operations. The condensed consolidated statements of operations do not include litigation expenses incurred by the Company in connection with indemnified litigation matters. See Note 13 "Commitments and Contingencies" in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 for further discussion. As the successor of the named party in these litigation matters, the Company recognizes the related legal reserve in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

Recently adopted and future adoption of accounting pronouncements

        For a detailed discussion, see Note 3. "New accounting pronouncements" in our accompanying condensed condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 and "Significant Accounting Policies" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 2014.

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

During the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, there were no material changes in our quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risks from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. For a more detailed discussion concerning our market risk, see Item 7A “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Item 4.    Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer (the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, respectively), evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2014.

Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of September 30, 2014, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide a reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports filed or submitted by it under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, we are named as defendants in, or as parties to, various legal actions and proceedings. Certain of these actions and proceedings assert claims or seek relief in connection with alleged violations of securities, banking, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering, employment and other statutory and common laws. Certain of these actual or threatened legal actions and proceedings include claims for substantial or indeterminate compensatory or punitive damages, or for injunctive relief.

In the ordinary course of business, we are also subject to governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests (both formal and informal), certain of which may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions or other relief. Certain of our affiliates and subsidiaries are investment banks, registered broker-dealers, futures commission merchants, investment advisers or other regulated entities and, in those capacities, are subject to regulation by various U.S., state and foreign securities, commodity futures and other regulators. In connection with formal and informal inquiries by these regulators, we receive requests, and orders seeking documents and other information in connection with various aspects of our regulated activities.

Due to the global scope of our operations, and presence in countries around the world, we may be subject to litigation, and governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal), in multiple jurisdictions with legal and regulatory regimes that may differ substantially, and present substantially different risks, from those we are subject to in the United States.

The Company seeks to resolve all litigation and regulatory matters in the manner management believes is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, and contests liability, allegations of wrongdoing and, where applicable, the amount of damages or scope of any penalties or other relief sought as appropriate in each pending matter.

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In accordance with GAAP, the Company establishes reserves for contingencies when the Company believes that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses a contingency if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss may have been incurred and there is no reserve for the loss because the conditions above are not met. The Company's disclosure includes an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for those matters, for which an estimate can be made. Neither a reserve nor disclosure is required for losses that are deemed remote.

The Company appropriately reserves for certain matters where, in the opinion of management, the likelihood of liability is probable and the extent of such liability is reasonably estimable. Such amounts are included within accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in thecondensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and currently available information and involve a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type and nature of the litigation, claim or proceeding, the progress of the matter, the advice of legal counsel, the Company's defenses and its experience in similar cases or proceedings as well as its assessment of matters, including settlements, involving other defendants in similar or related cases or proceedings. The Company may increase or decrease its legal reserves in the future, on a matter-by-matter basis, to account for developments in such matters. The Company accrues legal fees as incurred.

The following information reflects developments with respect to the Company's legal proceedings that occurred in the third quarter of 2014. These items should be read together with the Company's discussion in Note 19 "Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part IV and the Company's discussion set forth under Legal Proceedings in Part I, Item 3 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.

On May 28, 2014, Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK (collectively, "EIG") filed a lawsuit against Cowen and Company, LLC in the United States Court for the Southern District of New York (Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK v. Cowen and Company, LLC, No. 14-CV-3789). The complaint alleges copyright infringement based on alleged impermissible distribution of EIG's publication, Oil Daily, by Cowen and Company, LLC, and Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC, as Cowen's alleged predecessor-in-interest. EIG is seeking statutory damages based on alleged willful infringement of their copyrights. The Company believes it has substantial defenses to the claims asserted and intends to vigorously defend itself against this lawsuit if a satisfactory settlement is not ultimately approved. On July 22, 2014, the action was referred to a federal Magistrate Judge for the purpose of settlement, staying Cowen's time to answer until the parties have completed settlement discussions. On September 18, 2014, the parties attended a mediation before the federal Magistrate Judge. The case is in its preliminary stages so the Company cannot predict the outcome. The Company does not expect this case to have a material effect on its financial position.

Item 1A.    Risk Factors

The discussion of our business and operations should be read together with the risk factors contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 as well as those set forth below relating to our recently issued Cash Convertible Note financing ("Cash Convertible Notes") (issued March 2014), Senior Notes ("2021 Notes") (issued October 2014) (together referred to as "Notes") and organization of the Company's commercial finance company, Cowen Finance. These risk factors describe various risks and uncertainties to which we are or may become subject. These risks and uncertainties have the potential to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, strategies or prospects in a material and adverse manner.

The operations of our new commercial finance company may not be as successful as we anticipate.

Cowen Finance will represent a new business line for us distinct from our alternative investment business and our broker-dealer business upon which we have traditionally focused. Going forward, we anticipate that Cowen Finance will constitute a significant portion of our business; however this business may not be as successful as we anticipate or as successful as our existing businesses.

We may not be able to provide or raise sufficient capital to support our new commercial finance company.

In addition to our initial equity investment of up to $125.0 million, additional debt or equity financing or further equity commitments by us may be necessary to fund the operations of Cowen Finance in the future. If we are unable to provide sufficient capital on terms favorable to us, we may not be able to build Cowen Finance’s business, expand the business in the future, or otherwise respond to changing business conditions or competitive pressures. Any of these factors could negatively impact our ability to successfully operate our new business which may adversely affect our business and future results of operations.

Cowen Finance will require significant financing to operate its business and our potential financing sources may expose us to additional risks.

We expect that Cowen Finance will incur significant indebtedness in the ordinary course of its operations, which may take the form of bank credit facilities, debt securities, secured revolving lines of credit utilized to fund loan commitments until

83

Cowen Finance is able to transfer all or a portion of such loan commitments to other lenders through its syndication efforts. Such debt financings may also involve the use of derivatives, securitizations, or other financing facilities. It cannot be assured that the Company will be able to obtain, maintain, or renew Cowen Finance’s financing facilities on terms favorable to it or at all. Furthermore, any financing facility that Cowen Finance enters into will likely be subject to conditions and restrictive covenants relating to its operations, which may inhibit its ability to grow its business. Any of the foregoing may adversely affect our business and future results of operations.

We face numerous uncertainties and risks as we enter the commercial finance business.

Operating a commercial finance business that would structure, underwrite and syndicate a broad range of loans to middle market commercial borrowers involves a variety of risks including, among others:

• legal limitations (whether in a borrower’s bankruptcy proceedings or otherwise) on the right of Cowen Finance to accelerate and foreclose on collateral;

• misleading, inaccurate or incomplete information received from potential borrowers and guarantors;

• risks associated with loans to middle market companies, generally, such as (i) limited liquidity and secondary market support, (ii) the possibility that earnings of the obligors may be insufficient to meet their debt service, (iii) the declining creditworthiness and potential for insolvency of the obligors of such loans during periods of economic downturn, (iv) the obligors often being small or mid-size companies representing only local or regional interests and consequently being more susceptible to adverse economic, weather or other conditions that may only impact certain locales or geographic areas, and (v) limited historical default data;

• lower interest income due to unanticipated prepayments (including voluntary prepayments by the borrowers and liquidations due to defaults and foreclosures) on Cowen Finance loans;

• our inability to build on our relationships with financial sponsors, and successfully implement cost-effective strategies to finance Cowen Finance’s growth, which depends, to a significant extent, on the continued growth and success of our investment banking business;

• unsuccessful syndication or securitization of a loan due to unanticipated changes in market conditions or lender or investor sentiment, borrower credit deterioration, incomplete or inadequate due diligence, unanticipated adverse changes relating to the borrower or incorrect pricing;

• competition from commercial banks, diversified finance companies, asset-based lenders, specialty finance companies, business development companies, private equity funds, investment funds and investment banks;

• our inability to identify, attract and retain a sufficient number of skilled employees to operate Cowen Finance;

• inability to establish sufficient reserves for potential losses;

• unforeseen financial, managerial, regulatory and operational obstacles or costs; and

• economic recessions or downturns in the U.S. economy generally or fluctuating interest rates which, in either case, may reduce Cowen Finance’s underwriting and investment opportunities, increase portfolio losses, limit Cowen Finance’s financing flexibility and increase its syndication and liquidity risks.

Any of the foregoing events could harm our business and future results of operations

Servicing our debt, which has increased significantly as a result of our Notes, requires a significant amount of cash, and we may not have sufficient cash flow from our business to pay our substantial debt.

Our total consolidated indebtedness consists of the Notes, short-term borrowings and other liabilities of our subsidiaries (excluding intercompany obligations and liabilities of a type not required to be reflected on a balance sheet of such subsidiaries in accordance with US GAAP) to which the Notes are structurally subordinated.

Our ability to make scheduled payments of the principal of, to pay interest on or to refinance our indebtedness, including the Notes, depends on our future performance, which is subject to economic, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control. Our business may not continue to generate cash flow from operations in the future sufficient to service our debt and make necessary capital expenditures. If we are unable to generate such cash flow, we may be required to adopt one or more alternatives, such as selling assets, restructuring debt or obtaining additional equity capital on terms that may be onerous or highly dilutive. Our ability to refinance our indebtedness will depend on the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. We may not be able to engage in any of these activities or engage in these activities on desirable terms, which could result in a default on our debt obligations.

The conditional conversion feature of our Cash Convertible Notes we issued, if triggered, may adversely affect our financial condition and operating results.

In the event the conditional conversion feature of the Convertible Notes we issued is triggered, holders of notes will be entitled to convert the notes at any time during specified periods at their option. If one or more holders elect to convert their notes, we would be required to pay cash to settle any such conversion, which could adversely affect our liquidity. In addition, even if holders do not elect to convert their notes, we could be required under applicable accounting rules to reclassify all or a

84

portion of the outstanding principal of the notes as a current rather than long-term liability, which would result in a material reduction of our net working capital.

The accounting for our Cash Convertible Notes will result in our having to recognize interest expense significantly greater than the stated interest rate of the notes and may result in volatility to our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

We will settle conversions of the Cash Convertible Notes entirely in cash. Accordingly, the conversion option that is part of our Cash Convertible Notes is accounted for as a derivative pursuant to accounting standards relating to derivative instruments and hedging activities. In general, this results in an initial valuation of the conversion option, which is bifurcated from the debt component of our Cash Convertible Notes, resulting in an original issue discount. The original issue discount will be accreted to interest expense over the term of our Cash Convertible Notes, which will result in an effective interest rate reported in our financial statements significantly in excess of the stated coupon rate of our Cash Convertible Notes. This accounting treatment will reduce our earnings and could adversely affect the price at which our Class A common stock trades, but it will not affect the amount of cash interest paid to holders of our Cash Convertible Notes or our cash flows.

For each financial statement period after issuance of our Cash Convertible Notes, a gain (or loss) will be reported in our Consolidated Statements of Operations to the extent the valuation of the conversion option changes from the previous period. The Cash Convertible Notes economic hedge transaction we entered into in connection with the issuance of our Cash Convertible Notes will also be accounted for as a derivative instrument, offsetting the gain (or loss) associated with changes to the valuation of the conversion option. Although we do not expect there to be a material net impact to our financial statements as a result of our issuing our Cash Convertible Notes and entering into the Cash Convertible Notes economic hedge transaction, we cannot assure you that these transactions will be completely offset, which may result in volatility to our financial statements.

Item 2.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities: Sales of Unregistered Securities

The Company's Board of Directors has approved a share repurchase program that authorizes the Company to purchase up to $71.3 million of Cowen Class A common stock from time to time through a variety of methods, including in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, in accordance with applicable securities laws. During the three months ended September 30, 2014, through the share repurchase program, the Company repurchased 1,481,711 shares of Cowen Class A common stock at an average price of $4.07 per share.

The table below sets forth the information with respect to purchases made by or on the behalf of the Company or any “affiliated purchaser” (as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended), of our common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2014.

85

Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs	Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
Month 1 (July 1, 2014 – July 31, 2014)
Common stock repurchases(1)	—	$	—	—	—	(3	)
Employee transactions(2)	—	$	—	—	—
Total	—
Month 2 (August 1, 2014 – August 31, 2014)
Common stock repurchases(1)	818,461	$	4.06	—	—	(3	)
Employee transactions(2)	64,922	$	4.02	—	—
Total	883,383	$	4.06
Month 3 (September 1, 2014 – September 30, 2014)
Common stock repurchases(1)	663,250	$	4.08	—	—	(3	)
Employee transactions(2)	—	$	—	—	—
Total	663,250	$	4.08
Total (July 1, 2014 – September 30, 2014)
Common stock repurchases(1)	1,481,711	$	4.07	—	—	(3	)
Employee transactions(2)	64,922	$	4.02	—	—
Total	1,546,633	$	4.07

(1) The Company's Board of Directors have authorized the repurchase, subject to market conditions, of up to $71.3 million of the Company's outstanding common stock.

(2) Represents shares of common stock withheld in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations upon the vesting of equity awards or other similar transactions.

(3) Board approval of repurchases is based on dollar amount. The Company cannot estimate the number of shares that may yet be purchased.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

Item 6.    Exhibits

See Exhibit Index.

86

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

		COWEN GROUP, INC.
		By:	/s/ PETER A. COHEN
		Name:	Peter A. Cohen
		Title:	Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer)
		By:	/s/ STEPHEN A. LASOTA
		Name:	Stephen A. Lasota
Date:	November 6, 2014	Title:	Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer and principal accounting officer)

Exhibit Index

Exhibit No.	Description
31.1	Certification of CEO Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
31.2	Certification of CFO Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
32	Certification of CEO and CFO Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished herewith).
101.INS	XBRL INSTANCE DOCUMENT
101.SCH	XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION SCHEMA DOCUMENT
101.CAL	XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
101.DEF	XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
101.LAB	XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION LABEL LINKBASE DOCUMENT
101.PRE	XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT

E - 1

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

Certification

I, Peter A. Cohen, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Cowen Group, Inc:

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:	November 6, 2014	/s/ PETER A. COHEN
		Name:  Peter A. Cohen Title:    Chief Executive Officer              (principal executive officer)

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

Certification

I, Stephen A. Lasota, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Cowen Group, Inc:

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:	November 6, 2014	/s/ STEPHEN A. LASOTA
		Name:  Stephen A. Lasota Title:    Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer and principal accounting officer)

EX-32

Exhibit 32

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Cowen Group, Inc. (the "Company") on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), each of the undersigned officers of the Company certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to such officer's knowledge:

1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2. The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date:	November 6, 2014	/s/ PETER A. COHEN
		Name:  Peter A. Cohen Title:    Chief Executive Officer         (principal executive officer)
		/s/ STEPHEN A. LASOTA
		Name:  Stephen A. Lasota Title:    Chief Financial Officer (principal financial              officer and principal accounting officer)

*  The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C Section 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document

XML

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income / (Loss) [Abstract]

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

	Foreign currency translation (a)			Defined benefit plans (a)			Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2013	248			344			592
Net change	(233		)	(87		)	(320		)
Balance at September 30, 2014	$	15		$	257		$	272
	Foreign currency translation (a)			Defined benefit plans (a)			Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	258		$	98		$	356
Net change	(10		)	(207		)	(217		)
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	248		$	(109	)	$	139

(a) During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.

XML

Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Securities Lending and Borrowing Transactions (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Securities Loaned, Fair Value	$ 2,200,000,000		$ 881,700,000
Securities Borrowed, Fair Value	2,200,000,000		892,800,000
Securities borrowed	2,321,556,000		927,773,000
Securities Borrowed, Amount Offset Against Collateral	0	[1]	0	[1]
Securities Borrowed	2,321,556,000		927,773,000
Financial Instruments, Owned and Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value	0		0
Securities Borrowed, Not Offset against Collateral	2,321,556,000	[2]	927,773,000	[2]
Securities Borrowed, net	0		0
Securities loaned	2,324,682,000		918,577,000
Securities Loaned, Amount Offset Against Collateral	0	[1]	0	[1]
Securities Loaned	2,324,682,000		918,577,000
Securities Loaned, Fair Value of Collateral	2,324,682,000	[2]	918,577,000	[2]
Securities Loaned, Not Offset Against Collateral	$ 0		$ 0

[1] Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

[2] Includes the amount of cash collateral held/posted.

XML

Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Portfolio Funds (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Portfolio Funds, Consolidated Funds	$ 196,640			$ 182,638
Other investments	130,584			99,483
Enterprise LP
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Portfolio Funds, Consolidated Funds	146,987			155,530
Merger Fund
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Portfolio Funds, Consolidated Funds	49,653			26,963
Consolidated Fund of Funds [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Portfolio Funds, Consolidated Funds	0			145
Portfolio Funds
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	97,004			71,051
Portfolio Funds | Healthcare Royalty Partners | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	11,242	[1],[2]		9,741	[1],[2]
Portfolio Funds | Healthcare Royalty Partners II | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	6,445	[1],[2]		4,961	[1],[2]
Portfolio Funds | Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	13,925	[1],[3]		12,674	[1],[3]
Required notice period, redemption	60 days		60 days
Penalty on redemptions of less than one year	4.00%		4.00%
Portfolio Funds | Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	19,205	[1],[4]		17,495	[1],[4]
Required notice period, withdrawal	90 days		90 days
Portfolio Funds | Starboard Partners Fund LP | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	14,961	[1],[5]		0	[1],[5]
Portfolio Funds | Formation 8 Partners Fund I LP
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	6,295	[6]		2,788	[6]
Portfolio Funds | RCG LV Park Lane LLC | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	1,425	[1],[7]		678	[1],[7]
Portfolio Funds | RCGL 12E13th LLC | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	640	[1],[8]		558	[1],[8]
Portfolio Funds | RCGLongview Debt Fund V, L.P. | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	12,976	[1],[8]		11,979	[1],[8]
Portfolio Funds | Other Funds
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	7,141	[9]		7,772	[9]
Portfolio Funds | Other Funds | Affiliated Entity
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	2,749	[1],[10]		2,405	[1],[10]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	132,948			144,223
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Longview Equity Fund, LP | Affiliated Entity | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	8,848	[11]		8,470	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Longview II, LP | Affiliated Entity | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	800	[11]		800	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Longview Debt Fund IV, LP | Affiliated Entity | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	6,249	[11]		17,641	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Longview, LP | Affiliated Entity | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	40	[11]		319	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Soundview, LLC | Affiliated Entity | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	441	[11]		442	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Urban American Real Estate Fund, L.P. | Affiliated Entity | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	1,166	[11]		1,812	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG International Sarl | Affiliated Entity | Multi-strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	1,574	[11]		1,795	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Special Opportunities Fund, Ltd | Affiliated Entity | Multi-strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	87,430	[11]		82,119	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Endeavour, LLC | Affiliated Entity | Multi-strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	0	[11]		6	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Energy, LLC | Affiliated Entity | Energy Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	2,832	[11]		2,842	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | RCG Renergys, LLC | Affiliated Entity | Energy Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	1	[11]		1	[11]
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | Other Private Investment | Various Strategies
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	12,585			12,952
Portfolio Funds | Enterprise Master | Real Estate Funds | Real Estate Strategy
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	$ 10,982			$ 15,024

[1] These portfolio funds are affiliates of the Company.

[2] HealthCare Royalty Partners, L.P. and HealthCare Royalty Partners II, L.P. are private equity funds and therefore distributions will be made when cash flows are received from the underlying investments, typically on a quarterly basis.

[3] Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (formerly known as Ramius Global Credit Fund LP) has a quarterly redemption policy with a 60 day notice period and a 4% penalty on redemptions of investments of less than a year in duration.

[4] Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP permits quarterly withdrawals upon 90 days notice.

[5] Starboard Partners Fund LP permits redemptions on a semi-annual basis on 180 days prior written notice subsequent to an initial two year period when redemptions are not permitted.

[6] Formation 8 Partners Fund I is a private equity fund which invests in equity of early stage and growth transformational information and energy technology companies. Distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

[7] RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a single purpose entity formed to participate in a joint venture which acquired, at a discount, the mortgage notes on a portfolio of multifamily real estate properties located in Birmingham, Alabama. RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a private equity structure and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

[8] RCGL 12E13th LLC and RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. are real estate private equity structures and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

[9] Other private investment represents the Company's closed end investment in a portfolio fund that invests in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy.

[10] The majority of these funds are affiliates of the Company or are managed by the Company and the investors can redeem from these funds as investments are liquidated.

[11] Affiliates of the Company.

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Income Taxes Deferred Tax Assets (quarterly only) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Valuation Allowance, Amount	$ 137.4
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance, US Portion	$ 135.2

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Variable Interest Entities (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of nonconsolidated variable interest entities	$ 2,400,000,000	$ 1,700,000,000
Total liabilities of nonconsolidated variable interest entities	247,700,000	242,500,000
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Maximum exposure regarding nonconsolidated variable interest entities	$ 190,500,000	$ 193,900,000

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Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)					3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended				3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended								9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Affiliated Entity	Dec. 31, 2013 Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2013 Affiliated Entity Management Fee and Incentive Income	Sep. 30, 2014 Affiliated Entity Management Fee and Incentive Income	Sep. 30, 2013 Affiliated Entity Management Fee and Incentive Income	Sep. 30, 2014 Affiliated Entity Fees Payable	Dec. 31, 2013 Affiliated Entity Fees Payable	Sep. 30, 2014 Employees	Sep. 30, 2013 Employees	Sep. 30, 2014 Employees	Sep. 30, 2013 Employees	Dec. 31, 2013 Employees	Dec. 31, 2013 Starboard Value LP	Apr. 30, 2011 Starboard Value LP	Apr. 30, 2011 Starboard Value LP LIBOR	Sep. 30, 2014 Investor	Dec. 31, 2013 Investor	Sep. 30, 2014 Real Estate Equity Investment	Sep. 30, 2014 Employee Loans Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Employee Loans Maximum
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fees receivable, net of allowance	$ 43,566,000	$ 45,067,000	$ 12,300,000	$ 18,900,000
Reimbursement to affiliated funds					400,000	800,000	1,400,000
Fees payable to related parties								400,000	1,700,000
Due from employees										7,500,000		7,500,000		6,000,000
Forgivable Loan Balances										5,000,000		5,000,000		3,800,000
Forgivable Loans, Vesting Period																					1 year	3 years
Amortization on Forgivable Loans										1,300,000	1,100,000	3,200,000	2,300,000
Credit agreement with related party, maximum loan amount																3,000,000
Credit agreement with related party, interest rate																	3.75%
Credit agreement with related party, loan receivable															1,500,000
Due to Affiliate																		400,000	400,000
Real estate loan participation agreements																				50,000,000
Interest Income, Related Party																				$ 500,000

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Derivatives (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended																									3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014 contract		Mar. 10, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013 contract		Sep. 30, 2014 Futures	Dec. 31, 2013 Futures	Sep. 30, 2014 Forward Contracts	Dec. 31, 2013 Forward Contracts	Sep. 30, 2014 Cross Rate	Dec. 31, 2013 Cross Rate	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Swaps		Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Swaps		Sep. 30, 2014 Options		Dec. 31, 2013 Options		Sep. 30, 2014 Put Option		Dec. 31, 2013 Put Option		Sep. 30, 2014 Receivables from Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organizations	Dec. 31, 2013 Receivables from Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organizations	Sep. 30, 2014 Other Income	Sep. 30, 2013 Other Income	Sep. 30, 2014 Other Income	Sep. 30, 2013 Other Income	Sep. 30, 2014 Merger Master	Dec. 31, 2013 Merger Master	Sep. 30, 2014 Common Stock Class A	Mar. 10, 2014 Common Stock Class A
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	$ 35,966,000			$ 10,075,000
Derivative, Fair Value, Net																														404,000	(156,000)
Embedded cash conversion value	28,800,000		35,700,000
Call Option, Fair Value	28,800,000		35,700,000
Warrants issued	15,218,000
Cost of hedge transaction and warrant, net			20,500,000
Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights																																28,048,786
Class of Warrant, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights																																	7.18
Derivative Assets	35,966,000			10,075,000		177,000	285,000			291,000	22,000	1,541,000	[1]	70,000	[1]	33,957,000	[2]	9,698,000	[2]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	0	[3]		0	[3]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	1,832,000	[4]		92,000	[4]
Derivative asset, net of offset	34,134,000			9,983,000
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	31,369,000			7,674,000
Derivative Asset, Number of Instruments Held	349,989			71,129
Derivative liabilities	31,369,000			7,674,000		24,000	275,000	0	301,000			51,000	[5]	525,000	[5]					31,294,000	[6]	6,573,000	[6]
Financial Instruments, Owned and Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value	0			0
Derivative Liability, Number of Instruments Held	20,224			38,221
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	5,600,000			21,400,000
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	5,500,000			16,500,000
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to derivatives trading activities																										5,100,000	800,000	1,400,000	(3,600,000)
Collateral posted																								14,100,000	10,000,000
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	0	[3]		0	[3]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	51,000	[4]		826,000	[4]
Derivative Liability, net of offset	$ 31,318,000			$ 6,848,000
Trading days for expiration	80 days

[1] The notional values of equity swaps classified as receivable on derivative contracts are $5.6 million and $21.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

[2] As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 349,989 and 71,129 contracts held, respectively.

[3] Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

[4] Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

[5] The notional values of equity and credit default swaps classified as payable for derivative contracts are $5.5 million and $16.5 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

[6] As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 20,224 and 38,221 contracts held, respectively.

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Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]

Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries

Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds and the related net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds are comprised as follows:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
Operating companies	$	11,721	$	12,009
Consolidated funds	79,708		73,805
	$	91,429	$	85,814

Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
Operating companies	$	3,223	$	3,884	$	9,690	$	7,280
Consolidated funds	783		875		3,719		3,229
	$	4,006	$	4,759	$	13,409	$	10,509

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Guarantees and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014
Securities Lending
Guaranty loans	$ 150,000,000
Employee Loans
Guaranty loans	$ 200,000

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Treasury Stock Treasury Stock Interim Disclosure (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity, Class of Stock [Line Items]
Treasury Stock, Value	$ 71,021		$ 48,084
Shares purchased for minimum tax withholding, cost	5,610	3,156
Treasury Stock, Shares	21,508,368		15,873,549
Treasury Stock
Equity, Class of Stock [Line Items]
Treasury Stock, Average Price Per Share	$ 3.30		$ 3.03
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation	1,367,262
Shares purchased for minimum tax withholding, cost	5,610
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation, Average Cost Per Share	$ 4.10
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired, Cost Method, Excluding Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation	4,267,557
Purchase of treasury stock, cost	$ 17,327
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share	$ 4.06

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Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds Unobservable Input Roll Forward (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value, Between Level 1 and 2 transfers, amount	$ 0				$ 0
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	244,474,000				244,474,000
Balance Liability Value	35,204,000				35,204,000
Preferred Stock
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	574,000		333,000		574,000		333,000		2,574,000	324,000	333,000	2,332,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Asset, Transfers Out	(2,000,000)	[1]	0		(2,000,000)	[1]	(2,000,000)	[1]
Purchases/(covers)	0		0		2,250,000		0
(Sales)/short buys	0		0		0		0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	0		0		0		1,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]	1,000	[2]
Common Stock
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	290,000		2,109,000		290,000		2,109,000		419,000	3,559,000	2,273,000	2,549,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		(3,150,000)	[1]	0
Purchases/(covers)	0		0		9,000		0
(Sales)/short buys	(1,000)		(2,000)		(1,000)		(275,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	(128,000)		(162,000)		(127,000)		(165,000)
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	(14,000)	[2]	(161,000)	[2]	(13,000)	[2]	(424,000)	[2]
Corporate Bonds
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value			0				0					515,000
Asset, Transfers In							0
Asset, Transfers Out							0
Purchases/(covers)							2,735,000
(Sales)/short buys							(3,346,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset							96,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset							0	[2]
Options, asset
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	28,785,000				28,785,000				37,658,000	0
Asset, Transfers In	0				0
Asset, Transfers Out	0				0
Purchases/(covers)	0				35,710,000
(Sales)/short buys	0				0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	(8,873,000)				(6,925,000)
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	(8,873,000)	[2]			(6,925,000)	[2]
Convertible Bonds
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	1,750,000				1,750,000				1,750,000	1,950,000
Asset, Transfers In	0				0
Asset, Transfers Out	0				0
Purchases/(covers)	0				0
(Sales)/short buys	0				(200,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	0				0
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	0	[2]			0	[2]
Warrants and Rights
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	2,608,000		2,667,000		2,608,000		2,667,000		3,346,000	5,805,000	2,136,000	1,713,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		290,000	[3]
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Purchases/(covers)	57,000		0		57,000		166,000
(Sales)/short buys	(57,000)		0		(1,385,000)		(110,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	(738,000)		531,000		(1,869,000)		608,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	(434,000)	[2]	(76,000)	[2]	(432,000)	[2]	760,000	[2]
Portfolio Funds, at fair value
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	60,474,000		51,703,000		60,474,000		51,703,000		62,437,000	51,649,000	43,343,000	25,670,000
Asset, Transfers In	0				0		13,128,000
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Purchases/(covers)	3,049,000		6,491,000		12,234,000		16,560,000
(Sales)/short buys	(5,320,000)		(289,000)		(8,340,000)		(7,821,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	308,000		2,158,000		4,931,000		4,166,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	373,000	[2]	1,446,000	[2]	3,585,000	[2]	4,542,000	[2]
Real Estate Investments, at fair value
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	2,285,000		2,127,000		2,285,000		2,127,000		2,262,000	2,088,000	2,158,000	1,864,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Purchases/(covers)	0		0		50,000,000		0
(Sales)/short buys	0		0		(50,027,000)		0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	23,000		(31,000)		224,000		263,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	23,000	[2]	(31,000)	[2]	224,000	[2]	263,000	[2]
Lehman claims, at fair value
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	360,000		558,000		360,000		558,000		418,000	378,000	278,000	706,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Purchases/(covers)	0		0		0		0
(Sales)/short buys	0		0		(76,000)		(382,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	(58,000)		280,000		58,000		234,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	(58,000)	[2]	280,000	[2]	58,000	[2]	234,000	[2]
Consolidated Funds | Portfolio Funds, at fair value
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	146,987,000		161,086,000		146,987,000		161,086,000		145,371,000	155,674,000	177,848,000	182,920,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Purchases/(covers)	0		0		0		0
(Sales)/short buys	(409,000)		(17,886,000)		(16,439,000)		(27,835,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	2,025,000		1,124,000		7,752,000		6,001,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	1,962,000	[2]	635,000	[2]	7,689,000	[2]	5,092,000	[2]
Consolidated Funds | Lehman claims, at fair value
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Asset Value	361,000		16,483,000		361,000		16,483,000		4,090,000	4,842,000	15,434,000	14,124,000
Asset, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Asset, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Purchases/(covers)	0		0		0		0
(Sales)/short buys	(3,731,000)		0		(4,711,000)		(1,449,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), asset	2,000		1,049,000		230,000		3,808,000
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, asset	2,000	[2]	1,049,000	[2]	230,000	[2]	2,448,000	[2]
Options, liability
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Liability Value	28,785,000				28,785,000				37,658,000	0
Liability, Transfers In	0				0
Liability, Transfers Out	0				0
Liability, Purchases	0				35,710,000
Liability, Sales	0				0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), liability	(8,873,000)				(6,925,000)
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, liabilities	(8,873,000)	[2]			(6,925,000)	[2]
Warrants and Rights, sold not yet purchased
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Liability Value			0				0					3,000
Liability, Transfers In							0
Liability, Transfers Out							0
Liability, Purchases							0
Liability, Sales							0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), liability							(3,000)
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, liabilities							0	[2]
Contingent liability payable
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance Liability Value	6,419,000		7,834,000		6,419,000		7,834,000		6,783,000	6,937,000	7,928,000	8,116,000
Liability, Transfers In	0		0		0		0
Liability, Transfers Out	0		0		0		0
Liability, Purchases	0		0		0		0
Liability, Sales	(364,000)		(94,000)		(518,000)		(282,000)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), liability	0		0		0		0
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss), instruments still held, liabilities	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
ATM Group and Cowen Equity Finance LP [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, Low	1,500,000				1,500,000					2,100,000
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High	$ 10,900,000				$ 10,900,000					$ 13,800,000

[1] The company completed an initial public offering.

[2] Unrealized gains/losses are reported in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

[3] The security was acquired through an acquisition (See Note 2).

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Segment Reporting (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended					9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014 customer		Sep. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013 customer	Sep. 30, 2014 segment customer		Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of Operating Segments						2
Revenues
Investment banking	$ 45,799,000		$ 27,694,000			$ 125,653,000		$ 70,431,000
Brokerage	34,334,000		28,462,000			100,475,000		86,583,000
Management fees	9,796,000		9,327,000			28,412,000		28,518,000
Incentive income	(837,000)		2,521,000			4,385,000		7,086,000
Investment Income	0		0			0		0
Interest and dividends	13,725,000		10,969,000			35,437,000		30,905,000
Reimbursement from affiliates	2,473,000		2,175,000			7,391,000		6,451,000
Other revenue	1,120,000		556,000			2,427,000		1,519,000
Total revenues	107,101,000		82,149,000			306,680,000		232,174,000
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	65,806,000		53,614,000			197,771,000		145,344,000
Non-compensation expenses - Fixed	0		0			0		0
Non-compensation expenses - Variable	0		0			0		0
Non-compensation expenses	33,830,000		31,392,000			97,832,000		93,994,000
Interest and dividends	12,429,000		6,281,000			29,694,000		20,886,000
Reimbursement from affiliates	0		0			0		0
Total expenses	112,700,000		91,737,000			326,632,000		261,461,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	13,836,000		14,680,000			48,227,000		30,507,000
Total other income (loss)	16,269,000		17,912,000			58,372,000		42,212,000
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	10,670,000		8,324,000			38,420,000		12,925,000
Income tax expense (benefit)	141,000		(46,000)			266,000		288,000
Economic income (loss)/ net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	10,529,000		8,370,000			38,154,000		12,637,000
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	(4,006,000)		(4,759,000)			(13,409,000)		(10,509,000)
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	6,523,000		3,611,000			24,745,000		2,128,000
Number of major customers	0				0	0
Reported Under Economic Income/(Loss)
Revenues
Investment banking	45,799,000		27,694,000			125,653,000		70,431,000
Brokerage	35,583,000		32,035,000			104,983,000		93,352,000
Management fees	16,319,000		14,299,000			46,574,000		43,050,000
Incentive income	4,746,000		5,666,000			17,665,000		14,558,000
Investment Income	7,463,000		12,327,000			37,232,000		26,762,000
Interest and dividends	0		0			0		0
Reimbursement from affiliates	0		0			0		0
Other revenue	396,000		118,000			494,000		(46,000)
Total revenues	110,306,000		92,139,000			332,601,000		248,107,000
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	64,968,000		52,842,000			195,557,000		143,702,000
Non-compensation expenses - Fixed	23,767,000		23,774,000			69,596,000		67,972,000
Non-compensation expenses - Variable	12,157,000		8,430,000			33,259,000		27,706,000
Non-compensation expenses	0		0			0		0
Interest and dividends	2,664,000		75,000			5,961,000		271,000
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,830,000)		(1,461,000)			(5,313,000)		(4,291,000)
Total expenses	101,726,000		83,660,000			299,060,000		235,360,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0		0			0		0
Total other income (loss)	0		0			0		0
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	8,580,000		8,479,000			33,541,000		12,747,000
Income tax expense (benefit)	0		0			0		0
Economic income (loss)/ net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	8,580,000		8,479,000			33,541,000		12,747,000
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	(1,877,000)		(4,813,000)			(8,320,000)		(8,880,000)
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	6,703,000		3,666,000			25,221,000		3,867,000
Alternative Investment | Reported Under Economic Income/(Loss)
Revenues
Investment banking	0		0			0		0
Brokerage	15,000		0			40,000		0
Management fees	16,319,000		14,299,000			46,574,000		43,050,000
Incentive income	4,746,000		5,666,000			17,665,000		14,558,000
Investment Income	4,064,000		10,031,000			29,025,000		22,169,000
Interest and dividends	0		0			0		0
Reimbursement from affiliates	0		0			0		0
Other revenue	43,000		156,000			140,000		381,000
Total revenues	25,187,000		30,152,000			93,444,000		80,158,000
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	11,307,000		12,551,000			43,360,000		35,500,000
Non-compensation expenses - Fixed	8,887,000		8,938,000			27,944,000		26,293,000
Non-compensation expenses - Variable	3,648,000		1,597,000			6,195,000		3,996,000
Non-compensation expenses	0		0			0		0
Interest and dividends	1,852,000		52,000			5,083,000		183,000
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,830,000)		(1,461,000)			(5,313,000)		(4,291,000)
Total expenses	23,864,000		21,677,000			77,269,000		61,681,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0		0			0		0
Total other income (loss)	0		0			0		0
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	1,323,000		8,475,000			16,175,000		18,477,000
Income tax expense (benefit)	0		0			0		0
Economic income (loss)/ net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	1,323,000		8,475,000			16,175,000		18,477,000
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	(1,877,000)		(4,813,000)			(8,320,000)		(8,880,000)
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	(554,000)		3,662,000			7,855,000		9,597,000
Broker-Dealer | Reported Under Economic Income/(Loss)
Revenues
Investment banking	45,799,000	[1]	27,694,000	[2]		125,653,000	[3]	70,431,000	[4]
Brokerage	35,568,000	[1]	32,035,000	[2]		104,943,000	[3]	93,352,000	[4]
Management fees	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Incentive income	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Investment Income	3,399,000	[1]	2,296,000	[2]		8,207,000	[3]	4,593,000	[4]
Interest and dividends	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Reimbursement from affiliates	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Other revenue	353,000	[1]	(38,000)	[2]		354,000	[3]	(427,000)	[4]
Total revenues	85,119,000	[1]	61,987,000	[2]		239,157,000	[3]	167,949,000	[4]
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	53,661,000	[1]	40,291,000	[2]		152,197,000	[4]	108,202,000	[4]
Non-compensation expenses - Fixed	14,880,000	[1]	14,836,000	[2]		41,652,000	[4]	41,679,000	[4]
Non-compensation expenses - Variable	8,509,000	[1]	6,833,000	[2]		27,064,000	[4]	23,710,000	[4]
Non-compensation expenses	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[4]	0	[4]
Interest and dividends	812,000	[1]	23,000	[2]		878,000	[4]	88,000	[4]
Reimbursement from affiliates	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[4]	0	[4]
Total expenses	77,862,000	[1]	61,983,000	[2]		221,791,000	[4]	173,679,000	[4]
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Total other income (loss)	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	7,257,000	[1]	4,000	[2]		17,366,000	[3]	(5,730,000)	[4]
Income tax expense (benefit)	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Economic income (loss)/ net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	7,257,000	[1]	4,000	[2]		17,366,000	[3]	(5,730,000)	[4]
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	7,257,000	[1]	4,000	[2]		17,366,000	[3]	(5,730,000)	[4]
Investment Income from Entity's Capital	1,900,000		3,000,000			7,500,000		5,600,000
Compensation Expense Related to Investment of Entity's Capital	700,000		1,000,000			2,500,000		1,800,000
Significant Reconciling Items | Reconciliation from Economic Income/(Loss) to U.S. GAAP
Revenues
Investment banking	0		0			0		0
Brokerage	(1,249,000)	[5]	(3,573,000)	[5]		(4,508,000)	[5]	(6,769,000)	[5]
Management fees	(6,277,000)	[6]	(4,697,000)	[6]		(17,439,000)	[6]	(13,661,000)	[6]
Incentive income	(5,549,000)	[6]	(3,145,000)	[6]		(13,092,000)	[6]	(7,472,000)	[6]
Investment Income	(7,463,000)	[7]	(12,327,000)	[7]		(37,232,000)	[7]	(26,762,000)	[7]
Interest and dividends	13,725,000	[5],[7]	10,969,000	[5],[7]		35,437,000	[5],[7]	30,905,000	[5],[7]
Reimbursement from affiliates	2,354,000	[8]	2,250,000	[8]		7,436,000	[8]	6,657,000	[8]
Other revenue	724,000	[7]	438,000	[7]		1,933,000	[7]	1,565,000	[7]
Total revenues	(3,735,000)		(10,085,000)			(27,465,000)		(15,537,000)
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	838,000		772,000			2,214,000		1,642,000
Non-compensation expenses - Fixed	(23,767,000)	[7],[9]	(23,774,000)	[7],[9]		(69,596,000)	[7],[9]	(67,972,000)	[7],[9]
Non-compensation expenses - Variable	(12,157,000)	[7],[9]	(8,430,000)	[7],[9]		(33,259,000)	[7],[9]	(27,706,000)	[7],[9]
Non-compensation expenses	33,830,000	[7],[9]	31,392,000	[7],[9]		97,832,000	[7],[9]	93,994,000	[7],[9]
Interest and dividends	9,765,000	[5],[7]	6,206,000	[5],[7]		23,733,000	[5],[7]	20,615,000	[5],[7]
Reimbursement from affiliates	1,830,000	[8]	1,461,000	[8]		5,313,000	[8]	4,291,000	[8]
Total expenses	10,339,000		7,627,000			26,237,000		24,864,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	13,836,000	[7]	14,680,000	[7]		48,227,000	[7]	30,507,000	[7]
Total other income (loss)	15,381,000		16,682,000			54,863,000		37,350,000
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	1,307,000		(1,030,000)			1,161,000		(3,051,000)
Income tax expense (benefit)	141,000	[10]	(46,000)	[10]		266,000	[10]	288,000	[10]
Economic income (loss)/ net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	1,166,000		(984,000)			895,000		(3,339,000)
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	(1,346,000)		929,000			(1,371,000)		1,600,000
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	(180,000)		(55,000)			(476,000)		(1,739,000)
Funds Consolidation | Reconciliation from Economic Income/(Loss) to U.S. GAAP
Revenues
Investment banking	0		0			0		0
Brokerage	0		0			0		0
Management fees	(246,000)		(275,000)			(723,000)		(871,000)
Incentive income	(34,000)		0			(188,000)		0
Investment Income	0		0			0		0
Interest and dividends	0		0			0		0
Reimbursement from affiliates	119,000		(75,000)			(45,000)		(206,000)
Other revenue	0		0			0		0
Total revenues	530,000		95,000			1,544,000		(396,000)
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	0		0			0		0
Non-compensation expenses - Fixed	0		0			0		0
Non-compensation expenses - Variable	0		0			0		0
Non-compensation expenses	0		0			0		0
Interest and dividends	0		0			0		0
Reimbursement from affiliates	0		0			0		0
Total expenses	635,000		450,000			1,335,000		1,237,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0		0			0		0
Total other income (loss)	888,000		1,230,000			3,509,000		4,862,000
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	783,000		875,000			3,718,000		3,229,000
Income tax expense (benefit)	0		0			0		0
Economic income (loss)/ net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	783,000		875,000			3,718,000		3,229,000
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	(783,000)		(875,000)			(3,718,000)		(3,229,000)
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	0		0			0		0
Consolidated Funds
Revenues
Total revenues	691,000		445,000			2,500,000		681,000
Expenses
Total expenses	635,000		450,000			1,335,000		1,237,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	2,433,000		3,232,000			10,145,000		11,705,000
Consolidated Funds | Reported Under Economic Income/(Loss)
Revenues
Total revenues	0		0			0		0
Expenses
Total expenses	0		0			0		0
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0		0			0		0
Consolidated Funds | Alternative Investment | Reported Under Economic Income/(Loss)
Revenues
Total revenues	0		0			0		0
Expenses
Total expenses	0		0			0		0
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0		0			0		0
Consolidated Funds | Broker-Dealer | Reported Under Economic Income/(Loss)
Revenues
Total revenues	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Expenses
Total expenses	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[4]	0	[4]
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	0	[1]	0	[2]		0	[3]	0	[4]
Consolidated Funds | Significant Reconciling Items | Reconciliation from Economic Income/(Loss) to U.S. GAAP
Revenues
Total revenues	0		0			0		0
Expenses
Total expenses	0		0			0		0
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	1,545,000		2,002,000			6,636,000		6,843,000
Consolidated Funds | Funds Consolidation | Reconciliation from Economic Income/(Loss) to U.S. GAAP
Revenues
Total revenues	691,000		445,000			2,500,000		681,000
Expenses
Total expenses	635,000		450,000			1,335,000		1,237,000
Other income (loss)
Net gain (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	$ 888,000		$ 1,230,000			$ 3,509,000		$ 4,862,000

[1] For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $1.9 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $0.7 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

[2] For the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $3.0 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.0 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

[3] For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $7.5 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $2.5 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

[4] For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $5.6 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.8 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

[5] Economic Income (Loss) recognizes stock borrow/loan activity and other brokerage dividends as brokerage revenue

[6] Economic Income (Loss) recognizes revenues (i) net of distribution fees paid to agents and (ii) our proportionate share of management and incentive fees of certain real estate operating entities and the activist business.

[7] Economic Income (Loss) recognizes Company income from proprietary trading net of related expenses.

[8] Reimbursement from affiliates is shown as a reduction of Economic Income expenses, but is included as a part of revenues under US GAAP.

[9] Economic Income (Loss) recognizes the Company's proportionate share of expenses for certain real estate and other operating entities for which the investments are recorded under the equity method of accounting for investments.

[10] Economic Income (Loss) excludes income taxes as management does not consider this item when evaluating the performance of the segment.

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Regulatory Requirements (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014
Cowen and Company
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Net capital requirement under alternative method	$ 1,000,000
Net capital	109,400,000
Excess capital	108,400,000
ATM Execution
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Minimum net capital required	250,000
Net capital	2,100,000
Excess capital	1,900,000
ATM USA
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Minimum net capital required	250,000
Net capital	900,000
Excess capital	700,000
Cowen Equity Finance
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Minimum net capital required	250,000
Net capital	14,500,000
Excess capital	14,300,000
U.K. Financial Services Authority | Raimus U.K., Ltd.
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Financial resources	340,000
Financial resources requirement	110,000
Excess financial resources	230,000
U.K. Financial Services Authority | Cowen International Limited
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Financial resources	3,400,000
Financial resources requirement	2,100,000
Excess financial resources	1,300,000
H.K. Securities and Futures Commission | Cowen and Company (Asia) Limited
Regulatory Requirements for Broker-Dealers [Line Items]
Financial resources	700,000
Financial resources requirement	400,000
Excess financial resources	$ 300,000

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Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended																9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2014 Healthcare Royalty Partners Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2014 Healthcare Royalty Partners Affiliated Entity Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Healthcare Royalty Partners Affiliated Entity Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Starboard Leaders Fund LP Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2014 Formation 8 Partners Fund I LP Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2014 Equipment Leases		Sep. 30, 2014 Service Payments	Sep. 30, 2014 Facility Leases		Sep. 30, 2014 Clawback Obligation	Dec. 31, 2013 Clawback Obligation	Apr. 30, 2013 Commitment to Invest Starboard Leaders Fund LP Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2014 Commitment to Invest Formation 8 Partners Fund I LP Affiliated Entity	Sep. 30, 2014 Unfunded Commitments cowenfund	Sep. 30, 2014 RCG Longview Partners II, LLC [Member] Clawback Obligation
Lease Obligations
Net rent expense	$ 4,300,000	$ 4,300,000	$ 12,500,000	$ 12,300,000
Future minimum annual lease and service payments
Contractual Obligation, Due in Remainder of Fiscal Year											727,000	[1]	3,970,000	4,829,000	[2]
Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year											2,603,000	[1]	11,708,000	18,481,000	[2]
Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year											2,284,000	[1]	6,019,000	15,109,000	[2]
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year											2,198,000	[1]	3,039,000	11,676,000	[2]
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year											2,198,000	[1]	2,709,000	11,358,000	[2]
Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year											813,000	[1]	22,000	41,644,000	[2]
Future minimum annual lease and service payments											10,823,000	[1]	27,467,000	103,097,000	[2]
Sublease income related to operating leases	500,000	400,000	1,300,000	1,000,000
Contractual obligation						45,200,000										6,200,000	6,200,000	1,000,000			6,200,000
Number of real estate investments, in investments																				3
Expected call period							2 years	5 years
Funding toward commitments						34,900,000			700,000
Other commitments, unfunded amount					$ 12,100,000					$ 5,500,000
Term of capital commitment																			4 years

[1] Equipment Leases include the Company's commitments relating to operating and capital leases. See Note 14 for further information on the capital lease minimum payments which are included in the table.

[2] The Company has entered into various agreements to sublease certain of its premises. The Company recorded sublease income related to these leases of $0.5 million and $0.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 and $1.3 million and $1.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.

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Segment Reporting

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting

The Company conducts its operations through two segments: the alternative investment segment and the broker‑dealer segment. These activities are conducted primarily in the United States and substantially all of its revenues are generated domestically. The performance measure for these segments is Economic Income (Loss), which management uses to evaluate the financial performance of and make operating decisions for the segments including determining appropriate compensation levels.

In general, Economic Income (Loss) is a pre-tax measure that (i) eliminates the impact of consolidation for consolidated funds and (ii) excludes certain other acquisition-related and/or reorganization expenses (See Note 2). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) revenues include investment income that represents the income the Company has earned in investing its own capital, including realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest and dividends, net of associated investment related expenses. For US GAAP purposes, these items are included in each of their respective line items. Economic Income (Loss) revenues also include management fees, incentive income and investment income earned through the Company's investment as a general partner in certain real estate entities and the Company's investment in the activist business. For US GAAP purposes, all of these items are recorded in other income (loss). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) expenses are reduced by reimbursement from affiliates, which for US GAAP purposes is presented gross as part of revenue.

As further stated below, one major difference between Economic Income (Loss) and US GAAP net income (loss) is that Economic Income (Loss) presents the segments' results of operations without the impact resulting from the full consolidation of any of the Consolidated Funds. Consolidation of these funds results in including in income the pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to other owners of such entities which is reflected in net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. This pro rata share has no effect on the overall financial performance for the alternative investment segment, as ultimately, this income or loss is not income or loss for the alternative investment segment itself. Included in Economic Income (Loss) is the actual pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to the Company as an investor in such entities, which is relevant in management making operating decisions and evaluating financial performance.

The following tables set forth operating results for the Company's alternative investment and broker dealer segments and related adjustments necessary to reconcile the Company's Economic Income (Loss) measure to arrive at the Company's consolidated US GAAP net income (loss):

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
									Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)		Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	45,799	$	45,799		$	—		$	—			$	45,799
Brokerage	15			35,568		35,583			—			(1,249		)	(e)	34,334
Management fees	16,319			—		16,319			(246		)	(6,277		)	(a)	9,796
Incentive income	4,746			—		4,746			(34		)	(5,549		)	(a)	(837		)
Investment Income	4,064			3,399		7,463			—			(7,463		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—		—			—			13,725			(c)(e)	13,725
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—		—			119			2,354			(f)	2,473
Other revenue	43			353		396			—			724			(c)	1,120
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—		—			691			—				691
Total revenues	25,187			85,119		110,306			530			(3,735		)		107,101
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	11,307			53,661		64,968			—			838				65,806
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,887			14,880		23,767			—			(23,767		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,648			8,509		12,157			—			(12,157		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—		—			—			33,830			(c)(d)	33,830
Interest and dividends	1,852			812		2,664			—			9,765			(c)(e)	12,429
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,830		)	—		(1,830		)	—			1,830			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—		—			635			—				635
Total expenses	23,864			77,862		101,726			635			10,339				112,700
Other income (loss)
Net gain (loss) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—		—			—			13,836			(c)	13,836
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—		—			888			1,545				2,433
Total other income (loss)	—			—		—			888			15,381				16,269
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	1,323			7,257		8,580			783			1,307				10,670
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—		—			—			141			(b)	141
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	1,323			7,257		8,580			783			1,166				10,529
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(1,877		)	—		(1,877		)	(783		)	(1,346		)		(4,006		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	(554	)	$	7,257	$	6,703		$	—		$	(180	)		$	6,523

(1) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $1.9 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $0.7 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
										Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)			Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	27,694		$	27,694		$	—		$	—			$	27,694
Brokerage	—			32,035			32,035			—			(3,573		)	(e)	28,462
Management fees	14,299			—			14,299			(275		)	(4,697		)	(a)	9,327
Incentive income	5,666			—			5,666			—			(3,145		)	(a)	2,521
Investment Income	10,031			2,296			12,327			—			(12,327		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—			—			—			10,969			(c)(e)	10,969
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—			—			(75		)	2,250			(f)	2,175
Other revenue	156			(38		)	118			—			438			(c)	556
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—			—			445			—				445
Total revenues	30,152			61,987			92,139			95			(10,085		)		82,149
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	12,551			40,291			52,842			—			772				53,614
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,938			14,836			23,774			—			(23,774		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	1,597			6,833			8,430			—			(8,430		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—			—			—			31,392			(c)(d)	31,392
Interest and dividends	52			23			75			—			6,206			(c)(e)	6,281
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,461		)	—			(1,461		)	—			1,461			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—			—			450			—				450
Total expenses	21,677			61,983			83,660			450			7,627				91,737
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—			—			—			14,680			(c)	14,680
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—			—			1,230			2,002				3,232
Total other income (loss)	—			—			—			1,230			16,682				17,912
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	8,475			4			8,479			875			(1,030		)		8,324
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—			—			—			(46		)	(b)	(46		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	8,475			4			8,479			875			(984		)		8,370
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(4,813		)	—			(4,813		)	(875		)	929				(4,759		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	3,662		$	4		$	3,666		$	—		$	(55	)		$	3,611

(1) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $3.0 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.0 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
									Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)		Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	125,653	$	125,653		$	—		$	—			$	125,653
Brokerage	40			104,943		104,983			—			(4,508		)	(e)	100,475
Management fees	46,574			—		46,574			(723		)	(17,439		)	(a)	28,412
Incentive income	17,665			—		17,665			(188		)	(13,092		)	(a)	4,385
Investment Income	29,025			8,207		37,232			—			(37,232		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—		—			—			35,437			(c)(e)	35,437
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—		—			(45		)	7,436			(f)	7,391
Other revenue	140			354		494			—			1,933			(c)	2,427
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—		—			2,500			—				2,500
Total revenues	93,444			239,157		332,601			1,544			(27,465		)		306,680
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	43,360			152,197		195,557			—			2,214				197,771
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	27,944			41,652		69,596			—			(69,596		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	6,195			27,064		33,259			—			(33,259		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—		—			—			97,832			(c)(d)	97,832
Interest and dividends	5,083			878		5,961			—			23,733			(c)(e)	29,694
Reimbursement from affiliates	(5,313		)	—		(5,313		)	—			5,313			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—		—			1,335			—				1,335
Total expenses	77,269			221,791		299,060			1,335			26,237				326,632
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—		—			—			48,227			(c)	48,227
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—		—			3,509			6,636				10,145
Total other income (loss)	—			—		—			3,509			54,863				58,372
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	16,175			17,366		33,541			3,718			1,161				38,420
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—		—			—			266			(b)	266
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	16,175			17,366		33,541			3,718			895				38,154
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(8,320		)	—		(8,320		)	(3,718		)	(1,371		)		(13,409		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	7,855		$	17,366	$	25,221		$	—		$	(476	)		$	24,745

(1) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $7.5 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $2.5 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
										Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)			Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	70,431		$	70,431		$	—		$	—			$	70,431
Brokerage	—			93,352			93,352			—			(6,769		)	(e)	86,583
Management fees	43,050			—			43,050			(871		)	(13,661		)	(a)	28,518
Incentive income	14,558			—			14,558			—			(7,472		)	(a)	7,086
Investment Income	22,169			4,593			26,762			—			(26,762		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—			—			—			30,905			(c)(e)	30,905
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—			—			(206		)	6,657			(f)	6,451
Other revenue	381			(427		)	(46		)	—			1,565			(c)	1,519
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—			—			681			—				681
Total revenues	80,158			167,949			248,107			(396		)	(15,537		)		232,174
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	35,500			108,202			143,702			—			1,642				145,344
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	26,293			41,679			67,972			—			(67,972		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,996			23,710			27,706			—			(27,706		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—			—			—			93,994			(c)(d)	93,994
Interest and dividends	183			88			271			—			20,615			(c)(e)	20,886
Reimbursement from affiliates	(4,291		)	—			(4,291		)	—			4,291			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—			—			1,237			—				1,237
Total expenses	61,681			173,679			235,360			1,237			24,864				261,461
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—			—			—			30,507			(c)	30,507
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—			—			4,862			6,843				11,705
Total other income (loss)	—			—			—			4,862			37,350				42,212
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			3,229			(3,051		)		12,925
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—			—			—			288			(b)	288
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			3,229			(3,339		)		12,637
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(8,880		)	—			(8,880		)	(3,229		)	1,600				(10,509		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	9,597		$	(5,730	)	$	3,867		$	—		$	(1,739	)		$	2,128

(1) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $5.6 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.8 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

The following is a summary of the adjustments made to US GAAP net income (loss) for the segment to arrive at

Economic Income (Loss):

Funds Consolidation: The impacts of consolidation and the related elimination entries of the Consolidated Funds are not included in Economic Income (Loss). Adjustments to reconcile to US GAAP net income (loss) include elimination of incentive income and management fees earned from the Consolidated Funds and addition of fund expenses excluding management fees paid, fund revenues and investment income (loss).

Other Adjustments:

(a)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes revenues (i) net of distribution fees paid to agents and (ii) our proportionate share

of management and incentive fees of certain real estate operating entities and the activist business.

(b)    Economic Income (Loss) excludes income taxes as management does not consider this item when evaluating the

performance of the segment.

(c)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes Company income from proprietary trading net of related expenses.

(d)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes the Company's proportionate share of expenses for certain real estate and other

operating entities for which the investments are recorded under the equity method of accounting for investments.

(e)    Economic Income (Loss) recognizes stock borrow/loan activity and other brokerage dividends as brokerage revenue

(f)    Reimbursement from affiliates is shown as a reduction of Economic Income expenses, but is included as a part of

revenues under US GAAP.

For the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, there was noone fund or other customer which represented more than 10% of the Company's total revenues.

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Equity Method Investments (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended																																								3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014 cowenfund	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Net Gains (Losses) on Securities, Derivatives and Other Investments	Sep. 30, 2013 Net Gains (Losses) on Securities, Derivatives and Other Investments	Sep. 30, 2014 Net Gains (Losses) on Securities, Derivatives and Other Investments	Sep. 30, 2013 Net Gains (Losses) on Securities, Derivatives and Other Investments	Sep. 30, 2014 Clawback Obligation	Dec. 31, 2013 Clawback Obligation	Sep. 30, 2014 CBOE Stock Exchange, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 RCG Longview Partners II, LLC [Member] Clawback Obligation	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Debt Fund V Partners, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Debt Fund V Partners, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments Healthcare Royalty GP, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments Healthcare Royalty GP, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments Healthcare Royalty GP II, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments Healthcare Royalty GP II, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments Healthcare Royalty GP III, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments Healthcare Royalty GP III, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments CBOE Stock Exchange, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments CBOE Stock Exchange, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments Starboard Value LP	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments Starboard Value LP	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Partners, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Partners, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Management, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Management, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Urban American, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Urban American, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Urban American Management, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Urban American Management, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Equity Management, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Longview Equity Management, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments Urban American Real Estate Fund II, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments Urban American Real Estate Fund II, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments RCG Kennedy House, LLC	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments RCG Kennedy House, LLC	Sep. 30, 2014 Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investee, Other	Dec. 31, 2013 Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investee, Other	Sep. 30, 2014 Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Operating Companies [Member] Equity Method Investee, Exceeded Threshold for Income Test [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Operating Companies [Member] Equity Method Investee, Exceeded Threshold for Income Test [Member]	Sep. 30, 2014 Operating Companies [Member] Equity Method Investee, Exceeded Threshold for Income Test [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Operating Companies [Member] Equity Method Investee, Exceeded Threshold for Income Test [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue																																													$ 3,432,000	$ 2,979,000	$ 10,171,000	$ 7,264,000
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments			7,200,000	5,200,000	17,500,000	12,600,000
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage									9.50%																																		20.00%	55.00%
Equity Method Investment, Number of Entities that Parent Owns a Majority Interest	3
Other Commitment							6,200,000	6,200,000		6,200,000
Other investments	130,584,000	99,483,000									30,935,000	25,966,000	728,000	1,533,000	2,049,000	1,497,000	917,000	794,000	1,297,000	840,000	52,000	47,000	435,000	1,351,000	19,766,000	14,263,000	237,000	1,839,000	1,034,000	308,000	396,000	316,000	344,000	238,000	250,000	292,000	2,208,000	1,785,000	533,000	502,000	689,000	361,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Expenses																																													0	0	0	0
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gain (Loss) on Investments																																													34,000	43,000	89,000	95,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)																																													3,466,000	3,022,000	10,260,000	7,359,000
Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment	$ 800,000

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Organization and Business (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014 segment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of business segments	2

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Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights	Sep. 30, 2013 Warrants and Rights	Sep. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights	Sep. 30, 2013 Warrants and Rights	Sep. 30, 2014 Stock Options	Sep. 30, 2013 Stock Options	Sep. 30, 2014 Stock Options	Sep. 30, 2013 Stock Options	Sep. 30, 2014 Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)	Sep. 30, 2013 Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)	Sep. 30, 2014 Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)	Sep. 30, 2013 Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)	Sep. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock	Sep. 30, 2013 Restricted Stock	Sep. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock	Sep. 30, 2013 Restricted Stock	Sep. 30, 2014 Common Stock Class A	Dec. 31, 2013 Common Stock Class A
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Common stock, shares outstanding, shares																					113,634,803	115,026,633
Common stock, restricted shares, shares																					424,479	482,522
Computation of earnings per share:
Net income (loss)	$ 10,529,000	$ 8,370,000	$ 38,154,000	$ 12,637,000
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006,000	4,759,000	13,409,000	10,509,000
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$ 6,523,000	$ 3,611,000	$ 24,745,000	$ 2,128,000
Shares for basic and diluted calculations:
Weighted average shares used in basic computation, shares	114,969,000	118,359,000	115,407,000	116,012,000
Shares attributable to share-based payment awards, shares					0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	59,000	311,000	57,000	296,000	3,773,000	4,038,000	4,563,000	3,583,000
Weighted average shares used in diluted computation, shares	118,801,000	122,708,000	120,027,000	119,891,000
Earnings (loss) per share:
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ 0.06	$ 0.03	$ 0.21	$ 0.02
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ 0.05	$ 0.03	$ 0.21	$ 0.02

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Debt (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Table Text Block]

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's outstanding debt was as follows:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Convertible debt	$	117,031	$	—
Note payable	357		41
Capital lease obligations	4,251		2,523
	$	121,639	$	2,564

Schedule of Maturities of Debt and Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block]

Annual scheduled maturities of debt and minimum payments for debt outstanding as of September 30, 2014, is as follows:

	Convertible Debt			Notes payable			Capital Lease Obligation
	(dollars in thousands)
2014	$	—		$	362		$	412
2015	4,411			—			1,343
2016	4,411			—			1,025
2017	4,411			—			938
2018	4,411			—			938
Thereafter	151,688			—			79
Subtotal	169,332			362			4,735
Less: Amount representing interest (a)	(52,301		)	(5		)	(484		)
Total	$	117,031		$	357		$	4,251

(a) Amount necessary to reduce net minimum payments to present value calculated at the Company's implicit rate at inception

Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block]

As of September 30, 2014, the Company has the following seven irrevocable letters of credit related to leased office space, for which there is cash collateral pledged, which the Company pays a fee on the stated amount of the letter of credit.

Location	Amount		Maturity
	(dollars in thousands)
San Francisco	$	82	May 2015
Boston	$	382	March 2015
New York	$	893	August 2015
New York	$	4,497	December 2014
New York	$	1,000	February 2015
New York	$	1,861	June 2015
New York	$	127	September 2015

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	$ 660,602		$ 311,039
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	209,089		130,954
Merger Master
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	111,407		48,545
Corporate Bonds
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	58	[1]	55	[1]
Securities sold, not yet purchased, interest rate	5.55%		5.55%
Common Stock
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	209,031		130,899
Common Stock | Merger Master
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	33,100		19,500
Options | Merger Master
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	455		200
Corporate Bond Securities [Member] | Merger Master
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	21,977	[2]	14,444	[2]
Common Stock | Merger Master
Investments Sold, Not yet Purchased [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	$ 88,975		$ 33,901

[1] As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the maturity was January 2026 with an interest rate of 5.55%

[2] As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2017 to October 2022 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% and 9.75%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from April 2016 to October 2020 and interest rates ranged between 7.00% and 10.88%.

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Defined Benefit Plans Defined Benefit Plans Interim Disclosures (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Defined Benefit Plans Interim Disclosures [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Interest cost	18,000	54,000	85,000	152,000
Expected return on plan assets	(168,000)	(64,000)	(300,000)	(186,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)	(7,000)	0	(7,000)	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	0	5,000	0	16,000
Effect of settlement	0	0	0	(95,000)
Net periodic benefit cost	$ (157,000)	$ (5,000)	$ (222,000)	$ (113,000)

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Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	$ 91,429,000		$ 91,429,000		$ 85,814,000
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006,000	4,759,000	13,409,000	10,509,000
Operating Entities
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	11,721,000		11,721,000		12,009,000
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	3,223,000	3,884,000	9,690,000	7,280,000
Consolidated Funds
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	79,708,000		79,708,000		73,805,000
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	783,000	875,000	3,719,000	3,229,000
Orchard Square Partners [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Assets under Management, Carrying Amount	$ 448,000,000		$ 448,000,000

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Other Investments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	$ 130,584	$ 99,483
Other investments	197,001	187,480
Real Estate Equity Investment
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	2,285	2,088
Portfolio Funds, at fair value
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	97,004	71,051
Other investments	196,640	182,638
Equity Method Investments
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	30,935	25,966
Lehman claims, at fair value
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	360	378
Other investments	361	4,842
RCG RE Manager, LLC | Real Estate Equity Investment
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Other investments	$ 2,300	$ 2,100

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Acquisitions

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Acquisitions

Acquisitions

On March 11, 2013, the Company completed its acquisition of all of the outstanding interests in Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC ("Dahlman"), a privately-held investment bank specializing in the energy, metals and mining, transportation, chemicals and agriculture sectors. This acquisition was an all-stock transaction. In the aggregate, the purchase price, assets acquired and liabilities assumed were not significant and the near term impact to the Company and its consolidated results of operations and cash flows was not expected to be significant. Dahlman was subsequently renamed to Cowen Securities LLC ("Cowen Securities"). Following the acquisition, the Cowen Securities broker-dealer ceased operations and its business was fully integrated into Cowen and Company.

The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP"). As such, results of operations for the Cowen Securities are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations since the date of the acquisition, and the assets acquired, liabilities assumed and the resulting goodwill were recorded at their fair values within their respective line items on the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. The goodwill is fully deductible for tax purposes.

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans Narrative (Details) (Equity Plans, USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended								9 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Employee Stock Option	Sep. 30, 2014 Employee Stock Option Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Employee Stock Option Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)		Dec. 31, 2013 Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)	Sep. 30, 2014 Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)	Dec. 31, 2013 Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)	Sep. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) Non-employee Director
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense								$ 44.7			$ 0.2	$ 0.3
Shares authorized under compensation plan, in shares	17,725,000		17,725,000
Stock compensation award, vesting period						2 years	5 years						2 years	5 years
Stock options, initial term					7 years
SAR's, initial term											5 years
Shares available for issuance under compensation plan, in shares	1,600,000		1,600,000
Stock-compensation expense recognized in connection with compensation plan	3.8	4.3	14.3	13.8
Tax benefit of stock-compensation expense recognized in connection with compensation plan	$ 1.4	$ 2.9	$ 4.4	$ 8.5
Vested, shares								4,028,129			0				216,834
Granted, shares															158,791
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number								17,511,469	[1]	13,551,544	400,000	400,000			424,479

[1] Included in the outstanding balance are 1,925,750 performance linked restricted stock units awarded to employees of the Company in December 2013 and January 2014. Of the awards granted, 281,250 have been forfeited during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014. The remaining awards will vest on June 10, 2019 and will be earned only to the extent that the Company attains specified performance goals relating to its volume-weighted average share price and the aggregate net income for the years from 2014 to 2018. The actual number of RSUs ultimately earned could vary from zero, if performance goals are not met, to as much as 100% of the targeted award. Each RSU is equal to the one share of the Company’s Class A common stock. Compensation expense is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the Company will attain the performance goals.

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Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014 cowenfund	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization [Line Items]
Number of funds, Consolidated	5
Deferred rent	$ 13.9	$ 14.6
Total net assets of consolidated VIEs	$ 4.0	$ 11.3
Investment Company
Organization [Line Items]
Number of funds, Consolidated	3
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Organization [Line Items]
Number of funds, Consolidated	4	3

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Subsequent Events

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events

On October 10, 2014 the Company completed its public offering of$63.3 millionaggregate principal amount of8.25%senior notes due on October 15, 2021 ("2021 Notes"). Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on January 15, 2015. The Company incurred debt issuance costs of approximately$2.9 million. The Company intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to capitalize a new commercial finance company being formed by the Company that would structure, underwrite and syndicate a broad range of loans to middle market commercial borrowers. The remainder of the net proceeds of the offering will be used for general corporate purposes.

The Company has evaluated events that have occurred after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued and has determined that there were no additional subsequent events requiring adjustment or disclosure in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

XML

Guarantees and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Guarantees and Off Balance Sheet Arrangements [Abstract]

Guarantees and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Guarantees and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Guarantees

US GAAP requires the Company to disclose information about its obligations under certain guarantee arrangements. Those standards define guarantees as contracts and indemnification agreements that contingently require a guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on changes in an underlying security (such as an interest or foreign exchange rate, security or commodity price, an index or the occurrence or nonoccurrence of a specified event) related to an asset, liability or equity security of a guaranteed party. Those standards also define guarantees as contracts that contingently require the guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on another entity's failure to perform under an agreement as well as indirect guarantees of the indebtedness of others.

In the normal course of its operations, the Company enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations and warranties and which provide general indemnifications. The Company's maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Company that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Company expects the risk of loss to be remote.

The Company indemnifies and guarantees certain service providers, such as clearing and custody agents, trustees and administrators, against specified potential losses in connection with their acting as an agent of, or providing services to, the Company or its affiliates. The Company also indemnifies some clients against potential losses incurred in the event specified third-party service providers, including sub-custodians and third-party brokers, improperly execute transactions. The maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnifications cannot be estimated. However, the Company believes that it is unlikely it will have to make significant payments under these arrangements and has not recorded any contingent liability in the condensed consolidated financial statements for these indemnifications.

The Company is a member of various securities exchanges. Under the standard membership agreements, members are required to guarantee the performance of other members and, accordingly, if another member becomes unable to satisfy its obligations to the exchange, all other members would be required to meet the shortfall. The Company's liability under these arrangements is not quantifiable and could exceed the cash and securities it has posted as collateral. However, management believes that the potential for the Company to be required to make payments under these arrangements is remote. Accordingly, no contingent liability is recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition for these arrangements.

The Company also provides representations and warranties to counterparties in connection with a variety of commercial transactions and occasionally indemnifies them against potential losses caused by the breach of those representations and warranties. The Company may also provide standard indemnifications to some counterparties to protect them in the event additional taxes are owed or payments are withheld, due either to a change in or adverse application of certain tax laws. These indemnifications generally are standard contractual terms and are entered into in the normal course of business. The maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnifications cannot be estimated. However, the Company believes it is unlikely it will have to make material payments under these arrangements and has not recorded any contingent liability in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for these indemnifications.

Through the Company's securities lending program (see Note 5(a)), the Company can borrow and lend customers' securities, via custodial and non-custodial arrangements, to third parties. As part of this program, the Company provides a guarantee in an aggregate amount of$150.0 millionto counterparties of the securities lending agreements, which protects the lender against the failure of the third-party borrower to return the lent securities in the event the Company did not obtain sufficient collateral. To minimize its liability under these indemnification agreements, the Company obtains cash collateral with a value exceeding 100% of the market value of the securities on loan from the borrower. Collateral is marked to market daily to assure that collateralization is adequate. Additional collateral is called from the borrower if a shortfall exists, or collateral may be released to the borrower in the event of overcollateralization. If a borrower defaults, the Company would use the collateral held to purchase replacement securities in the market or to credit the lending customer with the cash equivalent thereof.

In conjunction with the acquisition of Cowen Securities (See Note 2) the Company has agreed to guarantee loans which were issued to employees of Cowen Securities by a third-party bank prior to the acquisition that closed in March 2013. The value of these loans at September 30, 2014 was$0.2 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company has no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. However, through indemnification provisions in the clearing agreement, customer activities may expose the Company to off-balance-sheet credit risk. Pursuant to the clearing agreement, the Company is required to reimburse the Company's clearing broker, without limit, for any losses incurred due to a counterparty's failure to satisfy its contractual obligations. However, these transactions are collateralized by the underlying security, thereby reducing the associated risk to changes in the market value of the security through the settlement date.

In addition, during the normal course of business, the Company has exposure to a number of risks including market risk, currency risk, credit risk, operational risk, liquidity risk and legal risk. As part of the Company's risk management process, these risks are monitored on a regular basis throughout the course of the year.

XML

Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	$ 796,217		$ 394,631
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	246,877		145,565
Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	451,647		181,901
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	211,523		137,747
Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	247,444		146,977
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	150		881
Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	97,126		65,753
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	35,204		6,937
Common Stock | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	209,031		130,899
Common Stock | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	208,990		130,899
Common Stock | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	41		0
Common Stock | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Corporate Bonds | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	58		55
Corporate Bonds | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Corporate Bonds | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	58		55
Corporate Bonds | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Contingent liability payable | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	6,419	[1]	6,937	[2]
Contingent liability payable | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0	[1]	0	[2]
Contingent liability payable | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0	[1]	0	[2]
Contingent liability payable | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	6,419	[1]	6,937	[2]
Futures | Derivative Liabilities | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	24		275
Futures | Derivative Liabilities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	24		275
Futures | Derivative Liabilities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Futures | Derivative Liabilities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Forward Contracts | Derivative Liabilities | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure			301
Forward Contracts | Derivative Liabilities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure			0
Forward Contracts | Derivative Liabilities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure			301
Forward Contracts | Derivative Liabilities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure			0
Equity Swaps | Derivative Liabilities | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	51		525
Equity Swaps | Derivative Liabilities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Equity Swaps | Derivative Liabilities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	51		525
Equity Swaps | Derivative Liabilities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Options, liability | Derivative Liabilities | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	31,294		6,573
Options, liability | Derivative Liabilities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	2,509		6,573
Options, liability | Derivative Liabilities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0		0
Options, liability | Derivative Liabilities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	28,785		0
Restricted Stock | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	11,993
Restricted Stock | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0
Restricted Stock | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	11,993
Restricted Stock | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0
US Government Securities | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	1,009		9
US Government Securities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	1,009		9
US Government Securities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
US Government Securities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Preferred Stock | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	574		324
Preferred Stock | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Preferred Stock | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Preferred Stock | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	574		324
Common Stock | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	430,941		176,939
Common Stock | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	428,145		171,277
Common Stock | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	2,506		2,103
Common Stock | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	290		3,559
Convertible Bonds | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	7,501		5,958
Convertible Bonds | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Convertible Bonds | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	5,751		4,008
Convertible Bonds | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	1,750		1,950
Corporate Bonds | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	188,832		121,372
Corporate Bonds | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Corporate Bonds | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	188,832		121,372
Corporate Bonds | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Warrants and Rights | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	3,370		5,912
Warrants and Rights | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	762		107
Warrants and Rights | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Warrants and Rights | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	2,608		5,805
Mutual Funds | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	16,382		525
Mutual Funds | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	16,382		525
Mutual Funds | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Mutual Funds | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Futures | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	177		285
Derivative Assets | Futures | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	177		285
Derivative Assets | Futures | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Futures | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Forward Contracts | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	291		22
Derivative Assets | Forward Contracts | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Forward Contracts | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	291		22
Derivative Assets | Forward Contracts | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Equity Swaps | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	1,541		70
Derivative Assets | Equity Swaps | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Equity Swaps | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	1,541		70
Derivative Assets | Equity Swaps | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Options, asset | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	33,957		9,698
Derivative Assets | Options, asset | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	5,172		9,698
Derivative Assets | Options, asset | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Derivative Assets | Options, asset | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	28,785		0
Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	97,004		71,051
Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	36,530		19,402
Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	60,474		51,649
Real Estate Investments, at fair value | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	2,285		2,088
Real Estate Investments, at fair value | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Real Estate Investments, at fair value | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Real Estate Investments, at fair value | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	2,285		2,088
Lehman claims, at fair value | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	360		378
Lehman claims, at fair value | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Lehman claims, at fair value | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Lehman claims, at fair value | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	360		378
Consolidated Funds | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	197,001		187,480
Consolidated Funds | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Consolidated Funds | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	49,653		26,964
Consolidated Funds | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	147,348		160,516
Consolidated Funds | Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	196,640		182,638
Consolidated Funds | Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Consolidated Funds | Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	49,653		26,964
Consolidated Funds | Portfolio Funds, at fair value | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	146,987		155,674
Consolidated Funds | Lehman claims, at fair value | Total Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	361		4,842
Consolidated Funds | Lehman claims, at fair value | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Consolidated Funds | Lehman claims, at fair value | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	0		0
Consolidated Funds | Lehman claims, at fair value | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	$ 361		$ 4,842

[1] In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts as of September 30, 2014 can range from $1.5 million to $10.9 million.

[2] In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts can range from $2.1 million to $13.8 million.

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Cash collateral pledged (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash collateral pledged	$ 8,862	$ 10,907

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Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of presentation

Basis of Presentation

These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) related to interim financial statements. Results for interim periods should not be considered indicative of results for any other interim period or for the full year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 and for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, included in the Form 10-K of Cowen Group as filed with the SEC on March 3, 2014. The financial information contained herein is unaudited; however, management believes all adjustments have been made that are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods. The year-end condensed balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by US GAAP.

These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its operating and other subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest or a substantive controlling general partner interest.

All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain fund entities that are consolidated in these condensed consolidated financial statements, as further discussed below, are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their own investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.

The Company serves as the managing member/general partner and/or investment manager to affiliated fund entities which it sponsors and manages. Funds in which the Company has a controlling financial interest are consolidated with the Company pursuant to US GAAP as described below. Consequently, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of these funds on a gross basis. The ownership interests in these funds that are not owned by the Company are reflected as redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from these funds are eliminated in consolidation.

Principles of consolidation

Principles of consolidation

The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a voting operating entity ("VOE") or a variable interest entity ("VIE") under US GAAP.

Voting Operating Entities—VOEs are entities in which (i) the total equity investment at risk is sufficient to enable the entity to finance its activities independently and (ii) the equity holders at risk have the obligation to absorb losses, the right to receive residual returns and the right to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance.

Under US GAAP, the usual condition for a controlling financial interest in a VOE is ownership of a majority voting interest. Accordingly, the Company consolidates VOEs in which it owns a majority of the entity's voting shares or units. US GAAP also provides that a general partner of a limited partnership (or a managing member, in the case of a limited liability company) is presumed to control the partnership, and thus should consolidate it, unless a simple majority of the limited partners has the right to remove the general partner without cause or to terminate the partnership. In accordance with these standards, the Company presently consolidatesfiveentities deemed to be VOEs for which it acts as the general partner and investment manager.

As of and during the period endedSeptember 30, 2014the Company consolidated the following funds: Ramius Enterprise LP (“Enterprise LP”) and Ramius Merger Fund LLC (the "Merger Fund") (collectively the "2014 Consolidated Funds"). As of December 31, 2013 and during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company consolidated the following funds: Enterprise LP, Ramius Multi‑Strategy Master FOF LP (“Multi‑Strat Master FOF”), Ramius Vintage Multi‑Strategy Master FOF LP (“Vintage Master FOF”), Ramius Levered Multi‑Strategy FOF LP (“Levered FOF”), and the Merger Fund (collectively the "2013 Consolidated Funds"). As of December 31, 2013, Levered FOF, Multi-Strat Master FOF and Vintage Master FOF, all of which are investment companies managed by Ramius Alternative Solutions LLC, were fully liquidated. RTS Global 3X LP was consolidated through March 31, 2013 when it was liquidated.Collectively, the 2013 Consolidated Funds and the 2014 Consolidated Funds are referred to as the "Consolidated Funds".

As of September 30, 2014, the Company also consolidated three investment companies i) RCG Linkem II LLC, formed to make an investment in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy, ii) Ramius Co-Investment II LLC, formed to make an investment in a biomedical company that develops gene therapies for severe genetic disorders and iii) Cowen AV Investment LLC, formed to make an investment in a biotechnology company focused on developing gene therapies for certain medical needs. Ramius Co-Investment I LLC, formed for the same purpose as Ramius Co-Investment II LLC, was consolidated as of December 31, 2013 but was deconsolidated during the first quarter of 2014 when Ramius Co-Investment I LLC was liquidated. The Company determined that RCG Linkem II, LLC, Ramius Co-Investment I LLC (up until the first quarter of 2014), Ramius Co-Investment II LLC and Cowen AV Investment LLC are VOE's due to its controlling equity interests held through the managing member and/or affiliates and control exercised by the managing member who is not subject to substantive removal rights. Ramius Co-Investment II LLC was liquidated during the quarter ended September 30, 2014.

Variable Interest Entities—VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a VOE. In accordance with US GAAP, an enterprise must consolidate all VIEs of which it is the primary beneficiary. Under the US GAAP consolidation model for VIEs, an enterprise that (1) has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impacts the VIE's economic performance, and (2) has an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE, is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

However, the FASB has deferred the application of the revised consolidation model for VIEs that meet the following conditions: (a) the entity has all the attributes of an investment company as defined under AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or does not have all the attributes of an investment company but is an entity for which it is acceptable based on industry practice to apply measurement principles that are consistent with investment companies, (b) the reporting entity does not have explicit or implicit obligations to fund any losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity, and (c) the entity is not a securitization entity, asset-backed financing entity or an entity that was formerly considered a qualifying special-purpose entity. The Company's involvement with its funds is such that allthreeof the above conditions are met for substantially all of the funds managed by the Company. Where the VIEs have qualified for the deferral, the analysis is based on previous consolidation rules. These rules require an analysis to (a) determine whether an entity in which the Company holds a variable interest is a variable interest entity and (b) whether the Company's involvement, through holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually through other variable interests (e.g., management and performance related fees), would be expected to absorb a majority of the VIE's expected losses, receive a majority of the VIEs expected residual returns, or both. If these conditions are met, the Company is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

The Company reconsiders whether it is the primary beneficiary of a VIE by performing a periodic qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of the VIE that includes a review of, among other things, its capital structure, contractual agreements between the Company and the VIE, the economic interests that create or absorb variability, related party relationships and the design of the VIE. As of September 30, 2014, the Company consolidated four VIEs and as of December 31, 2013 the Company consolidated threeVIEs.As ofSeptember 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the total net assets of the consolidated VIEs are $4.0 million and $11.3 million, respectively. The VIEs act as managing members/general partners and/or investment managers to affiliated fund entities which they sponsor and/or manage. The VIEs are financed through their operations and/or loan agreements with the Company.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company holds a variable interest in Ramius Enterprise Master Fund Ltd (“Enterprise Master”) throughoneof its Consolidated Funds, Enterprise LP and the Company holds a variable interest in Ramius Merger Master Fund Ltd through one of its Consolidated Funds, Merger Fund, (the “Unconsolidated Master Funds”). Investment companies, which account for their investments under the specialized industry accounting guidance for investment companies prescribed under US GAAP, are not subject to the consolidation provisions for their investments. Therefore, the Company has not consolidated the Unconsolidated Master Funds.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company also sponsors various other entities that it has determined to be VIEs. These VIEs are primarily funds and real estate entities for which the Company serves as the general partner, managing member and/or investment manager with decision-making rights.

The Company does not consolidate any of these funds or real estate entities that are VIEs as it has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary in each instance. Fund investors are entitled to all of the economics of these VIEs with the exception of the management fee and incentive income, if any, earned by the Company. The Company's involvement with funds and real estate entities that are unconsolidated VIEs is limited to providing investment management services in exchange for management fees and incentive income. Although the Company may advance amounts and pay certain expenses on behalf of the funds and real estate entities that it considers to be VIEs, it does not provide, nor is it required to provide, any type of substantive financial support to these entities outside of regular investment management services. (See Note 5 for additional disclosures on VIEs)

Equity Method Investments—For operating entities over which the Company exercises significant influence but which do not meet the requirements for consolidation as outlined above, the Company uses the equity method of accounting. The Company's investments in equity method investees are recorded in other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company's share of earnings or losses from equity method investees is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The Company evaluates for impairment its equity method investments whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The difference between the carrying value of the equity method investment and its estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge when the loss in value is deemed other than temporary.

Other—If the Company does not consolidate an entity, apply the equity method of accounting or account for an investment under the cost method, the Company accounts for such entities (primarily, all securities of such entity which are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term as trading securities) in accordance with US GAAP, at fair value with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Retention of Specialized Accounting—The Consolidated Funds are investment companies and apply specialized industry accounting for investment companies. The Company has retained this specialized accounting for these funds pursuant to US GAAP. The Company reports its investments on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition at their estimated fair value, with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions. Accordingly, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect different accounting policies for investments depending on whether or not they are held through a consolidated investment company. In addition, the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries, Cowen and Company, LLC (“Cowen and Company”), ATM Execution LLC ("ATM Execution"), ATM USA, LLC ("ATM USA"), and Cowen Equity Finance LP ("Cowen Equity Finance"), apply the specialized industry accounting for brokers and dealers in securities also prescribed under US GAAP. The Company also retains specialized accounting in consolidation.

Use of estimates

Use of estimates

The preparation of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires the management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the fair value of securities and other investments, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the accounting for goodwill and identifiable intangible assets and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts in order to conform with current period presentation.

Valuation of investments and derivative contracts

Valuation of investments and derivative contracts

US GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). Thethreelevels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 Inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has

the ability to access at the measurement date;

Level 2     Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, including

inputs in markets that are not considered to be active; and

Level 3 Fair value is determined based on pricing inputs that are unobservable and includes situations where there is little,

if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The determination of fair value for assets and liabilities in this

category requires significant management judgment or estimation.

Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may include price information, volatility statistics, specific and broad credit data, liquidity statistics, and other factors. A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. The Company considers observable data to be that market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, and provided by independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of a financial instrument within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the instrument and does not necessarily correspond to the Company's perceived risk of that instrument.

The Company and its operating subsidiaries act as the manager for the Consolidated Funds. Both the Company and the Consolidated Funds hold certain investments which are valued by the Company, acting as the investment manager. The fair value of these investments is generally estimated based on proprietary models developed by the Company, which include discounted cash flow analysis, public market comparables, and other techniques and may be based, at least in part, on independently sourced market information. The material estimates and assumptions used in these models include the timing and expected amount of cash flows, the appropriateness of discount rates used, and, in some cases, the ability to execute, timing of, and estimated proceeds from expected financings. Significant judgment and estimation goes into the selection of an appropriate valuation methodology as well as the assumptions used in these models, and the timing and actual values realized with respect to investments could be materially different from values derived based on the use of those estimates. The valuation methodologies applied impact the reported value of the Company's investments and the investments held by the Consolidated Funds in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's investments are relatively illiquid or thinly traded and may not be immediately liquidated on demand if needed. Fair values assigned to these investments may differ significantly from the fair values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed and such differences could be material.

The Company primarily uses the “market approach” to value its financial instruments measured at fair value. In determining an instrument's level within the hierarchy, the Company categorizes the Company's financial instruments intothreecategories: securities, derivative contracts and other investments. To the extent applicable, each of these categories can further be divided between those held long or sold short.

Securities—Securities with values based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets are classified within level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. These securities include active listed equities, certain U.S. government and sovereign obligations, ETF's and certain money market securities. The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.

Certain positions for which trading activity may not be readily visible, consisting primarily of convertible debt, corporate debt and loans, are stated at fair value and classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair values assigned by management are determined in good faith and are based on available information considering, trading activity, broker quotes, quotations provided by published pricing services, counterparties and other market participants, and pricing models using quoted inputs, and do not necessarily represent the amounts which might ultimately be realized. As level 2 investments include positions that are not always traded in active markets and/or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability.

Derivative contracts—Derivative contracts can be exchange-traded or privately negotiated over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives, such as futures contracts and exchange-traded option contracts, are typically classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on whether or not they are deemed to be actively traded. OTC derivatives, such as generic forwards, swaps and options, have inputs which can generally be corroborated by market data and are therefore classified within level 2. OTC derivatives, such as swaps, options and warrants where market data is not readily available or observable are classified as level 3.

Other investments—Other investments consist primarily of portfolio funds, real estate investments and equity method investments, which are valued as follows:

i. Portfolio funds—Portfolio funds (“Portfolio Funds”) include interests in funds and investment companies which may be managed by the Company or its affiliates. The Company follows US GAAP regarding fair value measurements and disclosures relating to investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value (“NAV”) per share (or its equivalent). The guidance permits, as a practical expedient, an entity holding investments in certain entities that either are investment companies as defined by the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or have attributes similar to an investment company, and calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent for which the fair value is not readily determinable, to measure the fair value of such investments on the basis of that NAV per share, or its equivalent, without adjustment.

The Company categorizes its investments in Portfolio Funds within the fair value hierarchy dependent on its ability to redeem the investment. If the Company has the ability to redeem its investment at NAV at the measurement date or within the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 2 investment within the fair value hierarchy. If the Company does not know when it will have the ability to redeem its investment or cannot do so in the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy.See Notes 5 and 6 for further details of the Company's investments in Portfolio Funds.

ii. Real estate investments—Real estate debt and equity investments are valued at fair value. The fair value of real estate investments are estimated based on the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants at the measurement date. Real estate investments without a public market are valued based on assumptions and valuation techniques used by the Company. Such valuation techniques may include discounted cash flow analysis, prevailing market capitalization rates or earnings multiples applied to earnings from the investment, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sale negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, consideration of the amount that currently would be required to replace the asset, as adjusted for obsolescence, as well as independent external appraisals. In general, the Company considers several valuation techniques when measuring the fair value of a real estate investment. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. Real estate investments are reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Company for significant changes at the property level or a significant change in the overall market which would impact the value of the real estate investment resulting in unrealized appreciation or depreciation.

Real estate and capital markets are cyclical in nature. Property and investment values are affected by, among other things, the availability of capital, occupancy rates, rental rates and interest and inflation rates. In addition, the Company invests in real estate and real estate related investments for which no liquid market exists. The market prices for such investments may be volatile and may not be readily ascertainable. Amounts ultimately realized by the Company from investments sold may differ from the fair values presented, and the differences could be material.

The Company's real estate investments are typically categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy as management uses significant unobservable inputs in determining their estimated fair value.

See Notes 5 and 6 for further information regarding the Company's investments, including equity method investments, and fair value measurements.

Securities borrowed and securities loaned and repurchase agreements

Securities borrowed and securities loaned

Securities borrowed and securities loaned are carried at the amounts of cash collateral advanced or received on a gross basis. The related rebates are recorded in the statement of operations as interest income and interest expense. Securities borrowed transactions require the Company to deposit cash collateral with the lender. With respect to securities loaned, the Company receives cash collateral from the borrower. The initial collateral advanced or received approximates or is greater than the market value of securities borrowed or loaned. The Company monitors the market value of securities borrowed and loaned on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained or returned, as necessary. Securities borrowed and loaned may also result in credit exposures for the Company in an event that the counterparties are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company minimizes its credit risk by continuously monitoring  its credit exposure and collateral values by demanding additional or returning excess collateral in accordance with the netting provisions available in the master securities lending contracts in place with the counterparties.

Fees and interest received or paid are recorded in interest and dividend income and interest expense, respectively, on an accrual basis. In cases where the fair value basis of accounting is elected, any resulting change in fair value is reported in trading revenues. Accrued interest income and expense are recorded in the same manner as under the accrual method. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company does not have any securities lending transactions for which fair value basis of accounting was elected.

Repurchase and Resale Agreements

Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

The Company uses securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“Repurchase Agreements”) as part of its liquidity management activities and to support its trading and risk management activities. In particular, securities purchased and sold under Repurchase Agreements are used for short-term liquidity purposes. As of December 31, 2013, Repurchase Agreements were secured predominantly by liquid corporate credit and/or government issued securities. The use of Repurchase Agreements will fluctuate with the Company's need to fund short term credit or obtain competitive short term credit financing. The Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase were transacted pursuant to agreements with one counterparty as ofDecember 31, 2013. The Company does not hold any Repurchase Agreements as ofSeptember 30, 2014.

Collateral is valued daily and the Company and its counterparties may adjust the collateral or require additional collateral to be deposited when appropriate. Collateral held by counterparties may be sold or re-hypothecated by such counterparties, subject to certain limitations sometimes imposed by the Company and in accordance with the master netting agreements in place with the counterparty. Collateralized Repurchase Agreements may result in credit exposure in the event the counterparties to the transactions are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company minimizes the credit risk associated with this activity by monitoring credit exposure and collateral values, and by requiring additional collateral to be promptly deposited with or returned to the Company when deemed necessary.

Debt

Debt

Long-term debt is carried at the principal amount borrowed net of any discount/premium. The discount is accreted to interest expense using the effective interest method over the remaining life of the underlying debt obligations. Accrued but unpaid coupon interest is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

Deferred rent

Deferred rent

Deferred rent primarily consists of step rent, allowances from landlords and valuing the Company's lease properties in accordance with US GAAP. Step rent represents the difference between actual operating lease payments due and straight-line rent expense, which is recorded by the Company over the term of the lease, including the build-out period. This amount is recorded as deferred rent in the early years of the lease, when cash payments are generally lower than straight-line rent expense, and reduced in the later years of the lease when payments begin to exceed the straight-line expense. Landlord allowances are generally comprised of amounts received and/or promised to the Company by landlords and may be received in the form of cash or free rent. These allowances are part of the negotiated terms of the lease. The Company records a receivable from the landlord and a deferred rent liability when the allowances are earned. This deferred rent is amortized into income (through lower rent expense) over the term (including the pre-opening build-out period) of the applicable lease, and the receivable is reduced as amounts are received from the landlord. Liabilities resulting from valuing the Company's leased properties acquired through business combinations are quantified by comparing the current fair value of the leased space to the current rental payments on the date of acquisition. Deferred rent, included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is $13.9 million and $14.6 million, respectively.

New accounting pronouncements

Recently issued accounting pronouncements

In April 2014, the FASB issued a new pronouncement regarding Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The guidance changes the criteria for disposals to qualify as discontinued operations and requires new disclosures about disposals of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the new definition. The guidance is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015. The Company does not expect the guidance to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance which amends and supersedes the revenue recognition requirements and most industry-specific guidance and creates a single source of revenue guidance. The new guidance outlines the principles an entity must apply to measure and recognize revenue and related cash flows. The guidance also provides a model for the measurement and recognition of gains and losses on the sale of certain non-financial assets. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance which requires all entities to perform an interim and annual assessment of their ability to continue as a going concern for one year from the date of issuance of the financial statements. The guidance also requires disclosures if there is “substantial doubt” of the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2016. The Company does not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our financial position and results of operations.

Income Tax

The taxable results of the Company’s U.S. operations are included in the consolidated income tax returns of Cowen Group, Inc. as well as stand-alone state and local tax returns. The Company has subsidiaries that are resident in foreign countries where tax filings have to be submitted on a stand‑alone basis. These subsidiaries are subject to tax in their respective countries and the Company is responsible for and, thus, reports all taxes incurred by these subsidiaries. The countries where the Company owns subsidiaries that file tax returns are United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Gibraltar, and Hong Kong.

Earnings Per Share

Diluted earnings per common share are calculated by adjusting the weighted average outstanding shares to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive nonvested restricted stock and stock options. The Company uses the treasury stock method to reflect the potential dilutive effect of the unvested restricted shares, restricted stock units, unexercised stock options, warrants and SAR's. In calculating the number of dilutive shares outstanding, the shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted shares and restricted stock units are assumed to have been delivered, and options and warrants are assumed to have been exercised, on the grant date. The assumed proceeds from the assumed vesting, delivery and exercising were calculated as the sum of (a) the amount of compensation cost attributed to future services and not yet recognized and (b) the amount of tax benefit that would be credited to additional paid-in capital assuming vesting and delivery of the restricted stock. The tax benefit is the amount resulting from a tax deduction for compensation in excess of compensation expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes. All outstanding stock options and warrants were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per common share for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.

Segment Reporting

The performance measure for these segments is Economic Income (Loss), which management uses to evaluate the financial performance of and make operating decisions for the segments including determining appropriate compensation levels.

In general, Economic Income (Loss) is a pre-tax measure that (i) eliminates the impact of consolidation for consolidated funds and (ii) excludes certain other acquisition-related and/or reorganization expenses (See Note 2). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) revenues include investment income that represents the income the Company has earned in investing its own capital, including realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest and dividends, net of associated investment related expenses. For US GAAP purposes, these items are included in each of their respective line items. Economic Income (Loss) revenues also include management fees, incentive income and investment income earned through the Company's investment as a general partner in certain real estate entities and the Company's investment in the activist business. For US GAAP purposes, all of these items are recorded in other income (loss). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) expenses are reduced by reimbursement from affiliates, which for US GAAP purposes is presented gross as part of revenue.

As further stated below, one major difference between Economic Income (Loss) and US GAAP net income (loss) is that Economic Income (Loss) presents the segments' results of operations without the impact resulting from the full consolidation of any of the Consolidated Funds. Consolidation of these funds results in including in income the pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to other owners of such entities which is reflected in net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. This pro rata share has no effect on the overall financial performance for the alternative investment segment, as ultimately, this income or loss is not income or loss for the alternative investment segment itself. Included in Economic Income (Loss) is the actual pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to the Company as an investor in such entities, which is relevant in management making operating decisions and evaluating financial performance.

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Investment Holdings [Line Items]

Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, securities owned, at fair value consisted of the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
U.S. Government securities (a)	$	1,009	$	9
Preferred stock	574		324
Common stocks	430,941		176,939
Restricted common stock	11,993		—
Convertible bonds (b)	7,501		5,958
Corporate bonds (c)	188,832		121,372
Warrants and rights	3,370		5,912
Mutual funds	16,382		525
	$	660,602	$	311,039

(a) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from May 2015 to April 2016 and an interest rates ranged between 0% to 5.95%. As of December 31, 2013, the maturity was April 2016 with an interest rate of 5.95%.

(b) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from October 2014 to November 2014 and interest rates ranged between 4.00% to 10.00%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from May 2014 to October 2014 and interest rates ranged between 5.00% to 10.00% .

(c) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2015 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% to 11.54%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from January 2014 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 3.38% to 11.75%.

Schedule of Derivative Instruments

The Company's long and short exposure to derivatives is as follows:

Receivable on derivative contracts	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Commodity Future	$	177	$	285
Cross Rate	291		22
Equity Swap (a)	1,541		70
Options (b)	33,957		9,698
	$	35,966	$	10,075

(a) The notional values of equity swaps classified as receivable on derivative contracts are $5.6 million and $21.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(b) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 349,989 and 71,129 contracts held, respectively.

Payable for derivative contracts	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Futures	$	24	$	275
Currency forwards	—		301
Equity and credit default swaps (a)	51		525
Options (b)	31,294		6,573
	$	31,369	$	7,674

(a) The notional values of equity and credit default swaps classified as payable for derivative contracts are $5.5 million and $16.5 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(b) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 20,224 and 38,221 contracts held, respectively.

The following tables present the gross and net derivative positions and the related offsetting amount, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
As of September 30, 2014
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	$	35,966	$	—	$	35,966	$	—	$	1,832	$	34,134
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	31,369		—		31,369		—		51		31,318
As of December 31, 2013
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	10,075		—		10,075		—		92		9,983
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	7,674		—		7,674		—		826		6,848

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

Schedule of Other Investments

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, other investments included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value	$	97,004	$	71,051
(2) Real estate investments, at fair value	2,285		2,088
(3) Equity method investments	30,935		25,966
(4) Lehman claims, at fair value	360		378
	$	130,584	$	99,483

Schedule of Other Investments, Portfolio Funds

The Portfolio Funds, at fair value as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
HealthCare Royalty Partners (a)(*)	$	11,242	$	9,741
HealthCare Royalty Partners II (a)(*)	6,445		4,961
Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (b)(*)	13,925		12,674
Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP (c)(*)	19,205		17,495
Starboard Partners Fund LP (d)(*)	14,961		—
Formation 8 Partners Fund I (e)	6,295		2,788
RCG LV Park Lane LLC (f) (*)	1,425		678
RCGL 12E13th LLC (g) (*)	640		558
RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. (g) (*)	12,976		11,979
Other private investment (h)	7,141		7,772
Other affiliated funds (i)(*)	2,749		2,405
	$	97,004	$	71,051

* These portfolio funds are affiliates of the Company.

The Company has no unfunded commitments regarding the portfolio funds held by the Company except as noted in Note 13.

(a) HealthCare Royalty Partners, L.P. and HealthCare Royalty Partners II, L.P. are private equity funds and therefore distributions will be made when cash flows are received from the underlying investments, typically on a quarterly basis.

(b) Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (formerly known as Ramius Global Credit Fund LP) has a quarterly redemption policy with a 60 day notice period and a 4% penalty on redemptions of investments of less than a year in duration.

(c) Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP permits quarterly withdrawals upon 90 days notice.

(d) Starboard Partners Fund LP permits redemptions on a semi-annual basis on 180 days prior written notice subsequent to an initial two year period when redemptions are not permitted.

(e) Formation 8 Partners Fund I is a private equity fund which invests in equity of early stage and growth transformational information and energy technology companies. Distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(f) RCG LV Park Lane LLC  is a single purpose entity formed to participate in a joint venture which acquired, at a discount, the mortgage notes on a portfolio of multifamily real estate properties located in Birmingham, Alabama.  RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a private equity structure and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(g) RCGL 12E13th LLC and RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. are real estate private equity structures and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(h) Other private investment represents the Company's closed end investment in a portfolio fund that invests in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy.

(i) The majority of these funds are affiliates of the Company or are managed by the Company and the investors can redeem from these funds as investments are liquidated.

Schedule of Other Investments, Equity Method

The following table summarizes equity method investments held by the Company:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC	$	728	$	1,533
RCG Longview Debt Fund V Partners, LLC	2,049		1,497
HealthCare Royalty GP, LLC	917		794
HealthCare Royalty GP II, LLC	1,297		840
HealthCare Royalty GP III, LLC	52		47
CBOE Stock Exchange, LLC	435		1,351
Starboard Value LP	19,766		14,263
RCG Longview Partners, LLC	237		1,839
RCG Longview Management, LLC	1,034		308
RCG Urban American, LLC	396		316
RCG Urban American Management, LLC	344		238
RCG Longview Equity Management, LLC	250		292
Urban American Real Estate Fund II, LLC	2,208		1,785
RCG Kennedy House, LLC	533		502
Other	689		361
	$	30,935	$	25,966

Schedule of Securities Sold, Not yet Purchased

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value consisted of the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks	$	209,031	$	130,899
Corporate bonds (a)	58		55
	$	209,089	$	130,954

(a) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the maturity was January 2026 with an interest rate of 5.55%

Schedule of Repurchase Agreements

The following table represents the Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of December 31, 2013:

	As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
Agreements with Royal Bank of Canada bearing interest of 1.75% due June 2015 to November 2015	$	3,657
	$	3,657

The following tables present the gross and net repurchase agreements and the related offsetting amount, as of December 31, 2013.

As of December 31, 2013
							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	$	3,657	$	—	$	3,657	$	—	$	3,657	$	—

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

Schedule of Securities Borrowed Loaned

The following tables present the contractual gross and net securities borrowing and lending agreements and the related offsetting amount, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
As of September 30, 2014
Securities borrowed	$	2,321,556	$	—	$	2,321,556	$	—	$	2,321,556	$	—
Securities loaned	2,324,682		—		2,324,682		—		2,324,682		—
As of December 31, 2013
Securities borrowed	927,773		—		927,773		—		927,773		—
Securities loaned	918,577		—		918,577		—		918,577		—

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of cash collateral held/posted.

Operating Companies [Member]

Investment Holdings [Line Items]

Schedule of Results of Operations, Equity Method Investments

The summarized income statement information for the Company's investment in the individually significant investee is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	3,432	$	2,979	$	10,171	$	7,264
Expenses	—		—		—		—
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)	34		43		89		95
Net Income	$	3,466	$	3,022	$	10,260	$	7,359

Consolidated Funds

Investment Holdings [Line Items]

Schedule of Other Investments

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 other investments, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds are comprised of:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds	$	196,640	$	182,638
(2) Lehman claims	361		4,842
	$	197,001	$	187,480

Schedule of Other Investments, Portfolio Funds

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value, included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Investments of Enterprise LP	$	146,987	$	155,530
Investments of Merger Fund	49,653		26,963
Investments of consolidated fund of funds	—		145
	$	196,640	$	182,638

Enterprise Master

Investment Holdings [Line Items]

Schedule of Securities Owned

Securities owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Bank debt	$	6	$	5
Common stock	2,516		2,677
Preferred stock	973		973
Private equity	413		406
Restricted stock	124		124
Rights	2,321		2,528
Trade claims	128		128
Asset backed securities	1		—
	$	6,482	$	6,841

Schedule of Derivative Instruments

Derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Enterprise Master, net

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
Description	(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards	$	—	$	(21	)
	$	—	$	(21	)

Schedule of Other Investments, Portfolio Funds

Portfolio Funds, owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value

		As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Strategy	(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Equity Fund, LP*	Real Estate	$	8,848	$	8,470
RCG Longview II, LP*	Real Estate	800		800
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV, LP*	Real Estate	6,249		17,641
RCG Longview, LP*	Real Estate	40		319
RCG Soundview, LLC*	Real Estate	441		442
RCG Urban American Real Estate Fund, L.P.*	Real Estate	1,166		1,812
RCG International Sarl*	Multi-Strategy	1,574		1,795
RCG Special Opportunities Fund, Ltd*	Multi-Strategy	87,430		82,119
RCG Endeavour, LLC*	Multi-Strategy	—		6
RCG Energy, LLC *	Energy	2,832		2,842
RCG Renergys, LLC*	Energy	1		1
Other Private Investments	Various	12,585		12,952
Real Estate Investments	Real Estate	10,982		15,024
		$	132,948	$	144,223

* Affiliates of the Company.

Merger Master

Investment Holdings [Line Items]

Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]

Securities owned by Merger Master, at fair value

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks	$	88,975	$	33,901
Corporate bonds (a)	21,977		14,444
Options	455		200
	$	111,407	$	48,545

(a) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2017 to October 2022 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% and 9.75%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from April 2016 to October 2020 and interest rates ranged between 7.00% and 10.88%.

Schedule of Derivative Instruments

Derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Merger Master, net

	As of September 30, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
Description	(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards	$	41		$	(10	)
Options	(137		)	(54		)
Equity swaps	500			(92		)
	$	404		$	(156	)

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Organization and Business

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Organization and Business

Organization and Business

Cowen Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation formed in 2009, is a diversified financial services firm and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, “Cowen,” “Cowen Group” or the “Company”), provides alternative investment management, investment banking, research, and brokerage (including market-making, sales and trading and securities lending services) through its two business segments: alternative investment and broker-dealer. Ramius, the Company's alternative investment segment, includes hedge funds, replication products, liquid alternative risk premia products, customized solutions, mutual funds, managed futures funds, fund of funds, real estate and healthcare royalty funds. Cowen's broker-dealer segment offers research, brokerage and investment banking services to companies and institutional investor clients primarily in the healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, consumer, aerospace and defense, industrials, real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), clean technology, energy, metals and mining, transportation, chemicals and agriculture sectors.

XML

Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis

The following table presents the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition by caption and by level within the valuation hierarchy as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

Operating Entities

	Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Securities owned and derivatives
US Government securities	$	1,009	$	—	$	—	$	1,009
Preferred stock	—		—		574		574
Common stocks	428,145		2,506		290		430,941
Restricted Common stocks	—		11,993		—		11,993
Convertible bonds	—		5,751		1,750		7,501
Corporate bonds	—		188,832		—		188,832
Warrants and rights	762		—		2,608		3,370
Mutual funds	16,382		—		—		16,382
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	177		—		—		177
Currency forwards	—		291		—		291
Equity swaps	—		1,541		—		1,541
Options	5,172		—		28,785		33,957
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		36,530		60,474		97,004
Real estate investments	—		—		2,285		2,285
Lehman claim	—		—		360		360
	$	451,647	$	247,444	$	97,126	$	796,217

	Liabilities at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased and derivatives
Common stocks	$	208,990	$	41	$	—	$	209,031
Corporate bonds	—		58		—		58
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	24		—		—		24
Equity and credit default swaps	—		51		—		51
Options	2,509		—		28,785		31,294
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
Contingent consideration liability (a)	$	—	$	—	$	6,419	$	6,419
	$	211,523	$	150	$	35,204	$	246,877

(a) In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts as of September 30, 2014 can range from $1.5 million to $10.9 million.

	Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Securities owned and derivatives
US Government securities	$	9	$	—	$	—	$	9
Preferred stock	—		—		324		324
Common stocks	171,277		2,103		3,559		176,939
Convertible bonds	—		4,008		1,950		5,958
Corporate bonds	—		121,372		—		121,372
Warrants and rights	107		—		5,805		5,912
Mutual funds	525		—		—		525
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	285		—		—		285
Currency forwards	—		22		—		22
Equity swaps	—		70		—		70
Options	9,698		—		—		9,698
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		19,402		51,649		71,051
Real estate investments	—		—		2,088		2,088
Lehman claim	—		—		378		378
	$	181,901	$	146,977	$	65,753	$	394,631

	Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased and derivatives
Common stocks	$	130,899	$	—	$	—	$	130,899
Corporate bonds	—		55		—		55
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	275		—		—		275
Currency forwards	—		301		—		301
Equity swaps	—		525		—		525
Options	6,573		—		—		6,573
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
Contingent consideration liability (a)	—		—		6,937		6,937
	$	137,747	$	881	$	6,937	$	145,565

(a) In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts can range from $2.1 million to $13.8 million.

Consolidated Funds' investments

	Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	$	—	$	49,653	$	146,987	$	196,640
Lehman claims	—		—		361		361
	$	—	$	49,653	$	147,348	$	197,001

	Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		26,964		155,674		182,638
Lehman claims	—		—		4,842		4,842
	$	—	$	26,964	$	160,516	$	187,480

Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation

The following table includes a rollforward of the amounts for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, for financial instruments classified within level 3. The classification of a financial instrument within level 3 is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
	Balance at June 30, 2014		Transfers in		Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2014		Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	2,574	$	—	$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	574	$	—
Common stocks	419		—		—				—		(1		)	(128		)	290		(14		)
Convertible bonds	1,750		—		—				—		—			—			1,750		—
Options, asset	37,658		—		—				—		—			(8,873		)	28,785		(8,873		)
Options, liability	37,658		—		—				—		—			(8,873		)	28,785		(8,873		)
Warrants and rights	3,346		—		—				57		(57		)	(738		)	2,608		(434		)
Portfolio Funds	62,437		—		—				3,049		(5,320		)	308			60,474		373
Real estate	2,262		—		—				—		—			23			2,285		23
Lehman claim	418		—		—				—		—			(58		)	360		(58		)
Contingent consideration liability	6,783		—		—				—		(364		)	—			6,419		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	145,371		—		—				—		(409		)	2,025			146,987		1,962
Lehman claim	4,090		—		—				—		(3,731		)	2			361		2

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Balance at June 30, 2013		Transfers in		Transfers out		Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2013		Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	333	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	333	$	—
Common stocks	2,273		—		—		—		(2		)	(162		)	2,109		(161		)
Warrants and rights	2,136		—		—		—		—			531			2,667		(76		)
Portfolio Funds	43,343				—		6,491		(289		)	2,158			51,703		1,446
Real estate	2,158		—		—		—		—			(31		)	2,127		(31		)
Lehman claim	278		—		—		—		—			280			558		280
Contingent consideration liability	7,928		—		—		—		(94		)	—			7,834		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	177,848		—		—		—		(17,886		)	1,124			161,086		635
Lehman claim	15,434		—		—		—		—			1,049			16,483		1,049

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
	Balance at December 31, 2013		Transfers in		Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2014		Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	324	$	—	$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	2,250	$	—		$	—		$	574	$	—
Common stocks	3,559		—		(3,150		)	(b)	9		(1		)	(127		)	290		(13		)
Convertible bonds	1,950		—		—				—		(200		)	—			1,750		—
Options, asset	—		—		—				35,710		—			(6,925		)	28,785		(6,925		)
Options, liability	—		—		—				35,710		—			(6,925		)	28,785		(6,925		)
Warrants and Rights	5,805		—		—				57		(1,385		)	(1,869		)	2,608		(432		)
Portfolio Funds	51,649		—		—				12,234		(8,340		)	4,931			60,474		3,585
Real estate	2,088		—		—				50,000		(50,027		)	224			2,285		224
Lehman claim	378		—		—				—		(76		)	58			360		58
Contingent consideration liability	6,937		—		—				—		(518		)	—			6,419		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	155,674		—		—				—		(16,439		)	7,752			146,987		7,689
Lehman claim	4,842		—		—				—		(4,711		)	230			361		230

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Balance at December 31, 2012		Transfers in			Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2013		Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	2,332	$	—		$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	—	$	—		$	1		$	333	$	1
Common stocks	2,549		—			—				—		(275		)	(165		)	2,109		(424		)
Corporate Bond	515		—			—				2,735		(3,346		)	96			—		—
Warrants and Rights, asset	1,713		290		(a)	—				166		(110		)	608			2,667		760
Warrants and Rights, liability	3		—			—				—		—			(3		)	—		—
Portfolio Funds	25,670		13,128			—				16,560		(7,821		)	4,166			51,703		4,542
Real estate	1,864		—			—				—		—			263			2,127		263
Lehman claim	706		—			—				—		(382		)	234			558		234
Contingent consideration liability	8,116		—			—				—		(282		)	—			7,834		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	182,920		—			—				—		(27,835		)	6,001			161,086		5,092
Lehman claim	14,124		—			—				—		(1,449		)	3,808			16,483		2,448

(1) Unrealized gains/losses are reported in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of

operations.

(a) The security was acquired through an acquisition (See Note 2).

(b) The company completed an initial public offering.

Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information

The following table includes quantitative information as of September 30, 2014 for financial instruments classified within level 3. The table below quantifies information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company's level 3 financial instruments.

	Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value at September 30, 2014		Valuation techniques	Unobservable Inputs	Range
Level 3 Assets
Common and preferred stocks	$	324	Market multiples and option pricing method	Volatility Market multiples	45% 2x to 3x
Warrants and rights, net	2,608		Model based	Volatility	20% to 60% (weighted average 39%)
Options	28,785		Option pricing models, credit valuation adjustment, debt valuation adjustment	Volatility Credit spreads	30% to 45% 600bps - 750 bps
Other level 3 assets (a)	212,757
Total level 3 assets	244,474
Level 3 Liabilities
Options	28,785		Option pricing models, credit valuation adjustment, debt valuation adjustment	Volatility Credit spreads	30% to 45% 600bps - 750 bps
Contingent consideration	6,419		Discounted cash flows	Projected cash flow and discount rate	6% to 9%
Total level 3 liabilities	$	35,204

(a) Quantitative disclosures of unobservable inputs and assumptions are not required for investments for which NAV per share is used as a practical expedient to determine fair value, as their redemption features rather than observability of inputs cause them to be classified as a level 3 type asset within the fair value hierarchy. In addition, the fair value of the Consolidated Funds' investments are determined based on net asset value and therefore quantitative disclosures are not included in the table above. The quantitative disclosures also exclude financial instruments for which the determination of fair value is based on prices from prior transactions.

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Earnings Per Share (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted

The computation of earnings per share is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Net income (loss)	$	10,529	$	8,370	$	38,154	$	12,637
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006		4,759		13,409		10,509
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	6,523	$	3,611	$	24,745	$	2,128
Shares for basic and diluted calculations:
Weighted average shares used in basic computation	114,969		118,359		115,407		116,012
Warrants	—		—		—		—
Stock options	—		—		—		—
Stock appreciation rights	59		311		57		296
Restricted stock	3,773		4,038		4,563		3,583
Weighted average shares used in diluted computation	118,801		122,708		120,027		119,891
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.06	$	0.03	$	0.21	$	0.02
Diluted	$	0.05	$	0.03	$	0.21	$	0.02

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell or Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets Purchased Under Agreements to Resell or Sold under Agreements to Repurchase [Line Items]
Financial Instruments, Owned and Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value	$ 0	$ 0
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase, Gross		3,657
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase, Amount Offset Against Collateral		0	[1]
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	0	3,657
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase, Fair Value of Collateral		3,657	[2]
Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase, Amounts not Offset		0
Securities Owned at Fair Value
Assets Purchased Under Agreements to Resell or Sold under Agreements to Repurchase [Line Items]
Financial Instruments, Owned and Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value		4,600
Maturity on Demand
Assets Purchased Under Agreements to Resell or Sold under Agreements to Repurchase [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		3,657
Royal Bank of Canada | Maturity on Demand
Assets Purchased Under Agreements to Resell or Sold under Agreements to Repurchase [Line Items]
Interest rates on repurchase agreements		1.75%
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		$ 3,657

[1] Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

[2] Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

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Convertible Debt and Short Term Borrowings (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended			40 Months Ended		9 Months Ended											3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014 letters_of_credit		Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 letters_of_credit		Sep. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Transaction [Domain]	Sep. 30, 2014 Treasury Stock	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, San Francisco Office, Expires May 2015 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, Boston Office, Expires March 2015 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, NY Office, Expires August 2015 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, NY Office, Expires December 2014 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, NY Office, Expires February 2015 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, NY Office, Expires June 2015 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Letter of Credit, NY Office, Expires September 2015 Letter of Credit	Sep. 30, 2014 Convertible Debt		Sep. 30, 2014 Convertible Debt		Mar. 10, 2014 Convertible Debt	Sep. 30, 2014 Insurance Note		Jan. 30, 2014 Insurance Note
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Line Items]
Number of Letters of Credit	7			7
Components of short-term borrowings and other debt
Convertible debt	$ 117,031,000			$ 117,031,000				$ 0												$ 117,031,000		$ 117,031,000
Notes payable	357,000			357,000				41,000																	357,000		2,000,000
Capital lease obligations	4,251,000			4,251,000				2,523,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	121,639,000			121,639,000				2,564,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium																				32,500,000		32,500,000
Interest rate																								3.00%			1.55%
Debt Instrument, Face Amount																								149,500,000
Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax																				1,100,000		2,500,000
Principal amount of notes being converted																								1,000
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price																								$ 5.33
Discount on debt																								35,700,000
Amortization of Debt Discount				3,241,000		0														1,500,000		3,200,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage																								8.89%
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	148,800,000			148,800,000
Debt Issuance Cost																						3,700,000
Cash convertible note hedge transaction				149,500,000		0					20,500,000	300,000
Class of Warrant, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights																								7.18
Monthly payment																									200,000
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred							7,600,000
Capital Lease Obligation, Initial Term									48 months	60 months
Capital leases, interest rate									0.60%	6.03%
Capital lease interest expense	100,000		100,000	200,000		100,000
Letter of credit, borrowing capacity													82,000	382,000	893,000	4,497,000	1,000,000	1,861,000	127,000
Future minimum lease payments for capital lease obligations
Capital leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Remainder of Fiscal Year	412,000			412,000
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years	1,343,000			1,343,000
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years	1,025,000			1,025,000
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years	938,000			938,000
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years	938,000			938,000
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payment Due Thereafter	79,000			79,000
Subtotal	4,735,000			4,735,000
Less: Amount representing interest	(484,000)	[1]		(484,000)	[1]
Capital lease obligations	4,251,000			4,251,000				2,523,000
Repayments on long-term and short-term borrowings
Notes Payable, Repayments Due Remainder of Fiscal Year																				0		0			362,000
Notes Payable, Repayments in Year Two																				4,411,000		4,411,000			0
Notes Payable, Repayments in Year Three																				4,411,000		4,411,000			0
Notes Payable, Repayments in Year Four																				4,411,000		4,411,000			0
Notes Payable, Repayments in Year Five																				4,411,000		4,411,000			0
Notes Payable, Repayments Due after Year Five																				151,688,000		151,688,000			0
Subtotal																				169,332,000		169,332,000			362,000
Less: Amount representing interest																				(52,301,000)	[1]	(52,301,000)	[1]		(5,000)	[1]
Notes payable	$ 357,000			$ 357,000				$ 41,000																	$ 357,000		$ 2,000,000

[1] Amount necessary to reduce net minimum payments to present value calculated at the Company's implicit rate at inception. This amount also includes the unamortized discount on the convertible debt.

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 66,166	$ 54,720
Cash collateral pledged	8,862	10,907
Securities owned, at fair value	660,602	311,039
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	35,966	10,075
Securities borrowed	2,321,556	927,773
Other investments	130,584	99,483
Receivable from brokers	95,149	66,980
Fees receivable, net of allowance	43,566	45,067
Due from related parties	29,716	26,910
Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $24,437 and $21,853, respectively	27,390	26,999
Goodwill	37,240	37,240
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $26,189 and $26,610, respectively	9,985	12,094
Other assets	26,622	17,561
Consolidated Funds
Cash and cash equivalents	368	2,048
Other investments	197,001	187,480
Other assets	691	5,624
Total Assets	3,691,464	1,842,000
Liabilities
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	209,089	130,954
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	0	3,657
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	31,369	7,674
Securities loaned	2,324,682	918,577
Payable to brokers	246,797	75,420
Compensation payable	66,140	51,807
Short-term borrowings and other debt	4,608	2,564
Convertible debt	117,031	0
Fees payable	10,164	6,324
Due to related parties	413	382
Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities	50,774	45,290
Consolidated Funds
Capital withdrawals payable	0	5,222
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	94	549
Total Liabilities	3,061,161	1,248,420
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 13)
Redeemable non-controlling interests	91,429	85,814
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	766,961	737,341
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	(158,498)	(183,243)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	272	592
Less: Class A common stock held in treasury, at cost, 21,508,368 and 15,873,549 shares as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.	(71,021)	(48,084)
Total Stockholders' Equity	538,874	507,766
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	3,691,464	1,842,000
Common Stock Class A
Stockholders' equity
Common stock	1,160	1,160
Less: Class A common stock held in treasury, at cost, 21,508,368 and 15,873,549 shares as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.	(71,021)	(48,084)
Common Stock Class B
Stockholders' equity
Common stock	$ 0	$ 0

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Securities Owned at Fair Value (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	0
Securities owned, at fair value	$ 660,602		$ 311,039
Other investments	130,584		99,483
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	209,089		130,954
US Government Securities
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Debt	1,009	[1]	9	[1]
Debt securities, interest rate			5.95%
US Government Securities | Minimum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	0.00%
US Government Securities | Maximum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	5.95%
Convertible Bonds
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Debt	7,501	[2]	5,958	[2]
Convertible Bonds | Minimum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	4.00%		5.00%
Convertible Bonds | Maximum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	10.00%		10.00%
Common Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Equity	430,941		176,939
Preferred Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Equity	574		324
Restricted Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Equity	11,993		0
Warrants and Rights
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Equity	3,370		5,912
Mutual Funds
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Equity	16,382		525
Corporate Bonds
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Debt	188,832	[3]	121,372	[3]
Corporate Bonds | Minimum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	5.38%		3.38%
Corporate Bonds | Maximum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	11.54%		11.75%
Enterprise Master
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	6,482		6,841
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	0		(21)
Enterprise Master | Currency Forwards
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	0		(21)
Enterprise Master | Bank debt
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	6		5
Enterprise Master | Common Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	2,516		2,677
Enterprise Master | Preferred Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	973		973
Enterprise Master | Private Equity
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	413		406
Enterprise Master | Restricted Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	124		124
Enterprise Master | Rights
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	2,321		2,528
Enterprise Master | Trade Claims
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	128		128
Enterprise Master | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	1		0
Merger Master
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	111,407		48,545
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	404		(156)
Merger Master | Currency Forwards
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	41		(10)
Merger Master | Common Stock
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	88,975		33,901
Merger Master | Options
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	455		200
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	(137)		(54)
Merger Master | Corporate Bonds
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Securities owned, at fair value	21,977	[4]	14,444	[4]
Merger Master | Corporate Bonds | Minimum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	5.38%		7.00%
Merger Master | Corporate Bonds | Maximum
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Debt securities, interest rate	9.75%		10.88%
Merger Master | Cross Rate
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	$ 500		$ (92)

[1] As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from May 2015 to April 2016 and an interest rates ranged between 0% to 5.95%. As of December 31, 2013, the maturity was April 2016 with an interest rate of 5.95%.

[2] As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from October 2014 to November 2014 and interest rates ranged between 4.00% to 10.00%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from May 2014 to October 2014 and interest rates ranged between 5.00% to 10.00% .

[3] As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2015 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% to 11.54%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from January 2014 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 3.38% to 11.75%.

[4] As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2017 to October 2022 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% and 9.75%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from April 2016 to October 2020 and interest rates ranged between 7.00% and 10.88%.

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (USD $)	Total USD ($)		Common Stock USD ($)	Treasury Stock USD ($)	Additional Paid-in Capital USD ($)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) USD ($)	Retained Earnings/(Accumulated deficit) USD ($)	Redeemable Non-controlling Interest USD ($)	Common Stock Class A
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 495,109,000		$ 1,135,000	$ (31,728,000)	$ 713,211,000	$ 356,000	$ (187,865,000)	$ 85,703,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding at Dec. 31, 2012			112,447,892
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	2,128,000						2,128,000
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests	10,509,000							10,509,000
Defined benefit plans	(207,000)	[1]				(207,000)
Foreign currency translation	(10,000)	[1]				(10,000)
Capital contributions								11,656,000
Capital withdrawals								(17,689,000)
Restricted stock awards issued, shares			4,288,108
Common stock issued upon acquisition (See Note 2)	6,297,000		25,000		6,272,000
Common stock issued upon acquisition (See Note 2), shares			2,514,468
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost	(5,879,000)			(5,879,000)
Treasury stock reissued, shares				24,744
Treasury stock reissued, cost				90,000
Treasury stock reissued during the period net of gain(loss)	65,000
Treasury Stock Reissued at Lower than Repurchase Price							(25,000)
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost, shares				(1,863,684)
Amortization of share based compensation	13,803,000				13,803,000
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	511,306,000		1,160,000	(37,517,000)	733,286,000	139,000	(185,762,000)	90,179,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding at Sep. 30, 2013			117,411,528
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	507,766,000		1,160,000	(48,084,000)	737,341,000	592,000	(183,243,000)	85,814,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding at Dec. 31, 2013			115,026,633						115,026,633
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	24,745,000						24,745,000
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests	13,409,000							13,409,000
Defined benefit plans	(87,000)	[1]				(87,000)
Foreign currency translation	(233,000)	[1]				(233,000)
Capital contributions								10,273,000
Capital withdrawals								(18,067,000)
Restricted stock awards issued, shares			4,242,989
Common stock issued upon acquisition (See Note 2)	0
Warrants issued	15,218,000
Stock options exercised (See Note 10)	116,000
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost	(22,937,000)			(22,937,000)
Treasury stock reissued during the period net of gain(loss)	0
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost, shares				(5,634,819)
Amortization of share based compensation	14,286,000
Balance at Sep. 30, 2014	$ 538,874,000		$ 1,160,000	$ (71,021,000)	$ 766,961,000	$ 272,000	$ (158,498,000)	$ 91,429,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding at Sep. 30, 2014			113,634,803						113,634,803

[1] During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.

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Receivables from and Payable to Brokers (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Brokers and Dealers [Abstract]
Receivable from brokers	$ 95,149	$ 66,980
Payable to brokers	$ 246,797	$ 75,420

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Defined Benefit Plans (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

The amounts contained in the following table relate to the Company's defined benefit plan for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014			2013			2014			2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Components of net periodic benefit cost included in employee compensation and benefits
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Interest cost	18			54			85			152
Expected return on plan assets	(168		)	(64		)	(300		)	(186		)
Amortization of loss / (gain)	(7		)	—			(7		)	—
Amortization of prior service cost	—			5			—			16
Effect of settlement	—			—			—			(95		)
Net periodic benefit cost	$	(157	)	$	(5	)	$	(222	)	$	(113	)

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans SARs (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Closing stock price, in dollars per share	$ 3.75		$ 3.91
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	0
Equity Plans
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	$ 0	[1]
Equity Plans | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Shares Subject to Option
Balance outstanding, beginning of period, shares	400,000
Granted, shares	0
Acquired, shares	0
Expired, shares	0
Balance outstanding, end of period, shares	400,000		400,000
Balance exercisable, shares	0
Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share
Balance outstanding, beginning of period, in dollars per share	$ 2.90
Granted, in dollars per share	$ 0.00
Acquired, in dollars per share	$ 0.00
Expired, in dollars per share	$ 0.00
Balance outstanding, end of period, in dollars per share	$ 2.90		$ 2.90
Balance exercisable, in dollars per share	$ 0.00
Weighted Average Remaining Term Outstanding	3 years 5 months 16 days		4 years 2 months 16 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	591,000	[1]	608,000	[1]
Unrecognized compensation expense	$ 200,000		$ 300,000

[1] Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

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Treasury Stock

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Equity [Abstract]

Treasury Stock

Treasury stock

Treasury stock of $71.0 million as of September 30, 2014, compared to $48.1 million as of December 31, 2013, resulted from $5.6 million acquired through repurchases of shares to cover employee minimum tax withholding obligations related to stock compensation vesting events under the Company's Equity Plan or other similar transactions and $17.3 million purchased in connection with a share repurchase program.

The following represents the activity relating to the treasury stock held by the Company during the nine months ended September 30, 2014:

	Treasury stock shares	Cost (dollars in thousands)		Average cost per share
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	15,873,549	$	48,084	$	3.03
Shares purchased for minimum tax withholding under the Equity Plan or other similar transactions	1,367,262	5,610		4.10
Purchase of treasury stock	4,267,557	17,327		4.06
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	21,508,368	$	71,021	$	3.30

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Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Future Minimum Annual Lease and Service Payments

As of September 30, 2014, future minimum annual lease and service payments for the Company were as follows:

	Equipment Leases (a)		Service Payments		Facility Leases (b)
	(dollars in thousands)
2014	$	727	$	3,970	$	4,829
2015	2,603		11,708		18,481
2016	2,284		6,019		15,109
2017	2,198		3,039		11,676
2018	2,198		2,709		11,358
Thereafter	813		22		41,644
	$	10,823	$	27,467	$	103,097

(a) Equipment Leases include the Company's commitments relating to operating and capital leases. See Note 14 for further information on the capital lease minimum payments which are included in the table.

(b) The Company has entered into various agreements to sublease certain of its premises. The Company recorded sublease income related to these leases of $0.5 million and $0.4 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $1.3 million and $1.0 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013.

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Earnings Per Share

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share

The Company calculates its basic and diluted earnings per share in accordance with US GAAP. Basic earnings per common share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to the Company's stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. As of September 30, 2014, there were 113,634,803 shares outstanding. The Company has included 424,479 fully vested, unissued restricted stock units in its calculation of basic earnings per share.

Diluted earnings per common share are calculated by adjusting the weighted average outstanding shares to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive nonvested restricted stock and stock options. The Company uses the treasury stock method to reflect the potential dilutive effect of the unvested restricted shares, restricted stock units, unexercised stock options, warrants and SAR's. In calculating the number of dilutive shares outstanding, the shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted shares and restricted stock units are assumed to have been delivered, and options and warrants are assumed to have been exercised, on the grant date. The assumed proceeds from the assumed vesting, delivery and exercising were calculated as the sum of (a) the amount of compensation cost attributed to future services and not yet recognized and (b) the amount of tax benefit that would be credited to additional paid-in capital assuming vesting and delivery of the restricted stock. The tax benefit is the amount resulting from a tax deduction for compensation in excess of compensation expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes. All outstanding stock options and warrants were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per common share for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.

The computation of earnings per share is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Net income (loss)	$	10,529	$	8,370	$	38,154	$	12,637
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006		4,759		13,409		10,509
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	6,523	$	3,611	$	24,745	$	2,128
Shares for basic and diluted calculations:
Weighted average shares used in basic computation	114,969		118,359		115,407		116,012
Warrants	—		—		—		—
Stock options	—		—		—		—
Stock appreciation rights	59		311		57		296
Restricted stock	3,773		4,038		4,563		3,583
Weighted average shares used in diluted computation	118,801		122,708		120,027		119,891
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.06	$	0.03	$	0.21	$	0.02
Diluted	$	0.05	$	0.03	$	0.21	$	0.02

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Income Taxes Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	$ 1.0	$ 1.2
Tax Liabilities, Undistributed Foreign Earnings	$ 0.2	$ 0.1

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 38,154	$ 12,637
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	7,036	7,786
Amortization of Debt Discount	3,241	0
Share-based compensation	14,286	13,803
Deferred rent obligations	(1,629)	(2,467)
Net loss on disposal of fixed assets	311	350
Purchases of securities owned, at fair value	(3,362,237)	(5,948,964)
Proceeds from sales of securities owned, at fair value	3,013,982	6,179,204
Proceeds from sales of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	1,371,216	2,417,838
Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	(1,268,348)	(2,458,420)
Net (gains) losses on securities, derivatives and other investments	(38,181)	(33,530)
Consolidated Funds
Purchases of securities owned, at fair value	0	(298,220)
Proceeds from sales of securities owned, at fair value	0	287,412
Proceeds from sales of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	0	42,701
Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value	0	(42,387)
Purchases of other investments	(19,568)	(973)
Proceeds from sales of other investments	21,367	39,195
Net realized and unrealized (gains) losses on investments and other transactions	(11,320)	(12,729)
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
Cash acquired upon transaction	0	10,747
Cash collateral pledged	2,045	143
Securities owned, at fair value, held at broker dealer	4,300	13,078
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	9,820	9,184
Securities borrowed	(1,393,783)	(494,476)
Receivable from brokers	(28,169)	4,628
Fees receivable, net of allowance	1,501	(4,237)
Due from related parties	(2,806)	(5,636)
Other assets	(5,702)	(10,215)
Consolidated Funds
Cash and cash equivalents	1,680	2,071
Other assets	4,933	(362)
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value, held at broker dealer	(19,839)	(9,305)
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	(12,016)	(917)
Securities loaned	1,406,105	484,349
Payable to brokers	171,377	(39,512)
Compensation payable	8,636	(34,020)
Fees payable	3,840	2,933
Due to related parties	31	(196)
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	6,521	(10,021)
Consolidated Funds
Payables to Brokers	0	1,030
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities	(455)	(249)
Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities	(73,671)	122,253
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of other investments	(80,153)	(19,406)
Cash convertible note economic hedge transaction	(35,710)	0
Proceeds from sales of other investments	75,622	25,668
Tenant Allowance	1,240	0
Purchase of fixed assets	(6,890)	(784)
Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities	(45,891)	5,478
Cash flows from financing activities:
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	(3,657)	(159,634)
Proceeds from issuance of convertible debt	149,500	0
Deferred debt issuance cost	(3,720)	0
Proceeds from sale of warrant	15,218	0
Borrowings on short-term borrowings and other debt	6,217	2,044
Repayments on short-term borrowings and other debt	(2,913)	(2,807)
Proceeds from stock options exercised	116	0
Purchase of treasury stock	(17,327)	(2,658)
Cash paid to acquire net assets (contingent liability payable)	(518)	(73)
Capital contributions by redeemable non-controlling interests in operating entities	705	501
Capital withdrawals to redeemable non-controlling interests in operating entities	(9,575)	(2,282)
Consolidated Funds
Capital contributions by redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds	9,568	11,155
Capital withdrawals to redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds	(12,606)	(18,298)
Net cash provided by / (used in) financing activities	131,008	(172,052)
Change in cash and cash equivalents	11,446	(44,321)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	54,720	83,538
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	66,166	39,217
Supplemental information
Non compete agreements and covenants with limiting conditions acquired (see Note 2)	0	460
Common stock issuance upon close of acquisition (see Note 2)	0	6,297
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost, through net settlement (see Note 21)	5,610	3,156
Cash conversion option	35,710	0
Re-issuance of treasury stock for services provided	0	65
Net assets transferred to Merger Master	$ 0	$ 22,152

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets
Fixed assets, accumulated depreciation and amortization (in dollars)	$ 24,437	$ 21,853
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization (in dollars)	$ 26,189	$ 26,610
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Treasury Stock, Shares	21,508,368	15,873,549
Common Stock Class A
Stockholders' equity
Treasury Stock, Shares	21,508,368	15,873,549
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	250,000,000	250,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	135,143,171	130,900,182
Common stock, shares outstanding	113,634,803	115,026,633
Common stock, restricted shares	424,479	482,522
Common Stock Class B
Stockholders' equity
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	250,000,000	250,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, shares outstanding	0	0

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans

Share-Based and Deferred Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans

The Company issues share based compensation under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, the 2007 Equity and Incentive Plan (both established prior to the November 2009 transaction between Ramius and Cowen) and the Cowen Group, Inc. 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan (collectively, the “Equity Plans”). The Equity Plans permit the grant of options, restricted shares, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights ("SAR's") and other equity based awards to the Company's employees, consultants and directors for up to 17,725,000 shares of common stock plus any approved additional shares in accordance with the Equity Plans. Stock options granted generally vest over two-to-five-year periods and expire seven years from the date of grant. Restricted shares and restricted share units issued may be immediately vested or may generally vest over a two-to-five-year period. SAR's vest and expire after five years from grant date. Awards are subject to the risk of forfeiture. As of September 30, 2014, there were approximately 1.6 million shares available for future issuance under the Equity Plans.

Under the 2010 Equity Plan, the Company awarded $29.3 million of deferred cash awards to its employees in the first nine months of 2014. These awards vest over a period of five years and accrue interest between 0.70% to 0.75% per year. As of September 30, 2014, the Company had unrecognized compensation expense related to deferred cash awards of $38.7 million.

The Company measures compensation cost for share based awards according to the equity method. In accordance with the expense recognition provisions of those standards, the Company amortizes unearned compensation associated with share based awards on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the option or award. In relation to awards under the Equity Plans, the Company recognized expense of $3.8 million and $4.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $14.3 million and $13.8 million, for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The income tax effect recognized for the Equity Plans was a benefit of $1.4 million and $2.9 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $4.4 million and $8.5 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively; however, these benefits were offset by a valuation allowance.

Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights

The Company values options and SAR's on grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model which requires the Company to make assumptions regarding the expected term, volatility, risk-free rate and dividend yield:

Expected term.    Expected term represents the period of time that awards granted are expected to be outstanding. The Company elected to use the "simplified" calculation method, as applicable to companies that lack extensive historical data. The mid-point between the vesting date and the contractual expiration date is used as the expected term under this method.

Expected volatility.    The Company bases its expected volatility on its own stock price history.

Risk free rate.    The risk-free rate for periods within the expected term of the award is based on the interest rate of a traded zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond with a term equal to the awards' expected term on the date of grant.

Dividend yield.    The Company has not paid and does not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the assumed dividend yield is zero.

The following table summarizes the Company's stock option activity for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Shares Subject to Option		Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share		Weighted Average Remaining Term	Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
					(in years)	(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	300,006		$	7.19	2.40	$	—
Options granted	—		—		—	—
Options exercised	(33,334	)	3.50		—	—
Options expired	(33,334	)	17.61		—	—
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	233,338		$	6.22	1.72	$	—
Options exercisable at September 30, 2014	233,338		$	6.22	1.72	$	—

(1) Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

As of September 30, 2014, the unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of stock options was insignificant.

The following table summarizes the Company's SAR's for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Shares Subject to Option	Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share		Weighted Average Remaining Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
				(in years)		(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	400,000	$	2.90	4.21		$	608
SAR's granted	—	—		—		—
SAR's acquired	—	—		—		—
SAR's expired	—	—		—		—
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	400,000	$	2.90	3.46		$	591
SAR's exercisable at September 30, 2014	—	$	—	$	—

(1) Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of SAR's was $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units Granted to Employees

Restricted shares and restricted stock units are referred to collectively as restricted stock. The following table summarizes the Company's restricted share and restricted stock unit activity for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Nonvested Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	13,551,544		$	3.37
Granted	8,840,838		3.82
Vested	(4,028,129	)	3.27
Canceled	—		—
Forfeited	(852,784	)	3.26
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014 (1)	17,511,469		$	3.63

(1) Included in the outstanding balance are 1,925,750 performance linked restricted stock units awarded to employees of the Company in December 2013 and January 2014. Of the awards granted, 281,250 have been forfeited during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. The remaining awards will vest on June 10, 2019 and will be earned only to the extent that the Company attains specified performance goals relating to its volume-weighted average share price and the aggregate net income for the years from 2014 to 2018. The actual number of RSUs ultimately earned could vary from zero, if performance goals are not met, to as much as 100% of the targeted award. Each RSU is equal to the one share of the Company’s Class A common stock. Compensation expense is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the Company will attain the performance goals.

The fair value of restricted stock (excluding performance linked units which are valued using the Monte Carlo valuation model) is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant.

As of September 30, 2014, there was $44.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of nonvested restricted shares and restricted stock units to employees. Unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested restricted shares and restricted stock units granted to employees is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.95 years.

Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units Granted to Non-employee Board Members

There were 158,791 restricted stock units awarded during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. Vested awards of 216,834 were delivered during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. As of September 30, 2014 there were 424,479 restricted stock units outstanding.

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Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Nov. 05, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Cowen Group, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0001466538
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2014
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		113,635,176

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Defined Benefit Plans

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Defined Benefit Plans

Defined Benefit Plan

The amounts contained in the following table relate to the Company's defined benefit plan for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014			2013			2014			2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Components of net periodic benefit cost included in employee compensation and benefits
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Interest cost	18			54			85			152
Expected return on plan assets	(168		)	(64		)	(300		)	(186		)
Amortization of loss / (gain)	(7		)	—			(7		)	—
Amortization of prior service cost	—			5			—			16
Effect of settlement	—			—			—			(95		)
Net periodic benefit cost	$	(157	)	$	(5	)	$	(222	)	$	(113	)

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Subsequent Events Subsequent Events (Details) (Senior Notes [Member], Subsequent Event, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	0 Months Ended
	Oct. 10, 2014	Oct. 10, 2014
Senior Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event
Debt Issuance Cost	$ 2.9
Debt Instrument, Face Amount		$ 63.3
Interest rate		8.25%

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Revenues
Investment banking	$ 45,799	$ 27,694	$ 125,653	$ 70,431
Brokerage	34,334	28,462	100,475	86,583
Management fees	9,796	9,327	28,412	28,518
Incentive income	(837)	2,521	4,385	7,086
Interest and dividends	13,725	10,969	35,437	30,905
Reimbursement from affiliates	2,473	2,175	7,391	6,451
Other revenues	1,120	556	2,427	1,519
Consolidated Funds
Interest and dividends	642	255	1,783	414
Other revenues	49	190	717	267
Total revenues	107,101	82,149	306,680	232,174
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	65,806	53,614	197,771	145,344
Floor brokerage and trade execution	5,125	5,421	16,638	17,669
Interest and dividends	12,429	6,281	29,694	20,886
Professional, advisory and other fees	4,621	4,022	12,596	10,878
Service fees	1,933	2,351	6,161	7,615
Communications	3,286	3,481	9,554	9,991
Occupancy and equipment	6,650	6,752	19,371	19,019
Depreciation and amortization	2,274	2,624	7,036	7,786
Client services and business development	6,577	3,493	16,726	12,251
Other expenses	3,364	3,248	9,750	8,785
Consolidated Funds
Interest and dividends	218	96	517	157
Professional, advisory and other fees	348	230	622	717
Floor brokerage and trade execution	1	91	7	196
Other expenses	68	33	189	167
Total expenses	112,700	91,737	326,632	261,461
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	13,836	14,680	48,227	30,507
Consolidated Funds
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions	532	3,096	8,474	11,274
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax	1,899	(32)	1,688	430
Net gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions	2	168	(17)	1
Total other income (loss)	16,269	17,912	58,372	42,212
Income (loss) before income taxes	10,670	8,324	38,420	12,925
Income tax expense (benefit)	141	(46)	266	288
Net income (loss)	10,529	8,370	38,154	12,637
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	4,006	4,759	13,409	10,509
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$ 6,523	$ 3,611	$ 24,745	$ 2,128
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	114,969	118,359	115,407	116,012
Diluted (in shares)	118,801	122,708	120,027	119,891
Earnings (loss) per share:
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ 0.06	$ 0.03	$ 0.21	$ 0.02
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ 0.05	$ 0.03	$ 0.21	$ 0.02

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]

Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

a. Operating Entities

Securities owned, at fair value

Securities owned, at fair value are held by the Company and are considered held for trading. Substantially all equity securities are pledged to the clearing broker under terms which permit the clearing broker to sell or re-pledge the securities to others subject to certain limitations.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, securities owned, at fair value consisted of the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
U.S. Government securities (a)	$	1,009	$	9
Preferred stock	574		324
Common stocks	430,941		176,939
Restricted common stock	11,993		—
Convertible bonds (b)	7,501		5,958
Corporate bonds (c)	188,832		121,372
Warrants and rights	3,370		5,912
Mutual funds	16,382		525
	$	660,602	$	311,039

(a) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from May 2015 to April 2016 and an interest rates ranged between 0% to 5.95%. As of December 31, 2013, the maturity was April 2016 with an interest rate of 5.95%.

(b) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from October 2014 to November 2014 and interest rates ranged between 4.00% to 10.00%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from May 2014 to October 2014 and interest rates ranged between 5.00% to 10.00% .

(c) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2015 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% to 11.54%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from January 2014 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 3.38% to 11.75%.

Receivable on and Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value

The Company's direct involvement with derivative financial instruments includes futures, currency forwards, equity swaps, options and warrants and rights. Open equity positions in futures transactions are recorded as receivables from and payables to broker-dealers or clearing brokers, as applicable. The Company's derivatives trading activities exposes the Company to certain risks, such as price and interest rate fluctuations, volatility risk, credit risk, counterparty risk, foreign currency movements and changes in the liquidity of markets.

On the date of issuance of the Company's cash convertible unsecured senior notes ("Convertible Notes") (see Note 14), the Company recognized the embedded cash conversion option of $35.7 million which is valued as of September 30, 2014 at $28.8 million and is included in payable for derivative contracts in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. Also, on the date of issuance of the Convertible Notes, the Company entered into a separate cash convertible note economic hedge transaction (the "Hedge Transaction") with a counterparty (the “Option Counterparty”) whereby, the Company purchased a cash settled option contract with terms identical to the conversion option embedded in the Convertible Notes and simultaneously sold an equity settled warrant with a higher strike price. The Hedge Transaction is expected to reduce the Company’s exposure to potential cash payments in excess of the principal amount of converted notes that the Company may be required to make upon conversion of the Convertible Notes. On the date of issuance of the Convertible Notes, the Company paid a premium of $35.7 million for the option under the Hedge Transaction and received a premium of $15.2 million for the equity settled warrant transaction, for a net cost of $20.5 million. The Hedge Transaction is valued at $28.8 million as of September 30, 2014 and is included in receivable on derivative contracts in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. Aside from the initial premium paid, the Company will not be required to make any cash payments under the Hedge Transaction and could be entitled to receive an amount of cash from the Option Counterparty generally equal to the amount by which the market price per share of common stock exceeds the strike price of the Hedge Transaction during the relevant valuation period. The warrants cover 28,048,786 shares of the Company's Class A common stock and have an initial exercise price of $7.18 per share. The warrants expire over a period of 80 trading days beginning on November 14, 2018. The warrant transaction could have a dilutive effect to the extent that the market value per share of the Company’s Class A common stock exceeds the applicable strike price of the warrants.

The Company's long and short exposure to derivatives is as follows:

Receivable on derivative contracts	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Commodity Future	$	177	$	285
Cross Rate	291		22
Equity Swap (a)	1,541		70
Options (b)	33,957		9,698
	$	35,966	$	10,075

(a) The notional values of equity swaps classified as receivable on derivative contracts are $5.6 million and $21.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(b) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 349,989 and 71,129 contracts held, respectively.

Payable for derivative contracts	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Futures	$	24	$	275
Currency forwards	—		301
Equity and credit default swaps (a)	51		525
Options (b)	31,294		6,573
	$	31,369	$	7,674

(a) The notional values of equity and credit default swaps classified as payable for derivative contracts are $5.5 million and $16.5 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(b) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had 20,224 and 38,221 contracts held, respectively.

The following tables present the gross and net derivative positions and the related offsetting amount, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
As of September 30, 2014
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	$	35,966	$	—	$	35,966	$	—	$	1,832	$	34,134
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	31,369		—		31,369		—		51		31,318
As of December 31, 2013
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value	10,075		—		10,075		—		92		9,983
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value	7,674		—		7,674		—		826		6,848

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

The realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to derivatives trading activities were $5.1 million and $0.8 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $1.4 million and $(3.6) million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and are included in other income in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Pursuant to the various derivatives transactions discussed above, except for the cash convertible note hedge (See Note 14) and exchange traded derivatives, the Company is required to post/receive collateral. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, collateral consisting of $14.1 million and $10.0 million of cash, respectively, is included in receivable from brokers on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 all derivative contracts were with multiple major financial institutions.

Other investments

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, other investments included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value	$	97,004	$	71,051
(2) Real estate investments, at fair value	2,285		2,088
(3) Equity method investments	30,935		25,966
(4) Lehman claims, at fair value	360		378
	$	130,584	$	99,483

(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value

The Portfolio Funds, at fair value as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
HealthCare Royalty Partners (a)(*)	$	11,242	$	9,741
HealthCare Royalty Partners II (a)(*)	6,445		4,961
Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (b)(*)	13,925		12,674
Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP (c)(*)	19,205		17,495
Starboard Partners Fund LP (d)(*)	14,961		—
Formation 8 Partners Fund I (e)	6,295		2,788
RCG LV Park Lane LLC (f) (*)	1,425		678
RCGL 12E13th LLC (g) (*)	640		558
RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. (g) (*)	12,976		11,979
Other private investment (h)	7,141		7,772
Other affiliated funds (i)(*)	2,749		2,405
	$	97,004	$	71,051

* These portfolio funds are affiliates of the Company.

The Company has no unfunded commitments regarding the portfolio funds held by the Company except as noted in Note 13.

(a) HealthCare Royalty Partners, L.P. and HealthCare Royalty Partners II, L.P. are private equity funds and therefore distributions will be made when cash flows are received from the underlying investments, typically on a quarterly basis.

(b) Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (formerly known as Ramius Global Credit Fund LP) has a quarterly redemption policy with a 60 day notice period and a 4% penalty on redemptions of investments of less than a year in duration.

(c) Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP permits quarterly withdrawals upon 90 days notice.

(d) Starboard Partners Fund LP permits redemptions on a semi-annual basis on 180 days prior written notice subsequent to an initial two year period when redemptions are not permitted.

(e) Formation 8 Partners Fund I is a private equity fund which invests in equity of early stage and growth transformational information and energy technology companies. Distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(f) RCG LV Park Lane LLC  is a single purpose entity formed to participate in a joint venture which acquired, at a discount, the mortgage notes on a portfolio of multifamily real estate properties located in Birmingham, Alabama.  RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a private equity structure and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(g) RCGL 12E13th LLC and RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. are real estate private equity structures and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

(h) Other private investment represents the Company's closed end investment in a portfolio fund that invests in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy.

(i) The majority of these funds are affiliates of the Company or are managed by the Company and the investors can redeem from these funds as investments are liquidated.

(2) Real estate investments, at fair value

Real estate investments as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are carried at fair value and include real estate equity investments held by RCG RE Manager, LLC (“RE Manager”), a real estate operating subsidiary of the Company, of $2.3 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

(3) Equity method investments

Equity method investments include investments held by the Company in several operating companies whose operations primarily include the day to day management of a number of real estate funds, including the portfolio management and administrative services related to the acquisition, disposition, and active monitoring of the real estate funds' underlying debt and equity investments. The Company's ownership interests in these equity method investments range from 20% to 55%. The Company holds a majority of the outstanding ownership interest (i.e., more than 50%) in three of these entities: RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC, RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Partners, LLC and RCG Longview Partners II, LLC. The operating agreements that govern the management of day-to-day operations and affairs of each of these three entities stipulate that certain decisions require support and approval from other members in addition to the support and approval of the Company. As a result, all operating decisions made in these three entities require the support of both the Company and an affirmative vote of a majority of the other managing members who are not affiliates of the Company. As the Company does not possess control over any of these entities, the presumption of consolidation has been overcome pursuant to current accounting standards and the Company accounts for these investments under the equity method of accounting. Also included in equity method investments are the investments in (a) HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners (b) an investment in the CBOE (Chicago Board Options Exchange) Stock Exchange LLC ("CBOE SE") representing a 9.5% stake in the exchange service provider for which the Company exercises significant influence over through representation on the CBOE Board of Directors, and (c) Starboard Value (and certain related parties) which serves as an operating company whose operations primarily include the day to day management (including portfolio management) of a deep value small cap hedge fund and related managed accounts.

During the second quarter of 2014, CBOE SE initiated a plan to wind down its operations and liquidate its assets and liabilities. As a result, the Company determined that the carrying value of its investment in CBOE SE was no longer recoverable and reassessed it for impairment. As a result, the Company recognized an impairment loss of $0.8 million, during the second quarter of 2014, which was deemed to be other than temporary. The impairment loss was measured based on the estimated recovery under the liquidation plan submitted to the creditors and the regulators and potential sale to a third party and is included in other income (loss) on the condensed consolidated statement of operations. The Company recorded no other impairment charges in relation to its equity method investments for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014

The following table summarizes equity method investments held by the Company:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC	$	728	$	1,533
RCG Longview Debt Fund V Partners, LLC	2,049		1,497
HealthCare Royalty GP, LLC	917		794
HealthCare Royalty GP II, LLC	1,297		840
HealthCare Royalty GP III, LLC	52		47
CBOE Stock Exchange, LLC	435		1,351
Starboard Value LP	19,766		14,263
RCG Longview Partners, LLC	237		1,839
RCG Longview Management, LLC	1,034		308
RCG Urban American, LLC	396		316
RCG Urban American Management, LLC	344		238
RCG Longview Equity Management, LLC	250		292
Urban American Real Estate Fund II, LLC	2,208		1,785
RCG Kennedy House, LLC	533		502
Other	689		361
	$	30,935	$	25,966

For the period ended September 30, 2014, an equity method investment held by the Company has met the significance criteria as defined under SEC guidance. As such, the Company is required to present summarized financial information for this significant investee for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013. The summarized income statement information for the Company's investment in the individually significant investee is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	3,432	$	2,979	$	10,171	$	7,264
Expenses	—		—		—		—
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)	34		43		89		95
Net Income	$	3,466	$	3,022	$	10,260	$	7,359

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's share of losses in its equity method investment in RCG Longview Partners II, LLC has exceeded the carrying amount recorded in this investee. These amounts are included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. RCG Longview Partners II, LLC, as general partner to a real estate fund, has reversed previously recorded incentive income allocations and has recorded a current clawback obligation to the limited partners in the fund. This obligation is due to a change in unrealized value of the fund on which there have previously been distributed carried interest realizations; however, the settlement of a potential obligation is not due until the end of the life of the respective fund. As the Company is obligated to return previous distributions it received from RCG Longview Partners II, LLC, it has continued to record its share of gains/losses in the investee including reflecting its share of the clawback obligation in the amount of $6.2 million.

The Company's income (loss) from equity method investments was $7.2 million and $5.2 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $17.5 million and $12.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

(4) Lehman Claims, at fair value

Lehman Brothers International (Europe) (“LBIE”), through certain affiliates, was a prime broker to the Company, and the Company held cash and cash equivalent balances with LBIE. On September 15, 2008, LBIE was placed into administration (the “Administration”) in the United Kingdom and, as a result, the assets held by the Company in its LBIE accounts were frozen at LBIE. The assets which the Company believed were held at LBIE at the time of Administration (the “Total Net Equity Claim”) consisted of $1.0 million, which the Company believed would represent an unsecured claim against LBIE. On November 2, 2012, the Company executed a Claims Determination Deed with respect to this claim.  By entering into this deed, the Company and LBIE reached agreement on the amount of the Company's unsecured claim, which was agreed to be approximately $0.9 million.  As a result of entering into this deed, the Company is entitled to participate in dividends to unsecured creditors of LBIE. At the end of November 2012, the Company received its first dividend in an amount equal to 25.2% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.2 million, at the end of June 2013 the Company received its second dividend in an amount equal to 43.3% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.4 million, at the end of November 2013, the Company received its third dividend in an amount equal to 23.7% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.2 million, and at the end of April 2014 the Company received its fourth dividend in an amount equal to 7.8% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.1 million. The total amounts received to date in respect of the Company’s unsecured claim against LBIE are approximately $1.0 million, representing 100.0% of its agreed claim. LBIE also indicated that no further distributions will be possible until such time as matters concerning how the surplus remaining in the estate will be distributed are resolved. Accordingly, the Company does not know the timing with respect to future dividends to unsecured creditors or the ultimate value that will be received, with respect to its claim. The claim described above does not include claims held by the Company against LBIE through its investment in Enterprise Master discussed in Note 5b(2).

Given the fact that LBIE has made multiple distributions to unsecured creditors and the increased trading levels for unsecured claims of LBIE, the Company decided to record the estimated fair value of the Total Net Equity Claim at 138.3% and 131.5% as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, which represented management's best estimate at the respective dates of the value that ultimately may be recovered with respect to the Total Net Equity Claim (the “Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim”). The Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim was recorded at estimated fair value considering a number of factors including the status of the assets under U.K. insolvency laws and the trading levels of LBIE unsecured debt. In determining the estimated value of the Total Net Equity Claim, the Company was required to use considerable judgment and is based on the facts currently available. As additional information on the LBIE proceeding becomes available, the Company may need to adjust the valuation of the Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim. The actual recovery that may ultimately be received by the Company with respect to the pending LBIE claim is not known and could be different from the estimated value assigned by the Company. (See Note 5b(2)).

Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value

Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value represent obligations of the Company to deliver a specified security at a contracted price and, thereby, create a liability to purchase that security at prevailing prices. The Company's liability for securities to be delivered is measured at their fair value as of the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements. However, these transactions result in off-balance sheet risk, as the Company's ultimate cost to satisfy the delivery of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value may exceed the amount reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Substantially all equity securities and options are pledged to the clearing broker under terms which permit the clearing broker to sell or re-pledge the securities to others subject to certain limitations. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value consisted of the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks	$	209,031	$	130,899
Corporate bonds (a)	58		55
	$	209,089	$	130,954

(a) As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the maturity was January 2026 with an interest rate of 5.55%.

Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

The Company held no securities purchased under agreements to resell or securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of September 30, 2014. The following table represents the Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of December 31, 2013:

	As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
Agreements with Royal Bank of Canada bearing interest of 1.75% due June 2015 to November 2015	$	3,657
	$	3,657

The following tables present the gross and net repurchase agreements and the related offsetting amount, as of December 31, 2013.

As of December 31, 2013
							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	$	3,657	$	—	$	3,657	$	—	$	3,657	$	—

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.

For all of the Company's holdings of repurchase agreements as of December 31, 2013, the repurchase dates were open and the agreement could be terminated by either party at any time. The agreements rolls over on a day-to-day basis.

Transactions involving the purchase or sale of securities under repurchase/resell agreements are carried at their contract value, which approximates fair value, and are accounted for as collateralized financings. In connection with these financings, as of December 31, 2013, the Company had pledged collateral of $4.6 million (consisting of corporate bonds), which is included in securities owned, at fair value in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

Securities lending and borrowing transactions

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company has loaned to brokers and dealers, securities having a market value of $2.2 billion and $881.7 million, respectively.  In addition, the Company has borrowed from brokers and dealers, securities having a market value of $2.2 billion and $892.8 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

The following tables present the contractual gross and net securities borrowing and lending agreements and the related offsetting amount, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

							Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition
	Gross amounts recognized		Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)		Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition		Financial instruments		Collateral pledged (b)		Net amounts
	(dollars in thousands)
As of September 30, 2014
Securities borrowed	$	2,321,556	$	—	$	2,321,556	$	—	$	2,321,556	$	—
Securities loaned	2,324,682		—		2,324,682		—		2,324,682		—
As of December 31, 2013
Securities borrowed	927,773		—		927,773		—		927,773		—
Securities loaned	918,577		—		918,577		—		918,577		—

(a) Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.

(b) Includes the amount of cash collateral held/posted.

Variable Interest Entities

The total assets and liabilities of the variable interest entities for which the Company has concluded that it holds a variable interest, but for which it is not the primary beneficiary, are $2.4 billion and $247.7 million as of September 30, 2014 and $1.7 billion and $242.5 million as of December 31, 2013, respectively. In addition, the maximum exposure relating to these variable interest entities as of September 30, 2014 was $190.5 million, and as of December 31, 2013 was $193.9 million, all of which is included in other investments, at fair value in the Company's condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The exposure to loss primarily relates to the Consolidated Feeder Funds' investment in their Unconsolidated Master Funds as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

b. Consolidated Funds

Other investments, at fair value

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 other investments, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds are comprised of:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds	$	196,640	$	182,638
(2) Lehman claims	361		4,842
	$	197,001	$	187,480

(1) Investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value, included the following:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Investments of Enterprise LP	$	146,987	$	155,530
Investments of Merger Fund	49,653		26,963
Investments of consolidated fund of funds	—		145
	$	196,640	$	182,638

Consolidated investments of Enterprise LP    

Enterprise LP operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Enterprise Master's shareholders are Enterprise LP and RCG II Intermediate Fund, L.P. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Enterprise LP's investment of $147.0 million and $155.5 million in Enterprise Master as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. On May 12, 2010, the Company announced its intention to close Enterprise Master. Prior to this announcement, strategies utilized by Enterprise Master included merger arbitrage and activist investing, investments in distressed securities, convertible hedging, capital structure arbitrage, equity market neutral, investments in private placements of convertible securities, proprietary mortgages, structured credit investments, investments in mortgage backed securities and other structured finance products, investments in real estate and real property interests, structured private placements and other relative value strategies. Enterprise Master had broad investment powers and maximum flexibility in seeking to achieve its investment objective. Enterprise Master was permitted to invest in equity securities, debt instruments, options, futures, swaps, credit default swaps and other derivatives. Enterprise Master has been selling, and will continue to sell, its positions and return capital to its investors. There are no unfunded commitments at Enterprise LP.

Consolidated investments of Merger Fund    

The Merger Fund operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Ramius Merger Master Ltd's ("Merger Master") shareholders are Merger Fund and Ramius Merger Fund Ltd. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Merger Fund's investment of $49.7 million and $27.0 million in Merger Master as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The Merger Master’s investment objective is to achieve consistent absolute returns while emphasizing the preservation of investor capital. The Merger Master seeks to achieve these objectives by taking a fundamental, research-driven approach to investing, primarily in the securities of issuers engaged in, or subject to, announced (or unannounced but otherwise anticipated) extraordinary corporate transactions, which may include, but are not limited to, mergers, acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, tender offers, hostile takeover bids, sale processes, exchange offers, and recapitalizations. Merger Master invests in the securities of one or more issuers engaged in or subject to such extraordinary corporate transactions. Merger Master typically seeks to derive a profit by realizing the price differential, or “spread,” between the market price of securities purchased or sold short and the market price or value of securities realized in connection with the completion or termination of the extraordinary corporate transaction, or in connection with the adjustment of market prices in anticipation thereof, while seeking to minimize the market risk associated with the aforementioned investment activities. Merger Master will, depending on markets conditions, generally focus the majority of its investment program on announced transactions. If the investment manager of Merger Master considers it necessary, it may either alone or as part of a group, also initiate shareholder actions seeking to maximize value. Such shareholder actions may include, but are not limited to, re-orienting management’s focus or initiating the sale of the company (or one or more of its divisions) to a third party. There are no unfunded commitments at Merger Fund.

Investment of a consolidated fund of funds investment company

The investment of the consolidated fund of fund investment company was $0.1 million as of December 31, 2013, which was the remaining investment of Vintage Master FOF that was transferred to a third party during the three months ended March 31, 2014. Vintage Master FOF's investment objective was to allocate its capital among portfolio managers that invest through investment pools or managed accounts thereby forming concentrated investments in high conviction managers designed to achieve attractive risk adjusted returns with moderate relative volatility. The investment held at December 31, 2013 was a hedged equity strategy held in an externally managed portfolio fund. The hedged equity strategy focused on equity strategies with some directional market exposure. The strategy attempted to profit from market efficiencies and direction. There are no fund of fund investment companies consolidated as of September 30, 2014.

(2) Lehman Claims, at fair value

With respect to the aforementioned Lehman claims, the Total Net Equity Claim of Enterprise Master based on the value of assets at the time of Lehman's insolvency held directly by Enterprise Master and through Enterprise Master's ownership interest in affiliated funds consisted of $24.3 million. Included in this claim were assets with a value of $9.5 million at the time LBIE entered Administration that were returned to Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds in June 2010. Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds sold the returned assets for an aggregate $10.7 million, and distributed this amount to Enterprise Master's investors in July 2010. In December 2011, Enterprise Master received an aggregate of approximately $2.4 million relating to securities, interest and dividends earned with respect to securities held by LBIE on behalf of Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds. A distribution of $2.9 million occurred in February of 2012. On November 2, 2012, Enterprise Master executed a Claims Determination Deed with respect to the unsecured portion of its direct claim against LBIE.  By entering into this deed, Enterprise Master and LBIE reached agreement on the amount of Enterprise Master's unsecured claim, which was agreed to be approximately $1.3 million.  As a result of entering into this deed, Enterprise Master was entitled to participate in dividends to unsecured creditors of LBIE and at the end of November 2012 Enterprise Master received its first dividend in an amount equal to 25.2% of its agreed claim, or approximately $0.3 million. In February 2013, Enterprise Master sold its unsecured claim, including the amount received in connection with the first dividend, for $1.3 million, or par. Enterprise Master distributed the proceeds of the sale to the Company in March 2013. Of the original remaining net equity claim, $10.6 million represented claims to trust assets that the Company believes were held by LBIE through Lehman Brothers, Inc. (“LBI”). LBIE made a corresponding claim for these assets and other trust assets held at LBI by LBIE on behalf of other prime brokerage clients pursuant to an omnibus customer claim (the “LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim”). LBIE was only going to be able to return trust assets held at LBI to Enterprise Master once LBIE received a distribution from LBI in respect of the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. In February 2013, LBIE, Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. and LBI announced that they entered into two separate agreements settling all intercompany claims between LBI on the one part, and LBHI and LBIE on the other part. The settlement agreements were subject to the approval by the U.S. Bankruptcy Judge in the LBI Securities Investor Protection Act (SIPA) proceeding and, in the case of the agreement between LBI and LBIE, an order of the English High Court. The U.S. Banking Judge approved the settlement agreement in April 2013 and the English High Court issued an order approving the settlement in May 2013. The settlements allowed the trustee appointed under SIPA (the “SIPA Trustee”) to proceed with plans to allocate and distribute sufficient cash and securities to LBI's customer claimants, including LBIE with respect to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim, to enable the SIPA Trustee to satisfy valid customer claims in full. In March 2013, LBIE made a consensual proposal to the clients holding trust assets pursuant to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim to facilitate the return of the amounts recovered from LBI with respect to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. Under the consensual proposal, LBIE indicated that it intended to liquidate any securities received from LBI with respect to the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim and then allocate the value received from LBI among all of the LBIE clients who had trust assets held at LBI under the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. In allocating the amounts received from LBI, LBIE indicated that it intended to allow clients to determine their entitlements on a portfolio basis based on the higher of (i) the market value of the portfolio as of September 19, 2008 or (ii) the market value of the portfolio together with accrued income thereon as of November 30, 2012 (the “Best Claim”). LBIE's purpose in seeking a consensual arrangement with its clients relating to the liquidation and allocation described above was to ensure that a distribution could be made without having to seek UK court direction on these issues, which would otherwise have substantially delayed any distribution. On April 2, 2013, LBIE announced that the consensual proposal had been accepted by a sufficient number of clients to satisfy the acceptance threshold and would therefore become effective. The settlement agreement between LBI and LBIE also became effective and LBIE announced in June 2013 that it had recovered the majority of the cash and securities from LBI and that it had liquidated approximately 90% of the aggregate value of securities received or to be received from LBI and that it intended to make its first distribution to trust asset claimants at the end of September 2013. On September 26, 2013, LBIE announced that it had made a first interim distribution to trust claimants of 100% of the claimant's Best Claim amount. As previously announced by LBIE, LBIE requested guidance from the US Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") with regard to the character and source of the settlement payments. In order to balance LBIE's objective of making a significant distribution to claimants with the requirement to pay the appropriate US withholding tax in respect of distributions, as an interim solution LBIE deposited 30% of the gross distribution to claimants with the IRS as a reserve, except with respect to claimants who provided LBIE with a validly executed Form W-9. Once the appropriate US withholding tax treatment of the distributions is finally determined by the IRS, LBIE expects to be in a position to promptlyreceive back funds and release any excess reserves back to the appropriate claimants. On June 12, 2014, LBIE made a distribution to trust claimants in order to release excess reserves from the amounts withheld with respect to the September 26, 2013 distribution back to the appropriate claimants. The amount of the distribution received by Enterprise Master on September 26, 2013 was $14.9 million and the amount reserved by LBIE with respect to this distribution was $1.0 million. The amount received by Enterprise Master on June 12, 2014 as a release of excess reserves was $1.0 million. On January 30, 2014, LBIE made a second distribution to trust claimants of 6% of the claimant’s Best Claim amount. LBIE has also requested guidance from the IRS with respect to the character and source of this settlement payment and as an interim solution the withholding agent has reserved 30% of the distribution amount paid, except with respect to claimants who provided LBIE with a validly executed Form W-9. As of September 30, 2014, after giving effect to the receipt of the distributions described above, the Company is valuing Enterprise Master's remaining trust asset claim at 101.5% of its Best Claim, or $0.2 million. In June 2014, Enterprise Master received a distribution with respect to certain foreign denominated trust assets that were not within the control of LBIE. In this distribution, Enterprise Master received assets that Enterprise Master had valued at $0.8 million. Enterprise Master and its affiliated funds sold the returned assets for an aggregate $0.8 million. In July 2014, Enterprise Master made a distribution of $5.7 million to its investors. In September 2014, Enterprise Master received an additional distribution of approximately $35,000 in cash with respect to certain foreign denominated trust assets that were not within the control of LBIE and that were not returned by LBIE. After giving effect to all of these distributions, the remaining Net Equity Claim for Enterprise Master held directly and through its ownership interest in affiliated funds was $0.5 million as of September 30, 2014. Of the $0.5 million current valuation of Enterprise Master's claim, $0.4 million was attributable to Enterprise LP based on its ownership percentage in Enterprise Master at the time of the Administration.

In addition to Enterprise Master's claims against LBIE, LBI was a prime broker to Enterprise Master and Enterprise Master held cash balances of $4.9 million at LBI. These are not part of the LBIE Omnibus Customer Claim. On September 19, 2008, LBI was placed in a Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”) liquidation proceeding after the filing for bankruptcy of its parent Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. The settlement agreements between LBI, LBHI and LBIE discussed above have permitted the trustee appointed under the Securities Investor Protection Act (the “SIPA Trustee”) to make distributions to LBI customers and the SIPA Trustee announced that it expected to be able to make 100% distributions to its customers. In July 2013, Enterprise Master received a distribution of $4.9 million from LBI in respect of this claim.

As a result of Enterprise Master and certain of the funds managed by the Company having assets held at LBIE frozen in their LBIE prime brokerage account and the degree of uncertainty as to the status of those assets and the process and prospects of the return of those assets, Enterprise Master and the funds managed by the Company decided that only the investors who were invested at the time of the Administration should participate in any profit or loss relating to the Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claim. As a result, Enterprise Master and certain of the funds managed by the Company with assets held at LBIE granted a 100% participation in the Estimated Recoverable Lehman Claims to Special Purpose Vehicles (the “SPVs” or “Lehman Segregated Funds”) incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on September 29, 2008, whose shares were distributed to each of their investor funds. Fully redeeming investors of Enterprise LP will not be paid out on the balance invested in the SPV until the claim with LBIE is settled and assets are returned by LBIE.

Indirect Concentration of the Underlying Investments Held by Consolidated Funds

From time to time, either directly or indirectly through its investments in the Consolidated Funds, the Company may maintain exposure to a particular issue or issuer (both long and/or short) which may account for 5% or more of the Company's equity. Based on information that is available to the Company as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company assessed whether or not its interests in an issuer for which the Company's pro-rata share exceeds 5% of the Company's equity. There were no indirect concentrations that exceed 5% of the Company's equity as of September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

Underlying Investments of Unconsolidated Funds Held by Consolidated Funds

Enterprise Master and Merger Master

Enterprise LP's investment in Enterprise Master represents Enterprise LP's proportionate share of Enterprise Master's net assets; as a result, the investment balances of Enterprise Master reflected below may exceed the net investment which Enterprise LP has recorded. Merger Fund's investment in Merger Master represents Merger Fund's proportionate share of Merger Master's net assets; as a result, the investment balances of Merger Master reflected below may exceed the net investment which Merger Fund has recorded.The following tables present summarized investment information for the underlying investments and derivatives held by Enterprise Master and Merger Master as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

Securities owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Bank debt	$	6	$	5
Common stock	2,516		2,677
Preferred stock	973		973
Private equity	413		406
Restricted stock	124		124
Rights	2,321		2,528
Trade claims	128		128
Asset backed securities	1		—
	$	6,482	$	6,841

Derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Enterprise Master, net

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
Description	(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards	$	—	$	(21	)
	$	—	$	(21	)

Portfolio Funds, owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value

		As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Strategy	(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Equity Fund, LP*	Real Estate	$	8,848	$	8,470
RCG Longview II, LP*	Real Estate	800		800
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV, LP*	Real Estate	6,249		17,641
RCG Longview, LP*	Real Estate	40		319
RCG Soundview, LLC*	Real Estate	441		442
RCG Urban American Real Estate Fund, L.P.*	Real Estate	1,166		1,812
RCG International Sarl*	Multi-Strategy	1,574		1,795
RCG Special Opportunities Fund, Ltd*	Multi-Strategy	87,430		82,119
RCG Endeavour, LLC*	Multi-Strategy	—		6
RCG Energy, LLC *	Energy	2,832		2,842
RCG Renergys, LLC*	Energy	1		1
Other Private Investments	Various	12,585		12,952
Real Estate Investments	Real Estate	10,982		15,024
		$	132,948	$	144,223

* Affiliates of the Company.

Merger Master

Securities owned by Merger Master, at fair value

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks	$	88,975	$	33,901
Corporate bonds (a)	21,977		14,444
Options	455		200
	$	111,407	$	48,545

(a) As of September 30, 2014, maturities ranged from February 2017 to October 2022 and interest rates ranged between 5.38% and 9.75%. As of December 31, 2013, maturities ranged from April 2016 to October 2020 and interest rates ranged between 7.00% and 10.88%.

Securities sold, not yet purchased, by Merger Master, at fair value

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, Merger Master held common stock, sold not yet purchased, of $33.1 million and $19.5 million, respectively.

Derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Merger Master, net

	As of September 30, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
Description	(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards	$	41		$	(10	)
Options	(137		)	(54		)
Equity swaps	500			(92		)
	$	404		$	(156	)

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Cash collateral pledged

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]

Cash collateral pledged

Cash collateral pledged

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company pledged cash collateral in the amount of $8.9 million and $10.9 million, respectively, which relates to letters of credit issued to the landlords of the Company's premises in New York City, Boston and San Francisco (see Note 14).

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Notes)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income / (Loss) [Abstract]

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive income includes the after tax change in unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency translation adjustments and net gain (loss) and amortization of prior service costs related to the Company's defined benefit plans.

	Foreign currency translation (a)			Defined benefit plans (a)			Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2013	248			344			592
Net change	(233		)	(87		)	(320		)
Balance at September 30, 2014	$	15		$	257		$	272
	Foreign currency translation (a)			Defined benefit plans (a)			Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	258		$	98		$	356
Net change	(10		)	(207		)	(217		)
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	248		$	(109	)	$	139

(a) During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.

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Income Taxes

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

The taxable results of the Company’s U.S. operations are included in the consolidated income tax returns of Cowen Group, Inc. as well as stand-alone state and local tax returns. The Company has subsidiaries that are resident in foreign countries where tax filings have to be submitted on a stand‑alone basis. These subsidiaries are subject to tax in their respective countries and the Company is responsible for and, thus, reports all taxes incurred by these subsidiaries. The countries where the Company owns subsidiaries that file tax returns are United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Gibraltar, and Hong Kong.

The Company calculates its U.S. tax provision using the estimated annual effective tax rate methodology. The tax expense or benefit caused by an unusual or infrequent item is recorded in the quarter in which it occurs. The Company uses the discrete methodology to calculate its income tax provision for its foreign subsidiaries. Based on these methodologies, the Company’s effective income tax rate was 0.69% and 2.22% for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the unusual or infrequent item whose tax impact was recorded discretely primarily related to the tax provisions of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries.

For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the effective tax rate differs from the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to a change in the Company's valuation allowance, stock compensation and other nondeductible expenses.

The Company records deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax benefit or expense that will result from differences between the carrying value of its assets for income tax purposes and for financial reporting purposes, as well as for operating or capital loss and tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance is recorded to bring the net deferred tax assets to a level that, in management's view, is more likely than not to be realized in the foreseeable future. This level will be estimated based on a number of factors, especially the amount of net deferred tax assets of the Company that are actually expected to be realized, for tax purposes, in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax liabilities that cannot be realized in a similar future time period and thus that cannot offset the Company’s deferred tax assets are not taken into account when calculating the Company’s net deferred tax assets. The Company weighs all positive and negative evidence to reach its conclusion to record a full or partial valuation allowance for its deferred tax assets. Positive factors include sustainability of profitable operations, carry-forward periods for net operating losses and the effect of reversing taxable temporary differences, while negative factors include the Company’s three-year cumulative loss position, which is heavily weighted. Based on this analysis, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance against substantially all of its net deferred tax assets as of September 30, 2014. Due to recent and current positive operating results and, because the losses from 2011 are rolled off from the three-year rolling analysis, the Company anticipates to be in a three-year cumulative income position later in 2014. As a result of this development and other positive factors as indicated above, it is possible that the Company could release a large part of the Company’s valuation allowance in the fourth quarter of 2014, which would have a material and favorable effect on Net income and Stockholders’ equity. At September 30, 2014, the Company’s valuation allowance was $137.4 million, of which $135.2 million is related to the Company’s US operations.

The Company is subject to examination by the United States Internal Revenue Service, the United Kingdom Inland Revenue Service as well as state, local and foreign tax authorities in jurisdictions where the Company has significant business operations, such as New York. Currently, the Company is under audit by New York State for the 2009-2012 tax years. The Company does not expect to incur material tax liabilities from these audits.

The Company intends to permanently reinvest the capital and accumulated earnings of its foreign subsidiaries in the respective subsidiary, but remits the current earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to the United States to the extent permissible under local regulatory rules. The undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries totaled$1.0 million and $1.2 million as of September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, respectively, and the tax liability that would arise if these earnings were remitted to the United States would be approximately$0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

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Goodwill and Intangible Assets

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill Disclosure

Goodwill

In accordance with US GAAP, the Company tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or at an interim period if events or changed circumstances would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Under US GAAP, the Company first assesses the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts as a basis for determining if it is necessary to perform the two-step approach. Periodically estimating the fair value of a reporting unit requires significant judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant effect on whether or not an impairment charge is recorded and the magnitude of such a charge.

As a result of the Company's acquisition of Dahlman, during the first quarter of 2013, the Company recognized goodwill in the amount of $8.7 million within the broker dealer reporting unit (See Note 2).

No impairment charges for goodwill were recognized during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

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Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill Details (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013 Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Goodwill, Other Changes					$ 8,700,000

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Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds

The following table presents the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition by caption and by level within the valuation hierarchy as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

Operating Entities

	Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Securities owned and derivatives
US Government securities	$	1,009	$	—	$	—	$	1,009
Preferred stock	—		—		574		574
Common stocks	428,145		2,506		290		430,941
Restricted Common stocks	—		11,993		—		11,993
Convertible bonds	—		5,751		1,750		7,501
Corporate bonds	—		188,832		—		188,832
Warrants and rights	762		—		2,608		3,370
Mutual funds	16,382		—		—		16,382
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	177		—		—		177
Currency forwards	—		291		—		291
Equity swaps	—		1,541		—		1,541
Options	5,172		—		28,785		33,957
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		36,530		60,474		97,004
Real estate investments	—		—		2,285		2,285
Lehman claim	—		—		360		360
	$	451,647	$	247,444	$	97,126	$	796,217

	Liabilities at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased and derivatives
Common stocks	$	208,990	$	41	$	—	$	209,031
Corporate bonds	—		58		—		58
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	24		—		—		24
Equity and credit default swaps	—		51		—		51
Options	2,509		—		28,785		31,294
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
Contingent consideration liability (a)	$	—	$	—	$	6,419	$	6,419
	$	211,523	$	150	$	35,204	$	246,877

(a) In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts as of September 30, 2014 can range from $1.5 million to $10.9 million.

	Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Securities owned and derivatives
US Government securities	$	9	$	—	$	—	$	9
Preferred stock	—		—		324		324
Common stocks	171,277		2,103		3,559		176,939
Convertible bonds	—		4,008		1,950		5,958
Corporate bonds	—		121,372		—		121,372
Warrants and rights	107		—		5,805		5,912
Mutual funds	525		—		—		525
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	285		—		—		285
Currency forwards	—		22		—		22
Equity swaps	—		70		—		70
Options	9,698		—		—		9,698
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		19,402		51,649		71,051
Real estate investments	—		—		2,088		2,088
Lehman claim	—		—		378		378
	$	181,901	$	146,977	$	65,753	$	394,631

	Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased and derivatives
Common stocks	$	130,899	$	—	$	—	$	130,899
Corporate bonds	—		55		—		55
Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
Futures	275		—		—		275
Currency forwards	—		301		—		301
Equity swaps	—		525		—		525
Options	6,573		—		—		6,573
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
Contingent consideration liability (a)	—		—		6,937		6,937
	$	137,747	$	881	$	6,937	$	145,565

(a) In accordance with the terms of purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the period ended October 2016. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts can range from $2.1 million to $13.8 million.

Consolidated Funds' investments

	Assets at Fair Value as of September 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	$	—	$	49,653	$	146,987	$	196,640
Lehman claims	—		—		361		361
	$	—	$	49,653	$	147,348	$	197,001

	Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
			(dollars in thousands)
Other investments
Portfolio Funds	—		26,964		155,674		182,638
Lehman claims	—		—		4,842		4,842
	$	—	$	26,964	$	160,516	$	187,480

The following table includes a rollforward of the amounts for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, for financial instruments classified within level 3. The classification of a financial instrument within level 3 is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
	Balance at June 30, 2014		Transfers in		Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2014		Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	2,574	$	—	$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	574	$	—
Common stocks	419		—		—				—		(1		)	(128		)	290		(14		)
Convertible bonds	1,750		—		—				—		—			—			1,750		—
Options, asset	37,658		—		—				—		—			(8,873		)	28,785		(8,873		)
Options, liability	37,658		—		—				—		—			(8,873		)	28,785		(8,873		)
Warrants and rights	3,346		—		—				57		(57		)	(738		)	2,608		(434		)
Portfolio Funds	62,437		—		—				3,049		(5,320		)	308			60,474		373
Real estate	2,262		—		—				—		—			23			2,285		23
Lehman claim	418		—		—				—		—			(58		)	360		(58		)
Contingent consideration liability	6,783		—		—				—		(364		)	—			6,419		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	145,371		—		—				—		(409		)	2,025			146,987		1,962
Lehman claim	4,090		—		—				—		(3,731		)	2			361		2

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Balance at June 30, 2013		Transfers in		Transfers out		Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2013		Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	333	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	333	$	—
Common stocks	2,273		—		—		—		(2		)	(162		)	2,109		(161		)
Warrants and rights	2,136		—		—		—		—			531			2,667		(76		)
Portfolio Funds	43,343				—		6,491		(289		)	2,158			51,703		1,446
Real estate	2,158		—		—		—		—			(31		)	2,127		(31		)
Lehman claim	278		—		—		—		—			280			558		280
Contingent consideration liability	7,928		—		—		—		(94		)	—			7,834		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	177,848		—		—		—		(17,886		)	1,124			161,086		635
Lehman claim	15,434		—		—		—		—			1,049			16,483		1,049

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
	Balance at December 31, 2013		Transfers in		Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2014		Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	324	$	—	$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	2,250	$	—		$	—		$	574	$	—
Common stocks	3,559		—		(3,150		)	(b)	9		(1		)	(127		)	290		(13		)
Convertible bonds	1,950		—		—				—		(200		)	—			1,750		—
Options, asset	—		—		—				35,710		—			(6,925		)	28,785		(6,925		)
Options, liability	—		—		—				35,710		—			(6,925		)	28,785		(6,925		)
Warrants and Rights	5,805		—		—				57		(1,385		)	(1,869		)	2,608		(432		)
Portfolio Funds	51,649		—		—				12,234		(8,340		)	4,931			60,474		3,585
Real estate	2,088		—		—				50,000		(50,027		)	224			2,285		224
Lehman claim	378		—		—				—		(76		)	58			360		58
Contingent consideration liability	6,937		—		—				—		(518		)	—			6,419		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	155,674		—		—				—		(16,439		)	7,752			146,987		7,689
Lehman claim	4,842		—		—				—		(4,711		)	230			361		230

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Balance at December 31, 2012		Transfers in			Transfers out				Purchases/(covers)		(Sales)/shorts			Realized and Unrealized gains/losses			Balance at September 30, 2013		Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
	(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
Preferred stock	$	2,332	$	—		$	(2,000	)	(b)	$	—	$	—		$	1		$	333	$	1
Common stocks	2,549		—			—				—		(275		)	(165		)	2,109		(424		)
Corporate Bond	515		—			—				2,735		(3,346		)	96			—		—
Warrants and Rights, asset	1,713		290		(a)	—				166		(110		)	608			2,667		760
Warrants and Rights, liability	3		—			—				—		—			(3		)	—		—
Portfolio Funds	25,670		13,128			—				16,560		(7,821		)	4,166			51,703		4,542
Real estate	1,864		—			—				—		—			263			2,127		263
Lehman claim	706		—			—				—		(382		)	234			558		234
Contingent consideration liability	8,116		—			—				—		(282		)	—			7,834		—
Consolidated Funds
Portfolio Funds	182,920		—			—				—		(27,835		)	6,001			161,086		5,092
Lehman claim	14,124		—			—				—		(1,449		)	3,808			16,483		2,448

(1) Unrealized gains/losses are reported in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of

operations.

(a) The security was acquired through an acquisition (See Note 2).

(b) The company completed an initial public offering.

All realized and unrealized gains (losses) in the table above are reflected in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and therefore are not included in the tables above.

The Company recognizes all transfers and the related unrealized gain (loss) at the beginning of the reporting period.

Transfers between level 1 and 2 generally relate to whether the principal market for the security becomes active or inactive. Transfers between level 2 and 3 generally relate to whether significant relevant observable inputs are available for the fair value measurements or due to change in liquidity restrictions for the investments.

During the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, there were no transfers between level 1 and level 2 assets and liabilities.

The following table includes quantitative information as of September 30, 2014 for financial instruments classified within level 3. The table below quantifies information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company's level 3 financial instruments.

	Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value at September 30, 2014		Valuation techniques	Unobservable Inputs	Range
Level 3 Assets
Common and preferred stocks	$	324	Market multiples and option pricing method	Volatility Market multiples	45% 2x to 3x
Warrants and rights, net	2,608		Model based	Volatility	20% to 60% (weighted average 39%)
Options	28,785		Option pricing models, credit valuation adjustment, debt valuation adjustment	Volatility Credit spreads	30% to 45% 600bps - 750 bps
Other level 3 assets (a)	212,757
Total level 3 assets	244,474
Level 3 Liabilities
Options	28,785		Option pricing models, credit valuation adjustment, debt valuation adjustment	Volatility Credit spreads	30% to 45% 600bps - 750 bps
Contingent consideration	6,419		Discounted cash flows	Projected cash flow and discount rate	6% to 9%
Total level 3 liabilities	$	35,204

(a) Quantitative disclosures of unobservable inputs and assumptions are not required for investments for which NAV per share is used as a practical expedient to determine fair value, as their redemption features rather than observability of inputs cause them to be classified as a level 3 type asset within the fair value hierarchy. In addition, the fair value of the Consolidated Funds' investments are determined based on net asset value and therefore quantitative disclosures are not included in the table above. The quantitative disclosures also exclude financial instruments for which the determination of fair value is based on prices from prior transactions.

During the three months ended June 30, 2014, the Company wrote down the value of its investment in CBOE SE as a result of an impairment which was considered other than temporary. The level of impairment is based on the fair value of the investment as measured on a non-recurring basis as of June 30, 2014 (See Note 5). The Company classified its investment in CBOE as level 3 on this date. The fair value reflects the weighted average of both the indicative bid level and the liquidation value.

The Company has established valuation policies and procedures and an internal control infrastructure over its fair value measurement of financial instruments which includes ongoing oversight by the valuation committee as well as periodic audits performed by the Company's internal audit group. The valuation committee is comprised of senior management, including non-investment professionals, who are responsible for overseeing and monitoring the pricing of the Company's investments, including the review of the results of the independent price verification process, approval of new trading asset classes and use of applicable pricing models and approaches.

The US GAAP fair value leveling hierarchy is designated and monitored on an ongoing basis. In determining the designation, the Company takes into consideration a number of factors including the observability of inputs, liquidity of the investment and the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement. Designations, models, pricing vendors, third party valuation providers and inputs used to derive fair market value are subject to review by the valuation committee and the internal audit group. The Company reviews its valuation policy guidelines on an ongoing basis and may adjust them in light of, improved valuation metrics and models, the availability of reliable inputs and information, and prevailing market conditions. The Company reviews a daily profit and loss report, as well as other periodic reports, and analyzes material changes from period-to-period in the valuation of its investments as part of its control procedures. The Company also performs back testing on a regular basis by comparing prices observed in executed transactions to previous valuations.

The fair market value for level 3 securities may be highly sensitive to the use of industry standard models, unobservable inputs and subjective assumptions. The degree of fair market value sensitivity is also contingent upon the subjective weight given to specific inputs and valuation metrics. The Company holds various equity and debt instruments where different weight may be applied to industry standard models representing standard valuation metrics such as: discounted cash flows, market multiples, comparative transactions, capital rates, recovery rates and timing, and bid levels. Generally, changes in the weights ascribed to the various valuation metrics and the significant unobservable inputs in isolation may result in significantly lower or higher fair value measurements. Volatility levels for warrants and options are not readily observable and subject to interpretation. Changes in capital rates, discount rates and replacement costs could significantly increase or decrease the valuation of the real estate investments. The interrelationship between unobservable inputs may vary significantly amongst level 3 securities as they are generally highly idiosyncratic. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation can result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.

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Receivables from and Payable to Brokers

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Brokers and Dealers [Abstract]

Receivables from and Payable to Brokers

Receivables from and Payable to Brokers

Receivables from and payable to brokers includes cash held at the clearing brokers, amounts receivable or payable for unsettled transactions, monies borrowed and proceeds from short sales (including commissions and fees related to securities transactions) equal to the fair value of securities sold, not yet purchased, which are restricted until the Company purchases the securities sold short. Pursuant to the master netting agreements the Company entered into with its brokers, these balances are presented net (assets less liabilities) across balances with the same broker. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, receivable from brokers was $95.1 million and $67.0 million, respectively. Payable to brokers was $246.8 million and $75.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The Company's receivables from and payable to brokers balances are held at multiple financial institutions.

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Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]

Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries

Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries and Funds

Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds and the related net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds are comprised as follows:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
Operating companies	$	11,721	$	12,009
Consolidated funds	79,708		73,805
	$	91,429	$	85,814

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2014		2013		2014		2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
Operating companies	$	3,223	$	3,884	$	9,690	$	7,280
Consolidated funds	783		875		3,719		3,229
	$	4,006	$	4,759	$	13,409	$	10,509

On September 29, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement with Neuberger Berman to sell its interest in Orchard Square Partners (“OSP”), which manages a global long/short credit investment strategy with approximately $448.0 million in client assets. The transaction is expected to close on December 31, 2014 subject to customary closing conditions.  The Company currently consolidates the assets, liabilities and results of operations of OSP and will cease to consolidate OSP upon closing as the Company’s interest is transferred to Neuberger Berman. As of September 30, 2014, the total assets, liabilities and net assets attributable to the Company and non-controlling interest holders were not significant.  In accordance with the terms of the agreement, prior to the closing of the transaction all of the net assets of OSP will be allocated to the Company and the non-controlling members of OSP in accordance with the respective ownership interests and will be distributed soon thereafter.  After the distribution of net assets, the Company expects to recognize an immaterial gain/loss which will be included in realized gain/loss in the consolidated statements of operations.

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans Stock Options (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate	0.00%
Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share
Weighted average remaining term, options outstanding	1 year 8 months 19 days		2 years 4 months 24 days
Weighted average remaining term, options exercisable	1 year 8 months 19 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Closing stock price, in dollars per share	$ 3.75		$ 3.91
Equity Plans
Shares Subject to Option
Balance outstanding, beginning of period, shares	300,006
Options granted, shares	0
Options exercised, shares	(33,334)
Options expired, shares	(33,334)
Balance outstanding, end of period, shares	233,338
Options exercisable, shares	233,338
Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share
Balance outstanding, beginning of period, in dollars per share	$ 7.19
Options granted, in dollars per share	$ 0.00
Options exercised, in dollars per share	$ 3.50
Options expired, in dollars per share	$ 17.61
Balance outstanding, end of period, in dollars per share	$ 6.22
Options exercisable, in dollars per share	$ 6.22
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Balance outstanding, beginning of period	$ 0	[1]
Balance outstanding, end of period	0	[1]
Options exercisable	$ 0	[1]

[1] Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units (Details) (Equity Plans, USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 3.8		$ 4.3	$ 14.3		$ 13.8
Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Nonvested Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units
Balance outstanding, beginning of period, shares				13,551,544
Granted, shares				8,840,838
Vested, shares				(4,028,129)
Cancelled, shares				0
Forfeited, shares				(852,784)
Balance outstanding, end of period, shares	17,511,469	[1]		17,511,469	[1]
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance outstanding, beginning of period, in dollars per share				$ 3.37
Granted, in dollars per share				$ 3.82
Vested, in dollars per share				$ 3.27
Cancelled, in dollars per share				$ 0.00
Forfeited, in dollars per share				$ 3.26
Balance outstanding, end of period, in dollars per share	$ 3.63	[1]		$ 3.63	[1]
Unrecognized compensation expense	$ 44.7			$ 44.7
Weighted-average recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense				1 year 11 months 13 days
Performance Shares [Member]
Nonvested Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units
Granted, shares				1,925,750
Forfeited, shares	(281,250)			(281,250)

[1] Included in the outstanding balance are 1,925,750 performance linked restricted stock units awarded to employees of the Company in December 2013 and January 2014. Of the awards granted, 281,250 have been forfeited during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014. The remaining awards will vest on June 10, 2019 and will be earned only to the extent that the Company attains specified performance goals relating to its volume-weighted average share price and the aggregate net income for the years from 2014 to 2018. The actual number of RSUs ultimately earned could vary from zero, if performance goals are not met, to as much as 100% of the targeted award. Each RSU is equal to the one share of the Company’s Class A common stock. Compensation expense is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the Company will attain the performance goals.

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans Deferred Compensation (Details) (Cowen Group, Inc. 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Deferred Cash Award
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Deferred cash awards granted	$ 29.3
Deferred cash awards, unrecognized compensation expense	$ 38.7
Maximum | Deferred Cash Award
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Deferred cash award, interest rate	0.75%
Minimum | Deferred Cash Award
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Deferred cash award, interest rate	0.70%
Deferred Cash Award
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Deferred cash awards, vesting period	5 years

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Share-Based Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity

The following table summarizes the Company's stock option activity for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Shares Subject to Option		Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share		Weighted Average Remaining Term	Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
					(in years)	(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	300,006		$	7.19	2.40	$	—
Options granted	—		—		—	—
Options exercised	(33,334	)	3.50		—	—
Options expired	(33,334	)	17.61		—	—
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	233,338		$	6.22	1.72	$	—
Options exercisable at September 30, 2014	233,338		$	6.22	1.72	$	—

(1) Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.75 on September 30, 2014 and $3.91 on December 31, 2013.

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Appreciation Rights, Activity

As of September 30, 2014, the unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of stock options was insignificant.

The following table summarizes the Company's SAR's for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Shares Subject to Option	Weighted Average Exercise Price/Share		Weighted Average Remaining Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
				(in years)		(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	400,000	$	2.90	4.21		$	608
SAR's granted	—	—		—		—
SAR's acquired	—	—		—		—
SAR's expired	—	—		—		—
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	400,000	$	2.90	3.46		$	591
SAR's exercisable at September 30, 2014	—	$	—	$	—

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity

Restricted shares and restricted stock units are referred to collectively as restricted stock. The following table summarizes the Company's restricted share and restricted stock unit activity for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014:

	Nonvested Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	13,551,544		$	3.37
Granted	8,840,838		3.82
Vested	(4,028,129	)	3.27
Canceled	—		—
Forfeited	(852,784	)	3.26
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014 (1)	17,511,469		$	3.63

(1) Included in the outstanding balance are 1,925,750 performance linked restricted stock units awarded to employees of the Company in December 2013 and January 2014. Of the awards granted, 281,250 have been forfeited during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014. The remaining awards will vest on June 10, 2019 and will be earned only to the extent that the Company attains specified performance goals relating to its volume-weighted average share price and the aggregate net income for the years from 2014 to 2018. The actual number of RSUs ultimately earned could vary from zero, if performance goals are not met, to as much as 100% of the targeted award. Each RSU is equal to the one share of the Company’s Class A common stock. Compensation expense is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the Company will attain the performance goals.

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds - Lehman Claims (Details) (USD $)											1 Months Ended							3 Months Ended						1 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014 Lehman claims, at fair value	Apr. 30, 2014 Lehman claims, at fair value	Dec. 31, 2013 Lehman claims, at fair value	Nov. 30, 2013 Lehman claims, at fair value	Jun. 30, 2013 Lehman claims, at fair value	Nov. 30, 2012 Lehman claims, at fair value	Nov. 02, 2012 Lehman claims, at fair value	Sep. 15, 2008 Lehman claims, at fair value	Jul. 31, 2014 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Jun. 30, 2014 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Sep. 26, 2013 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Feb. 29, 2012 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Dec. 31, 2011 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Jul. 31, 2010 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Jun. 30, 2010 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Sep. 30, 2014 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Jan. 30, 2014 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Feb. 28, 2013 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Nov. 30, 2012 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Nov. 02, 2012 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Sep. 15, 2008 Enterprise Master Lehman claims, at fair value	Sep. 30, 2014 Enterprise Master Cash	Jul. 31, 2013 Enterprise Master Cash	Sep. 30, 2014 Enterprise LP Lehman claims, at fair value
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Initial value										$ 1,000,000													$ 24,300,000	$ 4,900,000	$ 4,900,000
Unsecured claim									900,000													1,300,000
Percent of client's Best Claim																		101.50%
Distribution percent withheld for tax													30.00%						30.00%
Value of Best Claim																		200,000
Dividend percent received				7.80%		23.70%	43.30%	25.20%													25.20%
Dividend amount received				100,000		200,000	400,000	200,000													300,000
Total Dividend Amount Received			1,000,000
Total Dividend percent received			100.00%
Other Investments, Claim Settlement Sold																				1,300,000
Assets returned															2,400,000		9,500,000
Proceeds from sale of returned assets																10,700,000
Distributions of proceeds from returned assets											5,700,000	800,000	14,900,000	2,900,000										0
Tax Withholding on Distribution of Proceeds from Sale of Returned Assets													1,000,000					1,000,000
Other investments	130,584,000	99,483,000	360,000		378,000
Other Investments, claim to trust assets held by LBIE through Lehman Brothers																		10,600,000
Percentage of securities liquidated at LBI																		90.00%
Distributions of client's Best Claim													100.00%						6.00%
Other Investments, initial claim current value																		$ 500,000								$ 400,000
Recoverable claims assigned to variable interest entities																		100.00%
Percentage of Net Equity Claim			138.30%		131.50%

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Convertible Debt and Short Term Borrowings

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]

Convertible Debt and Short Term Borrowings

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's outstanding debt was as follows:

	As of September 30, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	(dollars in thousands)
Convertible debt	$	117,031	$	—
Note payable	357		41
Capital lease obligations	4,251		2,523
	$	121,639	$	2,564

Convertible Debt

On March 10, 2014, the Company issued$149.5 million of 3.0%cash convertible senior notes ("Convertible Notes"). The Convertible Notes are due on March 15, 2019 unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder into cash in accordance with their terms prior to such date. The interest on the Convertible Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The Convertible Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payments to other obligations. The Convertible Notes may be converted into cash, upon the occurrence of certain events, whereby a holder will receive, per$1,000principal amount of notes being converted, an amount equal to the sum of principal amount outstanding and the conversion amount based on the current conversion price (the "Conversion Option"). The Convertible Notes were issued with an initial conversion price of $5.33per share.

The Company recorded interest expense related to the coupon of$1.1 millionand $2.5 millionfor thethree and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, respectively.The initial unamortized discount on the Convertible Notes was$35.7 millionand is shown net in convertible debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.Amortization on the discount for the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, included within interest expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations, was$1.5 millionand$3.2 million, respectively,based on an effective interest rate of 8.89%. The Convertible Notes are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. As of September 30, 2014the estimated fair value of the Convertible Notes, which includes the conversion option, was $148.8 million, and is based on the last broker quote of the Convertible Notes on September 30, 2014. The carrying amount of the debt as ofSeptember 30, 2014was$117.0 millionnet of the unamortized discount of$32.5 million. The Company capitalized the debt issuance costs in the amount of$3.7 million, which is included in other assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and will be amortized over the life of the Convertible Notes. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the Company is in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes.

Of the net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes, approximately$20.5 millionwas applied to pay the net cost of a cash convertible note economic hedge and warrant transaction which increases the effective conversion price to$7.18 (See Note 5), and approximately$0.3 millionwas applied to repurchase shares of Cowen Class A common stock. The remainder of the net proceeds is being used for general corporate purposes.

Note Payable

During January 2014, the Company borrowed $2.0 millionto fund insurance premium payments. This note bears interest at1.55%and is due on December 1, 2014, with monthly payment requirements of$0.2 million. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the outstanding balance on this note payable was$0.4 million. Interest expense for thethree and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014was insignificant.

Capital Lease Obligations

The Company entered into several capital leases for computer equipment during the fourth quarter of 2010 and one in January 2014. These leases amount to$7.6 millionand are recorded in fixed assets and as capital lease obligations, which are included in short-term borrowings and other debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and have lease terms that range from48 to 60months and interest rates that range from 0.60% to 6.03%. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the remaining balance on these capital leases was$4.3 million. Interest expense was$0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Annual scheduled maturities of debt and minimum payments for debt outstanding as of September 30, 2014, is as follows:

	Convertible Debt			Notes payable			Capital Lease Obligation
	(dollars in thousands)
2014	$	—		$	362		$	412
2015	4,411			—			1,343
2016	4,411			—			1,025
2017	4,411			—			938
2018	4,411			—			938
Thereafter	151,688			—			79
Subtotal	169,332			362			4,735
Less: Amount representing interest (a)	(52,301		)	(5		)	(484		)
Total	$	117,031		$	357		$	4,251

(a) Amount necessary to reduce net minimum payments to present value calculated at the Company's implicit rate at inception. This amount also includes the unamortized discount on the convertible debt.

Letters of Credit

As of September 30, 2014, the Company has the following seven irrevocable letters of credit related to leased office space, for which there is cash collateral pledged, which the Company pays a fee on the stated amount of the letter of credit.

Location	Amount		Maturity
	(dollars in thousands)
San Francisco	$	82	May 2015
Boston	$	382	March 2015
New York	$	893	August 2015
New York	$	4,497	December 2014
New York	$	1,000	February 2015
New York	$	1,861	June 2015
New York	$	127	September 2015

To the extent any letter of credit is drawn upon, interest will be assessed at the prime commercial lending rate. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there were no amounts due related to these letters of credit.

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Regulatory Requirements

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Brokers and Dealers [Abstract]

Regulatory Requirements

Regulatory Requirements

As registered broker-dealers, Cowen and Company, ATM Execution (formerly known as Cowen Capital LLC), ATM USA, and Cowen Equity Finance are subject to the SEC's Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 (the “Rule”), which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Under the alternative method permitted by the Rule, Cowen and Company's minimum net capital requirement, as defined, is$1.0 million. Under the alternative method, ATM Execution, ATM USA and Cowen Equity Finance are each required to maintain minimum net capital, as defined, equal to$250,000. The broker-dealers are not permitted to withdraw equity if certain minimum net capital requirements are not met. As of September 30, 2014, Cowen and Company had total net capital of approximately$109.4 million, which was approximately $108.4 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$1.0 million. As of September 30, 2014, ATM Execution had total net capital of approximately$2.1 million, which was approximately$1.9 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$250,000. As of September 30, 2014, ATM USA had total net capital of approximately $0.9 million, which was approximately $0.7 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. As of September 30, 2014, Cowen Equity Finance had total net capital of approximately$14.5 millionwhich was approximately$14.3 millionin excess of its minimum net capital requirement of$250,000.

Cowen and Company and ATM Execution are exempt from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as their activities are limited to those set forth in the conditions for exemption appearing in paragraph (k)(2)(ii) of the Rule. Similarly, ATM USA and Cowen Equity Finance are exempt from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under (k)(2)(i).

Proprietary accounts of broker dealers (“PAB”) held at the clearing broker are considered allowable assets for net capital purposes, pursuant to agreements between Cowen and Company and ATM Execution and the clearing broker, which require, among other things, that the clearing broker performs computations for PAB and segregates certain balances on behalf of Cowen and Company and ATM Execution, if applicable.

Ramius UK Ltd. ("Ramius UK") and Cowen International Limited ("CIL") are subject to the capital requirements of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) of the UK. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the requirement of the FCA. As of September 30, 2014, Ramius UK's Financial Resources of$0.34 millionexceeded its minimum requirement of$0.11 million by $0.23 million. As of September 30, 2014, CIL's Financial Resources of$3.4 millionexceeded its minimum requirement of$2.1 million by $1.3 million.

Cowen and Company (Asia) Limited (“CCAL”) is subject to the financial resources requirements of the Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) of Hong Kong. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the Total Financial Resources requirement of the SFC. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, CCAL's Financial Resources of $0.7 millionexceeded the minimum requirement of $0.4 million by $0.3 million.

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Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds -Real Estate (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Other investments	$ 130,584	$ 99,483
Real Estate Equity Investment
Other investments	2,285	2,088
Real Estate Equity Investment | RCG RE Manager, LLC
Other investments	$ 2,300	$ 2,100

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Segment Reporting (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting Information, by Segment

The following tables set forth operating results for the Company's alternative investment and broker dealer segments and related adjustments necessary to reconcile the Company's Economic Income (Loss) measure to arrive at the Company's consolidated US GAAP net income (loss):

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
									Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)		Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	45,799	$	45,799		$	—		$	—			$	45,799
Brokerage	15			35,568		35,583			—			(1,249		)	(e)	34,334
Management fees	16,319			—		16,319			(246		)	(6,277		)	(a)	9,796
Incentive income	4,746			—		4,746			(34		)	(5,549		)	(a)	(837		)
Investment Income	4,064			3,399		7,463			—			(7,463		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—		—			—			13,725			(c)(e)	13,725
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—		—			119			2,354			(f)	2,473
Other revenue	43			353		396			—			724			(c)	1,120
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—		—			691			—				691
Total revenues	25,187			85,119		110,306			530			(3,735		)		107,101
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	11,307			53,661		64,968			—			838				65,806
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,887			14,880		23,767			—			(23,767		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,648			8,509		12,157			—			(12,157		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—		—			—			33,830			(c)(d)	33,830
Interest and dividends	1,852			812		2,664			—			9,765			(c)(e)	12,429
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,830		)	—		(1,830		)	—			1,830			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—		—			635			—				635
Total expenses	23,864			77,862		101,726			635			10,339				112,700
Other income (loss)
Net gain (loss) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—		—			—			13,836			(c)	13,836
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—		—			888			1,545				2,433
Total other income (loss)	—			—		—			888			15,381				16,269
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	1,323			7,257		8,580			783			1,307				10,670
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—		—			—			141			(b)	141
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	1,323			7,257		8,580			783			1,166				10,529
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(1,877		)	—		(1,877		)	(783		)	(1,346		)		(4,006		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	(554	)	$	7,257	$	6,703		$	—		$	(180	)		$	6,523

(1) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $1.9 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $0.7 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
										Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)			Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	27,694		$	27,694		$	—		$	—			$	27,694
Brokerage	—			32,035			32,035			—			(3,573		)	(e)	28,462
Management fees	14,299			—			14,299			(275		)	(4,697		)	(a)	9,327
Incentive income	5,666			—			5,666			—			(3,145		)	(a)	2,521
Investment Income	10,031			2,296			12,327			—			(12,327		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—			—			—			10,969			(c)(e)	10,969
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—			—			(75		)	2,250			(f)	2,175
Other revenue	156			(38		)	118			—			438			(c)	556
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—			—			445			—				445
Total revenues	30,152			61,987			92,139			95			(10,085		)		82,149
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	12,551			40,291			52,842			—			772				53,614
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	8,938			14,836			23,774			—			(23,774		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	1,597			6,833			8,430			—			(8,430		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—			—			—			31,392			(c)(d)	31,392
Interest and dividends	52			23			75			—			6,206			(c)(e)	6,281
Reimbursement from affiliates	(1,461		)	—			(1,461		)	—			1,461			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—			—			450			—				450
Total expenses	21,677			61,983			83,660			450			7,627				91,737
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—			—			—			14,680			(c)	14,680
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—			—			1,230			2,002				3,232
Total other income (loss)	—			—			—			1,230			16,682				17,912
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	8,475			4			8,479			875			(1,030		)		8,324
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—			—			—			(46		)	(b)	(46		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	8,475			4			8,479			875			(984		)		8,370
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(4,813		)	—			(4,813		)	(875		)	929				(4,759		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	3,662		$	4		$	3,666		$	—		$	(55	)		$	3,611

(1) For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $3.0 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.0 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
									Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)		Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	125,653	$	125,653		$	—		$	—			$	125,653
Brokerage	40			104,943		104,983			—			(4,508		)	(e)	100,475
Management fees	46,574			—		46,574			(723		)	(17,439		)	(a)	28,412
Incentive income	17,665			—		17,665			(188		)	(13,092		)	(a)	4,385
Investment Income	29,025			8,207		37,232			—			(37,232		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—		—			—			35,437			(c)(e)	35,437
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—		—			(45		)	7,436			(f)	7,391
Other revenue	140			354		494			—			1,933			(c)	2,427
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—		—			2,500			—				2,500
Total revenues	93,444			239,157		332,601			1,544			(27,465		)		306,680
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	43,360			152,197		195,557			—			2,214				197,771
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	27,944			41,652		69,596			—			(69,596		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	6,195			27,064		33,259			—			(33,259		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—		—			—			97,832			(c)(d)	97,832
Interest and dividends	5,083			878		5,961			—			23,733			(c)(e)	29,694
Reimbursement from affiliates	(5,313		)	—		(5,313		)	—			5,313			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—		—			1,335			—				1,335
Total expenses	77,269			221,791		299,060			1,335			26,237				326,632
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—		—			—			48,227			(c)	48,227
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—		—			3,509			6,636				10,145
Total other income (loss)	—			—		—			3,509			54,863				58,372
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	16,175			17,366		33,541			3,718			1,161				38,420
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—		—			—			266			(b)	266
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	16,175			17,366		33,541			3,718			895				38,154
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(8,320		)	—		(8,320		)	(3,718		)	(1,371		)		(13,409		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	7,855		$	17,366	$	25,221		$	—		$	(476	)		$	24,745

(1) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has reflected $7.5 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $2.5 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
										Adjustments
	Alternative Investment			Broker-Dealer (1)			Total Economic Income/(Loss)			Funds Consolidation			Other Adjustments				US GAAP
	(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
Investment banking	$	—		$	70,431		$	70,431		$	—		$	—			$	70,431
Brokerage	—			93,352			93,352			—			(6,769		)	(e)	86,583
Management fees	43,050			—			43,050			(871		)	(13,661		)	(a)	28,518
Incentive income	14,558			—			14,558			—			(7,472		)	(a)	7,086
Investment Income	22,169			4,593			26,762			—			(26,762		)	(c)	—
Interest and dividends	—			—			—			—			30,905			(c)(e)	30,905
Reimbursement from affiliates	—			—			—			(206		)	6,657			(f)	6,451
Other revenue	381			(427		)	(46		)	—			1,565			(c)	1,519
Consolidated Funds revenues	—			—			—			681			—				681
Total revenues	80,158			167,949			248,107			(396		)	(15,537		)		232,174
Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits	35,500			108,202			143,702			—			1,642				145,344
Non-compensation expenses—Fixed	26,293			41,679			67,972			—			(67,972		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses—Variable	3,996			23,710			27,706			—			(27,706		)	(c)(d)	—
Non-compensation expenses	—			—			—			—			93,994			(c)(d)	93,994
Interest and dividends	183			88			271			—			20,615			(c)(e)	20,886
Reimbursement from affiliates	(4,291		)	—			(4,291		)	—			4,291			(f)	—
Consolidated Funds expenses	—			—			—			1,237			—				1,237
Total expenses	61,681			173,679			235,360			1,237			24,864				261,461
Other income (loss)
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments	—			—			—			—			30,507			(c)	30,507
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)	—			—			—			4,862			6,843				11,705
Total other income (loss)	—			—			—			4,862			37,350				42,212
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests	18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			3,229			(3,051		)		12,925
Income taxes expense / (benefit)	—			—			—			—			288			(b)	288
Economic Income (Loss) / Net income (loss) before non-controlling interests	18,477			(5,730		)	12,747			3,229			(3,339		)		12,637
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds	(8,880		)	—			(8,880		)	(3,229		)	1,600				(10,509		)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. stockholders	$	9,597		$	(5,730	)	$	3,867		$	—		$	(1,739	)		$	2,128

(1) For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2013, the Company has reflected $5.6 million of investment income and related compensation expense of $1.8 million within the broker-dealer segment in proportion to that segment's capital.

The following is a summary of the adjustments made to US GAAP net income (loss) for the segment to arrive at

Economic Income (Loss):

Funds Consolidation: The impacts of consolidation and the related elimination entries of the Consolidated Funds are not included in Economic Income (Loss). Adjustments to reconcile to US GAAP net income (loss) include elimination of incentive income and management fees earned from the Consolidated Funds and addition of fund expenses excluding management fees paid, fund revenues and investment income (loss).

Other Adjustments:

(a)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes revenues (i) net of distribution fees paid to agents and (ii) our proportionate share

of management and incentive fees of certain real estate operating entities and the activist business.

(b)    Economic Income (Loss) excludes income taxes as management does not consider this item when evaluating the

performance of the segment.

(c)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes Company income from proprietary trading net of related expenses.

(d)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes the Company's proportionate share of expenses for certain real estate and other

operating entities for which the investments are recorded under the equity method of accounting for investments.

(e)    Economic Income (Loss) recognizes stock borrow/loan activity and other brokerage dividends as brokerage revenue

(f)    Reimbursement from affiliates is shown as a reduction of Economic Income expenses, but is included as a part of

revenues under US GAAP.

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 38,154		$ 12,637
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation	(233)	[1]	(10)	[1]
Defined benefit pension plans:
Net gain/(loss) arising during the period	(87)		(223)
Amortization of prior service cost	0		16
Total defined benefit pension plan	(87)	[1]	(207)	[1]
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	(320)		(217)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 37,834		$ 12,420

[1] During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.

XML

Significant Accounting Policies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies

a. Basis of Presentation

These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) related to interim financial statements. Results for interim periods should not be considered indicative of results for any other interim period or for the full year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 and for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, included in the Form 10-K of Cowen Group as filed with the SEC on March 3, 2014. The financial information contained herein is unaudited; however, management believes all adjustments have been made that are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods. The year-end condensed balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by US GAAP.

These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its operating and other subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest or a substantive controlling general partner interest.

All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain fund entities that are consolidated in these condensed consolidated financial statements, as further discussed below, are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their own investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.

The Company serves as the managing member/general partner and/or investment manager to affiliated fund entities which it sponsors and manages. Funds in which the Company has a controlling financial interest are consolidated with the Company pursuant to US GAAP as described below. Consequently, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of these funds on a gross basis. The ownership interests in these funds that are not owned by the Company are reflected as redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from these funds are eliminated in consolidation.

b. Principles of consolidation

The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a voting operating entity ("VOE") or a variable interest entity ("VIE") under US GAAP.

Voting Operating Entities—VOEs are entities in which (i) the total equity investment at risk is sufficient to enable the entity to finance its activities independently and (ii) the equity holders at risk have the obligation to absorb losses, the right to receive residual returns and the right to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance.

Under US GAAP, the usual condition for a controlling financial interest in a VOE is ownership of a majority voting interest. Accordingly, the Company consolidates VOEs in which it owns a majority of the entity's voting shares or units. US GAAP also provides that a general partner of a limited partnership (or a managing member, in the case of a limited liability company) is presumed to control the partnership, and thus should consolidate it, unless a simple majority of the limited partners has the right to remove the general partner without cause or to terminate the partnership. In accordance with these standards, the Company presently consolidatesfiveentities deemed to be VOEs for which it acts as the general partner and investment manager.

As of and during the period endedSeptember 30, 2014the Company consolidated the following funds: Ramius Enterprise LP (“Enterprise LP”) and Ramius Merger Fund LLC (the "Merger Fund") (collectively the "2014 Consolidated Funds"). As of December 31, 2013 and during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company consolidated the following funds: Enterprise LP, Ramius Multi‑Strategy Master FOF LP (“Multi‑Strat Master FOF”), Ramius Vintage Multi‑Strategy Master FOF LP (“Vintage Master FOF”), Ramius Levered Multi‑Strategy FOF LP (“Levered FOF”), and the Merger Fund (collectively the "2013 Consolidated Funds"). As of December 31, 2013, Levered FOF, Multi-Strat Master FOF and Vintage Master FOF, all of which are investment companies managed by Ramius Alternative Solutions LLC, were fully liquidated. RTS Global 3X LP was consolidated through March 31, 2013 when it was liquidated.Collectively, the 2013 Consolidated Funds and the 2014 Consolidated Funds are referred to as the "Consolidated Funds".

As of September 30, 2014, the Company also consolidated three investment companies i) RCG Linkem II LLC, formed to make an investment in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy, ii) Ramius Co-Investment II LLC, formed to make an investment in a biomedical company that develops gene therapies for severe genetic disorders and iii) Cowen AV Investment LLC, formed to make an investment in a biotechnology company focused on developing gene therapies for certain medical needs. Ramius Co-Investment I LLC, formed for the same purpose as Ramius Co-Investment II LLC, was consolidated as of December 31, 2013 but was deconsolidated during the first quarter of 2014 when Ramius Co-Investment I LLC was liquidated. The Company determined that RCG Linkem II, LLC, Ramius Co-Investment I LLC (up until the first quarter of 2014), Ramius Co-Investment II LLC and Cowen AV Investment LLC are VOE's due to its controlling equity interests held through the managing member and/or affiliates and control exercised by the managing member who is not subject to substantive removal rights. Ramius Co-Investment II LLC was liquidated during the quarter ended September 30, 2014.

Variable Interest Entities—VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a VOE. In accordance with US GAAP, an enterprise must consolidate all VIEs of which it is the primary beneficiary. Under the US GAAP consolidation model for VIEs, an enterprise that (1) has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impacts the VIE's economic performance, and (2) has an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE, is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

However, the FASB has deferred the application of the revised consolidation model for VIEs that meet the following conditions: (a) the entity has all the attributes of an investment company as defined under AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or does not have all the attributes of an investment company but is an entity for which it is acceptable based on industry practice to apply measurement principles that are consistent with investment companies, (b) the reporting entity does not have explicit or implicit obligations to fund any losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity, and (c) the entity is not a securitization entity, asset-backed financing entity or an entity that was formerly considered a qualifying special-purpose entity. The Company's involvement with its funds is such that allthreeof the above conditions are met for substantially all of the funds managed by the Company. Where the VIEs have qualified for the deferral, the analysis is based on previous consolidation rules. These rules require an analysis to (a) determine whether an entity in which the Company holds a variable interest is a variable interest entity and (b) whether the Company's involvement, through holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually through other variable interests (e.g., management and performance related fees), would be expected to absorb a majority of the VIE's expected losses, receive a majority of the VIEs expected residual returns, or both. If these conditions are met, the Company is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

The Company reconsiders whether it is the primary beneficiary of a VIE by performing a periodic qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of the VIE that includes a review of, among other things, its capital structure, contractual agreements between the Company and the VIE, the economic interests that create or absorb variability, related party relationships and the design of the VIE. As of September 30, 2014, the Company consolidated four VIEs and as of December 31, 2013 the Company consolidated threeVIEs.As ofSeptember 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the total net assets of the consolidated VIEs are $4.0 million and $11.3 million, respectively. The VIEs act as managing members/general partners and/or investment managers to affiliated fund entities which they sponsor and/or manage. The VIEs are financed through their operations and/or loan agreements with the Company.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company holds a variable interest in Ramius Enterprise Master Fund Ltd (“Enterprise Master”) throughoneof its Consolidated Funds, Enterprise LP and the Company holds a variable interest in Ramius Merger Master Fund Ltd through one of its Consolidated Funds, Merger Fund, (the “Unconsolidated Master Funds”). Investment companies, which account for their investments under the specialized industry accounting guidance for investment companies prescribed under US GAAP, are not subject to the consolidation provisions for their investments. Therefore, the Company has not consolidated the Unconsolidated Master Funds.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company also sponsors various other entities that it has determined to be VIEs. These VIEs are primarily funds and real estate entities for which the Company serves as the general partner, managing member and/or investment manager with decision-making rights.

The Company does not consolidate any of these funds or real estate entities that are VIEs as it has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary in each instance. Fund investors are entitled to all of the economics of these VIEs with the exception of the management fee and incentive income, if any, earned by the Company. The Company's involvement with funds and real estate entities that are unconsolidated VIEs is limited to providing investment management services in exchange for management fees and incentive income. Although the Company may advance amounts and pay certain expenses on behalf of the funds and real estate entities that it considers to be VIEs, it does not provide, nor is it required to provide, any type of substantive financial support to these entities outside of regular investment management services. (See Note 5 for additional disclosures on VIEs)

Equity Method Investments—For operating entities over which the Company exercises significant influence but which do not meet the requirements for consolidation as outlined above, the Company uses the equity method of accounting. The Company's investments in equity method investees are recorded in other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company's share of earnings or losses from equity method investees is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The Company evaluates for impairment its equity method investments whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The difference between the carrying value of the equity method investment and its estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge when the loss in value is deemed other than temporary.

Other—If the Company does not consolidate an entity, apply the equity method of accounting or account for an investment under the cost method, the Company accounts for such entities (primarily, all securities of such entity which are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term as trading securities) in accordance with US GAAP, at fair value with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Retention of Specialized Accounting—The Consolidated Funds are investment companies and apply specialized industry accounting for investment companies. The Company has retained this specialized accounting for these funds pursuant to US GAAP. The Company reports its investments on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition at their estimated fair value, with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions. Accordingly, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect different accounting policies for investments depending on whether or not they are held through a consolidated investment company. In addition, the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries, Cowen and Company, LLC (“Cowen and Company”), ATM Execution LLC ("ATM Execution"), ATM USA, LLC ("ATM USA"), and Cowen Equity Finance LP ("Cowen Equity Finance"), apply the specialized industry accounting for brokers and dealers in securities also prescribed under US GAAP. The Company also retains specialized accounting in consolidation.

c. Use of estimates

The preparation of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires the management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the fair value of securities and other investments, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the accounting for goodwill and identifiable intangible assets and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts in order to conform with current period presentation.

d. Valuation of investments and derivative contracts

US GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). Thethreelevels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 Inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has

the ability to access at the measurement date;

Level 2     Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, including

inputs in markets that are not considered to be active; and

Level 3 Fair value is determined based on pricing inputs that are unobservable and includes situations where there is little,

if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The determination of fair value for assets and liabilities in this

category requires significant management judgment or estimation.

Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may include price information, volatility statistics, specific and broad credit data, liquidity statistics, and other factors. A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. The Company considers observable data to be that market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, and provided by independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of a financial instrument within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the instrument and does not necessarily correspond to the Company's perceived risk of that instrument.

The Company and its operating subsidiaries act as the manager for the Consolidated Funds. Both the Company and the Consolidated Funds hold certain investments which are valued by the Company, acting as the investment manager. The fair value of these investments is generally estimated based on proprietary models developed by the Company, which include discounted cash flow analysis, public market comparables, and other techniques and may be based, at least in part, on independently sourced market information. The material estimates and assumptions used in these models include the timing and expected amount of cash flows, the appropriateness of discount rates used, and, in some cases, the ability to execute, timing of, and estimated proceeds from expected financings. Significant judgment and estimation goes into the selection of an appropriate valuation methodology as well as the assumptions used in these models, and the timing and actual values realized with respect to investments could be materially different from values derived based on the use of those estimates. The valuation methodologies applied impact the reported value of the Company's investments and the investments held by the Consolidated Funds in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's investments are relatively illiquid or thinly traded and may not be immediately liquidated on demand if needed. Fair values assigned to these investments may differ significantly from the fair values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed and such differences could be material.

The Company primarily uses the “market approach” to value its financial instruments measured at fair value. In determining an instrument's level within the hierarchy, the Company categorizes the Company's financial instruments intothreecategories: securities, derivative contracts and other investments. To the extent applicable, each of these categories can further be divided between those held long or sold short.

Securities—Securities with values based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets are classified within level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. These securities include active listed equities, certain U.S. government and sovereign obligations, ETF's and certain money market securities. The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.

Certain positions for which trading activity may not be readily visible, consisting primarily of convertible debt, corporate debt and loans, are stated at fair value and classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair values assigned by management are determined in good faith and are based on available information considering, trading activity, broker quotes, quotations provided by published pricing services, counterparties and other market participants, and pricing models using quoted inputs, and do not necessarily represent the amounts which might ultimately be realized. As level 2 investments include positions that are not always traded in active markets and/or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability.

Derivative contracts—Derivative contracts can be exchange-traded or privately negotiated over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives, such as futures contracts and exchange-traded option contracts, are typically classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on whether or not they are deemed to be actively traded. OTC derivatives, such as generic forwards, swaps and options, have inputs which can generally be corroborated by market data and are therefore classified within level 2. OTC derivatives, such as swaps, options and warrants where market data is not readily available or observable are classified as level 3.

Other investments—Other investments consist primarily of portfolio funds, real estate investments and equity method investments, which are valued as follows:

i. Portfolio funds—Portfolio funds (“Portfolio Funds”) include interests in funds and investment companies which may be managed by the Company or its affiliates. The Company follows US GAAP regarding fair value measurements and disclosures relating to investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value (“NAV”) per share (or its equivalent). The guidance permits, as a practical expedient, an entity holding investments in certain entities that either are investment companies as defined by the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or have attributes similar to an investment company, and calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent for which the fair value is not readily determinable, to measure the fair value of such investments on the basis of that NAV per share, or its equivalent, without adjustment.

The Company categorizes its investments in Portfolio Funds within the fair value hierarchy dependent on its ability to redeem the investment. If the Company has the ability to redeem its investment at NAV at the measurement date or within the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 2 investment within the fair value hierarchy. If the Company does not know when it will have the ability to redeem its investment or cannot do so in the near term, the Portfolio Fund is categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy.See Notes 5 and 6 for further details of the Company's investments in Portfolio Funds.

ii. Real estate investments—Real estate debt and equity investments are valued at fair value. The fair value of real estate investments are estimated based on the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants at the measurement date. Real estate investments without a public market are valued based on assumptions and valuation techniques used by the Company. Such valuation techniques may include discounted cash flow analysis, prevailing market capitalization rates or earnings multiples applied to earnings from the investment, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sale negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, consideration of the amount that currently would be required to replace the asset, as adjusted for obsolescence, as well as independent external appraisals. In general, the Company considers several valuation techniques when measuring the fair value of a real estate investment. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. Real estate investments are reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Company for significant changes at the property level or a significant change in the overall market which would impact the value of the real estate investment resulting in unrealized appreciation or depreciation.

Real estate and capital markets are cyclical in nature. Property and investment values are affected by, among other things, the availability of capital, occupancy rates, rental rates and interest and inflation rates. In addition, the Company invests in real estate and real estate related investments for which no liquid market exists. The market prices for such investments may be volatile and may not be readily ascertainable. Amounts ultimately realized by the Company from investments sold may differ from the fair values presented, and the differences could be material.

The Company's real estate investments are typically categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy as management uses significant unobservable inputs in determining their estimated fair value.

See Notes 5 and 6 for further information regarding the Company's investments, including equity method investments, and fair value measurements.

e. Securities borrowed and securities loaned

Securities borrowed and securities loaned are carried at the amounts of cash collateral advanced or received on a gross basis. The related rebates are recorded in the statement of operations as interest income and interest expense. Securities borrowed transactions require the Company to deposit cash collateral with the lender. With respect to securities loaned, the Company receives cash collateral from the borrower. The initial collateral advanced or received approximates or is greater than the market value of securities borrowed or loaned. The Company monitors the market value of securities borrowed and loaned on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained or returned, as necessary. Securities borrowed and loaned may also result in credit exposures for the Company in an event that the counterparties are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company minimizes its credit risk by continuously monitoring  its credit exposure and collateral values by demanding additional or returning excess collateral in accordance with the netting provisions available in the master securities lending contracts in place with the counterparties.

Fees and interest received or paid are recorded in interest and dividend income and interest expense, respectively, on an accrual basis. In cases where the fair value basis of accounting is elected, any resulting change in fair value is reported in trading revenues. Accrued interest income and expense are recorded in the same manner as under the accrual method. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company does not have any securities lending transactions for which fair value basis of accounting was elected.

f. Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

The Company uses securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“Repurchase Agreements”) as part of its liquidity management activities and to support its trading and risk management activities. In particular, securities purchased and sold under Repurchase Agreements are used for short-term liquidity purposes. As of December 31, 2013, Repurchase Agreements were secured predominantly by liquid corporate credit and/or government issued securities. The use of Repurchase Agreements will fluctuate with the Company's need to fund short term credit or obtain competitive short term credit financing. The Company's securities sold under agreements to repurchase were transacted pursuant to agreements with one counterparty as ofDecember 31, 2013. The Company does not hold any Repurchase Agreements as ofSeptember 30, 2014.

Collateral is valued daily and the Company and its counterparties may adjust the collateral or require additional collateral to be deposited when appropriate. Collateral held by counterparties may be sold or re-hypothecated by such counterparties, subject to certain limitations sometimes imposed by the Company and in accordance with the master netting agreements in place with the counterparty. Collateralized Repurchase Agreements may result in credit exposure in the event the counterparties to the transactions are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company minimizes the credit risk associated with this activity by monitoring credit exposure and collateral values, and by requiring additional collateral to be promptly deposited with or returned to the Company when deemed necessary.

g.    Debt

Long-term debt is carried at the principal amount borrowed net of any discount/premium. The discount is accreted to interest expense using the effective interest method over the remaining life of the underlying debt obligations. Accrued but unpaid coupon interest is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

h.    Deferred rent

Deferred rent primarily consists of step rent, allowances from landlords and valuing the Company's lease properties in accordance with US GAAP. Step rent represents the difference between actual operating lease payments due and straight-line rent expense, which is recorded by the Company over the term of the lease, including the build-out period. This amount is recorded as deferred rent in the early years of the lease, when cash payments are generally lower than straight-line rent expense, and reduced in the later years of the lease when payments begin to exceed the straight-line expense. Landlord allowances are generally comprised of amounts received and/or promised to the Company by landlords and may be received in the form of cash or free rent. These allowances are part of the negotiated terms of the lease. The Company records a receivable from the landlord and a deferred rent liability when the allowances are earned. This deferred rent is amortized into income (through lower rent expense) over the term (including the pre-opening build-out period) of the applicable lease, and the receivable is reduced as amounts are received from the landlord. Liabilities resulting from valuing the Company's leased properties acquired through business combinations are quantified by comparing the current fair value of the leased space to the current rental payments on the date of acquisition. Deferred rent, included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is $13.9 million and $14.6 million, respectively.

i.     Recently issued accounting pronouncements

In April 2014, the FASB issued a new pronouncement regarding Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The guidance changes the criteria for disposals to qualify as discontinued operations and requires new disclosures about disposals of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the new definition. The guidance is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015. The Company does not expect the guidance to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance which amends and supersedes the revenue recognition requirements and most industry-specific guidance and creates a single source of revenue guidance. The new guidance outlines the principles an entity must apply to measure and recognize revenue and related cash flows. The guidance also provides a model for the measurement and recognition of gains and losses on the sale of certain non-financial assets. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance which requires all entities to perform an interim and annual assessment of their ability to continue as a going concern for one year from the date of issuance of the financial statements. The guidance also requires disclosures if there is “substantial doubt” of the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2016. The Company does not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our financial position and results of operations.

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Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds Fair Value Inputs, Unobservable Inputs, Quantitative Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified			9 Months Ended								9 Months Ended					9 Months Ended								9 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014 Options	Sep. 30, 2014 Options Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Options Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Contingent liability payable	Jun. 30, 2014 Contingent liability payable	Dec. 31, 2013 Contingent liability payable	Sep. 30, 2013 Contingent liability payable	Jun. 30, 2013 Contingent liability payable	Dec. 31, 2012 Contingent liability payable	Sep. 30, 2014 Contingent liability payable Level 3 Income Approach and Market Approach Valuation Techniques Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Contingent liability payable Level 3 Income Approach and Market Approach Valuation Techniques Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Other Investments [Member]		Sep. 30, 2014 Options	Sep. 30, 2014 Options Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Options Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights	Jun. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights	Dec. 31, 2013 Warrants and Rights	Sep. 30, 2013 Warrants and Rights	Jun. 30, 2013 Warrants and Rights	Dec. 31, 2012 Warrants and Rights	Sep. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique	Sep. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Warrants and Rights Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Common and Preferred Stock	Sep. 30, 2014 Common and Preferred Stock Level 3 Income Approach and Market Approach Valuation Techniques Minimum	Sep. 30, 2014 Common and Preferred Stock Level 3 Income Approach and Market Approach Valuation Techniques Maximum	Sep. 30, 2014 Common and Preferred Stock Level 3 Market Approach Valuation Technique
Fair Value Inputs, Assets and Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Balance Asset Value	$ 244,474												$ 212,757	[1]	$ 28,785			$ 2,608	$ 3,346	$ 5,805	$ 2,667	$ 2,136	$ 1,713				$ 324
DCF discount rate											6.00%	9.00%
Market multiple																												2	3
Volatility			30.00%	45.00%												30.00%	45.00%								20.00%	60.00%				45.00%
Balance Liability Value	$ 35,204	$ 28,785			$ 6,419	$ 6,783	$ 6,937	$ 7,834	$ 7,928	$ 8,116
Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate																								39.00%
Fair Value Assumptions, Credit Spread			6.00%	7.50%												6.00%	7.50%

[1] Quantitative disclosures of unobservable inputs and assumptions are not required for investments for which NAV per share is used as a practical expedient to determine fair value, as their redemption features rather than observability of inputs cause them to be classified as a level 3 type asset within the fair value hierarchy. In addition, the fair value of the Consolidated Funds' investments are determined based on net asset value and therefore quantitative disclosures are not included in the table above. The quantitative disclosures also exclude financial instruments for which the determination of fair value is based on prices from prior transactions.

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Income Taxes Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Interim Disclosure (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate, Percent	0.69%	2.22%
Statutory rate, Percent	35.00%	35.00%

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Related Party Transactions

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Related Party Transactions [Abstract]

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions

The Company and its affiliated entities are the managing member, general partner and/or investment manager to the Company's alternative asset management products and certain managed accounts. Management fees and incentive income are primarily earned from affiliated entities. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, $12.3 million and $18.9 million, respectively, included in fees receivable are earned from related parties.

The Company may, at its discretion, reimburse certain fees charged to the funds that it manages to avoid duplication of fees when such funds have an underlying investment in another affiliated investment fund. For the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014, the Company reimbursed the funds it manages an immaterial amount. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company reimbursed the funds it manages $0.4 million. For the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company reimbursed the funds it manages $0.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, which were recorded net in management fees and incentive income in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, related amounts still payable were $0.4 million and $1.7 million, respectively, and were reflected in fees payable in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

The Company may also make loans to employees or other affiliates, excluding executive officers of the Company. These loans are interest bearing and settle pursuant to the agreed-upon terms with such employees or affiliates and are included in due from related parties in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, loans to employees of $7.5 million and $6.0 million, respectively, were included in due from related parties on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Of these amounts $5.0 million and $3.8 million, respectively, are related to forgivable loans. These forgivable loans provide for a cash payment up-front to employees, with the amount due back to the Company forgiven over a vesting period.  An employee that voluntarily ceases employment, or is terminated with cause, is generally required to pay back to the Company any unvested forgivable loans granted to them.  The forgivable loans are recorded as an asset to the Company on the date of grant and payment, and then amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.  The vesting period on forgivable loans is generally one to three years. The Company recorded compensation expense of $1.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively, related to amortization of forgivable loans for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, and $3.2 million and $2.3 million, for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. This expense is included in employee compensation and benefits in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. For the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, and 2013, the interest income was insignificant for all loans and advances. The remaining balance included in due from related parties primarily relates to amounts due to the Company from affiliated funds and real estate entities due to expenses paid on their behalf.

In April 2011, the Company entered into a credit agreement with Starboard Value LP (see Note 5), whereby the Company was able to loan up to $3.0 million to Starboard Value LP at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 3.75% (payable quarterly). This loan matured on March 30, 2014 and was fully repaid. As of December 31, 2013, $1.5 million , related to this loan, was included in due from related parties in the accompanying consolidated statement of financial condition. For the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014, and 2013, interest charged for this loan was insignificant.

Included in due to related parties is approximately $0.4 million and $0.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, related to a subordination agreement with an investor in certain real estate funds. This total is based on a hypothetical liquidation of the real estate funds as of the balance sheet date.

The Company entered into three real estate loan participation agreements during the first and second quarters of 2014 with related parties amounting to $50.0 million. All principal and interest balances were repaid to the Company as of June 30, 2014. Interest earned on these loans was $0.5 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 .

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income / (Loss) [Abstract]
Foreign Currency Translations	$ 15	[1]	$ 248	[1]	$ 248	[1]	$ 258	[1]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	(233)	[1]	(10)	[1]
Defined Benefit Plans	257	[1]	(109)	[1]	344	[1]	98	[1]
Total defined benefit pension plan	87	[1]	207	[1]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	(320)		(217)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$ 272		$ 139		$ 592		$ 356

[1] During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.

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Treasury Stock (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Equity [Abstract]

Treasury Stock Activity

The following represents the activity relating to the treasury stock held by the Company during the nine months ended September 30, 2014:

	Treasury stock shares	Cost (dollars in thousands)		Average cost per share
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2013	15,873,549	$	48,084	$	3.03
Shares purchased for minimum tax withholding under the Equity Plan or other similar transactions	1,367,262	5,610		4.10
Purchase of treasury stock	4,267,557	17,327		4.06
Balance outstanding at September 30, 2014	21,508,368	$	71,021	$	3.30

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Commitments and Contingencies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Obligations

The Company has entered into non-cancellable leases for office space and equipment. These leases contain rent escalation clauses. The Company records rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, including any rent holiday periods. Rent expense was $4.3 million and $4.3 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $12.5 million and $12.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

As of September 30, 2014, future minimum annual lease and service payments for the Company were as follows:

	Equipment Leases (a)		Service Payments		Facility Leases (b)
	(dollars in thousands)
2014	$	727	$	3,970	$	4,829
2015	2,603		11,708		18,481
2016	2,284		6,019		15,109
2017	2,198		3,039		11,676
2018	2,198		2,709		11,358
Thereafter	813		22		41,644
	$	10,823	$	27,467	$	103,097

(a) Equipment Leases include the Company's commitments relating to operating and capital leases. See Note 14 for further information on the capital lease minimum payments which are included in the table.

(b) The Company has entered into various agreements to sublease certain of its premises. The Company recorded sublease income related to these leases of $0.5 million and $0.4 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013 and $1.3 million and $1.0 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2014 and 2013.

Clawback Obligations

For financial reporting purposes, the general partners have recorded a liability for potential clawback obligations to the limited partners of a real estate fund, due to changes in the unrealized value of the fund's remaining investments and where the fund's general partner has previously received carried interest distributions. The actual clawback liability, however, does not become realized until the end of the fund's life. The fund is currently winding-down and as of both September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the clawback obligation was $6.2 million.

The Company serves as the general partner/managing member and/or investment manager to various affiliated and sponsored funds. As such, the Company is contingently liable for obligations for those entities. These amounts are not included above as the Company believes that the assets in these funds are sufficient to discharge any liabilities.

Unfunded Commitments

As of September 30, 2014, the Company had unfunded commitments of$12.1 millionpertaining to capital commitments inthreereal estate investments held by the Company, all of which pertain to related party investments. Such commitments can be called at any time, subject to advance notice. The Company, as a limited partner of the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds and also as a member of HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners, has committed to invest $45.2 millionin the Healthcare Royalty Partners funds which are managed by Healthcare Royalty Management. This commitment is expected to be called over atwo tofive year period. The Company will make its pro-rata investment in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds along with the other limited partners. ThroughSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has funded$34.9 milliontowards these commitments.In April 2013, the Company committed$1.0 million to Starboard Leaders Fund LP, which may increase or decrease over time, and, as ofSeptember 30, 2014, has funded$0.7 milliontowards this commitment. As ofSeptember 30, 2014, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Formation 8 Partners Fund I LP of$5.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over afouryear period.

Litigation

In the ordinary course of business, the Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries and current and former officers, directors and employees (the "Company and Related Parties") are named as defendants in, or as parties to, various legal actions and proceedings. Certain of these actions and proceedings assert claims or seek relief in connection with alleged violations of securities, banking, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering, employment and other statutory and common laws. Certain of these actual or threatened legal actions and proceedings include claims for substantial or indeterminate compensatory or punitive damages, or for injunctive relief.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company and Related Parties are also subject to governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests (both formal and informal), certain of which may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions or other relief. Certain affiliates and subsidiaries of the Company are investment banks, registered broker-dealers, futures commission merchants, investment advisers or other regulated entities and, in those capacities, are subject to regulation by various U.S., state and foreign securities, commodity futures and other regulators. In connection with formal and informal inquiries by these regulators, the Company and such affiliates and subsidiaries receive requests, and orders seeking documents and other information in connection with various aspects of their regulated activities.

Due to the global scope of the Company's operations, and its presence in countries around the world, the Company and Related Parties may be subject to litigation, and governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal), in multiple jurisdictions with legal and regulatory regimes that may differ substantially, and present substantially different risks, from those the Company and Related Parties are subject to in the United States.

The Company seeks to resolve all litigation and regulatory matters in the manner management believes is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, and contests liability, allegations of wrongdoing and, where applicable, the amount of damages or scope of any penalties or other relief sought as appropriate in each pending matter.

In accordance with GAAP, the Company establishes reserves for contingencies when the Company believes that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses a contingency if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss may have been incurred and there is no reserve for the loss because the conditions above are not met. The Company's disclosure includes an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for those matters, for which an estimate can be made. Neither a reserve nor disclosure is required for losses that are deemed remote.     

The Company appropriately reserves for certain matters where, in the opinion of management, the likelihood of liability is probable and the extent of such liability is reasonably estimable. Such amounts are included within accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in thecondensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and currently available information and involve a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type and nature of the litigation, claim or proceeding, the progress of the matter, the advice of legal counsel, the Company's defenses and its experience in similar cases or proceedings as well as its assessment of matters, including settlements, involving other defendants in similar or related cases or proceedings. The Company may increase or decrease its legal reserves in the future, on a matter-by-matter basis, to account for developments in such matters. The Company accrues legal fees as incurred.

The following information reflects developments with respect to the Company's legal proceedings that occurred in the third quarter of 2014. These items should be read together with the Company's discussion in Note 19 "Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part IV and the Company's discussion set forth under Legal Proceedings in Part I, Item 3 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.

On May 28, 2014, Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK (collectively, "EIG") filed a lawsuit against Cowen and Company, LLC in the United States Court for the Southern District of New York (Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK v. Cowen and Company, LLC, No. 14-CV-3789). The complaint alleges copyright infringement based on alleged impermissible distribution of EIG's publication, Oil Daily, by Cowen and Company, LLC, and Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC, as Cowen's alleged predecessor-in-interest. EIG is seeking statutory damages based on alleged willful infringement of their copyrights. The Company believes it has substantial defenses to the claims asserted and intends to vigorously defend itself against this lawsuit if a satisfactory settlement is not ultimately approved. On July 22, 2014, the action was referred to a federal Magistrate Judge for the purpose of settlement, staying Cowen's time to answer until the parties have completed settlement discussions. On September 18, 2014, the parties attended a mediation before the federal Magistrate Judge. The case is in its preliminary stages so the Company cannot predict the outcome. The Company does not expect this case to have a material effect on its financial position.