Investors increasingly claim to be incorporating ESG factors into their portfolios. But are they doing so genuinely and for the right reasons, and what should best practice entail in ESG integration? The concept is still vague, with a clear definition some way off.
Despite concerns that ignoring health issues increases investment risk, fresh research indicates investors do not have the necessary support or inclination to implement effective screening measures.
With its landmark deal, a South African private healthcare group has saved itself at least 21 basis points in the cost of funding and set a quartet of key performance indicators – three with environmental targets and one focused on patient satisfaction.
Frameworks such as the UK’s Senior Managers & Certification Regime may be adapted – and expanded to sectors beyond financial services – to put company directors on the hook for climate-related commitments.
Under fire for their lack of transparency and buying of out-of-favour fossil fuel assets, private equity managers are being urged by their clients and others to use their capital and clout more positively.
Partner content
Retirement village operator Summerset has inked a landmark sustainability-linked loan related to reductions in carbon emissions and construction waste and, less typically, the development of dementia care. Its domestic peers are also expected to take the green finance path.
CIB is leading the charge among Egypt's banks to build a sustainable finance market, with help from the International Finance Corporation and at the behest of the central bank. Corporates are showing rising interest in issuing green bonds but will face ESG reporting from next year.
While banks prefer to hire former bankers for ESG jobs, there is a strong demand for individuals with sector-specific, non-financial backgrounds, Capital Monitor analysis reveals.
A recent essay by the former global head of sustainable investing at the world’s largest asset manager poured scorn on the climate claims of ESG investment strategies. But experts argue that while ESG investing is far from perfect, it still has a significant role to play in helping to achieve net zero.
Hopes are rising that asset managers will become more open to implementing British pension schemes’ voting preferences in light of new, less prescriptive recommendations from a government-backed taskforce.
The second-biggest US pension fund’s sustainability and stewardship director, Kirsty Jenkinson, outlines new strategies to decarbonise its investment portfolio and improve diversity in the corporate world.
The landmark financing deal from the country’s biggest supermarket chain aims to reduce both waste and emissions and put more women in leadership roles. Capital Monitor speaks to Coles’ treasurer and CFO as well as bankers on the deal.
Hotel and shopping mall group Majid Al Futtaim will use the proceeds from its new $1.5bn sustainability-linked loan to target emissions, green malls and, in a first for the Middle East, gender inequality. Head of treasury John Arentz provides the details.
Industry leading data and analysis for the FDI community
