News & Commentaries
Two-thirds of institutional investors utilize ESG policy – report.
"Two-thirds of institutional investors and almost half of companies globally have an environmental, social and governance policy in place, according to survey of 1,731 companies and institutional investors, sponsored by HSBC Holdings and conducted by East & Partners." [COMMENTARY]The numbers here are somewhat higher than most recent similar surveys. Of course, survey questions may differ…
[UK] Government to demand greater transparency on pension investments.
"Savers will be able to see at a glance if their pension money is held in ethical and socially responsible investments under measures to be unveiled today by the government." [COMMENTARY]This is terrific news. It sets an example for governments and regulators globally to follow. However, one suspects it might be a while before such…
ESG outperforms in European large caps and U.S. small caps.
"Data compiled by Arabesque S-Ray show companies that score high in Arabesque’s proprietary ESG rating algorithm outperform lower scoring peers, particularly among large-cap European firms and small-cap U.S. firms." [COMMENTARY]The unique aspect of this study is the segregation of ESG performance according to a company’s market size and geographical orientation.ESG outperforms in European large caps…
Deutsche Bank Subsidiary Launches ESG Money Market Fund.
"The launch of the fund is a credit positive event because DWS is the first to bring ESG selection criteria into the $531 billion prime money market fund industry." [COMMENTARY]With the launch of this fund, possibly all major asset classes now have ESG options. This is really good news and DWS will probably be followed…
Fossil fuel divestment funds rise to $6tn.
"Insurance companies lead the sell-off of coal, oil and gas stocks over climate change and financial fears – oil majors now cite divestment as a risk to them." [COMMENTARY]Yes, the oil majors should be worried and that’s why many of them are actively pursuing alternative energy. Despite President Trump’s attempts, these majors will continue to…
Investors′ Search for ESG Risk & Value.
"A survey of institutional investors, coordinated by Donnelley Financial Solutions (DFIN) and SimpleLogic revealed a disconnect, between the ESG information public companies are disclosing in their corporate social responsibility reports, 10-K, proxy and other public disclosure documents and what investors are seeking as ’decision-useful’ in assessing risk, as well as the value of the company’s…
