ESG investing – using your wealth for good

Updated: Friday, 19 April 2024

In the current financial climate, investors are increasingly seeking more than just financial growth from their investments. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations in investment decisions are on the rise, particularly among the wealthy.

According to the latest Barclays Private Bank Global Impact: A Power for Good report, 77% of private wealth owners use impact investing to make the world a better place. A further 39% believe that incorporating sustainable considerations into their investments will lead to better returns and reduced risk.

Despite the appetite for ESG investments, there’s still scepticism and mistrust when it comes to investing in sustainable funds, as reported in the 2023 Saltus Wealth Index report. Most respondents cite ‘a lack of trust in the products rather than a lack of appetite for ESG investment’ as the reason.

What is ESG investing?

ESG investing goes beyond just money matters. It looks at how companies treat the environment, their connections with communities and employees, and how well they're managed. These factors, known as ESG criteria, help you get a complete picture of a company's values and practices.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors focus on aspects such as a company’s carbon footprint, energy consumption, and resource usage. This provides insight into their approach to sustainable practices, energy efficiency, and initiatives aimed at reducing harm to the environment. For example, assessing how a company integrates energy-saving technologies or adopts eco-friendly sourcing methods.

Social factors

Social factors focus on a company's relationships with its stakeholders – employees, communities, and customers. This provides insight into how a company supports its workforce, engages with local communities, and contributes to societal wellbeing. For instance, examining diversity and inclusion policies or initiatives that encourage positive social impacts.

Governance factors

Governance factors focus on a company's structures and practices, such as leadership quality, transparency, and ethical practices. Strong governance processes signal a company's commitment to ethical conduct, accountability, and long-term success. For example, understanding how a company manages risk or ensures transparent decision-making processes.

Benefits of sustainable investing

Sustainable investing isn’t just about making money. It's a strategy that can shield you from risk and make a positive impact on the world. Here are some of the key benefits of sustainable investing:

1. Enhanced long-term portfolio performance

If you choose to invest in companies with strong ESG practices, you could see better long-term performance. Sustainable companies often adopt a long-term perspective, considering the impact of their decisions on future generations. This forward-thinking approach can weather short-term economic fluctuations, leading to a more resilient and profitable portfolio over time.

2. Improved risk management

Investing in companies with robust ESG practices can shield you from risks that may impact other businesses such as climate change, regulatory shifts, and social unrest. For example, if new environmental regulations are introduced, a company that has already implemented sustainable practices will have an advantage. They won’t have to make as many costly or disruptive changes.

3. Making a positive impact

Sustainable investments allow you to contribute to positive social and environmental change. Supporting companies with ethical practices addresses global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. This enables you to be part of the solution.

4. Reputation and legacy building

Sustainable investments can enhance your reputation and legacy. By aligning wealth with ethical and responsible investment practices, you can leave a positive mark on the world. For some, this is an important aspect of creating their personal and family legacy.

Challenges of ESG investing

Despite the many advantages of ESG investing, it does come with some challenges. Here are the key things to be mindful of when considering sustainable investing:

1. Variability in current ESG metrics

ESG metrics currently lack standardisation, posing challenges when attempting to compare and evaluate your investment options. The absence of universally accepted criteria can lead to confusion, as well as being a barrier to informed decision-making. The good news is, the need for standardised practices is being recognised. The financial industry is undergoing significant developments to establish a framework for sustainable investing.

2. Lack of transparency

When it comes to ESG reporting, companies don’t always have the right software, data, or solid understanding of these types of metrics. Additionally, many companies have varying interpretations of what passes for a strong ESG performance. Again, this makes it difficult for you to compare options.

3. Fears of greenwashing

As ESG interest grows, investors are becoming aware of the threat of greenwashing – when a company claims to be more environmentally-friendly, sustainable, or ethical than it actually is. Greenwashing concerns are on the rise. 15% more investors are worried about greenwashing than two years ago, according to a report from the Association of Investment Companies. Investor education is important to avoid greenwashing, but regulations are also likely on the way.

4. Potential trade-offs

You may find it challenging to balance financial returns with ethical considerations. Striking the right balance requires careful consideration, often involving decision-making based on personal values and financial goals. Additionally, ESG investing is usually a long-term commitment, which may lead to frustration or misperception for short-term investors. Speak to a Financial Adviser if you’re unsure.

Sustainable investing case studies

Lord Stanley Fink

Lord Stanley Fink co-founded Earth Capital, a private equity firm specialising in sustainable technologies. Earth Capital identifies and invests in companies contributing to a more sustainable future, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, clean technology, and environmental conservation.

Dame Helena Morrissey

Dame Helena Morrissey, Founder of the 30% Club and Chair of the Diversity Project, is a well-known figure in sustainable investing. She’s known for championing investments in companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion, reflecting her commitment to creating positive social change through finance.

Mark Campanale

Mark Campanale is the founder of Carbon Tracker, a financial think tank that analyses and communicates the financial risks associated with climate change. His work revolves around encouraging divestment from fossil fuels and redirecting investments toward clean energy alternatives, promoting a sustainable and low-carbon future.

The future of sustainable investing

The growing focus on environmental and social issues globally is leading to increased investment opportunities in emerging sectors. Innovations in financial instruments, such as green bonds and social impact bonds, are providing new ways to invest in projects with favourable environmental and societal outcomes.

Fintechs are driving the future of sustainable investing by streamlining the identification, analysis, and investment process for sustainable opportunities. This helps investors make informed financial decisions that align with their values.

As regulatory landscapes evolve globally, it’s likely we’ll see increased standardisation in reporting and disclosure requirements for sustainable investments. This will not only enhance transparency but also create simpler comparisons between investment options.

Integrating sustainable investing into wealth management

There are several strategies to consider when building a portfolio that incorporates ESG factors. Since sustainable investing is still in its early stages, there are currently no formal guidelines on how to incorporate these factors into your decision-making process, so choose which best aligns with your goal and motivations.

If you’re committed to sustainable investing, consider collaborating with knowledgeable Financial Advisers with expertise in ESG factors. They can help you navigate the complexities of ESG investment options.

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