In March 2020, three of the world’s largest public pension schemes called on asset managers and companies to support their efforts to integrate ESG factors into their investment strategies.
Collectively worth US$2 trillion, Japan’s Government Pension Investment Fund, the California State Teachers’ Retirement System and the UK’s Universities Superannuation Scheme confirmed their commitment to sustainable investment, warning corporates and asset managers of the consequences of failing to support them. “We do not have the luxury of limiting our efforts to maximising investment returns merely over the next few years,” they said.
Asset owners face a monumental task. Overwhelmingly, they are actively looking to integrate ESG factors into their investment strategies, making difficult choices with limited resources. Each investment institution must take its own path, based on its particular position and priorities, against a backdrop of fast-evolving regulations, standards, investment options and analytics.
At ESG Investor, we aim to be the practical information hub for asset owners looking to invest successfully and sustainably for the long term. As best practice evolves, we will share the news, insights and data to guide asset owners on their individual journey to ESG integration, driving – as GPIF, CalSTRS, USS put it – “sustainable economic growth for our customers, beneficiaries and society”.
Chris Hall, Founding Editor
chris@esginvestor.net
