SquareWell Becomes a UN PRI Signatory
SquareWell reinforces its commitment to responsible investment 02 June 2020
SquareWell Partners has become a signatory to the Principles of Responsible Investment (PRI) as a service provider. Becoming a PRI signatory affirms SquareWell’s strong commitment to promoting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors among both publicly-listed companies and the investor community.
The PRI consists of six principles aimed at integrating ESG issues into investment decisions. The Principles, which are supported by the United Nations, were developed in 2006 by a group of the world’s largest institutional investors, including Aviva Investors, BNP Paribas Asset Management, and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. More than half of the world’s professional investors have since become a signatory to the Principles.
By signing the principles, SquareWell acknowledges that as a service provider, it holds influence on how ESG factors are being addressed by companies and investors. SquareWell is therefore committed to providing services aimed at promoting the implementation of the six Principles:
– Principle 1: We will incorporate ESG issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes.
– Principle 2: We will be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our ownership policies and practices.
– Principle 3: We will seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest.
– Principle 4: We will promote acceptance and implementation of the Principles within the investment industry.
– Principle 5: We will work together to enhance our effectiveness in implementing the Principles.
– Principle 6: We will each report on our activities and progress towards implementing the Principles.
Responsible investment is continuing to gain a more prominent role among institutional investors. A recent report from Morgan Stanley shows that 80% of asset owners have integrated sustainable investing at least across a portion of their portfolios. The focus on ESG is only likely to increase following the COVID-19 crisis, as funds with a focus on sustainability have outperformed traditional investments in the first quarter of the year.
