Tag: Environmental Social Governance (ESG)

Institutional investment is arguably a key economic driver, providing the means by which many countries can grow and develop across many different areas – in many ways it is the ‘fuel’ that powers modern economies. But, as society increasingly grapples with what a modern, inclusive, socially responsible society should look like, so many are looking to re-imagine the ingrained structures behind elements of society that need systemic change.

If South Africa is to successfully drive job creation and achieve sustainable economic growth, the key is to enable large corporate support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The small business sector is instrumental to creating an inclusive economy and a better life for the previously marginalised.

To date, policymakers, regulators, the scientific community and even consumers have had to step in to close the economic gap between the hydrocarbon energy system and the low-carbon system. This transition is an energy system transition, not a supply-centric one, and it is distinguished by placing decarbonisation at the core.

Chief executives at leading grocery retailer and consumer goods companies see supply chain visibility and personalisation as key drivers of growth, according to a new joint research paper we released together with PwC. The report interviewed 16 leaders from the consumer goods industry and identified what they envisioned for the future.

Decarbonisation of the energy system, from a hydrocarbon-based to a sustainable, low-carbon energy system poses an existential threat to the oil and gas industry. On the other hand, it presents oil and gas companies with new portfolio opportunities to build adjacent businesses, shape and participate in new markets, and drive new sources of value from existing assets and capabilities.

Sustainable finance could help drive Africa’s recovery from COVID-19 while also incentivising much-needed investments in the green economy and social development. The global pandemic has set back the continent’s growth and demanded new approaches to economic development.

We are so used to building things to last. But what about building to adapt? Let’s start with an analogy here. If a bridge over a river is built to withstand the worst possible conditions and the surrounding area is then hit by a hurricane, what use is the bridge if it is left standing in exactly the same position it was before when the access roads and the river around it have been shifted by the catastrophe?

Many entrepreneurs started their businesses with the vision of making a difference in the world. They defined their purpose early on, and very often it wasn’t just about making a profit. However, as businesses mature and new leadership steps in their sense of purpose is lost and they exist purely for the bottom line (profit).

Fund managers and institutional investors can stimulate the domestic economy and create inclusive jobs by investing more in mid-market companies. Mid-market companies have cemented their position in the sectors of the economy they operate in and have great potential from both an economic and job growth perspective.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a means to enhance human well-being and freedom. AI might just be a tool in the global drive to bring sustainable development in line with the UN Agenda 2030. Globally there is a rapidly growing divestment movement that is seeing more businesses moving away from investing and engaging with companies that are not embracing the ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) criteria.