When I started writing this article on sustainability, the first thing that came to mind was the consequences that DANA has caused in different territories of Spain. I take this opportunity to express my condolences to all those affected. Different experts have already shown that, although this phenomenon has already occurred in the past, It is possible that this type of weather event will become more frequent due to the impact of climate change. in the world. That is to say, the importance of the environmental aspect in our daily lives is put on the table. Visit elEconomista ESG, elEconomista’s green portal.
In this regard, as I have already commented on other occasions, I consider that the implementation of financial products that promote or take into consideration aspects related to the environment, social and/or good governance , is achieved in a solid and progressive manner. . But the most relevant thing in my opinion is to ask ourselves If we can do something with our savings to reduce the frequency of these types of events.
By analyzing the latest Inverco study in which it publishes the latest data relating to sustainable collective investment schemes (article 8 or 9 of the SFDR regulations), we see that they represent 24.32% of the total investment funds, a figure an improvement compared to previous publications. . Also note the fact that assets managed in this type of instrument reached historic highs with a share of 35.8%, at the end of September 2024, compared to 9.8% observed in March 2021 (date of entry into force of the SFDR regulations). By categories, Bonds are the asset that concentrates the largest share of assets managed with ESG criteria.
Therefore, analyzing the development of these data, it becomes clear that investment funds with sustainable characteristics are well accepted in the market by investors. From my point of view, the progress indicated in the previous paragraph comes from the convergence of several situations: 1) fund managers have more and more interest in marketing investment funds with sustainable characteristics due to greater awareness of these factors, 2) Retail customers after the integration of the new suitability test can show sustainability preferences and in this way, the financial advisor can and must offer instruments to meet this demand, and 3) finally, financial institutions show greater interest in training their employees in degrees focused on sustainable investment. “Green” investment funds are gaining ground in Spain: they already represent 36% of assets.
Therefore, in response to the original question, I consider that yes, we can help you with our investment that companies integrate environmental, social and good governance aspects into their business decisions; because if they do not take this into account, they will not meet the demands and requirements to be part of the eligible universe of investable assets.
Alfredo Nieto Garcés is an investment director in private banking at Ibercaja Banco.
