Two years ago, Canada’s socially responsible investing (SRI) community was in a cheerful, even celebratory mood. Many felt that a trickle-down effect from the pension world would provide a much-needed boost to the SRI retail sector.
Fast forward to today. Investors have seen their portfolios ravaged by the credit crisis and subsequent stock market meltdown. Pundits seem to agree that the worst is over, but we’re not out of the woods yet.
Returns are, once again, the bottom line and high-minded ideals may have to take a backseat. But academic research suggests SRI does not create performance drag, and true believers say it can play a key role in reducing risk, as one of the cornerstones of the movement is the call for better governance and transparency.
This package includes a compilation of stories reported from the SIO Conference recently wrapped up in Winnipeg, as well as other recent events concerning governance. These articles probe the future of an investment model built on principles other than returns.
Sustainable investing in unprecedented times
Two years ago, many in Canada’s socially responsible investing community felt a trickle-down effect from the pension world would provide a much-needed boost to the retail SRI sector. And then the credit crisis hit. Pundits seem to agree that the worst of the market downturn is over, but we’re not out of the woods yet. Can SRI point the way the forward? Full Story.
Academics push for SRI research
Canada is facing an academic research deficit on responsible investment. However, there are new opportunities on the horizon, including a major international conference and the Carleton Centre for Community Innovation’s Responsible Investment Initiative. Full Story.
Sustainability study points to credibility gap
A new survey suggests that most Canadians strongly support the concept of sustainability, even though they don’t always know what it means. Full Story.
SRI devotees staying the course
Tough times often lead people into investments they might not otherwise touch. But despite the current financial crisis, there are signs that Canadian institutional investors are maintaining their commitments to socially responsible investing (SRI). Full Story.
Tipping points: a SRI road map
In 2007, it seemed socially responsible investing (SRI) had finally reached its “tipping point” in Canada: institutional investors were on board following the UN’s Principles of Responsible Investment, and on the retail side, the big banks were launching their first-ever SRI funds. Full Story.
SRI lessons from the credit crisis
A new report concludes that while socially responsible investors are ahead of the mainstream on many issues, such as transparency, corporate governance and predatory lending, they did not foresee the global credit crisis any better than the mainstream financial community. Full Story.
Addressing oil sands risks
Alberta’s oil sands are a controversial topic for Canada’s socially responsible investing (SRI) community. The 140,000-square-kilometre region has become a front-line issue for investors concerned about climate change. Yet, Canadian SRI mutual funds can’t afford to ignore energy companies working in the sector. Full Story.