The Future of Sustainable Investing

It is estimated that by 2025, 33% of all global assets under management will be required to meet ESG criteria.

Expect more ESG shareholder proposals.Shutterstock
As ESG investing continues to grow in popularity, investors can expect to see an increase in the number of shareholder proposals relating to environmental, social, and governance issues.

The growth of ESG funds is expected to continue in the coming years, with some estimates suggesting that the total assets under management could reach $30 trillion by the end of the decade. This growth is being driven by increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability, as well as by the realization that ESG investing can offer superior financial returns. Consequently, an increasing number of institutional investors are allocating a larger proportion of their assets to ESG funds. By 2025, it is expected that around 33% of all global assets under management will have ESG mandates.

As activity in the world increases, so does the need for more news sources to keep up with the demand. This is where I come in.

There is a growing trend of shareholder groups introducing resolutions seeking racial equity audits. Last year, initiatives of this nature were approved by shareholders of Home Depot, Johnson and Johnson and Apple. This trend is likely to continue as awareness of and demand for racial equity increases.

In today's business climate, it is more important than ever for organizations to communicate their commitment to their employees, customers and other stakeholders.

As more and more companies and boards move proactively on issues related to sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG), it is clear that this is no longer a fringe issue but a mainstream concern. This is a positive development, as sustainable business practices are not only good for the environment and society, but can also be good for business, by reducing costs and risks and improving operational efficiencies. Leading companies like Broadridge are already taking action on these issues, as evidenced by its annual Sustainability Report. Broadridge is helping its clients reduce emissions by switching from paper to digital for proxy communications and moving shareholder meetings from an in-person to a virtual format. These are just some of the ways that Broadridge is making a positive impact on the world while also benefiting its business. As more companies adopt sustainable practices, it will become increasingly difficult for those that don't to compete. This is a positive trend that will benefit both the environment and society as a whole.