Investing in a Better Future in Asia: Through the Lens of ESG Funds

ESG investing, and more specifically ‘E’ is likely to take center stage in Asia as climate impact is forecasted to hit the region the hardest. The COVID pandemic has heightened this awareness of ESG risks and subsequent flow of capital towards more responsible investments further. ESG Funds have since become a viable pathway for some social investors seeking to implement an ESG-oriented investment strategy.

However, beginners may find the ESG Funds landscape difficult to navigate. Firstly, there is not yet a standard ESG reporting framework, although there are early leaders in the more unified markets in Europe and the US. Asia has also yet to enforce disclosure in a region with varying maturity in corporate governance. This has resulted in the lack of standardized, transparent and comprehensive ESG data and benchmarks.

Asia’s sustainable development goals are also at a different stages of achievement. Millions still lack access to energy, modern sanitation and clean water. This means Asian asset managers and investors may decarbonize their portfolios at a different pace than their Western counterparts. However, this also creates opportunities to catalyze more investment into Asia’s ESG Funds who engage Asia’s diverse communities in its new, greener pathways.

Join us to hear the challenges and successes experienced by some of Asia’s ESG Fund pioneers, as well as their outlook on how the landscape may potentially evolve.

This session,

• Learned about the types of funds that are suitable for ESG or impact investing strategies
• Understood the considerations when assessing and adopting ESG/sustainability frameworks across various fund possibilities
• Identified the best practices adopted in the launch of ESG funds in Asia

*Asian Venture Philanthropy Network (“AVPN”) is a non-profit registered charity in Singapore dedicated to the power of networks to mobilise capital for impact. Our signature events are intended to be neutral, non-political and non-partisan platforms for AVPN members, partners and other stakeholders to connect and share best practices, experiences and knowledge within the network for the development of an impactful social investment community. Participants should refer to the information provided prior to each session about the session’s speakers, objectives and topic, including the audience profile who are expected to attend, where applicable. Information shared by the speakers at AVPN events and conferences is provided by third-parties, and does not represent the views of AVPN on any matter. AVPN does not warrant the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of this information and is not liable nor responsible for reliance anyone may place on such information, participants should consume this information at their own risk. AVPN reserves the right to edit, cut down and adapt the content and materials at these activities to align with the stated agenda or purpose of the AVPN events or conferences. Any information or materials provided at these activities are only for information and knowledge sharing within the stated agenda or purpose and does not in any way constitute tax, legal, financial or investment advice, nor do they constitute offers, solicitations, or recommendations for any investment activity.