Intentional investing report 2020
Developing a charity’s investment strategy with values and aims in mind
In 2015 we worked with ACF and Richard Jenkins to publish Intentional Investing which examined how trustees aligned their mission and aims to their investment strategy. This research informed both policy – with the Charity Commission using it in their 2020 consultation on responsible investment – and further research, such as the recently published Stronger Foundations Investment report from ACF.
This paper updates the research, highlighting key trends and developments in practice and attitudes among UK charity investors over the last 5 years. The research is based on a survey of long-term charity investors which had 295 respondents between January and March 2020. Thank you to all of our clients and contacts that responded. Key findings included:
- 77% of charity investors have decided to adopt a policy to link their mission to their investments, compared to 59% in the 2015 report
- Fewer charity investors think that responsible investment reduces financial returns, with more expecting an increased return
- Significant increase in exclusionary policies for fossil fuels – 33% of policies exclude fossil fuels from portfolios, up from just 4% in 2015 report
- Most policies seek primarily to avoid harm, although there has been an increase in those charities striving to have a positive impact with their investment
This article is issued by Cazenove Capital which is part of the Schroders Group and a trading name of Schroder & Co. Limited, 1 London Wall Place, London EC2Y 5AU. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
Nothing in this document should be deemed to constitute the provision of financial, investment or other professional advice in any way. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. The value of an investment and the income from it may go down as well as up and investors may not get back the amount originally invested.
This document may include forward-looking statements that are based upon our current opinions, expectations and projections. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements.
All data contained within this document is sourced from Cazenove Capital unless otherwise stated.
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