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Obviously everyone wants their money to grow as best it can and that is why we as a company spend a great deal of time seeking out the best funds, fund managers and investments so that we can offer our clients the best opportunities.
However, there is a growing movement that is looking not just for growth on their investments, but that they achieve this without disadvantaging people or damaging the environment, or would like to invest in areas and companies that give a direct and positive impact.
Although there have been Ethical funds around for a considerable time, and these have produced commendable performance, Socially Responsible and Impact Investing is a relatively new area.
As an Investment Company, we still need to be able to offer the widest range of funds and investment opportunities to our clients, but Chartwell Associates aims to be at the fore-front of being able to offer socially responsible and impact investing funds.
Ethical investing depends on an investor’s views; some may choose to eliminate certain industries entirely (such as gambling, alcohol, or firearms) or to over-allocate to industries that meet the individual’s ethical guidelines.
Ethical investing gives individuals the power to allocate capital toward companies that are in line with their personal views, whether they are based on environmental, religious or political precepts. Investors should keep in mind that “ethical” does not imply “outperform.”
If you would like to learn more about Ethical investing contact us here.
Investments can be considered socially responsible for a number of reasons. These could be because of the nature of the business the company conducts but also how companies conduct their business. Common themes for socially responsible investments include avoiding industries (such as gambling, alcohol, or firearms) and seeking out companies engaged in environmental sustainability and alternative energy/clean technology efforts. Companies that treat their employees and suppliers fairly or sources it’s supplies in an environmentally sustainable manner, could also qualify as Socially responsible investments.
“Socially conscious” investing is growing into a widely-followed practice, and there are a growing number of funds and pooled investment vehicles available for retail investors. Mutual funds and unit trusts provide an added advantage in that investors can gain exposure to multiple companies across many sectors with a single investment.
However, just because an investment touts itself as socially responsible doesn’t mean that it will provide investors with a good return.
If you would like to learn more about Socially Responsible investing contact us here.
Impact investments are investments made into companies, organizations, and funds with the intention to generate measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. Impact investments can be made in both emerging and developed markets, and target a range of returns from below market to market rate, depending upon the circumstances. Impact investors actively seek to place capital in businesses and funds that can harness the positive power of enterprise. (micro-finance in India is one example)
The glue that binds those who operate in the impact investing industry is the shared conviction that creative investments can play a crucial part in addressing social and environmental challenges. This investment interest is sparking the emergence of a new industry that operates in the largely uncharted area between philanthropy and a singular focus on profit-maximization.
If you would like to learn more about Impact investments contact us here.
Ethical & Socially Responsible investments are mostly available to accredited investors only. However, there are a few funds that are available to non-accredited investors.
If you would like to learn more about Ethical & Socially Responsible investments contact us here.