Impact investing and socially responsible investing: Investing for a better future

What are impact investments and what is socially responsible investing?

More and more investors are looking for ways to earn financial returns while making a positive impact on society and the environment as they become aware of increasing social and environmental challenges. Impact investing and socially responsible investing (SRI) are approaches to investing that go beyond financial returns. Impact investing is a conscious decision to invest in companies that have a positive impact on society and the environment. Socially responsible investing (SRI), also known as sustainable investing, considers environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria to select investments that are ethical and sustainable. Both ways differ from traditional investments in that they explicitly seek both measurable social impact and financial gain, as opposed to purely yield-oriented investments.

Possible strategies

Examples of ESG strategies include selecting companies with strong environmental and social performance to invest in, excluding companies involved in controversial sectors (e.g., tobacco, weapons), actively engaging with companies to promote positive change, and investing in funds that focus on sustainability themes such as clean energy or social inclusion. Companies incorporate social and environmental issues into their decision-making process by integrating ESG criteria into their investment analysis and assessment of corporate performance. They can also report on their sustainability efforts and be open to dialogue with stakeholders to address social and environmental issues. This provides a holistic approach to creating value, both financial and social.

Measuring impact

Investors can measure the effectiveness and impact of their investments by tracking and evaluating performance indicators related to the specific impact goals they want to achieve, such as carbon reduction, social inclusion or sustainability practices. For impact investments, measurable outcomes can be established, such as the number of people who have gained access to clean water or the number of jobs created. For socially responsible investing, investors can use companies’ ESG assessments and reporting to analyze their social and environmental impacts and compare them to their sustainability goals. Transparency and reporting are therefore extremely important in this sector because they allow investors to evaluate the true social and environmental impacts of their investments. Accurate reporting also allows investors to be accountable and build trust with other stakeholders.

Financial returns and risks:

The perception of impact investing has shifted from assuming lower returns and higher risks to the recognition that it can provide both financial and social returns. Studies and case studies have shown that impact investing is a way to both create positive change and achieve financial goals. For example, the World Economic Forum published a study showing that companies with a strong focus on sustainability and impact outperform their long-term financial performance, and a Harvard Business School study showed that 180 impact investment funds had higher average financial returns than traditional funds.

The role of investors and corporations:

Investors and companies can make a positive difference with their investment decisions and business practices by consciously choosing impact investments and socially responsible business models. By investing in sustainable companies and incorporating social and environmental considerations into their business practices, they can promote sustainable development and lead others by example toward a more responsible economy. Examples of companies integrating sustainability into their business models include Unilever, which is committed to sustainability through their “Unilever Sustainable Living Plan,” and Patagonia, a clothing company known for its commitment to environmental conservation and ethical production. These companies have shown that sustainability efforts can support their financial performance through cost savings, improved brand reputation, growing customer loyalty and attractiveness to sustainability-conscious investors.