ESG factors are playing an increasingly important role in investment strategies, especially in Asia. Governments in th region are increasingly incorporating the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their policies. As a result, companies are taking ESG factors into account. This has led to a greater role for ESG investing in Asia, says David Smith, Head of Corporate Governance, Aberdeen Standard Investments.
The asset manager has recently launched the Asian Sustainable Development Equity fund which is aligned with the SDGs, targeting companies in Asia ‘making a positive contribution to society.’