Social factor investing: mainstreaming the 'S' of ESG

Interest in how the private sector approaches ESG issues is growing, with customers and shareholders craving  transparency on the impact of business on society, and calling for more tangible actions to drive positive corporate impact. The rise of ESG investing over the past decade has effected real progress in improving our understanding of the impact of commerce on the environment, and governance standards have been developed to ensure those standards are met equitably. Progress is fragmented across the three factors of ESG and social factors are lagging behind, as their qualitative nature makes them more difficult for analysts to define and quantify. Despite growing interest in the s' of ESG, the lack of any common standards or benchmarks for evaluating social factors makes them harder for investors to assess. The global pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement have made people wake up to the urgent need for positive social change. Which is why, on Episode 4 of the ESG Innovation Hub, we're taking a deep dive into the social element of ESG investing and asking - what is needed to mainstream social factor investing? Join this episode to explore: - Harmonisation, transparency and cohesion: how can we agree on social principles, metrics and financial standards? - Active vs. passive investing: harnessing investments to affect real change in business - Bridging the gap between investors' expectations and investments' material impact - And more Confirmed speakers: - Kristina Touzenis, Managing Partner, BST-Impact - Steve Cheng, Independent Consultant This series is hosted by Georgina Mitchell, Consultant, WellHouse Consulting