Whatever asset class investors allocate to, whether it is public equities, like Regnan Global Equity Impact Solutions, debt or private equity, amongst others, impact investing is made with the explicit, ex-ante intention to generate a positive impact alongside a financial return. Companies or projects they invest in must have an underlying mission – to achieve a positive impact on society and the environment. Impact investors look for credible proof that these companies or projects are generating the positive impact that they claim, and that these positive impacts are not cancelled out by negative impacts, which may, for example, arise within their operations.
Investors identify positive impact solutions in many different ways, but we believe that one of the most comprehensive, evidence-based list of problems to be solved are the United Nations’ set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They are a list of global ambitions designed to create prosperity for all, but in a way that protects the planet and its natural resources.
We also believe that impact investors need to be engaged investors, especially within public equities. Rather than solely relying on their portfolio companies, impact investors are accountable for delivering a positive impact themselves. They therefore need to take an active role in trying to influence company outcomes for the better.