Driving positive change through responsible investment decisions

As a significant allocator of capital, we have a vital role to play in the just and inclusive transition to a lower-carbon economy. We aim to be a leading investor in climate transition in emerging and developing economies, using our scale and position to drive positive change.

Our approach to responsible investment is built around three key themes:

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Financing a just and inclusive transition
 
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Decarbonising our investment portfolio
 
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Mainstreaming responsible investments in emerging markets
 
Financing a just and inclusive transition

Financing a just and inclusive transition

We believe the transition to a lower-carbon economy must be a just and inclusive one. That means it should encompass sustainable growth and economic health for the benefit of all. As a large asset owner and manager focused on Africa and Asia, we proactively support the transition to a lower-carbon economy for emerging markets. 

Our strategy to finance the transition towards a low-carbon future across our markets is outlined in our Just and Inclusive Transition paper.

Decarbonising our investment portfolio

We have made good progress towards our decarbonisation goals. We are on track to meet our target to reduce the carbon emissions intensity in our investment portfolio by 55% by 2030. Our long-term goal is to achieve a net zero emissions investment portfolio by 2050.

Decarbonising our investment portfolio
Mainstreaming responsible investments in emerging markets

Mainstreaming responsible investments in emerging markets

Our history of owning and managing assets across Asia and Africa gives us a unique perspective on investing in both developed and emerging markets. It also means we understand the transition issues and structural challenges these economies face. As an active member of global initiatives such as the UN-sponsored Net Zero Asset Owner Alliance and the Principles of Responsible Investment, we provide a voice on behalf of these markets.​

Responsible Investment targets:

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Hit our internal investment target on financing the transition to a lower carbon future.
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Deliver a 55% reduction in the carbon emissions intensity of our investment portfolio by 2030 against our 2019 baseline.
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Engage with the companies responsible for 65% of absolute emissions in our investment portfolio.

Our approach

Incorporating ESG considerations into our investment practices is critical to supporting a fair transition and to generating long-term returns on assets. Our Group Responsible Investment Policy outlines our responsible investment approach and guides our local businesses and asset managers. It is built around five implementation strategies:

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    Exclusion

    If a company’s products or conduct does not meet our standards, it will be excluded from our portfolio.

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    ESG integration

    All our investment decisions consider ESG factors alongside traditional financial analysis.

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    Stewardship

    We actively engage with the companies we invest in on ESG issues. And our voting policy factors in ESG issues.

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    Considered allocation

    We shift capital away from harmful activities towards environmental and social needs.

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    Influence

    By collaborating with investors and contributing to sustainable initiatives, we build our own capacity while influencing the market.