There are five activities we undertake as part of our responsible investment program that have a direct connection to our funds: exclusionary screening, ESG evaluation, impact investing, thematic investing, and stewardship. For a more in-depth look at these activities and other aspects of our program, such as policy work and statements of commitment, check out our Responsible Investment Policy. To find out which approaches are applied to which funds, speak with your advisor or consult our fund prospectus.
What is active ownership?
Anyone can own shares in a company, but active owners go further. By exercising their rights as shareholders, active owners can influence companies to change their behaviour not just for the benefit of investors, but for society and the environment as well. Active ownership is an umbrella term that brings together three main activities.
Through corporate dialogues we talk directly with companies in a spirt of collaboration. We encourage them to improve their ESG performance in support of long-term value creation that benefits all stakeholders.
Filing a shareholder resolution is a way for investors to compel a company to take action by way of a vote, though it is not binding. It is a step we may take when corporate dialogue fails.
Proxy voting is an essential responsibility of active owners. It can influence everything from the diversity and independence of board members to oversight of human rights and climate strategy. We vote all proxies for all relevant funds in our lineup.
