Natixis has announced that its ethical investment subsidiary Mirova will make its Global Sustainable Equity Strategy available to Australian investors though a “locally domiciled unit trust vehicle”. The fund invests in global equities with a focus on eight “sustainable development themes” of consumption, energy, resources, buildings and cities, ICT, health, mobility and finance, the statement said. Natixis Australia chief executive Damon Hambly said the launch of the fund was due to demand for ESG investment options from domestic investors. He pointed to a 2018 global survey conducted by Natixis that showed a shift in institutional investors’ attitudes in favour of sustainable investments. “We are finding that this is especially the case in Australia right now, and the trend will likely continue to get stronger,” Mr Hambly said. “The really encouraging aspect of the findings is that investing in ESG is now about far more than simply doing the right thing. “Nearly two-thirds of investors said alpha could be found in ESG investing, and that ESG also significantly mitigates risk.” Mr Hambly added that the appetite for sustainable investment was growing. “Investors are seeing first-hand that, with the right investment manager, investing ethically and sustainably can also translate into strong investment returns over the long term,” he said. Natixis brings ethical equity fund to Australia
Mirova, the ethical investment subsidiary of French investment bank Natixis, is launching its Global Sustainable Equity Strategy in Australia to meet growing demand for environmental, social and governance (ESG) options from investors. The strategy will be made available through a locally domiciled unit trust vehicle, and Natixis Australia CEO Damon Hambly said he expected to see the appetite for ESG products in the country increase.