Investors show increased interest in sustainable investing, says Standard Chartered

By ANIS FARHANAH MALEK
anisfarhanah@dagangnews.com

KUALA LUMPUR 21 Sept. -  The pandemic has led to a raised awareness of sustainable issues, from glimpsing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world to a renewed interest in investing in companies that are resilient enough to weather short-term shocks and survive for the long term. 

As many as 90% of investors surveyed said they are interested in sustainable investments, with 43% of investors in Asia said they are considering putting 5% to 15% of their funds in sustainable investments, and 8% looking to invest more than 25% over the next three years, according to Standard Chartered Private Bank’s Sustainable Investing Review 2020.

In relation to investors’ consideration for further investments, the report reveals that affluent and high net worth investors are generally willing to consider allocating funds towards sustainable investments, regardless of whether they have previous experience in making such investments. 

The survey shows that investors lack knowledge about how to meet social and impact goals that are of interest to them. 

Banks therefore play a critical role in providing essential guidance to clients to unlock the growing momentum for sustainable investing. 

“As wealth managers and trusted advisors, the bank plays an important role in helping clients understand and gain access to sustainable opportunities that align with their desire to make a positive impact on the environment and society, as well as meeting their investment objectives,” said Head of Wealth Management, Standard Chartered Malaysia in a statement. 

Besides the lack of knowledge and apprehension, the other top barriers to investment in this segment are lack of motivation and advice.

Meantime, The Affin Hwang World Series - Global Sustainability Fund is an option for sustainability conscious investors as it has a track record in offering potentially good returns over the broader global equity market by investing in sustainable companies in growth-oriented industries, notably technology and healthcare. 

In conjunction with the launch of the Global Sustainability Fund, Standard Chartered Malaysia will be planting a tree on behalf of every investor of the fund as part of its plant-a-tree programme.

“Investors can watch their investments grow in more ways than one. 

"Facilitating this for our clients is also one of the ways in which we support sustainability and truly be a force for good,” Sharma added. - DagangNews.com