With these ambitious goals, which are a universal call to action for citizens, governments, civil society, and the private sector, it is hoped that tangible results will be achieved by 2030. At the time these 17 goals were adopted, the UN estimated that the global investments needed to achieve them within the allotted timeframe could amount to some USD 7 trillion annually1.
While it is true that, nowadays, citizens and various civil society organizations can increasingly be relied upon to put pressure on governments around the world to redouble their efforts to combat poverty or climate change, for example, many still doubt the willingness of the private sector to make a real difference.
The truth is that the private sector can and must take into account environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria. Moreover, it is very much in the interest of private firms to do so, as the evidence shows that efforts to this effect tend to create long-term value. According to former Bank of Canada and Bank of England Governor Mark Carney, now UN Special Envoy on Climate Action, each dollar invested for the transition to a green economy generates on average four dollars in benefits2. And that's where National Bank Investments (NBI) comes in. Our ambition is to be an accelerator that promotes the growth and evolution of investment solutions, with the aim of making a positive impact in the lives of our clients, employees and partners. Our leadership in responsible investing is very much aligned with this orientation.
Responsible investment expertise with open architecture
As a reputable top-tier asset manager, NBI selects first-rate investment talent from top global management firms. An important pillar when we assess managers is how ESG criteria are incorporated into their investment process.
Innovation is central to our products
In recent years, NBI has been taking innovation a step further. We are working to develop a lineup of actively managed investment solutions based on the 17 UN SDGs. As such, we offer the first platform of actively managed ETFs based on the UN SDGs in Canada. We are proud to say that our Sustainable Development ETFs and Funds contribute positively to the common good while creating value for investors.
Through our commitment to responsible investing and to the United Nations as a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment, NBI is making it clear that we want to be part of the solution. We want to consolidate our position as a leader in responsible investment to inspire the next generation of investors and investment advisors. Looking ahead to 2030 starts today.