Investec AM unveils inaugural sustainability fund

The Investec UK Sustainable Equity fund will be managed by Matt Evans, assisted by the firm's ESG team, using "a rigorous multi-faceted investment process" to identify UK all-cap companies making a positive contribution to the future of society and the environment.

Supported by a research process focusing on risk, reward and sustainability, Evans will build a portfolio of between 40 and 60 holdings that will be contiunally monitored using a proprietary framework of investible sustainable themes to evaluate the companies' internal, external and financial sustainability.

The proprietary framework will be mapped against the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), covering social and economic development issues including factors such as health, education, social justice, global warming and poverty.

David Aird, managing director, UK Client Group at Investec Asset Management, commented: "Sustainable investment is increasingly top of mind for our clients, the asset management industry at large and broader society.

"This inaugural launch marks a significant milestone for Investec Asset Management's ongoing journey and long-term commitment towards sustainable investing.

"Matt's experience and investment excellence make him well placed to identify those companies with quality characteristics, which are truly making a positive impact, while drawing on the expertise of our dedicated ESG team." 

Evans added: "With a thorough understanding of the three pillars of sustainability - internal, external and financial - and an acknowledgement that it is not just the products and services a company delivers that have an impact but its own internal practices, we believe we can create a portfolio that will deliver sustainable investment returns and positively contribute to a better future."

This article first appeared at Investment Week