ESG & Sustainable Investing

The surge in electricity demand exposes aging power networks as the weak link in electrification. Underinvestment, congestion, and climate stress are colliding with a rising share of renewables and power-hungry data centers. This makes grid modernization, storage, and resilience a defining, long-term investment opportunity.

Energy sovereignty efforts and competitiveness are fostering the transition from a system based on finite, extracted resources with volatile prices to one centered on generated technologies with decreasing costs as production scales. Investing in the full spectrum with an active approach offers the opportunity to accelerate the transition and share in its rewards.

Despite the global ESG backlash, companies are continuing to work toward sustainability goals. The Conviction Equities Boutique’s Engagement Report captures the trends emerging for their dialogues and explains the team’s approach.

ESG frameworks have faced rising political pushback and growing skepticism, with some investors questioning the feasibility of climate goals under current political and economic conditions. We believe, even during turbulent times, the transition to a low-carbon economy is here to stay. Read the latest Impact Report for more insights.

With rising temperatures, many investors are drawn to companies that offer adaptation solutions. While adaptation is essential, mitigating climate change and decarbonizing the economy also remain vital. Discover where adaptation and mitigation intersect – particularly in the realm of cooling – and how they can interact to create a more sustainable world.

In June 2022, Switzerland introduced the Swiss Climate Scores, with the aim to guide investments toward financial products that contribute to climate objectives. Vontobel explains the context as it publishes fund results for the first time for their institutional clients.

Has the energy transition stalled due to weakening US policy support? We don’t believe so. In our view, this negative narrative is overly exaggerated and fails to recognize the increasing use of certain mature renewable technologies due to their strategic importance, economic competitiveness, faster implementation and limited technology risks.

The green transition needs more than just solar panels and electric vehicles. It relies on the right materials, too. Discover why copper, lithium, and rare earths – as well as low-carbon energy – are key catalysts and what it means for investors.

Are there lessons we can already learn from April’s blackout in Spain and Portugal? We believe so. Electrification lies at the heart of the energy transition. With increased investment, resilience can improve and alongside increased storage capacity, we can unlock the potential of the grid.

Adaptation solutions are becoming more popular given the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events. While we see the benefits, we urge investors to remember that prevention is better than cure, and mitigation remains vital if we are to ensure a better future for all.

Watch the replay of our webinar featuring Jean Louis Nakamura, Head of Conviction Equities, Sarah Murray, Financial Times Contributor, and Marco Lenfers, Client Portfolio Manager, as they discuss key topics at the intersection of geopolitics, sustainability, and investment opportunities.

A cleaner, more resource-efficient path to the future is clear. What's less discussed is the massive growth opportunity this presents for investors seeking to diversify their global equity portfolios. This article encourages global equity investors to rethink the role of environmental impact strategies in their portfolios.