Latest news with #sustainableinvestment
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Transition Finance Goes Mainstream
Across the world's wealth hubs, a quiet but powerful shift is under way. High-net-worth investors (HNWIs) are no longer confining their sustainable investment focus to clean energy and low-carbon sectors alone. Increasingly, they are directing capital toward 'transition investing' - backing companies in high-emission industries that are actively reshaping their operations to meet the demands of a low-carbon economy. A recent report spanning eight key markets from Standard Chartered reveals that 87% of HNWIs now have an appetite for such investments. That figure is striking, given that many of these investors built their fortunes in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and heavy industry - sectors under the sharpest pressure to decarbonise. Far from shunning these industries, they see an opportunity: to help future-proof them, and to reap the rewards of companies that lead their peers in adapting. 'Clients in our markets understand the concept of climate transition as many of them have built wealth in high carbon industries,' says Eugenia Koh, Global Head, Sustainable Finance, Wealth and Retail Banking at Standard Chartered. 'They are keenly aware of the opportunities and risks – some of them may be seeing demand from international companies come through to their own business and acknowledge that companies that are ahead of transitioning will be competitive and the leaders of tomorrow.' Beyond Altruism - Toward Financial Resilience Although transition investing might seem like a natural offshoot of broader sustainable investing, the emphasis here is firmly on financial materiality. 'Investors in our footprint are very pragmatic,' Koh explains. 'They are not looking at sustainable trends just for altruistic reasons but trends that are also focused on financial materiality.' This is the first year the survey has explored transition investing specifically, yet the trend mirrors previous patterns in sustainable finance. The motivation is not just about 'doing good' but ensuring portfolios are prepared for a world where carbon prices, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer demands could reshape industries overnight. Markets with Distinct Motivations While the global appetite is broad, the drivers vary sharply by region. In Hong Kong, personal values (61%) are the top motivator, followed closely by improved returns (also 61%), with social and environmental impact in third place. Mainland China shows higher-than-average investor scepticism, particularly around risk and the tangible impact of investments. A lack of benchmarks is also seen as a hurdle. Yet the leading driver here remains environmental and social impact (64%), followed by returns (59%) and compliance with social norms (55%). In the UAE, positive societal and environmental outcomes lead (55%), with financial returns and personal values tied in second (53% each). Here, one of the top barriers is access - 36% cite limited availability of suitable investment products, a concern unique among the surveyed markets. Yet despite strong appetite, understanding of the concept is still limited. 'While investor appetite is strong, the findings indicated a gap in understanding, with only 15% of investors able to fully define the concept of transition investing,' Koh notes. 'Many still relate it just to climate investing or renewable energy, rather than a broad sector approach of supporting companies in high carbon sectors which are actively reducing their carbon emissions.' Closing the Knowledge Gap To close this gap, Koh and her team are stepping up education efforts. 'We continue to educate clients on this when we meet with them, and reports like this alongside our Transition Investing Guide are useful resources in educating our clients.' The guide offers a framework and key questions for evaluating transition-related funds, mirroring earlier sustainable fund frameworks aimed at helping investors navigate greenwashing concerns. Aligning with Broader Sustainability Goals For Koh, whose remit spans global wealth and retail banking, transition finance is more than a niche offering. Standard Chartered has committed to mobilising $300bn in green and transition finance by 2030. 'We understand that the markets and sectors that require the most financing to transition to low carbon business models are often left out of green finance,' she says. Opportunities on the Horizon Over the next decade, the financial and societal opportunities from transition investing could be vast. 'Investing in the leaders transitioning their sectors will be an important theme in the next 5 to 10 years as companies globally face increasing regulations and costs of operations such as carbon taxes,' Koh says. Investor interest is particularly strong in low-emissions fuels and carbon capture and storage (CCS). Green hydrogen has potential, but scalability remains inconsistent. By contrast, CCS is gaining traction, with projects like the UK's East Coast Cluster aiming to capture and store up to 4 million tonnes of CO₂ annually by 2030 - 'equivalent to removing 1.5 million cars from the road.' The Societal Imperative Emerging markets are where the stakes are highest. 'The markets and sectors that require the most financing to transition to low carbon business models are often left out of green finance,' Koh says. 'In emerging markets, they also tend to be the sectors that are essential for livelihoods and economic growth. The same regions can be the most vulnerable and least prepared for the increasing frequency and severity of weather events from climate change.' The economic cost of inaction is already visible. 'According to Zurich Resilience Solutions, damage from global natural disasters in 2023 totalled $380bn in economic losses – with only $118bn of these losses covered by insurance.' Future Focus As the market matures, Koh expects a sharper focus on financial materiality in transition metrics, much as investors now scrutinise material ESG indicators. For those still hesitant, her advice is clear: 'Climate risks are growing for companies and climate risk is investment risk. It is therefore important for investors to also think about their portfolios from this lens, and to be able to incorporate this as part of looking at risks and opportunities in their investments.' Transition investing, then, is not a speculative bet on a distant future. It is an informed strategy for navigating the realities of today's shifting markets - and for shaping the resilient, low-carbon economy of tomorrow. "Transition Finance Goes Mainstream" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Zawya
09-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oryx Global Partners secures Fund Manager License and signs the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration
London, Abu Dhabi – Oryx Global Partners ('Oryx'), the investment firm dedicated to facilitating the energy transition and securing supply chains through strategic investments in the minerals value chain, announces that it has secured a Category 3C (CAT3C) fund manager license from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM, and signed the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration. Highlights: Oryx invests in the minerals value chain, targeting critical and strategic minerals assets in favorable jurisdictions where they can create a positive impact. Oryx secured the Category 3C fund manager license from the FSRA of ADGM, providing a robust regulatory framework for Oryx to manage investment funds and portfolios, whilst leveraging Abu Dhabi's exceptional infrastructure and global connectivity. By signing the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration, Oryx reinforces its position as a pioneer of responsible and sustainable practices in the minerals investment space, creating value for its investors and broader stakeholders. The license enables Oryx to manage investment funds and portfolios, with their focus on advancing responsible and sustainable investment strategies in the minerals value chain, targeting critical and strategic minerals assets, in favorable jurisdictions. ADGM has established itself as a leading hub for innovation in finance, committed to fostering a financial ecosystem that is trusted and progressive. The fastest growing financial center in the region, it is home to almost 150 asset and fund managers and almost 3,000 operational entities [1]. Oryx benefits from ADGM's infrastructure as well as its strategic location and connectivity to both Eastern and Western markets, allowing the team to reach its key markets and investors with relative ease. Reinforcing its commitment to responsible and sustainable investing, Oryx has also signed the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration. This voluntary initiative launched by ADGM brings together financial institutions and industry leaders to drive sustainable finance and growth. By joining this collective effort, Oryx affirms its dedication to working collaboratively to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advance the sustainable finance industry. Zeno van Gils, Managing Partner of Oryx, said: 'We are proud to have secured our fund manager license in ADGM, which marks a significant step in our mission to facilitating the energy transition and securing supply chains through strategic investments in the minerals value chain. 'We'd like to thank ADGM for the efficient process and their support as we worked through the license application. ADGM provides us with a strong regulatory framework, access to a global financial hub, and a strategic location at the heart of international commerce and investment. We are excited to work in this well-established and dynamic region.' Paul Schaffer, Managing Partner of Oryx, said: "Signing the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration reflects our commitment to responsible and sustainable investing, which has been at the heart of Oryx's strategy from the outset. We look forward to supporting ADGM's work in promoting sustainable practices within the finance industry.' Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer, ADGM, said: 'Oryx Global Partners' focus on advancing sustainable investment strategies aligns well with ADGM's commitment to a responsible, world-class business environment. We look forward to supporting Oryx's efforts as they contribute to the Abu Dhabi financial ecosystem and the growth of a resilient global economy." [1] ADGM, February 2025: About Oryx Global Partners Limited Oryx Global Partners is a specialist investment firm dedicated to securing supply chains and facilitating the energy transition through strategic investments in the minerals value chain. The Oryx team, composed of financial, technical, and operational experts with extensive resources and investment management experience, utilizes a proven investment process to identify high-quality investments and deliver significant operational value-add. Oryx is committed to delivering market leading returns to its investors and a net positive impact through its operations. Their responsible and sustainable approach enables Oryx to create lasting value through industry that benefits both its investors and broader stakeholders. Media contacts Camarco: oryx@ Georgina Whittle Amrith Uppuluri
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
CI Capital Asset Management launches Egypt's first Sustainable Equity Fund
Cairo, Egypt: CI Capital Asset Management (CIAM), Egypt's leading asset manager and a Forbes Top 40 asset manager in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, a subsidiary of CI Capital Holding ( is proud to announce the launch of the country's first open-ended sustainable equity fund — the 'Misr Green – Sustainability (ESG) Fund' — a pioneering product in Egypt's investment landscape. The fund opens for subscription on Wednesday, 18 June 2025, and upon the close of the subscription period will be the first sustainable/ESG fund offered on Egyptian banking platforms. The new fund offers investors a differentiated, responsible investment solution one that captures both the growth potential and the best business practices of Egypt's leading companies. It targets superior returns while aligning with and contributing to Egypt's sustainable development goals. The Misr Green – Sustainability (ESG) Fund is an open-ended ESG index tracker fund that invests in the 30 best-performing listed companies on the Egyptian Exchange (EGX), selected for their leadership in environmental, social responsibility, and governance (ESG) standards across a diversified range of sectors. The fund aims to track the official EGX ESG index, which has demonstrated sustained outperformance compared to conventional equity indices over time. The launch of this fund marks a significant milestone in CIAM's leadership and innovation in the being the first ESG-focused public equity fund accessible through Egyptian banks. This initiative comes as global studies continue to show that sustainable investments outperform conventional alternatives on a risk-adjusted basis over the long term, despite recent short-term market volatility. 'The launch of the Misr Green Sustainability (ESG) Fund is a new chapter in our ongoing effort to offer innovative, impact-driven investment products to both institutional and individual investors. We are proud to be the first asset manager in Egypt to provide a public equity fund that systematically integrates ESG principles in line with global best practices and our internal sustainability policy,' Commented Dr. Amr Abol Enein, CEO and Managing Director of CI Capital Asset Management. The new fund complements CIAM's growing range of investment solutions, tailor-made to meet the evolving needs of both institutional and individual investors within the local market and abroad. It is the firm's third index-tracking product after the company introduced its equity fund tracking the EGX30 Capped index 'Misr Equity' in 2022, the first of its kind in the local market, followed by the launch of yet another first-of-its-kind product in the local market 'Misr Shariah Equity' which tracks the EGX 33 Shariah index, both were followed by the recent successful launches of the company's sector equity funds and the USD fixed-income fund. This adds further diversity and choice to the firm's product suite, reinforcing CIAM's leadership position in the Egyptian market in terms of the size of assets under management (AUM), product breadth, and innovation. CI Capital Asset Management is the largest asset manager in Egypt, with the largest assets under management (AUM), the largest number of funds and mandates, and the widest product variety. The firm was ranked again among the top 40 asset managers in the Middle East for 2025 by Forbes Middle East. CIAM currently manages assets exceeding EGP 82 billion, one of the highest in Egypt, and has received multiple awards for its leadership in asset management across Egypt, the Middle East, and Africa.
Zawya
17-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt, EU launch investment guarantee facility to empower private sector
Arab Finance: The Egyptian government and the European Union (EU) have officially launched the €1.8 billion Investment Guarantee Facility under the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+), marking a major milestone in joint efforts to empower the private sector and promote sustainable investment in Egypt, as per a statement. The announcement was made during the 'Development Finance to Foster Private Sector: Led Growth and Job' conference, organized by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation under the patronage of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. The Investment Guarantee Facility is one of the provisions outlined in the political declaration issued during the Egypt-EU Summit in March 2024, co-chaired by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. It aims to stimulate private investment through innovative financial instruments, including guarantees and blended finance, to reduce risk and increase investor confidence in strategic sectors such as water, energy, climate, infrastructure, agriculture, and digitalization. Minister of Planning Rania Al-Mashat stated that the facility's launch reflects the shared commitment of Egypt and the EU to enabling the private sector to play a leading role in development. She added that the mechanism is part of a broader strategy to attract both public and private capital through risk-sharing instruments. These tools are now accessible through the ministry's Hafiz platform for financial and technical support to the private sector. The facility allows private companies to access concessional financing from development partners, benefit from EU-backed guarantees to lower investment risks, take part in EU-supported infrastructure and green transformation projects, and receive technical support for project design and feasibility. The guarantees will be made available to a range of international financial institutions, including the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the German Development Bank (KfW), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Italian CDP, and others. This is expected to drive additional concessional financing into Egypt's private sector and mobilize investments in renewable energy, food security, infrastructure, and human capital. The facility is expected to help mobilize up to €5 billion in public and private investment in Egypt between 2024 and 2027, advancing the goals of sustainable development and economic transformation. © 2020-2023 Arab Finance For Information Technology. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
01-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sharjah to host 29th World Investment Conference in partnership with WAIPA and UAE Ministry of Investment
Taking place from October 22 to 24 at Expo Centre Sharjah and held under a joint agenda with Sharjah Investment Forum 2025 Bodour Al Qasimi: Hosting the 29th edition of WIC in Sharjah reflects international confidence in the emirate's status as a leading destination for responsible and sustainable investment. Mohamed Alsuwaidi: This collaboration highlights our shared ambition to deepen cross-border partnerships and drive inclusive, sustainable economic growth. Mohamed Al Musharrkh: Convening global investment institutions in Sharjah unlocks diverse pathways for local and regional business communities James Zhan: The conference is set to take place at the right time, in the right location, and with the right partners The forum is the one of the most prominent events in the international business community Organised in conjunction with the 30th anniversary of World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) To feature high-level sessions, ministerial meetings, and discussions between ambassadors and investment officials Sharjah: In a significant step that underscores the UAE's prominence on the global investment map, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), in collaboration with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and the UAE Ministry of Investment, has announced the 29th edition of the World Investment Conference (WIC). Marking its debut in Sharjah, the event will be conducted under a shared agenda with the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF), which will take place from October 22 to 24 at Expo Centre Sharjah. This international collaboration was officially formalised through a 'Host Agreement' in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), H.E. Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and Dr. James Zhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of the World Investment Conference (WIC). Signatories to the agreement included H.E. Mohammad AbdulRahman Alhawi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Investment; H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; and Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director and CEO of WAIPA. Commenting on the strategic significance of the event, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: 'Hosting the 29th edition of WIC in Sharjah reflects international confidence in the emirate's status as a leading destination for responsible and sustainable investment and underscores its readiness to convene global discussions focused on directing capital towards tangible development goals.' 'In Sharjah, we believe that the future of investment depends on striking a balance between economic growth and social development. For this reason, we are committed to ensuring that the international platforms we host provide opportunities to build partnerships that facilitate knowledge exchange, promote innovation, and deliver meaningful impact for both communities and markets,' she added. A milestone marking WAIPA's 30th anniversary The decision to host the 29th edition of the WIC in Sharjah holds particular importance as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of WAIPA. This milestone adds a commemorative element to the event, recognising three decades of advancing global investment and underscoring the critical role of investment promotion agencies in shaping both regional and international economic landscapes. His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment said: 'The World Investment Conference taking place in Sharjah reflects the UAE's enduring commitment to shaping the global investment agenda. As WAIPA marks its 30th anniversary, this collaboration highlights our shared ambition to deepen cross-border partnerships and drive inclusive, sustainable economic growth.' Commenting on the collaboration, H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh highlighted that hosting global investment institutions in Sharjah will unlock a wide range of opportunities for local and regional business communities, facilitating greater access to expansive networks of cross-border partnerships. He stressed that the collaboration underscores Invest in Sharjah's ongoing commitment to equipping investors with the tools necessary for sustainable growth, while fostering a flexible and scalable development environment that adapts to evolving market dynamics and responds to both current opportunities and future challenges. In this context, Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director and CEO of WAIPA said 'Investment promotion agencies are the architects of global economic connectivity — they bridge nations, ideas and capital to generate lasting impact. As WAIPA marks its 30th anniversary, we are proud to bring the World Investment Conference to Sharjah,'. 'This conference is not just a celebration of WAIPA's legacy, but a platform for meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors, where investors are matched with opportunities. Sharjah's hosting of WIC 2025 reflects its growing leadership in global investment discourse and its commitment to shaping the next era of responsible, resilient investment.' he added. Dr. James Zhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of the World Investment Conference emphasized that the Conference is set to take place at the right time, in the right location, and with the right partners. He highlighted Sharjah as a unique and strategic destination for foreign direct investment. As a regional leader in attracting FDI, the UAE continues to strengthen its position among the world's top 15 investment destinations. The World Investment Conference arrives at a pivotal moment. In the face of global economic uncertainty and market volatility, the Conference aims to address pressing challenges while exploring new opportunities. It will serve as a vital global forum—bringing together the international investment community to shape a forward-looking strategy. It will chart a new path for promoting sustainable investment and shared prosperity in the new era of global economy. Sharjah's status on the global investment stage By hosting this prestigious global forum in tandem with SIF 2025, Sharjah reaffirms its status as a strategic regional hub for high-quality, sustainable investment. It also reflects the advancement of a dynamic environment that fosters innovation, expansion, and cross-border partnerships within the UAE's markets. The emirate provides a forward-looking business environment that fosters innovation, cross-border collaboration, and growth; and has emerged as a model for competitive business ecosystems, underpinned by advanced infrastructure, progressive regulatory frameworks, and an economic vision grounded in diversity and sustainability. About Sharjah Investment Forum: Since 2015, Invest in Sharjah has organised the Sharjah Investment Forum, establishing it as a leading regional platform for tracking global investment trends, identifying opportunities within the sustainable economy, and aligning with the direction of international capital and markets. Over the years, the forum has attracted prominent decision-makers, experts, and global investors, facilitating strategic discussions that support the development priorities of Sharjah, the UAE, and the wider region. Its integration of WIC reflects a strategic approach to enhancing its impact, widening the scope of discussions, and fostering meaningful partnerships across sectors and borders. About World Investment Conference: Since its inception in 1995, WIC has been the flagship event of WAIPA, serving as a premier platform for dialogue on global investment trends. It brings together decision-makers, senior government officials, and international investors from over 100 countries to examine key economic developments that affect FDI flows and explore new avenues for global cooperation and economic integration. The agenda includes high-level plenary sessions, ministerial roundtables, ambassador-investor discussions, and networking activities that foster collaboration between the public and private sectors. Video link:
