POPULARITY
Categories
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
The traditional view of bonds focuses only on financial returns. But social bonds turn that model on its head by aligning capital with solutions to pressing social challenges. Social bonds link financial success directly to positive societal change.Across these 3 conversations from past guests of the SRI360 podcast, a common thread emerges. When you design investment strategies to solve real problems and hold yourself accountable for the outcomes, you can unlock new sources of alpha, resilience, and long-term value.Social impact bonds show how shifting incentives can deliver better results for both investors and society.Here are the featured guests:Sir Ronald Cohen, Co-Founder and President of GSG ImpactSir Ronald Cohen's story begins in traditional venture capital, where he saw firsthand both the power and the limitations of finance. While VC could create jobs and generate wealth, it could also widen the gap between those at the top and everyone else. Could capital markets be redesigned to actively close those gaps instead?The answer took shape in the form of the social impact bond – a financial instrument where investor returns are tied directly to measurable social outcomes. The first was used to reduce reoffending among UK prisoners, shifting the risk from taxpayers to investors and incentivizing real results over box-ticking.From there, Sir Ronald Cohen went further, creating “impact accounting” – a framework to measure corporate social and environmental performance in monetary terms. It's a practical idea because people understand numbers more than anything else; hence, the approach to valuing impact is the same as valuing profit.Full episodeAdam Swersky, Former CEO, Social FinanceAdam Swersky's work at Social Finance has been instrumental in the creation and scaling of social impact bonds and similar outcomes-based financing models. Adam explains how bringing finance into the equation can force a greater focus on measurable outcomes, driving partnerships that are laser-focused on solving acute social problems. From the Peterborough Prison Program to the Mental Health Unemployment Partnership, Adam's experience demonstrates how applying capital to social issues creates a discipline around results, sustainability, and long-term impact. Full episodeSimon Bond, Former Executive Director of RI Portfolio Management, Columbia Threadneedle InvestmentsAt Columbia Threadneedle, Simon managed the UK and European Social Bond Funds – large-scale, diversified portfolios where every bond issued was tied to a clear, measurable social benefit.This is not philanthropy disguised as investing. These funds delivered market-rate returns while financing projects like affordable housing, education, public health, and climate resilience. Simon calls it “positive inclusion” – actively seeking out issuers whose activities deliver net social gain.Every investment was assessed not just on financial merit, but on its documented social outcomes. And because these are public market instruments, the scale was enormous, allowing institutional investors to channel billions into projects that might otherwise be underfunded, without sacrificing liquidity or returns.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
We've spent decades talking about the shift to renewables – building more wind, more solar, more clean energy capacity. And that's important. But it's also only half the story.Because once that energy is generated, what happens next is where things start to get complicated – how it's stored, how it's moved, and how much of it actually gets used. Right now, the answer to that last question is… not much. In fact, the majority of global energy still gets lost before it ever reaches an end user.This week, we're revisiting two past conversations – both of them centered on the part of the energy transition most people don't see.One looks at the massive, under-addressed problem of energy waste – and the business models turning that waste into investment-grade infrastructure. The other zooms in on large-scale battery storage and what it takes to keep a renewable-heavy grid stable.These are two very different approaches to the same problem: not just how we generate clean energy, but how we manage it after it's made. Because if we don't solve that part, the rest doesn't work.Here are the featured guests:Jonathan Maxwell, Founding Partner and CEO of Sustainable Development Capital (SDCL)Jonathan Maxwell founded SDCL with a simple observation: the world isn't just short on clean energy – it's wasting most of the energy it already has. While the market poured trillions into new renewables, Jonathan zeroed in on the overlooked half of the story: how energy is used, moved, and lost before it ever reaches the point of need.He started SDCL in 2007 as an advisory shop, designing environmental infrastructure funds for clients like HSBC and the World Bank. But by 2012, the firm became an investor, building and financing projects that cut waste, generate energy on-site, and make buildings, industry, and transport far more efficient.Today, SDCL manages $2.5 billion in assets across over 50,000 properties in 10 countries. Their portfolio spans projects from industrial heat recovery to citywide biogas and low-carbon power for data centers. The common thread is delivering cheaper, cleaner, more reliable energy, without requiring customers to put up the capital themselves.Full episodeBen Guest, the Managing Director of Gresham House New Energy Division, Gresham House Energy Storage FundBen Guest leads Gresham House's New Energy Division, home to the UK's largest battery storage portfolio. His team controls close to a quarter of the market – a position built on one core idea: if renewables are going to power the future, they need somewhere to live when the sun's not shining and the wind's not blowing.Battery storage is that missing piece. Because wind and solar don't produce power all the time. But the grid still has to stay balanced every second of every day. That's what these battery projects do – they take in power when there's too much, release it when there's not enough, and do it over and over, many times a day.Ben's team is hands-on from start to finish. They find sites near key substations, secure planning and grid connections, oversee construction, run operations, and work with optimizers to trade power for the best returns.At the time of this conversation, they were managing more than £1.4 billion, with returns well above their 10% target for two years in a row.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Hey friends,Welcome back to Funding Rounds, where we break down the week's most impactful startup and venture funding announcements—highlighting the mission, the money, and the impact behind it all.This week, over $1 billion was invested across public safety tech, clean energy, autism care, robotics, carbon removal, and more. Let's get into it.First Due Secures $355 Million to Scale Public Safety SoftwareFunding: $355 MillionGoal: Expand public safety and emergency response software solutionsImpact: Empowering first responders with technology to improve community safety
Why This Episode Is a Must-Watch Are you looking to align your investments with your personal values and make a real difference in the world? This episode of Inspired Money looks at sustainable investing, exploring how your portfolio can do more than generate returns. You'll learn how ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors are transforming global finance, why shareholder advocacy offers leverage for long-term value, and how transparency tools can empower every investor. Whether you're an industry professional or a values-driven investor, this episode delivers actionable insights, practical resources, and forward-thinking strategies to help you invest with impact. This episode of Inspired Money is brought to you by Runnymede Capital Management, where investing is never one-size-fits-all. For over 30 years, we've worked closely with clients like you to understand your goals, objectives, and values. Then we create a customized portfolio designed to align with what matters most to you — whether that's pursuing growth, protecting your wealth, or investing in a way that reflects your principles. If you're ready for a personal, thoughtful approach to managing your money, visit https://www.runnymede.com. Meet the Expert Panelists Andrew Behar is CEO of As You Sow, the nation's leading nonprofit advancing values-aligned investing through shareholder advocacy on climate, social justice, and corporate accountability. A former entrepreneur and inventor with five patents, he is also the author of The Shareholders Action Guide and a recognized Purposeful-50 changemaker. https://www.asyousow.org Marilyn Waite is Managing Director of the Climate Finance Fund, leading efforts to accelerate the transition to a climate-friendly economy by aligning capital with low-carbon solutions. With experience spanning four continents in clean energy, climate finance, and sustainable investment, she is the author of Sustainability at Work and a widely published voice on climate and economic policy. https://marilynwaite.com Jennifer Coombs is Head of Content & Development at US SIF: The Sustainable Investment Forum, and creator of the Chartered SRI Counselor (CSRIC) designation, the first U.S. professional credential in sustainable investing. A two-time TEDx speaker and recognized 40 Under 40 honoree, she is a leading educator, writer, and advocate for integrating ESG principles into finance. https://www.ussif.org Ioannis Ioannou is an Associate Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at London Business School and a globally recognized expert on corporate sustainability and responsibility. His award-winning research examines how businesses integrate environmental and social issues into strategy, influencing investors, corporate decision-making, and long-term performance. https://www.ioannou.us Key Highlights: Sustainable Investing Takes Many Forms Andrew Behar breaks down the ecosystem of sustainable investing—from exclusionary screens like avoiding fossil fuels to impact investing that targets measurable social outcomes. With data-driven advocacy and shareholder engagement, investors can leverage their portfolios for real change. As Andrew puts it, “Your money...really defines the future.” Global Momentum and Regional Nuance Marilyn Waite underscores that sustainable investing has gone mainstream across the globe, now representing over one-third of global assets under management. She emphasizes the leadership of the Global South in setting new standards, showing that sustainable finance is both a fiduciary and a competitive imperative. “There's no stopping this because it just makes good sense, it makes fiduciary sense, and it makes return sense,” Marilyn notes. Measuring and Managing Impact in a Noisy Data WorldJennifer Coombs highlights the evolution and pitfalls of ESG data, explaining how investors can move past simple ratings to uncover genuine impact. Transparent frameworks and practical tools—like As You Sow's InvestYourValues platform—empower investors to know exactly what they own and avoid greenwashing. Corporate Accountability and the Power of NarrativeIoannis Ioannou shares how ESG outperformance research is nuanced—successful sustainable companies embed responsibility in strategy, not just reporting. He calls for a “positive narrative” that unites all stakeholders: “Transparency is necessary but not sufficient. We need to align corporate action with a system that works within its limits—and tell a compelling, evidence-based story.” Call-to-Action Let's inspire you with one action item to move the needle this week: take a moment to review your own portfolio or investment choices and ask yourself, "How well do they align with your personal values?" Even small shifts can make a big impact over time. If you haven't explored sustainable investing before, start by researching one company or fund that prioritizes environmental or social responsibility. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money
In this episode of the All Things Sustainable podcast we bring you the first of a special series featuring major pension funds around the world. We sit down in Mexico City, Mexico with Alejandro Bújanos, Head of Sustainable Investing at Afore SURA. This is one of the largest pension funds in Mexico and a subsidiary of SURA Asset Management. Alejandro outlines how the pension fund seeks to drive Mexico's transition to a low-carbon economy by engaging with major national companies. "We believe that we need to be active owners and actually improve the countries where we're living," Alejandro says. "My main challenge is how to transition our portfolio to a low-carbon economy, and, while doing that, also have an impact in the real economy." Alejandro highlights the role that collaborative initiatives play in the market. Earlier this year, Afore SURA and other financial institutions in Mexico launched one such initiative, called MxColab, to engage with major Mexican companies on issues like climate change. "These very big companies that have been here for a long time ... it's hard to change them," he says. "Pulling investors together might be the only way to have a substantial enough size for these very big owners to actually listen to what you're asking from them." Learn about S&P Global Commodity Insights' Energy Transition services. Explore how companies are approaching sustainability via S&P Global Sustainable1's Corporate Sustainability Assessment data. The All Things Sustainable podcast from S&P Global will be an official media partner of The Nest Climate Campus during Climate Week NYC. Register free to attend here. This piece was published by S&P Global Sustainable1 and not by S&P Global Ratings, which is a separately managed division of S&P Global. Copyright ©2025 by S&P Global DISCLAIMER By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that S&P GLOBAL makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this Podcast. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. Any unauthorized use, facilitation or encouragement of a third party's unauthorized use (including without limitation copy, distribution, transmission or modification, use as part of generative artificial intelligence or for training any artificial intelligence models) of this Podcast or any related information is not permitted without S&P Global's prior consent subject to appropriate licensing and shall be deemed an infringement, violation, breach or contravention of the rights of S&P Global or any applicable third-party (including any copyright, trademark, patent, rights of privacy or publicity or any other proprietary rights). This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Unless specifically stated otherwise, S&P GLOBAL does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organization presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. The third party materials or content of any third party site referenced in this Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards or policies of S&P GLOBAL. S&P GLOBAL assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content contained in third party materials or on third party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced herein. Moreover, S&P GLOBAL makes no warranty that this Podcast, or the server that makes it available, is free of viruses, worms, or other elements or codes that manifest contaminating or destructive properties. S&P GLOBAL EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
Healthcare is filled with breakthrough claims. But most of what gets funded doesn't make it anywhere near a hospital ward, a low-income patient, or a parent juggling three jobs. The gap between what's possible and what's actually useful is real, and these two investors are trying to close it.This week, we revisit two conversations with fund managers who are focused on problems that actually matter: the rising cost of care, the complexity of getting it, and the systems that still leave too many people behind. Their portfolios include diagnostics that reduce medical error, wearables that predict seizures, virtual platforms that help people manage chronic illness, and yes – even robotics that could expand access to fertility care.But this isn't just about cutting-edge tech. It's about a bigger question: What role do businesses – and the investors backing them – play in creating health? Because at the end of the day, a healthier population isn't just good policy. It's good business, too.Here are the featured guests:Dr. Tara Bishop, Founder and Managing Director of Black Opal VenturesTara Bishop is investing at the collision point – where healthcare and technology meet, and where legacy capital still struggles to keep up. At Black Opal Ventures, she's backing startups that don't just make care more digital – they make it more intelligent, more precise, and more accessible.Black Opal is one of the few female- and minority-led VC funds in the health-tech space. Tara and her partner Eileen Tanghal bring deep domain expertise – medicine on one side, deep tech on the other – and they're targeting high-impact companies that address the big four in healthcare: cost, quality, access, and security.Every investment is built around the same goal: getting the right care to the right patient at the right time – at a cost that works. And they're delivering Black Opal double-digit returns in the process.For Tara, impact means solving problems that have outlasted decades of reform – inside what she calls a “behemoth of an industry” that affects lives at scale and rarely rewards innovation that puts patients first.Full episodeKieron Boyle, Chair of the Impact Investing InstituteKieron Boyle has spent years making the economic case for better health. At Guy's and St. Thomas' Foundation, he helped turn an 800-year-old endowment into a £100 million impact portfolio – funding everything from healthier food startups to housing for women and children at risk. Not because it's charity. Because it's smart investing. Because a healthier society is more productive, more resilient, and more investable.His work started with a simple question: most of what drives health doesn't happen in hospitals – so why should health investing stop at hospital walls? The team backed medical technologies and life sciences, yes – but also addressed the wider commercial determinants of health: food, air, housing, debt. Then they went further, pioneering a dual mandate that put health and financial return on equal footing.Now, as Chair of the UK's Impact Investing Institute, Kieron is scaling that thinking. He's working with long-term investors (including pension funds and sovereign wealth) to align trillions in assets with the outcomes that actually shape wellbeing: healthier people, stronger communities, and more sustainable systems.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
With the second half of the year now well underway, what are the prospects for the major economies and financial markets as tariffs remain very much in the headlines? On our podcast, Chief Market Strategist Daniel Morris tells Andrew Craig, Co-head of the Investment Insight Centre, that concerns remain over US Treasuries, arguing for an overweight in European bonds versus US sovereign debt.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
With a background spanning operational leadership at Rolls-Royce, strategic advisory at BCG, and now sustainable investing at IMCO, Youssef Aroub brings sharp analysis to the intersection of nature and private markets. In this episode, Jenn and Youssef explore why biodiversity is climbing the investor agenda and how businesses can start weaving nature considerations into their core strategy. From data centres in drought zones to cocoa supply chains driving deforestation, nature risk is increasingly business risk. Youssef explains how to start turning that risk into opportunity.Useful Links:Follow Youssef on LinkedIn hereLearn more about IMCO's work hereRead Youssef's book recommendation, Candide, hereClick here for the episode web page. This episode is also available on YouTube.For more insights straight to your inbox subscribe to the Future in Sight newsletter, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram This podcast is brought to you by Re:Co, a tech-powered advisory company helping private market investors pursue sustainability objectives and value creation in tandem. Produced by Chris AttawayArtwork by Harriet RichardsonMusic by Cody Martin
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
What does it look like when billion-dollar funds put impact at the core of their investment strategy?In this 3-in-1 compilation episode, we revisit conversations with investors managing tens of billions across public fixed income, public equities, private equity, and impact-focused real estate. Each one makes the case that environmental and social outcomes aren't a tradeoff – but a source of lasting value and market-beating returns.Meet the leaders turning billions into measurable impact:Michele Giddens, Co-Founder and CEO of Bridges Fund ManagementBridges was launched in 2002 with £40 million – including just £10 million in catalytic capital. Today, it manages over £2 billion across private equity, impact real estate, and outcomes contracts. From the start, its mission has been to invest in solutions that drive both a more inclusive economy and a more sustainable planet – ideally, both at once. Michele describes their theory of change simply: addressing systemic social and environmental challenges isn't a tradeoff – it's a way to unlock high-performing markets. Whether it's converting inefficient office buildings into low-carbon co-living hubs or financing housing solutions for marginalized youth, Bridges targets overlooked problems with market-driven solutions.Full episodeBen Dear, Founder and CEO of Osmosis Investment ManagementOsmosis was built on a simple but overlooked idea: companies that generate more economic value while using less carbon, water, and waste will outperform. Ben believed resource efficiency wasn't just good for the planet – it could be a consistent, data-driven investment factor.He was right. Today, Osmosis manages over $17 billion in global public equity strategies, all powered by their own proprietary environmental data. They collect and standardize metrics across carbon, water, and waste – giving them a lens on corporate performance that most investors miss.Their low-risk flagship targets just 0.5–1% above benchmark returns – yet still outperforms two-thirds of global equity funds on Morningstar. Their higher-alpha strategies deliver 2–3% annually, while cutting portfolio footprints by up to 70%.Check out the full interview: Part 1Part 2Stephen M. Liberatore, Head of ESG and Impact for Global Fixed Income at NuveenNuveen manages just over $1 trillion globally – and Steve oversees more than $20 billion of that in ESG and impact-focused public fixed income, across 38 distinct funds.While most associate impact with private markets, Steve has built one of the world's largest impact bond strategies by focusing on public debt. His theory of change is rooted in scale: in 2023, public fixed income financed over $800 billion in climate transition – ten times more than private equity and venture combined.Every security in Steve's portfolios must deliver a direct, measurable environmental or social outcome. That means no sustainability-linked bonds with vague KPIs. Instead, the team targets use-of-proceeds instruments that reduce financing costs for projects like clean energy, affordable housing, and ecosystem restoration – while delivering market-rate returns.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
Voting and engagement matter for any long-term investor. While fewer environmental and social proposals have been voted on, they still obtain widespread support.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Varda Raises $187M Series C to Manufacture Medicine in Space
Send us a textIn this 2nd episode or our two-part WTR Symposium Series podcast, "NEXT-GEN VEHICLES: Investing in Small Drones and Unmanned Vehicles", senior management of Arrive AI (ARAI), Nauticus Robotics (KITT), Ocean Power Technologies (OPTT), and Palladyne AI (PDYN) join the Water Tower Research team including Founding Partner and CEO, Shawn Severson, Managing Director - Energy Transition and Sustainable Investing, Peter Gastreich, and Managing Director - Technology, Dr. John Roy. These companies are high-growth and with innovative unmanned vehicle solutions focused on improving efficiency and safety for industries as diverse as offshore oil & gas, subsea mining, offshore wind energy, pipelines, defense, surface logistics, and CO2 sequestration.
Send us a textUsually on this show we talk about the power of our wallets to build the world we want. This week, let's talk about how we can extend our power just a little bit further, to our places of work.There are lots of ways to serve as a financial ally to the planet and to our community. This week, we'll talk about five ways that are probably easier than you might think.Practice salary transparency.Propose a green 401K option if your company doesn't already have one.Take advantage of your company's matching donations.Participate in paid volunteer daysHire vendors with your mission and values in mind.Links from today's episode:The Enduring Grip of the Gender Pay Gap | Pew Researchhttps://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2023/03/01/the-enduring-grip-of-the-gender-pay-gap/Gender pay gap in U.S. hasn't changed much in two decades | Pew Researchhttps://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/03/01/gender-pay-gap-facts/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode#42 Pay Transparency for Allies (recorded before the 2024 rebranding of this show)Episode #9 When your company doesn't offer a socially responsible 401K (recorded before the 2024 rebranding of this show)Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the show
When it comes to digital assets, attention often centres on cryptocurrencies, but for an asset manager, digitalisation opens up a wider field of opportunities. On our podcast, Stefan Brinaru, Head of Digital Assets, tells Chief Market Strategist Daniel Morris that the advantages of tokenisation include more transparency and faster settlement.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Carbon to Sea Initiative Commits $4M to Ocean Carbon Removal R&DFunding: $4 million joint investment with MEOPARGoal: Advance research on ocean-based carbon dioxide removal in CanadaImpact: Unlocking ocean tech as a scalable solution for climate mitigation
Send us a textWhat's the best advice investors can follow right now? In this closing session of the Family Office Club event, experienced investors across real estate, AI, art, sports, and sustainability share their #1 insights on how to grow and protect wealth over the next decade.You'll hear powerful guidance on:Investing with authenticity and purposeThe role of storytelling in portfolio strategyWhy uncertain times are a breeding ground for innovationThe importance of diversification and alignmentLegacy building through culture, education, and valuesWhether you're a family office, fund manager, or solo investor, these 60-second gems are filled with timeless wisdom for long-term investing success.
In this episode of The Founder Spirit, Lucy Thomas, Global Head of Sustainable Investing and Impact at UBS Asset Management, shares her journey from her formative years in Ireland to her influential role in investment stewardship.Lucy addresses the challenges and opportunities present in emerging markets, emphasizing the role of blended finance in bridging funding gaps, and discusses the balance between achieving financial returns and making a measurable impact. Focusing on the importance of nature and biodiversity in financial decision-making, she also shares the positive signals and innovations within the sector, providing a hopeful outlook on the future.How can sustainable finance help address global challenges and steward capital flow toward responsible investments? TUNE IN to this conversation & find out. Don't forget to subscribe and support us on Patreon!For detailed transcript and show notes, please visit TheFounderSpirit.com.Also follow us on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/TheFounderSpirit- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheFounderSpirit- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFounderSpirit- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFounderSpirit- X: https://twitter.com/founder_spiritIf this podcast has been beneficial or valuable to you, feel free to become a patron and support us on Patreon.com, that is P-A-T-R-E-O-N.com/TheFounderSpirit.As always, you can find us on Apple, YouTube and Spotify, as well as social media and our website at TheFounderSpirit.com.The Founder Spirit podcast is proud to be a partner of the Villars Institute, a non-profit foundation focused on accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy and restoring planetary health.About This Podcast:Whether you are an entrepreneur, a mid-career professional or someone who's just starting out in life, The Founder Spirit podcast is for you!In this podcast series, we'll be interviewing exceptional individuals from all over the world with the founder spirit, ranging from social entrepreneurs, tech founders, to philanthropists, elite athletes, and more. Together, we'll uncover not only how they manage to succeed in face of multiple challenges, but also who they are as people and their human story.So TUNE IN & be inspired by stories from their life journey!
How have investor anxieties over the impact of US tariffs on economic growth, US debt sustainability and generally volatile markets affected recent flows in exchange-traded funds? Chief Market Strategist Daniel Morris talks to Daniel Dornel, Head of ETF Research, about the latest trends including flows out of – and back into – US equities and the appetite for less risky asset classes.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this Mission Matters episode, Adam Torres interviews Cara Williams, Senior Partner at Mercer, about the evolution of sustainability across finance and HR. The conversation explores ESG's growing influence, the role of AI in impact measurement, and why purpose-aligned performance is the future of long-term value creation. This interview is part of the Milken Global Conference coverage by Mission Matters. Big thanks to the Milken Institute for inviting us to cover the conference. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this Mission Matters episode, Adam Torres interviews Cara Williams, Senior Partner at Mercer, about the evolution of sustainability across finance and HR. The conversation explores ESG's growing influence, the role of AI in impact measurement, and why purpose-aligned performance is the future of long-term value creation. This interview is part of the Milken Global Conference coverage by Mission Matters. Big thanks to the Milken Institute for inviting us to cover the conference. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
With the US dollar battered by stop-start tariff policy, fiscal profligacy and questions about the independence of the Federal Reserve, where should investors turn? The dollar index, which measures the currency's strength against a basket of six others including the pound, euro and yen, slumped more than 10% in the first half of 2025, the worst start to the year since the end of the gold-backed Bretton Woods system in 1973.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Hey friends,After 10 incredible years of building Causeartist solo, I'm excited to share something personal with you.Last year, some amazing partners who believe deeply in the mission and future of Causeartist reached out. I knew from the initial conversation it was the right fit.The Pay It Forward Company (PIF) has officially acquired Causeartist, and I couldn't be more energized about what this means for the next decade.What's changing?Nothing about the core mission or voice will change. I'm still the founder of Causeartist and will continue to lead our daily content, podcasts, and community—just with more support, more resources, and a bigger vision.What's new?In addition to running Causeartist, I've also joined the PIF Venture Team as a partner. This means I'll be working more closely with early-stage impact startups and the people building infrastructure for a better world. More on that soon.Joining PIF feels like the perfect move at the right time.Their values align perfectly with everything Causeartist stands for: purpose-driven ventures, impactful innovation, and paying it forward.You can learn more about the venture side of the firm here and the advisory side here.To everyone who's subscribed, shared a post, tuned into the podcast, or built something impactful—you've helped Causeartist grow into what it is today. And now, we get to grow even further, together.We have some exciting things happening in the future.Here's to the next decade.
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
The mainstream investment community has long viewed emerging and frontier markets as high-risk regions fraught with numerous challenges. However, with growing populations and expanding digital access, these regions are poised to become the economic powerhouses of the future.In this compilation episode, we revisit 3 past conversations from Eliza Foo, Asha Mehta, and Monica Brand Engel, who are leveraging the power of impact investing to drive meaningful change across emerging economies.Each of these guests shared how they are turning risks into opportunities in emerging markets while earning impressive returns for their investors.By 2050, these regions will account for 70% of the global population and 50% of global GDP. This statistic alone shows the big opportunities that exist for businesses and investors alike.But we can't wish away the risks. Countries within these regions are often marked by political and economic volatility. In these conversations, we talk about evaluating these risks and overcoming challenges through innovative impact investing strategies.Eliza Foo, Director, Impact Investing at TemasekEliza Foo is a leader at Temasek, one of the world's most prestigious global investment firms, with a portfolio valued at USD $288 billion. Temasek invests across both public and private markets, operating with the flexibility of its own balance sheet, allowing them to pursue diverse opportunities across sectors, geographies, and asset classes.As the head of Temasek's Impact Investing team, Eliza plays a big role in the firm's mission to create value for both current and future generations. Under her leadership, Temasek has championed innovative investments in emerging markets, focusing on critical areas such as financial inclusion, healthcare, agriculture, and climate change.Full episodeAsha Mehta, Managing Partner & CIO at Global Delta CapitalAsha Mehta is a visionary leader at the intersection of impact and investment, with a deep commitment to unlocking the untapped potential in emerging and frontier markets. As the managing partner and CIO of Global Delta Capital, a US-based equity long-only investment manager, Asha and her team harness the power of capital to fuel social and economic development across international, emerging, and frontier markets.Her work combines systematic investing in publicly listed equities with a strong focus on generating both alpha and measurable impact.Full episodeMonica Brand Engel, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Quona CapitalMonica is an impact pioneer with a specialized focus on financial inclusion in emerging and frontier markets. Through Quona Capital, she leads investments in micro, small, and medium-sized businesses to drive economic growth and provide solutions to underserved and underbanked communities.Quona focuses on innovative fintech solutions that bridge the financial infrastructure gap in these regions. By investing in digital payments, tailored lending platforms, accessible insurance, and neo-banking services, Quona enables millions of people to access financial tools previously unavailable to them. Her investments in emerging markets center on creating sustainable financial products that cater to the unique needs of local populations.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
In this episode, Dr. Jay sits down with Pete Krull, a pioneer in sustainable investing, to unpack what it really means to align your money with your values. They explore how ESG has become politicized, what the media gets wrong about ethical investing, and why ‘green hushing' might be the most honest thing happening in finance right now.Whether you're new to ESG or skeptical of it, this episode offers a grounded, practical look at how your portfolio can reflect the future you want to see—without losing sight of performance.Chapters00:00 Investing with Values: An Introduction01:11 The Political Landscape of Sustainable Investing03:05 Understanding ESG: Definitions and Misconceptions06:50 The Shift to Sustainable, Resilient, and Innovative Investing10:20 Balancing Growth and Sustainability12:43 The Complexity of Ethical Investing15:50 Navigating Investment Choices and Trade-offs19:53 The Long-term Perspective on Sustainable Investing22:58 The Process of Building a Sustainable Portfolio27:29 Green Hushing: The Quiet Shift in ESG Practices29:39 Conclusion and Resources for Sustainable InvestingMentioned in this Episode:- Pete Krull from Earth Equity Advisors: wwww.earthequityadvisors.com- Sustainable Investing by Pete Krull: https://www.sustainableinvestorbook.com- Earth Equity Advisors Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/EarthEquityAdvisors- Connect with Pete on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkrull/- Pete's Podcast, My Dollars & Change: https://www.earthequityadvisors.com/dollars-change/ The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.
This year's disruptive jolt from developer DeepSeek showed that the cost of training and using AI models can be trimmed significantly. Listen to our podcast with Portfolio Manager Derek Glynn as he tells Chief Market Strategist Daniel Morris that use cases are set to expand far beyond personal assistants and chatbots to include even robotics and augmented reality glasses.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
In May, I spoke with four leaders who are reshaping what finance can do – and who it can serve.In this compilation episode, I've pulled together the most powerful ideas, turning points, and takeaways from those conversations. If something resonates, you can dive deeper – the links to each full episode are below.Here's the list of featured guests:Nasir Qadree, Founder and Managing Partner of Zeal Capital PartnersNasir launched Zeal in early 2020 – right as the pandemic began. For many, it seemed like the worst possible timing. For him, it was exactly the right moment.He saw a market that wasn't working for most entrepreneurs – and a venture ecosystem that kept recycling capital into the same places, the same profiles, and the same narrow definitions of potential.Zeal's model is built around what Nasir calls “inclusive investing” – a five-part framework designed to widen the lens on where and how capital gets deployed.Full episodeHadewych Kuiper, Managing Director at Triodos Investment ManagementHadewych joined Triodos right as the 2008 financial crisis hit. While other banks were collapsing under the weight of financial engineering, Triodos kept growing – because they weren't in the business of making money with money. Their investments were grounded in the real economy, and that made all the difference.Today, Hadewych leads the firm's €6 billion portfolio across what they call five transition themes: food, resources, energy, society, and well-being.Her mission is bigger than impact investing. It's about transforming the financial sector itself.Full episodeRomina Reversi, Managing Director and Head of Sustainable Investment Banking Americas at Crédit Agricole CIBRomina started her career in equity derivatives at J.P. Morgan – a role she calls foundational for everything that came next. But in 2015, she pivoted into a niche team focused on green bonds. She was one of the earliest hires in J.P. Morgan's ESG debt capital markets group, helping to shape the playbook as they went.Now at Crédit Agricole, she leads sustainable investment banking for the Americas – overseeing ESG advisory, green and sustainability-linked financing, and supply chain solutions.Her team helped launch the first U.S. corporate green bond tied to nuclear energy, and structured the world's first sovereign bond with a step-up/step-down coupon tied to emissions and biodiversity targets.Full episodeMichele Giddens, Co-Founder and CEO of Bridges Fund ManagementMichele was asked to advise the UK Treasury's Social Investment Task Force, chaired by Sir Ronald Cohen. That experience led directly to the founding of Bridges, with a white sheet of paper and £10 million in catalytic government funding. The idea: to show that financial returns and social impact didn't have to be at odds.Today, Bridges has over £2 billion in assets under management across private equity, real estate, and outcomes contracts. Every investment aligns with one of two goals: building a more inclusive economy or a more sustainable planet. Their theory of change is simple – use financial capital to tackle systemic challenges, and value creation will follow.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
Green bonds, whose revenues are used to fund green projects such as renewable energy, have matured. On our podcast, Arnaud-Guilhem Lamy, Head of Euro Aggregate and SRI Fixed Income, tells Chief Market Strategist Daniel Morris that standards and standardisation have improved.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome back to Investing in Impact, the podcast where we dive deep into the minds of visionary leaders building a more sustainable and equitable future.Today, I'm joined by Josh Kaufman, CEO and Co-Founder of Khasma Capital. Khasma is on a mission to empower development teams by providing the critical early-stage capital and support needed to accelerate the construction of low-carbon infrastructure.In a world where many promising climate technologies struggle to move from pilot to scale, Khasma stands out. Their unique investment model combines flexible financing with strategic and operational expertise—bridging a crucial gap that traditional capital often overlooks.In this conversation, Josh shares his journey of launching and rebranding the firm, what it takes to commercialize climate infrastructure, and why Khasma is doubling down on sectors like waste upcycling, textile recycling, alternative fuels, and long-duration energy storage.TakeawaysJosh Kaufman's journey into climate finance began with a passion for renewable energy.Kazma Capital focuses on empowering development teams rather than taking control of projects.Investment in climate solutions requires a clear project definition and risk assessment.Innovative projects include solar panel recycling and renewable heating oil from biomass.The learning curve in the climate sector involves understanding various energy technologies.The renewable energy sector has seen significant growth and cost reductions over the past decade.Challenges in reconfiguring the energy grid are influenced by regulatory bodies and utilities.Competition in the energy market is essential for innovation and efficiency.Solar energy continues to grow, but faces challenges in maintaining growth rates.Kazma Capital's revenue model includes both development risk and equity stakes in projects. ----------------------------------------Investing in Impact is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you're launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
Exciting Investment Ideas in New Company Rankings. They include many great sustainable stock investment opportunities in companies outside the USA. By Ron Robins, MBA Transcript & Links, Episode 155, June 27, 2025 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 155, published June 27, 2025, titled "Exciting Investment Ideas in New Company Rankings.” So, this podcast is presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript and links to content, including stock symbols and bonus material, on this episode's podcast page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, and I don't receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal any investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, please visit this podcast's webpage for links to the articles and additional company and stock information. I have a great crop of 13 articles for you in this podcast! ------------------------------------------------------------- Article 1: Best Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Before They Soar The first article I'm covering is titled Best Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Before They Soar. It was found on industryleadersmagazine.com and is by Christy Gren. Here is some of what she says about her stock picks. “1. NextEra Energy (NEE): The Titan of Clean Utility NextEra Energy is the largest producer of wind and solar energy in the world. With its regulated utility, Florida Power & Light, and a massive renewable portfolio, it's often viewed as the safest bet in clean energy. Its long track record of dividend growth and strong balance sheet make it ideal for long-term investors… A mix of regulated revenue and renewable expansion gives NextEra Energy both stability and upside—a rare combination in energy. 2. Brookfield Renewable Partners (BEP): Global Diversification at Scale With operations spanning North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, Brookfield provides broad access to hydro, wind, solar, and energy storage. As one of the largest pure-play renewable stocks to invest in, its long-term contracts and conservative financials make it a wealth-building machine… Geographic and technological diversification cushions against regulatory and market risk, offering solid growth and income. 3. Enphase Energy (ENPH): Dominating Solar Tech Enphase isn't building solar panels, it's redefining how they work. Known for its cutting-edge microinverters and energy management systems, Enphase benefits directly from residential solar growth and rising energy storage adoption… Technology leaders in fast-growing niches often outperform. Enphase is a pure play on smarter, more efficient solar power. 4. First Solar (FSLR): America's Solar Manufacturer While many solar companies outsource manufacturing, First Solar produces its panels in the U.S., making it a key beneficiary of domestic subsidies and reshoring trends. Its cadmium telluride technology offers cost and performance advantages over traditional silicon-based panels… Vertical integration and domestic production give First Solar a geopolitical edge in a competitive global market. 5. Plug Power (PLUG): Hydrogen's Bold Bet Plug Power is a leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology for vehicles, industry, and power generation. Though not yet profitable, its partnerships with Amazon, Walmart, and global logistics players show real market traction… High-risk, high-reward plays like Plug Power can deliver outsized returns if you're patient and can handle volatility. 6. Tesla (TSLA): More Than Just EVs While known for electric cars, Tesla's energy division is growing fast. Its solar roofs, Powerwall batteries, and massive grid-scale storage projects position it as a holistic clean energy provider, not just a car company… Disruption comes from companies that integrate hardware, software, and infrastructure. Tesla's renewable arm could be its next trillion-dollar story. 7. Clearway Energy (CWEN): Clean Power, Reliable Dividends Clearway owns a mix of solar and wind farms across the U.S., with long-term contracts that ensure predictable income. Its focus on dividend-paying renewable assets makes it ideal for conservative investors looking for income and impact… Not every green investment has to be high-growth. Clearway offers stability and passive income in a volatile market. 8. Albemarle Corporation (ALB): Powering the Battery Boom Albemarle is a leading lithium producer, supplying the battery materials that power electric vehicles and grid storage. As the backbone of clean tech, lithium demand is projected to surge in the coming decades.” Sometimes the best renewable energy stocks for growth aren't utility companies, they're the suppliers fueling the ecosystem.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Article 2: Looking to Gamble on Hard-Hit Solar Stocks? This Is the Top-Rated Ticker Now My second article continues the renewable energy theme. It's titled Looking to Gamble on Hard-Hit Solar Stocks? This Is the Top-Rated Ticker Now. The story was found on finance.yahoo.com and is by Pathikrit Bose. Here are some of his thoughts about his stock pick. “If President Donald Trump's ‘Big Beautiful Bill' passes, it would not be so beautiful for companies in the solar industry. This reality was evident in the meltdown that solar stocks witnessed on news that the Senate version of the bill looks to fully phase out both solar and wind power tax incentives by 2028. So, where does that leave First Solar, whose shares have corrected by nearly 18% already this year? In a pretty good place, if analysts are to be believed. First Solar (FSLR) First Solar specializes in large-scale utility solar projects and integrated photovoltaic (PV) systems. The company designs, manufactures, and sells CdTe thin-film photovoltaic modules and is the only major solar manufacturer headquartered and producing in the U.S. Its market cap currently stands at $15.4 billion, making it one of the largest companies in the industry. Now, there are some valid reasons for First Solar stock's decline with the ‘Big Beautiful Bill'… With such legislation pending, investors fear that developers may cancel or delay new solar installations, shrinking First Solar's total addressable market. Consequently, this may hurt project bookings and revenue visibility for First Solar. However, I reckon First Solar's correction has been overdone, and projections about its downturn extending further are misplaced. Why? Let's have a closer look. First Solar's Financials Are Not That Worrisome First Solar has had a tough time in recent quarters as its earnings have missed estimates, with the latest quarter even seeing the company's earnings witness a yearly decline. However, its net sales did surpass the Street estimates and rose on an annual basis, accompanied by a decrease in short-term debt… Management remains confident about the company's long-term prospects based on its ‘Made in USA' strategy with CEO Mark Widmar commenting, ‘Despite the near-term challenges presented by the new tariff regime, we believe that the long-term outlook for solar demand, particularly in our core U.S. market, remains strong, and that First Solar remains well-positioned to serve this demand. This belief is based on the unique profile of First Solar compared to its peers, as America's largest, and most established solar module manufacturer, and the country's only fully vertically integrated producer, our significant network of domestic supply chain vendors, and our proprietary CadTel-based semiconductor.' Shining Light in a Growing Industry First Solar appears poised to win the battle for solar industry dominance for a few reasons. First is its unique CdTe thin-film solar technology, which gives the company a distinct advantage by insulating its supply chain from the risks associated with China-dependent crystalline silicon. With roughly 95% of solar modules globally based on crystalline silicon, First Solar stands out as the only large-scale solar manufacturer with international reach using cadmium telluride technology… Another key strength is its strong domestic manufacturing base… The surge in artificial intelligence-driven infrastructure further plays to First Solar's strengths… First Solar's product line, especially its utility-scale thin-film modules, is particularly suited to meet the reliability and performance requirements of this growing segment… Analyst Opinions on First Solar Stock Analysts remain bullish on First Solar stock, assigning it a rating of ‘Strong Buy' with a mean target price of $211.81. This denotes upside potential of about 45.5% from current levels. Out of 31 analysts covering the stock, 25 have a ‘Strong Buy' rating, two have a ‘Moderate Buy' rating, three have a ‘Hold' rating, and one has a ‘Strong Sell' rating.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Article 3: World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2025 Now, this next article is a great ranking of companies. It's titled World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2025 and found on time.com. The introduction is by TIME Staff. Here are some brief quotes from the article. “Statista and TIME have joined forces to identify the World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2025, aiming to highlight corporate responsibility and promote sustainable practices… The ranking process began with a comprehensive selection from over 5,000 of the world's largest and most influential companies, considering factors such as revenue, market capitalization, and public prominence… The first step excluded companies involved in non-sustainable industries like fossil fuels or deforestation. Additionally, companies appearing on negative lists related to sustainability issues, such as those identified as carbon majors or associated with environmental catastrophes, were automatically disqualified… The second step involved assessing companies based on external sustainability ratings and commitments from reputable organizations. Key criteria included CDP ratings, adherence to the UN Global Compact, alignment with the Science Based Targets initiative (near-term and long-term), inclusion in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook, participation in the UNFCCC Race to Zero campaign, and MSCI ESG & SRI evaluations… The final step involved researching various environmental and social Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) from companies' Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reports. See the full list of companies here.” End quotes. Note: the top 5 companies in the ranking are Schneider Electric (France), Telefónica (Spain), Brambles (Australia), Temenos (Switzerland), and Moncler (Italy). Interestingly, none of these top companies are from the USA. ------------------------------------------------------------- Article 4: These 50 Canadian corporations are carving out a more sustainable future My final article is titled These 50 Canadian corporations are carving out a more sustainable future. It's found on corporateknights.com, and the introduction is by Rick Spence. Though this will mainly interest Canadians, many companies cited might interest ethical and sustainable investors globally. Here is some of what Mr. Spence says in his piece. “The Best 50 ranking was first developed back in 2002 to track the sustainability journeys of Canada's most environmentally and socially conscious companies. This year's list shows that corporate Canada's ethical vanguard is not only actively reducing its carbon footprint, but finding new and creative ways to connect with their customers, create fairer workplaces and develop more prosperous and resilient communities… Yes, greenwashing and window-dressing still dominate the business landscape, but rankings like the Best 50 prove that progress is possible. Even the best companies have flaws. But on the whole, this list demonstrates that many Canadian firms are preparing themselves for increasing change and creating value by prioritizing transparency, innovation and action.” End quotes. Note: the top 5 companies in the ranking are Boralex Inc. (BLX.TO), Stantec Inc. (STN.TO), Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. (INE.TO), The Co-operators (private), and the Royal Canadian Mint (government-owned). ------------------------------------------------------------- More articles of interest from around the world for ethical and sustainable investors 1. Title: A Comparative Look at the Costs of Faith-Based ETFs on etftrends.com. By Elle Caruso Fitzgerald. 2. Title: Canada Sustainable Funds 2024 Review on morningstar.com. 3. Title: Best Halal Mutual Funds In India (2025 List) on tradersunion.com. By Alamin Morshed. 4. Title: JUST: ESG ETF Doing The Job, But Not The Best on seekingalpha.com. By Fred Piard. 5. Title: Goldman Sachs Launches Green Bonds ETF for Emerging Markets on carboncredits.com. By Aiden Green. 6. Title: Octopus Energy launches first African renewable energy fund on msn.com. By GlobalData. 7. Title: Top 10: Solar Energy Companies on energydigital.com. By Jasmin Jessen. 8. Title: Top Halal Stocks To Invest In Bangladesh 2025 on tradersunion.com. By Alamin M. 9. Title: Examining the Top 5 UK ESG Investment Funds on sustainabletimes.co.uk. By Georgina Thomas ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast, “Exciting Investment Ideas in New Company Rankings.” Please click the like and subscribe buttons wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these deeply troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. I'll talk to you next on July 11th. Bye for now. © 2025 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
Today's guest is Mark Hays, Director of Sustainable & Impact Investing at Glenmede — a firm managing $48 billion with a client-to-employee ratio that keeps conversations personal and strategy focused.Mark's journey into finance started early — running a lemonade stand to save up for a Sega Genesis and learning about markets through a third-grade stock project that didn't go as planned. That early curiosity eventually led to a career spanning Cambridge Associates, OMERS, Flat World, and J.P. Morgan — where he became the firm's first U.S. sustainable investing hire.Now at Glenmede, Mark helps clients align their portfolios with their principles — not just in theory, but through tangible investments. Glenmede offers investment management, wealth planning, fiduciary, and advisory services to high-net-worth individuals, families, endowments, foundations, and institutional clients.It has $48 billion in assets under management, but keeps a 4-to-1 client-to-employee ratio and promises, in Mark's words, “the experience of a $200 million family as a $10 million individual.” That approach means every client gets tailored advice, deeper conversations, and impact reporting that goes far beyond ESG scores.Nearly 20 percent of AUM sits in strategies that fit Glenmede's four-category investment taxonomy (Integrated, Mandated, Thematic, High-Impact Concessionary) and span almost every asset class. Mark's through-line is what he calls “sustainable prosperity” — the belief that helping those with the least doesn't take away from others, but actually creates more opportunity and value for everyone.At Glenmede, that vision shows up not only in where the money goes but in how clients are engaged. Mark and his team don't just plug people into products — they guide multi-generational families through deep, often difficult conversations about values, legacy, and measurable impact. That means starting with inquiry, moving through education, assessment, and implementation, and ending with real measurement — not in vague ESG scores, but in tangible results like gallons of water saved, emissions avoided, or communities reached.Mark knows that impact is a moving target, but he also knows how to hit it: by staying curious, staying human, and staying honest about what money can and cannot do.Tune in to hear how he turns that approach into measurable impact.—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK—Additional Resources:
Investors with an appetite for investing in themes are increasingly including private market strategies, according to the Thematics Barometer global survey of decision makers. Discussing this year's results with Chief Market Strategist Daniel Morris, Christopher Dunn, Head of Investment Management for Europe for Coalition Greenwich, notes the leading themes include renewable and clean energy, and that interest in artificial intelligence is ‘really off the page'.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Fiber Global Raises $20M to Scale Circular Building MaterialsFunding: $20 million Series AGoal: Expand production of sustainable materials that reduce construction wasteImpact: Tackling industrial emissions and advancing the circular economyRead more →Lumion Secures $10M to Power the Future of Trade SchoolsFunding: $10 million seed roundGoal: Build an operating system to modernize vocational educationImpact: Addressing the skilled labor gap through better tech and infrastructureRead more →Swen Capital Raises $183M for Ocean Impact VenturesFunding: €183 millionGoal: Invest in early-stage startups protecting marine ecosystemsImpact: Scaling technologies for ocean conservation and sustainabilityRead more →Mealogic Raises $16M to Advance Food-as-Medicine InnovationFunding: $16 millionGoal: Integrate personalized nutrition and clinical outcomes through techImpact: Helping prevent chronic illness and improve health through better food systemsLearn more →Accessibility Startup Sociability Raises $3.5MFunding: $3.5 million seed roundGoal: Build accessible tech solutions for people with disabilitiesImpact: Empowering inclusive innovation with support from global backersLearn more about Sociability →SparkCharge Secures $30.5M to Expand Mobile EV ChargingFunding: $30.5 millionGoal: Scale its mobile charging network across the U.S.Impact: Making EV adoption more convenient and equitable through on-demand serviceRead more → ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
How does an “immigrant kid” become the Founder of a firm that provides sustainable solutions for institutional investors, including ESG market analysis and education, regulatory risk management and investment process design? Allison Binns is the Founder and Principal of Peregrine Strategy, She is also a Senior Advisor at Danu Venture Group, which provides early-stage investment access to technology companies focused on national security, new infrastructure and their enabling industries. Allison says her background as an “immigrant kid” has shaped the way she approaches investments and sustainability in general. We're fortunate to have her as our guest for this episode of the SFP.
What are the five human activities threatening the ocean's health and its ability to support jobs and business and act as a carbon sink? What can sustainability-minded investors do to discourage companies from, for example, trading protected species or engaging in industrial fishing?For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
My guest today is Sugandhi Matta, Chief Impact Officer at ABC Impact – the largest Pan-Asian impact-dedicated private equity fund, with nearly $900 million in AUM.Sugandhi began her career focused on growth and returns — first at Temasek, and later at Actis. But after a breast cancer diagnosis in her early thirties, she returned to work with a new question: What if she could apply her investing skills to businesses solving real problems?That question led her to LeapFrog Investments — and eventually to ABC Impact, where she became one of the founding partners. From the ground up, she helped build a fund that integrates impact into every step of the investment process, from deal screening to reporting.Today, ABC Impact invests across four themes:Climate and water solutionsFinancial and digital inclusionBetter health and educationSustainable food and agricultureSugandhi leads the firm's impact team. They developed a proprietary system rooted in the five dimensions of the Impact Management Project and tailored to ABC's sectors.The internal language centers on three Cs: consistency, comparability, and communicability. It's a disciplined approach – built to align intention, data, and outcomes across the portfolio.Sugandhi's goal is to hold impact to the same standard as IRR.However, she points out that the burden of proof is often uneven. Expected returns are taken at face value. Impact is asked to justify itself at every turn. Because investors don't yet trust its metrics the way they trust financial ones.The double standard isn't just about data. It's about gender, too.As one of the few female investment leads in Asia's private equity ecosystem, Sugandhi has had to thread her way through what she calls the “quiet skepticism” – the unspoken assumptions around risk appetite, ambition, or expertise.Even now, she's often the only woman in the room with GPs or LPs. She doesn't lead with gender, but she's aware of how it plays out. The skepticism is often unspoken, but present.Over time, she's learned not to internalize it. Instead, she focuses on the work, knowing that – fairly or not – being a woman in this space can mean having to prove yourself just a little more.—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK—Additional Resources:ABC Impact websiteABC Impact LinkedInSugandhi Matta LinkedInABC's 2020 Impact ReportABC's 2024 Impact ReportInsights from Dalberg and ABC Impact's User-Centered Study—SRI360 interviews mentioned:
The Do One Better! Podcast – Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship
Mark Fawcett, Chief Executive Officer of Nest Invest, explores how the UK's pension system has been transformed to serve a broader and more economically diverse workforce. Nest is the largest multi-employer pension fund in the UK, and it handles the retirement savings for nearly one-third of the UK working population. Nest Invest is the asset manager of Nest. Fawcett offers a compelling narrative about scale, access, and purpose-driven financial management. Nest's core mission revolves around building financial resilience for all—an ambitious approach to investing that transcends the narrow goals of simple wealth accumulation. Fawcett discusses the profound impact of automatic enrollment, which dramatically expanded pension participation from just 10–15% of the UK workforce prior to its introduction to over 80% today. This shift has redefined the retirement outlook for millions, particularly low- to moderate-income earners, many of whom face significant income volatility and limited financial literacy. Fawcett emphasizes the behavioral finance insights that underpin Nest's strategy. By minimizing the cognitive burden of financial decision-making, Nest has made pension saving feel less like an anxiety-laden obligation and more like a manageable, automated part of life. A large majority of members remain in these default options, insulated from daily market turbulence, thanks to highly diversified investments across public and private markets. Importantly, Fawcett also touches on the risks of both under-saving and over-saving. While many need encouragement to set aside more for the future, especially in the absence of emergency savings, others—particularly those closer to the poverty line—might unintentionally sacrifice present well-being for an uncertain future. Through sidecar savings initiatives and employer collaborations, Nest is investigating ways to improve short-term financial stability without undermining long-term retirement planning. A significant part of the conversation also centers on Nest's role in sustainable investing. The organization has embedded ESG principles directly into its default investment strategies—not as niche options, but as a core part of its offering. From renewable energy and infrastructure to affordable housing and UK enterprise investment, Nest Invest is demonstrating that doing well financially need not come at the cost of doing good. The returns, as Fawcett notes, have been competitive, underscoring the false dichotomy between performance and purpose. This episode offers not only a powerful vision of inclusive finance but also actionable insights for policymakers, investors, and employers seeking to build systems that foster dignity, stability, and opportunity for all. Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
My guest today is Michelle Arevalo-Carpenter, Co-Founder of IMPAQTO and General Partner at IMPAQTO Capital. Michelle is a human rights lawyer by training, a fund builder by calling, and one of the most compelling system-reimaginers I've ever had on the show.Michelle's journey has taken her from a small apartment in Quito to the halls of Oxford and the UN — and back again. What she learned along the way is that real change doesn't come from reports or elite institutions. It comes from being close to the problem — and the people.Back in Quito, Michelle started where many great entrepreneurial stories begin — with no office, no plan, just an instinct that something better could exist. Over a hundred coffees with local founders, she kept hearing the same themes: isolation, lack of support, funding that didn't fit.In response, she created IMPAQTO, Ecuador's first coworking space for social ventures, not because she had a real estate vision, but because people needed a place to belong. “They weren't paying for square meters,” she said. “They were paying to not be alone.”From there, IMPAQTO grew — into an accelerator, a research platform, a voice in policy. But the biggest problem persisted: no capital. Or rather, the wrong kind of capital.Local businesses needed $10K–$500K. They didn't want to sell equity. They wanted to grow on their own terms. Too big for microfinance, too small for venture. “That's the missing middle,” Michelle said. “That's where we live.”So in 2021, she launched IMPAQTO Capital, a revenue-based investment fund designed not to chase unicorns but to nourish sustainable growth. Michelle described it not as alternative capital, but as capital that's appropriate for the context they're operating in.Rather than chasing foreign LPs, her team went local. They raised over half their first close from Ecuadorian and Andean-region families — people with lived experience inside the very systems the fund aims to change. “Our investors aren't impact tourists,” she said. “They're system insiders.”What Michelle is building isn't just a capital vehicle. It's an ecosystem intervention — a cultural shift that treats belonging as a precondition for growth, and care as critical infrastructure. She's also a co-founder of CLIIQ, a regional research and advocacy platform focused on unlocking catalytic capital for women-led businesses.At IMPAQTO Capital, every deal is evaluated not just on returns, but on whether it preserves the dignity and agency of the founder. Every exit includes a “cap party” — a ritual of closure and celebration that says: You did it. You paid us back. We're done. And we're proud.There's a lot to learn from Michelle. About capital. About leading with trust and care. About staying rooted in a place and still seeing the whole system.But mostly, about how change happens — not from the top down, but from the inside out. Slowly. With proximity. And with people who never forgot where they started.—About the SRI 360° Podcast: The SRI 360° Podcast is focused exclusively on sustainable & responsible investing.—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK—Additional Resources:IMPAQTO Capital websiteIMPAQTO Ecosystem BuilderMichelle Arevalo-Carpenter websiteMichelle Arevalo-Carpenter LinkedIn
How can fixed income investors tackle the uncertainty over the outlook for growth and inflation? How will concerns about government finances play out ? Where are interest rates heading? Jayesh Mistry, Absolute Return Portfolio Manager, makes the case for an absolute return approach, with flexibility to benefit from different sectors within global bond markets.For more insights, visit Viewpoint: https://viewpoint.bnpparibas-am.com/Download the Viewpoint app: https://onelink.to/tpxq34Follow us on LinkedIn: https://bnpp.lk/amHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Impact investing isn't just a trend – it's a fundamental shift in how one approaches long-term investing, an approach that focuses on resilience and responsibility. Join Steve and Eugenia Koh, Standard Chartered's Global Head of Sustainable Investing, as they discuss core characteristics of these investments that set them apart from conventional ones. Speakers:- Steve Brice, Global Chief Investment Officer, Standard Chartered Bank- Eugenia Koh, Global Head of Sustainable Investing, Standard Chartered BankRead our full report to find out more https://av.sc.com/corp-en/nr/content/docs/wm-thematic-report-impact-investing-profit-with-purpose-05-june-2025.pdf
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
This spring, I had the chance to talk with four incredible guests, each with a different take on what it really means to put money to work and invest in line with your values.Across late March and April, we explored climate-smart timber, social finance powered by dormant bank accounts, fully impact-focused wealth advising, and how catalytic capital is reaching places most firms won't go.Here are the featured guests, along with links to their full interviews.Yasemin Saltuk Lamy, Head of Investment Strategy at Legal & General (L&G)Yasemin's path into impact investing started at J.P. Morgan, where she helped build the firm's Social Finance unit from scratch. At the time, even defining the term “impact investing” took months of debate. “We spent four months just on the word ‘intent,'” she told me.That focus on intent stuck with her – from J.P. Morgan to Omidyar to BII – where she helped lead the Catalyst Portfolio, growing it from $300 million to $1.6 billion. Her work was all about finding places where capital didn't naturally flow, and designing structures that would pull others in.Full episodeStephanie Cohn Rupp, Former CEO of Veris Wealth PartnersVeris Wealth Partners is one of the only wealth management firms out there that's 100% impact. No ESG sideline, no separate division. The whole firm is built around aligning portfolios with values.Another thing that stood out in my conversation with Stephanie was how methodical their process is. It starts with what they call “impact discovery” – getting into the client's mission, history, beliefs – and then building an investment policy around that.Full episodeStephen Muers, Chief Executive Officer of Better Society Capital (BSC)Stephen brings a systems lens to social finance, and that comes from experience. After years inside the UK government tackling big issues like energy policy, housing, and justice reform, he saw firsthand how strategy alone doesn't shift systems.At BSC, the mission isn't just to make good investments. It's to make social investment possible at scale.But BSC isn't trying to maximize its own portfolio. The goal is to grow the entire social investment market. Over the past decade, they've helped expand it twelve-fold across the UK. And yet, it still isn't enough. The capital's growing – but not at the pace the problems demand.Full episode Bettina von Hagen, Managing Director & CEO, EFM Investments & AdvisoryAt EFM, forests are managed as long-term, living assets. It's not just about timber – it's about carbon, conservation, and communities, all managed through a single strategy. The question isn't “how much can we harvest,” but “what's the best outcome for this acre?”EFM's approach is built on the five Rs: rotation, retention, reserves, restoration, and relationships. It's how they manage over 200,000 acres with just 11 staff and 90 contractors – by treating each forest like a custom portfolio.Sometimes that means harvesting. Sometimes it means carbon storage or tribal access. The goal is a forest that's more valuable ecologically, socially, and financially than it was before.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
Justin Donald has been called the Warren Buffett of Lifestyle Investing by Entrepreneur Magazine. He's a master of low-risk cash flow investing, teaching new investors how to generate passive income and gain financial independence. Justin is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book The Lifestyle Investor, the host of The Lifestyle Investor podcast, and a top-rated keynote speaker. In this classic episode, Justin joined host Robert Glazer on the Elevate Podcast to discuss how he built his investment portfolio, how to get started in personal investing, investing myths, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
This 4-in-1 compilation episode is about capital that doesn't flow on its own. It has to be pushed into places with no pitch decks and no polished management teams. The places where spreadsheets say “too risky,” but the need is obvious to anyone paying attention.This is capital for the common good, yes – but it's also capital that works. These aren't grants. These are investments with measurable returns and track records to prove it.In this episode, we revisit conversations with four guests who've built the policies and portfolios to make this kind of capital move.Jenn Pryce, President and CEO of Calvert Impact CapitalJenn describes Calvert Impact Capital as a bridge between retail capital and the places banks won't go – solar in Sub-Saharan Africa, affordable housing in the U.S., even sovereign bonds too small for Wall Street to care about. With over $2.5 billion raised, their flagship Community Investment Note is accessible for as little as $20.For Jenn, community investing isn't about beating the market – it's about redefining it. “We've learned the risk isn't where people think it is,” she says. By working through local intermediaries and building data-driven track records, Calvert helps prove what's possible.Full episodeBen Rick, Co-Founder of Social and Sustainable Capital (SASC)Ben left the City not because he couldn't succeed there – but because he did. After years at Goldman, UBS, and Lehman, the returns stopped justifying the worldview. “Surely there's something I can do that's better than this,” he told himself.That became Social and Sustainable Capital, a private credit fund lending to UK charities – no shareholders, no profit motive, but plenty of contracts to deliver critical services.SASC backs groups supporting domestic abuse survivors, people with disabilities, and youth exiting care – organizations with steady revenue but little access to traditional finance.Full episodeStephen Muers, Chief Executive Officer of Better Society Capital (BSC)Stephen Muers came to Better Society Capital after a high-level government career – and brought with him a systems brain. At BSC, the mission isn't just to make good investments. It's to make social investment possible at scale.BSC operates at the wholesale level, backing funds that then invest in frontline charities, social enterprises, and mission-driven lenders.BSC is also focused on market transformation. In 10 years, they've helped grow the UK social investment market 12-fold. And yet, it still isn't enough.Full episodeStewart Langdon, Partner and Co-Head of South Asian Investments at LeapFrog InvestmentsStewart joined LeapFrog early, back when the firm was still raising its first fund. He came in to help move serious capital into places most investors overlook – India, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia – and do it in a way that actually reaches people.LeapFrog started with insurance. Not because it was easy, but because it mattered. Health shocks, accidents, lost assets – these were the things pulling families back into poverty. Then came credit. Then healthcare. Same model each time: back companies already trusted in their communities, and help them grow.Full episode—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jacqueline Novogratz, Founder & CEO of Acumen on her global journey that led her from the world of international banking to the heart of social entrepreneurship—beginning in Rwanda, and now reaching 650+ million lives through Acumen's work around the world.From Chase Bank to Kigali: A Journey Rooted in EmpathyJacqueline's journey began not with a grand strategy, but with a moment of clarity while working in Rwanda in the late 1980s, where she helped launch one of the country's first microfinance institutions.There, she witnessed how markets could be harnessed to empower individuals—especially women—but also saw how fragmented and fragile traditional aid systems were."Access isn't enough; capability is key."That idea would eventually become Acumen.The Founding of Acumen: Bridging Markets and PhilanthropyFounded in 2001, Acumen was created to tackle what Jacqueline calls "the blue flame" space—the gap between pure philanthropy and market-driven capitalism. Acumen uses “patient capital” to invest in entrepreneurs solving problems in energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, and workforce development."We need to reframe what risk means in investing."Acumen has since invested over $150 million into companies that have impacted millions of people in low-income communities across Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the U.S. But the goal isn't just scale—it's systemic change.What It Takes to Build Markets That Work for the PoorJacqueline explains that creating sustainable impact requires far more than capital—it demands a deep understanding of local contexts, cultural norms, and the lived experiences of the communities being served."The status quo exists for a reason; change is hard."She emphasizes that real progress depends on:Entrepreneurial courageLong-term thinkingCollaboration with governments and civil societyAcumen works to build "markets with moral imagination", where value creation doesn't come at the cost of human dignity or environmental degradation.Education, Circular Impact, and the Future of Social EntrepreneurshipAnother major focus of Acumen is education. Through the Acumen Academy, they've trained over 1,800 social enterprise leaders, equipping them with tools in moral leadership, storytelling, and systems thinking.Jacqueline envisions a circular economy of impact investing, where capital flows to and from communities, creating sustainable, inclusive systems over time."Resilience and moral imagination are essential qualities for social entrepreneurs."She sees the future of impact rooted in innovative partnerships—between private and public sectors, startups and institutions, and across geographies.A Legacy of Courage and CompassionAs Jacqueline looks ahead, her message is clear: we need a new moral framework for capitalism—one that measures success not just in returns, but in human dignity and long-term value for society.Her story is a reminder that systems can change, markets can heal, and entrepreneurs—when supported with the right kind of capital and community—can solve the world's most pressing problems. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
A discussion around the impact of President Trump's tariffs on climate-related investments. Featured are Tiffany Agard, Sustainable and Impact Investing Strategist Americas with the UBS Chief Investment Office, and Glen Yelton, Global Head of Sustainable Investing Services with Invesco. Host: Daniel Cassidy
What do horse manure, pilot school, Paulownia trees, and billion-dollar investments have in common? Steve Distante. In this episode of On The Homefront, Jeff Dudan sits down with Steve Distante—impact investor, founder of Vanderbilt Financial Group, and author of Entrepreneur Land. From starting his first hustle selling horse poop to building a sustainable empire focused on purpose over profit, Steve opens up about leadership, culture, and navigating risk as an entrepreneur. Discover how he turned frustration with corporate greed into a mission to change the world through sustainable finance. He shares lessons from building a 400-acre Paulownia farm, stories about entrepreneurial betrayal, the DNA of impact-driven businesses, and how to harness your full potential at any stage in life.
What do horse manure, pilot school, Paulownia trees, and billion-dollar investments have in common? Steve Distante. In this episode of On The Homefront, Jeff Dudan sits down with Steve Distante—impact investor, founder of Vanderbilt Financial Group, and author of Entrepreneur Land. From starting his first hustle selling horse poop to building a sustainable empire focused on purpose over profit, Steve opens up about leadership, culture, and navigating risk as an entrepreneur. Discover how he turned frustration with corporate greed into a mission to change the world through sustainable finance. He shares lessons from building a 400-acre Paulownia farm, stories about entrepreneurial betrayal, the DNA of impact-driven businesses, and how to harness your full potential at any stage in life.
Send us a textThis week, I will share the simple process I used to move my investments to a more socially responsible index fund including the steps I followed and the mistakes that I made!Links from today's episode:How to choose the best index fund | Forbeshttps://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/how-to-choose-the-best-index-fund/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode 76 The Surprising Truth About What ESG Investing Actually Means (recorded before the 2024 rebranding of this show)Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.The information provided in this podcast is for general entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial advice. We make no guarantees about the accuracy or applicability of the content. Consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment or financial planning decisions.Support the show
Send us a textToday's episode is the last installment of the first ever climate month here at Progressive Pockets. Did you enjoy the series?So far we have discussed how to deal with climate anxiety, how to create an outdoor space that's sustainable but cute, how to move your cash to a more climate friendly bank. Today let's chat about how to make our retirement accounts a little more earth friendly.Whether you are a new investor or more advanced and working with a financial advisor, you'll walk away from today's episode with some ideas on how to make your investments a little more environmentally sound.Links from today's episode:Fossil Free Fundshttps://fossilfreefunds.org/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode#142 Conscious Travel and TourismLove the book recos on this show? Check out the Progressive Pockets Bookshelf:https://bookshop.org/shop/progressivepockets As an affiliate of Bookshop.org, Progressive Pockets will earn a commission if you make a purchase.Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the show
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 88 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I'm joined by Medea Nocentini, Senior Partner at Global Ventures and Founder of C3 – Companies Creating Change, about scaling impact across the Middle East and Africa.Medea brings a unique blend of corporate strategy, venture capital, and impact entrepreneurship. At Global Ventures, she invests in growth-stage startups transforming emerging markets through technology.As founder of C3, a B Corp-certified social enterprise, she has supported over 300 impact-driven startups across 27 countries, helping them raise more than $550 million to date.In this episode, we discuss:The evolution of impact investing in the Middle East and AfricaKey challenges and opportunities for startups in frontier marketsHow C3 builds scalable programs to support foundersThe role of partnerships and ecosystem-building in driving long-term impactLet's dive in. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Galvanize Climate Solutions' Joe Sumberg and CBRE Chief Sustainability Officer Rob Bernard share insights on achieving high returns through sustainable investment strategies. · Profitable Sustainability: Commercial real estate investment strategies that integrate today's sustainability and decarbonization technologies can enhance returns.· Economic Opportunities: There is high occupier demand for green buildings, presenting investment opportunities.· Technological Integration is the key: Using energy-efficiency systems and AI can enhance the operating performance and value of real estate assets.· Strategic Market Focus: Regulatory frameworks and government incentives can increase the appeal of sustainable investment strategies in certain markets.