Robust primary debt market supply and exponential growth in global labelled green & sustainable bond issuance are increasing opportunities for fixed income investors to actively engage with companies, governments and other organisations on sustainability. As we work on aligning our sustainable fixed income portfolios with net zero emission pathways and with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), a structured approach to engagement is a powerful tool to help keep issuers on track on their commitments.

Over the past 12 months^*, our Global Fixed Income Team engaged with over 200 bond issuers specifically on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) risks and opportunities, establishing constructive dialogues, informing our investment decisions and advocating for positive sustainability outcomes in line with our thematic priorities.

We believe ongoing, collaborative engagement is the most effective approach to achieve those positive outcomes. As ESG criteria become increasingly embedded in market standards and regulatory requirements, we intend to continue raising the bar at every iteration with engaged issuers, as a way to promote transparency and best practice and drive innovation in the sustainable investing market, for the ultimate benefit of our clients.

*This report covers the 12-month between July 1st 2020 and June 30th 2021.