David Sheasby
The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) assess responsible investment activities across the industry each The PRI has awarded Martin Currie an ‘A+’ (highest performance band) for each of the three top-level categories: ‘strategy and governance’, ‘incorporation’ and ‘active ownership’.
It achieved a rating increase to A+ for ‘active ownership’, in addition to maintaining A+ ratings in the former two categories. Given Martin Currie’s emphasis on stewardship and active ownership, this is a significant endorsement.
Martin Currie’s firm wide commitment to stewardship and its differentiated approach to ESG supported the top ratings in each category:
A+ Strategy and Governance – The asset manager firmly believes in strong internal policies, goals and transparency around our ESG activities; and in promoting best practice with peers, clients and policy makers. Living the values through the management of its business is a critical aspect of this.
A+ Incorporation – ESG analysis is fully embedded in their investment process, forming an integral part of the assessment of risks and opportunities, alongside traditional financial considerations. This is implemented directly by the portfolio managers, with oversight from their Head of Stewardship and ESG – an industry-leading expert.
A+ Active Ownership – As stewards of its clients’ capital, Martin Currie places a high priority on active ownership, and will engage with companies when they have identified material ESG issues. In 2016, the firm participated in 17 collaborative engagement initiatives and 187 private ones. Collaborative engagements this year include areas such as cybersecurity, water risk and antibiotic use in the food sector.
Achieving A+ ratings for our responsible investment strategy, integration and active ownership is a great endorsement of what we are doing and an encouraging base from which we can continue to build on our capabilities and expertise. The ratings also reflect the importance we place on stewardship, not only on the investment floor, but across the business.’
Results history
The table below provides a of Martin Currie’s PRI ratings and demonstrates the asset manager’s commitment to continuous improvement:
