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Investing with Purpose: How ESG Investing Can Help You Make a Difference
In a world where the ripples of our financial decisions extend far beyond the balance sheet, women are setting their sights on more than just profits. Enter ESG investing, a compass for those who seek both returns and positive societal impact.
SRI and ESG: Different Paths, Same Destination
Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing might sound like two peas in a pod, but they traverse different paths toward a common goal. SRI has its roots in ethical concerns, screening out companies involved in harmful industries. ESG, on the other hand, casts a wider net, evaluating a company’s overall impact based on Environmental, Social, and Governance factors. It’s like SRI’s worldly cousin – concerned not just with the ‘what,’ but also with the ‘how’ and ‘why.’
ESG vs. Impact Investing: Two Sides of a Green Coin
ESG investing shares a dance floor with impact investing, but their dance moves differ. ESG investing aims for companies to be better global citizens within their existing operations. It’s about encouraging positive change from within the corporate DNA. Impact investing, however, takes center stage with a spotlight on funds funneled directly into ventures that strive for measurable societal and environmental change. ESG is the symphony, impact investing is the solo.
The ESG Categories: A Triad of Focus
ESG investing takes its cues from three pillars:
- Environmental: Companies embracing this pillar champion green initiatives, carbon neutrality, and resource efficiency. From renewable energy giants to water conservation champions, these companies are stewards of the planet.
- Social: The social pillar spotlights companies prioritizing human rights, labor standards, diversity, and community engagement. They treat stakeholders – employees, customers, and communities – as partners, not just profit sources.
- Governance: The governance pillar hones in on a company’s internal framework. Transparent leadership, responsible executive compensation, and fair shareholder treatment are the heartbeats of this pillar.
The Bottom Line: Investing with Purpose
ESG investing isn’t just a buzzword-laden trend; it’s a conscious decision to shape a better world through financial action. It’s an acknowledgment that your investments aren’t just numbers on a screen but a vote for the future you want to see. Whether you’re a tree-hugger, a human rights advocate, or a conscientious capitalist, ESG investing invites you to put your money where your values are.
In a landscape where the ripples of our investments touch every corner of the globe, ESG investing emerges as a bridge between the profit-hungry present and the sustainable, equitable future we envision. So, as you sail through the green waters of investment, remember – every choice you make shapes not only your portfolio but also the world at large, and Purse Strings is providing access to experts you can count on when it comes to ESG investing.
Beth Wahlig
Director of Socially Responsible Investing & Private Wealth Advisor MRA Advisory Group.
Beth has 24 years of experience managing and analyzing investment portfolios in the equity, fixed-income, and alternative markets. She even developed a Socially Responsible Investment Portfolio where money can have an impact on making a difference in moving towards a more progressive and equal society. You can trust that Beth has deep knowledge in ESG and can answer all your questions.
Kelly Gunchon CFP®, ChFC®:
Certified Financial Planner at Guncheon Financial LLC
Kelly Guncheon believes that goodwill can create good fortune. Through socially responsible investments and financial planning, Kelly can help ensure a bright future for you, your family, and our world through socially responsible investments and financial planning. An expert in this area, Kelly is a great resource to answer all your questions.
Bonnie Maize:
Financial Advisor at Maize Financial
Bonnie Maize specializes in comprehensive financial planning, financial coaching, and investment management, including ESG and impact investing. Bonnie loves working with women, LGBTQIA+ folks, and working and middle-class people. Her fees are stated upfront, she doesn’t have minimums and constantly strives to keep costs low to serve a wide variety of people.
Purse Strings is for women who are ready to put themselves first and get smart about money and investing in ways that help ourselves, others, and the common good!
