How do I… responsibly invest

Become a value-based investor

What do you want your money to do while it grows?

Investing your money is an important step towards achieving your financial goals. Take a moment to stop and think about where your money is going and how it impacts your local, regional, national and global community?

Responsible investing is a way to align your investments with your values. This means considering the financial returns and the social and environmental impact of your investment choices.

What is socially responsible investing?

Let's start with the basics to help you understand why it matters. Responsible investing, often referred to as ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investing, is an approach that considers financial returns and the ethical and social impact of your investments.

ESG investing considers environmental factors, such as climate change and resource use; social factors, including human rights and labour practices; and governance, which looks at the company’s management and leadership. This approach aims to create positive change by supporting companies with a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

For example, let’s say you just received a large sum of money in your inheritance. You want to invest this money and see it grow over the next five to ten years.

On the one hand, you can invest in a company that produces affordable and accessible clean energy solutions. This company is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions, combatting climate change, and providing jobs in underserved communities.
On the other hand, you could invest in a company that profits from environmentally harmful practices and exploits its workers. This company prioritizes short-term gains over long-term sustainability.
Both investments offer returns, but only one will make a positive impact on the world around you.

By choosing to invest in the clean energy company, you're not just seeking financial returns—you're actively supporting positive change. Your investment helps create a cleaner environment, promotes social equity and encourages responsible business practices.

When you invest responsibly you become a force for good. Your investments don't just grow your wealth—they contribute to a better, more sustainable and fairer world. It's a win-win for your financial future and the well-being of our planet and people.

Learn how to invest responsibly

There are many ways to invest responsibly. The first step is understanding your options.

To start, find out how and if your financial institution or investment firm incorporates ESG factors into their investment strategies. Do they offer socially responsible investing options? Are they transparent about the companies they invest in and their practices?

Next, consider your values and what issues are important to you. Do you prioritize environmental sustainability? Are you passionate about supporting companies that focus on human rights, worker safety and Indigenous rights? By identifying your values, you can better align your investments with them.

Your advisor is equipped with a wealth of resources to help identify and analyze potential investment opportunities from reputable sources. These principles focus on environmental, social and governance factors and can help you decide where to invest your money.

Choose values-aligned investments

Socially responsible investing doesn't mean you have to sacrifice financial returns. In fact, research has shown that responsible investing can actually lead to better long-term performance.

There are many options for socially responsible investments, including mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that specifically focus on sustainable and ethical companies. You can also choose to invest in socially responsible businesses or support green bonds and community investment funds.

Gulf & Fraser members can access investment solutions that put environmental, social and governance issues first. Investing in good companies can make a positive impact while also achieving your financial goals.

Explore investment options

Four ways to begin investing responsibly:

Support companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices
Invest in companies with diverse and inclusive leadership
Engage in shareholder activism to hold companies accountable for their ESG investing practices
Move existing investments out of industries with high environmental, social and governance risks

Celebrate the impact of responsible investing

When done correctly, responsible investing can positively impact both financial and social value. In fact, many investors believe offering socially responsible investment options is important for financial advisors to build strong client relationships.

The impact of responsible investing goes beyond individual portfolios. It can influence companies to adopt more sustainable and ethical practices, contribute to community development and ultimately make the world a better place for future generations.

Take action now

Investment planning shouldn't just be about numbers. It should also reflect your values and goals. When you invest responsibly, you can create positive change while still achieving your financial objectives. If your current investments don't follow ESG investing guidelines, let’s explore how you could align your investments with your values.

Talk to your financial advisor about socially responsible investing options at your financial institution.

If your financial institution doesn't offer responsible investing options, consider switching to a financial institution that prioritizes sustainable and ethical investments.

Gulf & Fraser's primary investing partner, NEI Investments, has received exceptionally high marks from the UN-supported Principles for Responsible Investment. When you bank with Gulf & Fraser, your investments are backed by a strong responsible investment program, ensuring your money is working for positive change.

Become a conscious investor

Investing responsibly doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With Gulf & Fraser, you can access investment options that align with your values and financial goals without sacrificing returns.

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Investing is about more than just making returns. It’s security for your future and a nest egg to fall back on. Learn how to grow your money responsibly with savings and investment plans built for your lifestyle.

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