The power of extending engagement to governments

Investor attitudes towards ESG have radically evolved in recent years, with active ownership – the use of engagement and voting to influence companies – now overwhelmingly recognised as a force for good.

In addition to fostering progress, constructive dialogue with corporates is increasingly being accepted as a vital element of long-term value creation within both equity and bond markets. However, as the majority of fixed income assets are issued by countries and government-related agencies, there still remains heavy scepticism surrounding the ability of ESG-aligned asset managers to positively influence sovereign entities - particularly in emerging markets. Nordea Asset Management appoints head of active ownership There will obviously be instances where engagement efforts are futi...