Socially responsible investing: what it is and why it matters to education members
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Being socially responsible is something that’s important to each and every one of us.
At Educators Financial Group, we take that responsibility seriously—right down to the types of investments we offer. But what exactly is socially responsible investing (SRI)?
Think of SRI as a form of investment strategy with goals for the greater good.
Utilizing a set of guiding principles that are sustainable, socially conscious (or ‘green’) and ethical, SRIs aim to not only provide financial return, but also encourage positive social change.
As to why socially responsible investing matters to education members—well, that’s simple
From Earth Day and the 30-hour Famine to racial and gender equality, you ignite your students’ desire beyond the curriculum to make a difference when it comes to socially conscious issues. After all, today’s student bodies are becoming more and more reflective of the wondrous diversity of the global village itself. As you’re fuelling the minds of new generations of innovators and change-makers, is it any surprise that an educator (such as yourself) would care about how your investments are also impacting our world? Because it’s not a stretch to consider that what happens in one corner of the globe, has an impact on us all.
So, what kind of options do we offer when it comes to socially responsible investing?
Educators Financial Group offers SRI options in the Canadian and Global Equities space, as well as Canadian Fixed Income category. Beyond our SRI offering, the screening process for all of our funds (and fund managers) is very rigorous. We monitor for such things as performance and value (for the fee) to ensure our clients are getting a diverse portfolio of quality investment options that aim to meet their specific financial objectives. Plus our due diligence when it comes to responsible investment options doesn’t stop there.
All of our fund managers are signatories with United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and as such are guided by the following 6 Principles when choosing and maintaining investments:
- Principle 1: We will incorporate ESG issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes.
- Principle 2: We will be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our ownership policies and practices.
- Principle 3: We will seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest.
- Principle 4: We will promote acceptance and implementation of the Principles within the investment industry.
- Principle 5: We will work together to enhance our effectiveness in implementing the Principles.
- Principle 6: We will each report on our activities and progress towards implementing the Principles.
By following these investment Principles, all signatories are contributing to a more sustainable global financial system.
Read more about SRI and answers to your frequently asked questions.
Did you know you pay into a pension plan that also has a responsible investment strategy in place?
You’ll be happy to know the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP) and Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) also take a very principled approach to investing for your future. Click here to learn more about OTPP’s responsible investment stance and here for details on sustainable investing at OMERS.
Do you have a question about our socially responsible investment options? Get in touch with us.
In addition to our stance when it comes to SRI, you can also count on Educators Financial Group for the investment advice you need to bring your financial dreams to life. We’ve been exclusively serving the financial needs and goals of education members since 1975—let us put all of that experience to work for you.
