Rathbones has urged investor action on sustainability at its first Group-wide Responsible Investment Summit.
Rathbones convened the Summit to address global challenges, from climate tipping points to modern slavery at the first Group-wide Responsible Investment Summit, delivered by Rathbones Greenbank, Rathbones’ specialist responsible investment team, reflecting, it said ‘the urgent need for action in aligning long-term wealth with sustainability ambitions’.
In its opening session Head of Rathbones Greenbank David Cox called for urgent investor action on the systemic risks to the planet. “As stewards of capital, we have a responsibility that extends far beyond financial returns,” he said. “The world is at a tipping point – climate, nature, and human rights are all on the line. We urge every investor, adviser, and business leader to join in driving real change.”
The Summit convened leading voices from across the investment, charity, and advisory communities to explore the future of responsible investing through provoking conversations, expert collaboration and real-world innovation. The agenda included sessions featuring insights from leading experts on climate science, human rights, and sustainable finance, as well as a keynote from James Alexander, Chief Executive of UKSIF, and fireside session with CEO of CISL, Lindsay Hooper.
The Summit was supported by the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF) and Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership (CISL).
Rathbones launched its first ethical investment options in 1997 and established Rathbones Greenbank in 2004.
Camilla Stowell, Chief Executive Officer of Wealth at Rathbones, who opened the summit, said: “Responsible investment is not an add-on at Rathbones – it is central to our purpose to enable clients to: Invest well. Live Well. Through Rathbones Greenbank, we have championed sustainable investment for over two decades, helping our clients align their capital with their values and the needs of society and the planet; Rathbones Greenbank’s strength is testament to the complexities of the issues we face as a planet and the immense focus required to tackle them in fast-moving global markets.”
David Cox, Head of Rathbones Greenbank, added: “At Rathbones Greenbank we work every day at the intersection of long-term capital stewardship and real-world sustainability outcomes. Our responsibility is not only to protect and grow our clients’ wealth, but to recognise that the systems that underpin prosperity — from stable climates to functioning ecosystems and fair labour practices — are under strain. What we invest in, how we engage, and the expectations we set all have consequences beyond financial returns.
“Our stewardship, collaborative engagement, and research-driven principles reflect our leadership and accountability in responsible investment and I am pleased to convene a wealth of experts and insights in London today to interrogate issues that shape both investment portfolios and the world around us.”
Main image: actionvance-t7EL2iG3jMc-unsplash
