As a signatory to PRI, FTSE has committed to providing tools and services for responsible investment. FTSE provides benchmarks, tradable and customised indices for a range of institutional and retail investors. FTSE4Good is an innovative index series and engagement programme designed to provide investors with a tool to measure the performance of companies who meet international CSR standards. The principles on which the FTSE4Good indices are based are rooted in globally accepted international standards, such as the UN Global Compact and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Globally, over thirty financial institutions are licensed to use the FTSE4Good index series including the Co-operative Bank and Direct Line Unit Trust Limited.
Mark Makepeace, Chief Executive of FTSE Group said:
“FTSE Group welcomes the launch of UNEP FI Principles of Responsible Investment, an initiative that is truly a milestone in the efforts to bring CSR and SRI into the mainstream. Through our FTSE4Good index series, we’ve sought to raise awareness of corporate responsibility within the investment community. We’ve been privileged to work with UNEP FI and to participate in the development of the PRI. We are committed to contributing to the evolution and acceptance by global investors going forward.”
United Nations Secretary, General Kofi Annan said:
“These Principles grew out of the understanding that while finance fuels the global economy, investment decision-making does not sufficiently reflect environmental, social and corporate governance consideration. Developed by leading institutional investors, the Principles provide a framework for achieving better long-term investment returns and more sustainable markets.”
As a UN signatory, FTSE will continue to consult with the investment community to enhance and increase its product offering in this area.
