My advice • December 17, 2019
modified on May 22, 2020
Investments Series - Responsible investment: Invest based on your values
An increasingly popular option
Pierre-Raphaël ComeauExpert Advisor, Wealth Management
and Financial Planner
LBC Financial Services
Responsible investment, which has existed for about 10 years, refers to integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into investment selection and management. For some time, a noticeable trend in consumer spending has consisted in voting with one’s wallet, meaning choosing products and services from socially responsible companies. It may be the logical continuation of environmentally responsible behaviours, such as putting your groceries in reusable bags and containers, participating in environmental walks, recycling and composting at home, and buying an electric car. Another way to practise what you preach is investing in socially responsible funds.
Real interest in ethical investments
According to the latest survey by the Responsible Investment Association, 77% of Canadian investors are interested in this type of investment. Investors’ primary, if not only, consideration used to be getting the best possible financial returns. This is no longer the case. More and more of us are assessing the environmental, social, and governance issues of the companies we’re investing in. These include green and renewable energy, working conditions, community relations and the presence of women on boards of directors. While no company can be perfect in all three ESG segments, those in socially responsible funds stand out in at least one of these three areas.
Ethical and financial goals
While responsible investment contributes to positive social change, it can also improve long-term financial performance. These companies use sound management measures, including risk management, and have a long-term vision. As a result, ethical goals very often align with financial goals, as well.
Laurentian Bank is also interested in responsible investment. That’s why we offer via our LBC Financial Services subsidiary the Mackenzie Global Sustainability and Impact Balanced Fund, an ethical fund based on an in-depth analysis of the companies it holds, their risk management, as well as their societal and environmental impact. If you’re interested in this type of investment, talk to your advisor. You’ll then find out whether this would be a nice addition to your portfolio that reflects your values!
+ Legal Notices
New investment accounts are offered by LBC Financial Services Inc. (LBCFS). Mutual funds are distributed by LBCFS. The Financial Planning service is offered by LBCFS. LBCFS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laurentian Bank and a legal entity distinct from Laurentian Bank and Mackenzie Investments. Mutual funds offered by LBCFS are part of the Laurentian Bank Group of Funds managed by Mackenzie Investments. A Laurentian Bank advisor is also a licensed LBCFS Mutual Fund Representative.
Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and other expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Nothing guarantees that the fund will maintain its net asset value per unit at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in the fund will be returned to you. Mutual fund values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated. Please read the simplified prospectus or Fund Facts before investing in mutual funds.
Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and other expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Nothing guarantees that the fund will maintain its net asset value per unit at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in the fund will be returned to you. Mutual fund values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.
The articles on this website are for information purposes only. They do not create any legal or contractual obligation for Laurentian Bank and its subsidiaries.
These articles do not constitute financial, accounting, legal or tax-related advice and should not be used for such purposes. Laurentian Bank and its subsidiaries may not be held liable for any damage you may incur as part of such use. Please contact your advisor or any other independent professionals, who will advise you as needed.
The articles may contain hyperlinks leading to external sites that are not managed by LBC. LBC cannot be held liable for the content of such external sites or the damage that may result from their use.
Prior written consent from the Laurentian Bank of Canada is required for any reproduction, retransmission, publication or other use, in whole or in part, of the contents of this site.
