Sustainable Investing
At Easley Wealth Management, we believe that investing should not only be about financial returns but also about making a positive impact on the world. Sustainable investing, also known as socially responsible investing (SRI) or environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing*, is a strategy that aligns your financial goals with your values. As a firm deeply rooted in the beauty and values of Hawaii, we are committed to helping our clients invest in a way that supports a healthier planet, stronger communities, and a more equitable society.
What is Sustainable Investing?
Sustainable investing involves integrating environmental, social, and governance factors into the investment decision-making process. This approach goes beyond traditional financial metrics to consider the broader impact of the companies and projects you invest in. For example, environmental factors might include a company's carbon footprint and resource management practices. Social factors could encompass labor practices, community engagement, and product safety. Governance factors might involve corporate leadership, executive pay, and shareholder rights.
There are several approaches to sustainable investing that we can tailor to your specific goals and values. One approach is to screen out companies or industries that do not meet certain ESG criteria. This could mean avoiding investments in tobacco, firearms, or fossil fuels. Another approach is to actively seek out companies that are leaders in sustainability, such as those with strong environmental practices, robust social policies, and transparent governance structures. We can also engage in shareholder activism, using our influence as investors to encourage companies to adopt more sustainable practices.
Why Should You Consider It?
Living in Hawaii, we are acutely aware of the importance of preserving our natural environment and supporting our local communities. Sustainable investing is a way to ensure that your financial decisions reflect your commitment to these values. Whether you are concerned about climate change, social justice, or corporate ethics, we can help you build a portfolio that resonates with your beliefs and supports the causes you care about.
*Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) / Environmental Social Governance (ESG) has certain risks based on the fact that the criteria excludes securities of certain issuers for non-financial reasons and, therefore, investors may forgo some market opportunities and the universe of investments available will be smaller.