CT UK Sustainable Equity Fund (CT) (Threadneedle)
SRI Style:
Sustainable Style
SDR Labelling:
Sustainability Focus label
Product:
OEIC
Fund Region:
UK
Fund Asset Type:
Equity
Launch Date:
30/10/2015
Last Amended:
Dialshifter (
):
Fund/Portfolio Size:
£26.00m
(as at: 31/12/2020)
Total Screened Themed SRI Assets:
£24024.00m
(as at: 31/03/2023)
Total Assets Under Management:
£49337.00m
(as at: 31/03/2023)
ISIN:
GB00BZ21SS97, GB00BZ21ST05, GB00BZ21SR80, GB00BJ5JM867, GB00BMCN4Q49
Sustainable, Responsible
&/or ESG Overview:
Awaiting update from manager - last updated June 2023
Launched in October 2015, the Fund takes a novel approach in combining positive sustainable outcomes, ESG risk management and negative screening. It was awarded Best New Entrant, at Investment Week’s Sustainable Investment Awards 2016.
Our philosophy outlines how we action our sustainable investment thesis: our strategy for delivering sustainable and financial benefits.
We reject market short-termism
Given the impact of longer-term sustainable themes, short term profits do not reflect the fundamental value of a business. Conversely, short-term reduction in profits – e.g. due to investment in the delivery of sustainable solutions of the future that pay off only over the longer term – can provide financial gain.
We take a longer-term view towards a better future
We look for sustainable businesses, those with products and services which benefit from and contribute to sustainable development, with sustainable economic returns and disciplined management. Given the greater capacity of smaller and mid-sized companies to innovate and exploit new markets, these form an important component of the Fund – the opportunity to drive innovation today towards a better future.
We look for companies exhibiting standards and discipline
Understanding the internal standards and discipline within a business is vital within a holistic view of its approach to sustainability. This encompasses internal environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, as well as financial stewardship. Leadership and improvement on these issues can signal future financial success, whilst creating a more sustainable, green and inclusive economy.
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Please note: BMO GAM (EMEA) became part of Columbia Threadneedle Investments, the global asset management business of Ameriprise, on 8th November 2021. From 4th July 2022 the ‘Threadneedle’-named fund ranges of Columbia Threadneedle will transition to the CT prefix, providing consistency with the rebranding of BMO funds.
Primary fund last amended:
Information directly from fund manager.
Fund Filters
Sustainability - General
Has policies that consider (environmental and social) sustainability issues. Strategies vary but are likely to consider environmental issues like climate change, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, resource management, environmental impacts; and social issues like equal opportunities, human rights, labour standards, diversity and adherence to internationally recognised codes. See individual entry information.
Aim to invest (and manage assets) in ways that help to address all or some of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). See https://sdgs.un.org/goals).
Environmental - General
Has policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out their stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary.
Has a policy or theme that relates to managing natural resources more efficiently. Strategies vary. See individual entry information.
Aims to invest in companies with strong or market leading environmental policies and practices. Strategies vary. See individual entry information for more detail.
Nature & Biodiversity
Aims to avoid investing in companies that produce genetically modified seeds or crops. (This does not typically include avoiding companies such as supermarkets).
Climate Change & Energy
Has policies (documented strategies that explain their position) on climate change related issues such as greenhouse gas/carbon emissions, net zero, transitioning to lower carbon. Strategies vary.
Avoid investment in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Strategies vary.
Avoid companies involved in fracking and tar sands - which are widely regarded as controversial methods of oil and gas extraction. Strategies vary.
Avoid investing in companies / assets with coal, oil and gas reserves. See individual entry information for further details.
Invest (or may invest) in clean / renewable energy companies and other assets. The proportion directly or indirectly invested in renewable energy may vary over time.
Invest in renewable energy companies and / or companies where renewable energy is a significant part of their business. Strategies vary.
Has a policy which describes the avoidance or limited investment in the nuclear industry. Strategies vary.
Social / Employment
Has policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and/or adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Strategies with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards and/or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.
Aims to invest in assets with high social values - this may include strong human rights, labour standards and equal opportunities or safety related practices.
Has policies or themes that set out their approach to health and wellbeing issues, typically aims to invest in companies with high standards - or encourage high standards.
Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Has policies that set out their position on ethical or 'personal values' based issues. Strategies vary.
Companies are excluded if they are involved in any aspect of the production chain for tobacco products, including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.
Avoids companies that manufacture weapons intended specifically for military use. Strategies vary - may or may not include non-strategic military products.
Avoids companies that produce alcohol. Strategies vary; some may allow a small proportion of revenue to come from this area.
Avoids companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some may allow a small proportion of revenues to come from this area.
Avoids companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary.
Human Rights
Has policies relating to human rights issues. Typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary.
Has policies to avoid companies that employ children.
Has policies or a theme that relates to the responsible management of supply chains. These may relate to employment issues, notably people employed by their suppliers, as well as the sourcing of materials and products.
Meeting Peoples' Basic Needs
Has a thematic investment approach focusing on the ‘silver economy’ - in particular (typically) the issues and opportunities presented by changing demographics. This could include finance, healthcare and medicines and/ or longevity science to extend lifespans. Strategies vary.
Have investments in social housing or similar assets.
Governance & Management
Has policies that relate to corporate governance issues such as board structure, executive remuneration, bribery and/or corporate corruption. These funds will typically avoid companies with poor practices. Strategies vary.
Avoids investing in companies with poor governance practices.(e.g. board structure, management practices etc.) Views may however vary on what counts as 'poor' practices - and funds may not immediately divest as they may prefer to work to encourage higher standards.
Has policies explaining how managers will respond to assets / companies that do not comply with relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption standards or laws. Strategies vary; options include stewardship/ engagement and divestment - or a combination.
Encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)
Product / Service Governance
Find fund / asset managers that factor in 'environmental, social and governance' issues as part of their investment decision making process. A focus on 'ESG' typically means a fund is carrying out additional research to help reduce ESG related risks. It does not necessarily mean a focus on sustainability. Strategies vary. See fund literature.
Asset Size
Invests more than half of their money into what are commonly regarded as 'large companies'. This will typically mean that the market capitalisation (or value) of the companies they hold is in excess of £5 to £10 billion.
Invests in a combination of small, medium and larger (potentially multinational) companies / assets.
Invests mainly in larger companies / assets. (e.g. over circa £5-£10bn)
Targeted Positive Investments
Invests >25% of their capital in companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.
Invests >50% of their capital in companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.
Impact Methodologies
Has policies that aim to help or support the delivery of positive social or environmental impacts (or societal/real world outcomes) by investing in companies they regard as beneficial to people and / or the planet. Strategies vary.
Aims to measure the positive real world environmental and / or social benefits that are associated with their investment strategy. Investments that aim to deliver positive impacts and measure those impacts may be referred to as 'Impact' - although impact measurement is not restricted to Impact investments. Strategies vary.
Specifically sets out to help deliver positive environmental impacts, benefits or 'real world' outcomes.
Specifically states that they aim to deliver positive social (i.e. people related) impacts and/or outcomes.
Directs investment towards companies where a major part of their business is about solving environmental challenges. e.g. companies helping to address climate change.
Invest in companies where a major part of their business is specifically aimed at helping to address social challenges. e.g. companies helping to address poverty.
Specifically sets out to invest in companies that are regarded as 'disrupting' existing business practices - typically through the development of innovative (sustainability aware) products and/or practices.
How The Fund/Portfolio Works
Focuses on finding and investing in companies with positive / beneficial attributes. This strategy can be applied in addition to exclusion criteria and engagement/stewardship activity.
Has principle 'ethical approach' to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Strategies vary.
Has principle approach to apply positive or negative ethical, social and / or environmental screens. Strictly screened investments are likely to exclude more companies than other related options. Strategies vary.
Has some exclusions - typically for example excludes tobacco or companies that breach commonly adopted standards or norms such as the UN Global Compact.
Invests in assets which can be 'mapped' (reviewed) their investment selection and management strategies to identify which of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the fund is helping to address.
Investment selection process uses internationally agreed 'norms' (e.g. United Nations Global Compact - UNGC - or the UN Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs) alongside additional SRI criteria such as positive or negative stock selection policies and/or stewardship strategies.
Invests in assets which have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) together with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.
Considers both the 'positive' and 'negative' aspects of company behaviour and makes balanced, considered decisions as part of their investment approach. May apply to a range of different issues and policy areas.
Uses internationally agreed standards, conventions and 'norms' to help direct investment decisions (e.g. the UN Global Compact, UN Sustainable Development Goals).
Publish explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. investment decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).
Intended Clients & Product Options
Has attributes that commonly suit the aims of investors of faith - although they may not be specifically marketed as being only for religious investors. Strategies vary (as do investor aims).
Available via a tax efficient ISA product wrapper.
Labels & Accreditations
Find options that have chosen to adopt one of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) SDR labels. Please note: there are a range of reasons why potentially relevant options may not use an SDR label eg. adopting a label may be work in progress, the manager may not yet be allowed to do so because of the product type, a manager may feel they are insufficiently aligned to SDR requirements.
Fund Management Company Information
About The Business
Finds fund / asset management companies that have a published company wide stewardship, engagement and / or responsible ownership policy or strategy that covers all investments. Stewardship typically involves encouraging higher ESG standards through voting and dialogue.
Find fund / asset management companies that actively encourage higher 'environmental, social and governance' and / or 'sustainable and responsible investment' practices across investee companies - typically where the aim is to encourage positive change that is aligned with the best interests of investors. Strategies vary. See additional information and options.
Find fund / asset managers that vote all* the shares they own at Annual General Meetings and Extraordinary General Meetings. A commitment to voting shares is a key indicator of 'responsible share ownership' demonstrating their support for or disagreement with management policy. (*situations can legitimately, occasionally occur where voting proves impossible, but in principle all shares should be voted.)
Find fund / asset management companies that aim to align all their investments (across all funds) to help meet the aims of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Find options run by managers that apply Responsible ownership or 'Stewardship' policies to all or most of their investment assets. This means active involvement (e.g. voting, dialogue) with the companies across all or most funds, products and services.
Find fund / asset management companies that consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues when deciding whether or not to invest in a company for all / almost all of their funds and other assets. This is increasingly seen as part of sound risk management.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an in-house (company wide) diversity improvement programme - meaning that they are working to ensure that within their own businesses they employ people from diverse backgrounds - often typically focused on ethnicity and/or sex.
Find fund / asset management companies that encourage the companies they invest in to have strong diversity, race, gender and other equality policies across all assets held, not simply screened or themed SRI/ESG funds. (ie Asset Management company wide).
Collaborations & Affiliations
Find fund / asset management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.
Find fund / asset management companies that are members of UKSIF - the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance association
Find fund / asset management companies that have partnered with Fund EcoMarket - meaning that they are helping to improve access to information on sustainable and responsible investment by paying an annual fee to us which enables us to publish information for free. Partner funds are listed ahead of other funds and have their logos displayed.
A member of the Taskforce for Nature Related Financial Disclosures group which aims to aid risk management and shift money towards nature-positive outcomes.
Fund management entity is a member of the Investment Association https://www.theia.org/
Resources
Find fund / asset management companies that employ people to steer and support fund managers in voting shares at company AGM's and EGMs in ways that are consistent with encouraging higher ESG/sustainability standards.
Find a fund / asset management company that directly employs specialist ESG/SRI/sustainability researchers or analysts. This allows asset managers to discuss environmental, social and governance risks and opportunities directly with companies.
Find fund / asset management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have one or more ESG/sustainability experts on all investment teams or 'desks' (all asset types)
Accreditations
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'
Find fund / asset managers that are signatories to the FRC UK Stewardship Code, which sets out a framework for constructive investor / investee relations where managers are encouraged to behave like responsible, typically longer term 'company owners'.
Engagement Approach
Find fund / asset management companies that regularly initiate or run industry wide (collaborative) investor projects aimed at raising environmental, social and governance standards amongst investee companies.
Find fund / asset management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage more responsible corporate taxation.
Fund / asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.
Fund / asset manager has a stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that involves working with fossil fuel companies on climate change related issues. See fund manager website for details.
Fund / asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.
Fund / asset manager has a stewardship / responsible ownership policy that means they are working to encourage more responsible mining practices - where environmental and social issues are properly dealt with by the companies they invest in.
The fund / asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy that focuses on biodiversity and nature issues relating to the assets they invest the aim of which will be to reduce harm and or deliver improvement. Strategies vary. https://tnfd.global
Fund / asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy which means they are working to encourage the shift to more sustainable business practices in ways that respect and are sensitive to social issues and the impact change has on people effected by the changes that are taking place. https://www.transitionpathwayinitiative.org/ https://transitiontaskforce.net/
Fund / asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place which aims to address human rights issues in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers) with the aim of raising standards
Fund / asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place that aims to improve labour standards for the benefit of employees in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers)
Fund / asset management company has a stewardship strategy in place which involves working to raise diversity, equality and inclusion standards across investee assets
Fund / asset managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets
Fund / asset manager has stewardship strategy in place which involves discussing mental health issues with investee companies - with the aim of raising standards
Has a stewardship / responsible ownership strategy that encourages responsible supply chain - ie the managers will discuss environmental, social and governance issues with investee companies with the aim of raising standards
Company Wide Exclusions
Find fund / asset management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles.
Climate & Net Zero Transition
Fund / asset management organisations that have pledged to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to ‘net zero’. Strategies vary - this area is changing rapidly.
Fund / asset manager AGM / EGM voting strategy has processes in place that mean they will normally be expected to vote in a way that will encourage the transition to net zero greenhouse gas emissions.
This fund / asset management company has set a date by which they plan to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Find fund / asset management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have a company wide carbon transition plan - meaning that they have plotted a path to how they will move away from activities that produce or use carbon based energy sources (that emit greenhouse gases) towards clean, alternative, renewable energy sources.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have published ‘forward looking climate metrics’ e.g. 'implied temperature rise' data that are a total of the asset management company's share (% owned) of all the investee company emissions of the assets they manage, as well as their own direct and other indirect emissions.
This fund / asset management company plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (CO2e) emissions with the help of a scheme that will lock away an amount of carbon that is equivalent to the company’s own emissions – so that the end result is ‘net zero’. Calculations and scope vary.
Find fund / asset management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.
Finds organisations / fund management companies that are in the process of working out how to make a ‘net zero commitment’ - meaning that when that is finalised they will have started the process of reducing their total greenhouse gas emissions to 'zero'.
See https://sciencebasedtargets.org/
Transparency
Find fund / asset management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.
Find fund / asset management companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.
Find fund / asset management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.
Fund / asset management companies that publish a full record of how they vote their shares at AGMs (annual general meetings) and EGMs (extraordinary general meetings). Voting strategies have an important role to play encouraging higher environmental, social and governance standards.
This fund / asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are to become a sustainable business - without significant negative environmental or social impacts.
This fund / asset management company has published a plan that explains how they will align to the climate change commitments made at the Paris Climate Talks, COP21.
This fund / asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are going to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Find fund / asset management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information.
Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:
Our sustainable investment criteria comprise the following:
Sustainable themes
We maintain a primary focus on companies exposed to sustainable themes through their products and services. These are best positioned to benefit from, and contribute to, a sustainable future. At minimum, these will comprise 75% of the Fund.
ESG quality
An additional focus is on ESG quality – up to 25% of the Fund represents companies exhibiting best-in-class practices notwithstanding current exposure to sustainable products and services (although these companies must not materially detract from sustainable themes). ESG also provides a lens on quality and risk management across the Fund. We typically avoid companies with entrenched poor practices but may invest where we believe there is scope for related engagement to drive improvements.
Sustainable and ethical exclusions
To underpin the Fund’s sustainability focus, we exclude companies offering unsuitable products and services i.e. those at odds with the fundamental concept of advancing sustainable development, inclusion of which we consider would not be consistent with the expectations of investors in the Fund: this is consistent with the criteria which have underpinned the Fund since launch.
Our sustainable themes and the SDGs
At a global level, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)[1] outline a number of sustainable development priorities and aspirations looking out to 2030, for support by both the public and private sectors. At a local level, challenges such as demographic change, housing need, and making the UK economy more environmentally sustainable also require solutions. Together these necessitate significant investment in, and support of, sustainable products, services and practices – indicative of a positive policy and market environment for companies targeted by the Fund.
[1] The SDGs were originally drafted for governments but have since been adopted by investment companies.
Our eight sustainable themes are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), translated for use in an investment context. These themes are shown below, alongside a primary SDG with which they align (although we look across all SDGs when assessing companies in the Fund) and a relevant opportunity for UK equities.
- Health, Well-being and Food Security - Ageing population and obesity crisis
- 3 - Good Health & Well-being
- 2 - Zero Hunger
- 1 - No Poverty
- Financial and Technological Inclusion - Provide banking for all
- 9 - Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
- 10 - Reduced Inequalities
- 8 - Decent Work & Economic Growth
- Education and Training - Investing in social mobility
- 4 - Quality Education
- 17 - Partnerships for the Goals
- 16 - Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
- Inclusive Work and Economic Development - Inclusion for all minorities
- 8 - Decent Work & Economic Growth
- 5 - Gender Equality
- 10 - Reduced Inequalities
- Community Formation and Support - Provide affordable housing
- 11 - Sustainable Cities & Communities
- 1 - No Poverty
- 2 - Zero Hunger
- Regeneration and Infrastructure - Supporting communities through investment and infrastructure
- 7 - Affordable & Clean Energy
- 9 - Industry Innovation & Infrastructure
- 15 - Life on Land
- Sustainable Resource Management and Transformation - Reducing pollution and waste
- 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
- 6 - Clean Water & Sanitation
- 14 - Life Below Water
- Energy and Climate Transition - Solutions required to combat climate change
- 7 - Affordable & Clean Energy
- 13 - Climate Action
- 15 - Life on Land
When assessing a companies’ exposure to our themes we identify both current revenue exposure to the themes as well as strategy and innovation supporting delivery of sustainable outcomes. Importantly, we do not just consider positive exposure, but net exposure (positive less negative) across all products and services as they relate to the themes. As outlined above, 75% of the Fund must be positively exposed to these themes on a net basis. At minimum, all invested companies must be neutrally exposed or transitioning towards positive exposure to these themes (e.g. a food and beverages company repositioning their portfolio towards healthier food).
Depending on companies’ net revenue exposure, they are labelled as a sustainable outcome leader, advanced contributor, contributor, transition or neutral. Companies misaligned are excluded from the Fund.
For companies identified as no longer meeting the Sustainable Investment Guidelines, an appropriate action plan will be drawn up and an action plan comprising an exit strategy implements in the best interest of underlying investors.
ESG Quality
Leadership and improvement on ESG and stewardship issues can signal future success, whilst creating a more sustainable, green and inclusive economy. Consequently, up to 25% of the Fund may represent companies selected for their strong ESG and stewardship practices.
ESG and stewardship also provide a lens on quality, risk management and the mitigation of negative impact – hence relevant for all companies in the Fund. We avoid companies with entrenched poor practices.
In identifying the strength of a company’s ESG and stewardship practices we take the following approach:
- Focus on a few material ESG factors – drawing on established research and the work of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) to identify relevant ESG factors for each industry[1]
- Respond to change – look to identify changes as they occur, even in anticipation of them
- Incorporate stewardship factors – such as accounting transparency and prudent capital allocation as part of our wider sustainability lens
[1] Further information, including their full industry mapping of material factors, is available online.
To implement this approach, we undertake not only our own research but also use innovative tools. In particular our proprietary Responsible Investment (RI) model incorporates all the factors mentioned above and has been back tested to show positive results.
Active Ownership
We also take the opportunity to engage with companies to better understand their perspectives, to offer input as responsible stewards and, as appropriate, to seek improvement in practices. This is particularly important for smaller companies, which typically have weaker governance arrangements as compared to larger peers.
Equally, we vote actively at company meetings and view this as a powerful way of sending signals to company management. Voting processes and policies reflect not only traditional governance issues, but also wider sustainability matters – such as company approaches to climate change and diversity.
For further information on our Responsible Investment approach across the firm, including engagement and our firm-wide voting policy, please see our Responsible Investment website (https://www.columbiathreadneedle.co.uk/en/investment-capabilities/governance-and-responsible-investment/).
Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:
Responsible Investment Team
We have a dedicated in-house Responsible Investment (RI) team, one of the most experienced and established teams of its kind. The award-winning 40+ member team supports our clients, our investment teams and our overall business through expertise across ESG thematic research, ESG integration, ESG policy, client reporting and thought leadership content. Beyond these core activities, the team also supports a plethora of activity from representation on responsible investment industry groups, public policy contribution, ESG thought leadership, ESG product development, portfolio level ESG analytics, screening for specialist ESG portfolios and reporting on active ownership activities. Active ownership is a key aspect of our RI work, and within the team there are more than 20 professionals focused on engagement and voting activity.
The RI team works hand in hand with our research and investment professionals to enrich their understanding of key sustainability trends as they relate to specific sectors and issuers, collaborating to highlight risks and opportunities within industries and sectors, informing investment decisions across asset classes.
The RI team was awarded ‘Best ESG Research Team’ at the 2018, 2019 and 2020 Investment Week Sustainable & ESG Investment Awards, ‘Best ESG Reporting – Asset Manager: Large’ at the 2019 Environmental Finance Awards, and ‘Best ESG Research: Fixed Income’ at the 2020 Environmental Finance Awards. We were also awarded ‘Best ESG Fund House’ at the 2022 ESG Clarity Awards.
Responsible Investment Advisory Council
The Council is a six-member committee of experts, who are leaders in their fields and bring international experience across responsible investment, ethical, environmental, and social issues. Their primary role is to provide advice on the ethical criteria for our specialist Responsible strategy range. The Responsible Investment team is also able to draw on their expertise in informing our broader engagement and responsible investment approach.
The Council’s president is the Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury. The Chair, who heads the quarterly meetings, is Howard Pearce, formerly Head of Environmental Finance and Pension Fund Management at the UK’s Environment Agency Pension Fund (EAPF). More detail on the Council can be found here.
Affiliations & Memberships
We make efforts to promote responsible investment in multiple ways, including participation in speaking engagements, industry working groups, responsible investment conferences and collaborative initiatives.
A list of key responsible investment memberships and affiliations for Columbia Threadneedle Investments is shown below.
- Environmental
Climate Action 100+
Climate Action 100+ is an investor initiative launched in 2017 to ensure the world’s largest corporate greenhouse gas emitters take necessary action on climate change. We are a member of the investor coalition, leading 8 and supporting 38 engagements.
Date of joining: CTML: 2017, TAML: 2021
Transition Pathway Initiative (TPI)
A PRI sponsored initiative; this is an asset-owner led initiative which assesses companies' preparedness for the transition to a low carbon economy. It is supported by London School of Economics, a research driven initiative on high emitting sectors carbon transition and strategic/management commitment to address climate transition.
Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2021
Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative
Founder signatory of this international group of asset managers committed to supporting the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 or sooner, in line with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius; and to supporting investing aligned with net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.
Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2021
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP)
Non-profit organisation that runs the global disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts. We are member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements.
Date of joining: CTML: 2000, TAML: 2005
Carbon Trust
We partner this organisation that supports companies to accelerate towards Net Zero. From target setting, Net Zero pathways, assurance and footprinting, to policy advice, strategy setting and programme delivery.
Date of joining: 2010
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD)
We have committed to producing reporting as part of TCFD, an organisation that was established in December 2015 with the goal of developing a set of voluntary climate-related financial risk disclosures.
Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2022
Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB)
ESG standard setter (Member Standards Advisory Group & sub-groups). SASB guides the disclosure of financially material sustainability information by companies to their investors.
Date of joining: 2018
Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)
The SBTi is a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). Guides companies to set science-based targets to mobilize the private sector to take urgent climate action.
Date of joining: 2020
Impact Investing Institute
Focuses on the development of outcome related investment, to encourage more investment made with the intention to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. TAML is a Founding supporter and member of the Advisory Council and working group for the Green+ Gilts
Date of joining: 2020
Institutional Investor Group on Climate Change (IIGCC)
IIGCC works with business, policy makers and investors to help define the investment practices, policies and corporate behaviours required to address climate change. A member of the RI team serves on the Board. We lead and support several engagements.
Date of joining: 2001
IIGCC's Global Investor Statement
A joint statement coordinated by the seven Founding Partners of The Investor Agenda to all world governments urging a global race-to-the-top on climate policy and warns that laggards will miss out on trillions of dollars in investment if they aim too low and move too slow.
Date of joining: 2009
IIGCC’s Investor Position Statement on Transition Planning
Signatory of this investor statement by 56 leading investors calling for the implementation of new corporate governance measures to ensure shareholders can hold companies to account in achieving net zero emissions commitments.
Date of joining: 2021
Ceres Land Use and Climate WG (Biodiversity)
Ceres works with the most influential capital market leaders to advance innovative solutions to the climate crisis and achieve a zero emissions future where people and the planet can prosper.
Date of joining: 2020
Cerrado Manifesto SoS
Public statement committing to halt deforestation in the Cerrado, adopt sustainable land management practices and mitigate financial risks associated with deforestation and climate change. It is endorsed by global FMCG companies and institutional investors.
Date of joining: 2021
ChemScore
Benchmark created by NGO International Chemical Secretariat (ChemSec). It ranks the world’s top 50 chemical producers on their work to reduce their chemical footprint.
Date of joining: 2021
Nature Action 100
Founding member of investor-led collaborative engagement programme to engage with companies and policymakers on nature.
Date of joining: 2022
Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures
As a forum member, we support the taskforce aiming to develop and deliver a risk management and disclosure framework for organisations to report and act on evolving nature-related risks.
Date of joining: 2020
Sustainability Policy Transparency Toolkit (SPOTT)
SPOTT scores palm oil, tropical forestry, and natural rubber companies annually against over 100 sector specific ESG indicators to benchmark their progress over time. As an investor supporter we express need for enhanced transparency.
Date of joining: 2019
Investor Policy Dialogue on Deforestation
Collaborative investor initiative set up to engage with public agencies and industry associations on the issue of deforestation. The goal is to coordinate a public policy dialogue on halting deforestation. We are a member of the Advisory Council, leading/supporting engagements going forward.
Date of joining: 2021
ShareAction Chemicals Working Group
Investor group focused on engagement with the chemicals sector on decarbonisation.
Date of joining: 2021
- Social
Global Network Initiative (GNI)
Member of this initiative seeking to safeguard freedom of expression and personal privacy against government restrictions. The protections are facilitated by a coalition of companies, investors, civil society organisations, academics, and other stakeholders.
Date of joining: CTML: 2008, TAML: 2002
Interfaith Centre on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR)
Coalition of over 300 global faith- and values-based institutional investors. We are members of the Food Justice and Racial Equity workstream.
Date of joining: 2020
ICCR's Investor Alliance on Human Rights (IAHR)
Part of the ICCR, IAHR provides a collective action platform to facilitate investor advocacy on a full spectrum of human rights and labour rights issues.
Date of joining: 2020
ICCR's Investors for Opioid and Pharmaceutical Accountability (IOPA) Part of the ICCR, IOPA addresses the fallout of the opioid crisis and other business risks by seeking accountability and mitigating further risk at pharmaceutical companies through comprehensive shareholder reforms.
Date of joining: 2021
ShareAction Good Work Coalition
Investor engagement initiative aimed at driving up standards in the workplace. Engagement focus on labour standards, living wage standards, accreditation, transparency of the FTSE350, extension to DEI with a focus on ethnic diversity.
Date of joining: 2021
ShareAction Healthier Markets Investor initiative aimed at improving children's health by increasing access to affordable, healthy food.
Date of joining: 2021
Access to Medicine Foundation
Member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements. Independent, non-profit organisation working to stimulate and guide the pharmaceutical industry. Produces the Access to Medicine Index, Antimicrobial Resistance Benchmark, Access to Vaccines Index.
Date of joining: 2021
Investor Action on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
A coalition between the Access to Medicine Foundation, the FAIRR Initiative, the Principles for Responsible Investment and the UK Government Department of Health and Social Care to galvanise investor efforts to address global AMR. We are leading and supporting engagements.
Date of joining: 2021
Investor Initiative for Responsible Care
Collaborative engagement group coordinated by UNI Global Union focused on working standards and quality of care in the listed nursing care sector.
Date of joining: 2022
Workforce Disclosure Initiative (WDI)
Disclosure body. We are Signatory, member of the Advisory Group; leading/supporting several engagements. Investor initiative aimed at improving corporate transparency and accountability on workforce issues. Provide companies and investors with comprehensive and comparable data.
Date of joining: CTML: 2021, TAML: 2020
Global Investor Collaboration on Farm Animal Welfare & Global Investor Statement on Farm Animal Welfare
Engagement collaboration with BBFAW (Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare), member of the investor coalition, supporting and leading several engagements.
Date of joining: 2021
Platform Living wage Financials
Coalition of financial institutions that encourages and monitors investee companies to address the non-payment of living wage in global supply chains. We are chair of the Platform's Garment Working Group; member of the Food, Retail and Agri working group.
Date of joining: 2020
Find it, fix it, prevent it
Engagement collaboration. Member, leading on engagements. Investor led initiative targeting UK-listed companies to demonstrate commitment to eradicating modern slavery from their supply chains.
Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2021
KnowTheChain
Engagement collaboration. Member of the investor coalition, supporting several engagements. KnowTheChain is a resource for companies and investors to understand and address forced labour risks within their global supply chains.
Date of joining: 2021
Access to Nutrition Index
Engagement collaboration. Member of the investor coalition, supporting several engagements. Independent, non-profit organisation producing the Access to Nutrition Index. Benchmark evaluates the world's largest food and beverage manufacturers' policies and performance related to the world's most pressing nutrition challenges: obesity and undernutrition.
Date of joining: 2021
Human Capital Management Coalition (US)
Engagement collaboration. Member of the coalition of investors to elevate human capital management. Engages companies and other market participants with the aim of understanding and improving how human capital management contributes to the creation of long-term shareholder value.
Date of joining: 2021
Investors for Racial Justice
Member of this information sharing network and engagement collaboration.
Date of joining: 2020
Votes Against Slavery 2022
Member of this investor collaboration engaging with FTSE 350 companies on their compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. We joined the collaboration for the 2021 campaign.
Date of joining: 2021
- Governance
International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN)
Member of investor led organisation advancing the highest standards of corporate governance and investor stewardship worldwide in pursuit of long-term value creation.
Date of joining: CTML: 2007, TAML: 2017
Investment Association (IA)
Member of UK industry body; facilitates the monitoring and responding to ESG policy and regulatory changes impacting our activities.
Date of joining: CTML: 2000, TAML: 1998
Corporate Governance Forum
European focus - UK based asset management governance teams. Informal discussion on companies and industry issues.
Date of joining: 2012
Global Institutional Governance Network (GIGN)
US/Global focus - Global asset management governance teams. Discussions on companies and industry issues.
Date of joining: 2012
Council of Institutional Investors (CII)
Member of this non-profit organisation promoting effective corporate governance policies.
Date of joining: 1996
Investor Forum
Member and proactive collaborator with the Forum, which helps investors to work collectively to escalate material issues with the Boards of UK-listed companies.
Date of joining: 2005
Asia Corporate Governance Association
Member of independent, non-profit membership organisation dedicated to working with investors, companies and regulators in the implementation of effective corporate governance practices throughout Asia.
Date of joining: CTML: 2004, TAML: 2010
Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)
Engagement collaboration. Organisation that structures, implements and assembles investor collaborative engagement programmes across Asia. Performs in-depth industry and company research that provides strategic insight into key ESG issues to underpin engagement work.
Date of joining: 2021
Pre-Emption Group (PEG)
Members of the UK Capital markets group that sets guidelines on the application/dis-application of pre-emption rights in UK capital issuance.
Date of joining: 2016
30% Club UK Investor Group
Campaign for greater representation of women on company boards. Member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements.
Date of joining: 2021
30% Club France Investor Group
Member of this investor-led group aiming to boost the number of women in board seats and executive leadership of companies in the SBF 120 index.
Date of joining: 2021
30% Coalition (US)
Campaign for greater diversity on company boards. Member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements.
Date of joining: 2021
Women in Finance Charter
First asset manager signatory to the UK charter committing to support the progression of women into senior roles in the financial services sector, set targets and publicly report on progress against these targets to support transparency and accountability.
Date of joining: 2016
Eumedion
Member of this non-profit organisation aiming to promote good corporate governance and sustainability policies at Dutch listed companies and to promote engaged and responsible shareholding by its members.
Date of joining: 2009
- Environmental, Social & Governance
Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
Global responsible investment association, membership is a pre-requisite for many clients. TAML & BMO GAM are Founding Signatories to the UN supported PRI. CTML, formerly known as BMO GAM EMEA, was part of BMO GAM at the time of becoming a signatory. BMO GAM EMEA business was acquired by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. in 2021. CMIA became a signatory in 2014.
Date of joining: CTML & TAML: 2006, CMIA: 2014
UK Stewardship Code
Set of principles for asset owners and managers. We are signatories of the 2020 code.
Date of joining: 2012
Investor Stewardship Group (ISG)
Members of the network of investors and asset managers formed to promote good practice in stewardship and corporate governance, specific to the US.
Date of joining: 2018
Investment Company Institute (ICI)
US Industry body; facilitates the monitoring and responding to ESG policy and regulatory changes impacting our activities.
Date of joining: 2019
UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF)
Network focused on the UK sustainable investment market, pre-requisite for FNG certification. A member of the RI team chairs the Policy Committee.
Date of joining: CTML: 2000, TAML: 2020
Taiwan Stewardship Code
Signatory to the Taiwan Stewardship Code, which is based on a ‘comply or explain’ approach.
Date of joining: 2022
Japan’s Stewardship Code
Signatory to Japan’s Stewardship Code, which is maintained by Japanese Financial Services Agency, based on a ‘comply-or-explain’ approach where signatories comply with the principles of the code or explain why they do not comply.
Date of joining: 2022
Global Real Estate Benchmark (GRESB)
Member of this organization whose data facilitates our ability to track trends in corporate environmental and social risk management performance as it relates to property.
Date of joining: 2013
London Stock Exchange
Members of the LSE’s Primary Markets Group, advising on primary market issues.
Date of joining: 2012
The Big Exchange
TAML is a founding partner and members of the Impact Committee.
Date of joining: 2019
Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN) Member of this leading non-profit dedicated to increasing the scale and effectiveness of impact investing
Date of joining: 2020
FAIRR Collaborative investor network that focuses on ESG risks and opportunities around animal agriculture.
Date of joining: 2021
Investor Tailings Safety Initiative & Investor 2030 Mining Agenda We are the founding supporter of this initiative and will co-lead on some of the corporate engagements.
Date of joining: 2021
Centre for Audit Committee and Investor Dialogue Network initiative that enables investors, audit committee members and auditors to discuss issues of common interest.
Date of joining: 2013
International Capital Markets Association (ICMA)
The development of green, social and sustainability bond principles relevant to our fixed income investments in an RI context. Members of the Social Bond Working Group and members of working groups on the SDGs and on impact reporting.
Date of joining: 2016
Source: Columbia Threadneedle Investments, as at March 2023. Includes memberships held by CMIA, TAML, CTML and other group affiliates. CMIA = Columbia Management Investment Advisors, LLC; TAML = Threadneedle Asset Management Limited; CTML = Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited.
Voting Record
Disclaimer
Important Information
PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL
All information provided within this document is for the attention of the addressee only and solely for the purpose of evaluating the investment and advisory management services available from Columbia Threadneedle Investments. The information provided is on the basis that it remains private and confidential between the addressee and Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Accordingly, the addressee is not permitted, in the event that a request for information is made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, to disclose any of the information provided herein by Columbia Threadneedle Investments, given the duty of confidentiality that exists as between Columbia Threadneedle Investments and the addressee. Columbia Threadneedle Investments is the global brand name of the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies.
CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT
This document is issued by Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited. Should you decide or wish to receive the services detailed within this document, your contractual agreement will be with Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited. This entity is a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia Threadneedle Investments UK International Limited, whose direct parent is Ameriprise Inc., a company incorporated in the United States.
Past performance should not be seen as an indication of future performance. The value of investments and income derived from them can go down as well as up as a result of market or currency movements and investors may not get back the original amount invested. The information, opinions, estimates or forecasts contained in this document were obtained from sources reasonably believed to be reliable and are subject to change at any time.
The “Firm” referred to herein is part of the group of legal entities acquired by Ameriprise Financial Inc. on 8th November 2021. On 4th July 2022, we reached a significant milestone in the integration of our businesses being rebranded as Columbia Threadneedle Investments. We have made significant progress with the integration of our businesses, and while we now present ourselves externally as a single brand, there may be instances where the Firm’s legacy functions, systems, teams or policies remain in place until further integration milestones are reached. Where applicable, this document may make reference to such functions, systems, teams or policies, with any such references being subject to change as the integration work continues.
| Fund Name | SRI Style | SDR Labelling | Product | Region | Asset Type | Launch Date | Last Amended |
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CT UK Sustainable Equity Fund (CT) (Threadneedle) |
Sustainable Style | Sustainability Focus label | OEIC | UK | Equity | 30/10/2015 | ||
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Fund/Portfolio Size: £26.00m (as at: 31/12/2020) Total Screened Themed SRI Assets: £24024.00m (as at: 31/03/2023) Total Assets Under Management: £49337.00m (as at: 31/03/2023) ISIN: GB00BZ21SS97, GB00BZ21ST05, GB00BZ21SR80, GB00BJ5JM867, GB00BMCN4Q49 |
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Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG OverviewAwaiting update from manager - last updated June 2023
Launched in October 2015, the Fund takes a novel approach in combining positive sustainable outcomes, ESG risk management and negative screening. It was awarded Best New Entrant, at Investment Week’s Sustainable Investment Awards 2016. Our philosophy outlines how we action our sustainable investment thesis: our strategy for delivering sustainable and financial benefits.
We reject market short-termism Given the impact of longer-term sustainable themes, short term profits do not reflect the fundamental value of a business. Conversely, short-term reduction in profits – e.g. due to investment in the delivery of sustainable solutions of the future that pay off only over the longer term – can provide financial gain.
We take a longer-term view towards a better future We look for sustainable businesses, those with products and services which benefit from and contribute to sustainable development, with sustainable economic returns and disciplined management. Given the greater capacity of smaller and mid-sized companies to innovate and exploit new markets, these form an important component of the Fund – the opportunity to drive innovation today towards a better future.
We look for companies exhibiting standards and discipline Understanding the internal standards and discipline within a business is vital within a holistic view of its approach to sustainability. This encompasses internal environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, as well as financial stewardship. Leadership and improvement on these issues can signal future financial success, whilst creating a more sustainable, green and inclusive economy. . Please note: BMO GAM (EMEA) became part of Columbia Threadneedle Investments, the global asset management business of Ameriprise, on 8th November 2021. From 4th July 2022 the ‘Threadneedle’-named fund ranges of Columbia Threadneedle will transition to the CT prefix, providing consistency with the rebranding of BMO funds. |
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Information received directly from Fund Manager |
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Fund FiltersSustainability - General
Sustainability policy
Has policies that consider (environmental and social) sustainability issues. Strategies vary but are likely to consider environmental issues like climate change, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, resource management, environmental impacts; and social issues like equal opportunities, human rights, labour standards, diversity and adherence to internationally recognised codes. See individual entry information.
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) focus
Aim to invest (and manage assets) in ways that help to address all or some of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). See https://sdgs.un.org/goals). Environmental - General
Environmental policy
Has policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out their stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary.
Resource efficiency policy or theme
Has a policy or theme that relates to managing natural resources more efficiently. Strategies vary. See individual entry information.
Favours cleaner, greener companies
Aims to invest in companies with strong or market leading environmental policies and practices. Strategies vary. See individual entry information for more detail. Nature & Biodiversity
Avoids genetically modified seeds / crop production
Aims to avoid investing in companies that produce genetically modified seeds or crops. (This does not typically include avoiding companies such as supermarkets). Climate Change & Energy
Climate change / greenhouse gas emissions policy
Has policies (documented strategies that explain their position) on climate change related issues such as greenhouse gas/carbon emissions, net zero, transitioning to lower carbon. Strategies vary.
Coal, oil & / or gas majors excluded
Avoid investment in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Strategies vary.
Fracking & tar sands excluded
Avoid companies involved in fracking and tar sands - which are widely regarded as controversial methods of oil and gas extraction. Strategies vary.
Fossil fuel reserves exclusion
Avoid investing in companies / assets with coal, oil and gas reserves. See individual entry information for further details.
Clean / renewable energy theme or focus
Invest (or may invest) in clean / renewable energy companies and other assets. The proportion directly or indirectly invested in renewable energy may vary over time.
Invests in clean energy / renewables
Invest in renewable energy companies and / or companies where renewable energy is a significant part of their business. Strategies vary.
Nuclear exclusion policy
Has a policy which describes the avoidance or limited investment in the nuclear industry. Strategies vary. Social / Employment
Social policy
Has policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and/or adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Strategies with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards and/or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.
Favours companies with strong social policies
Aims to invest in assets with high social values - this may include strong human rights, labour standards and equal opportunities or safety related practices.
Health & wellbeing policies or theme
Has policies or themes that set out their approach to health and wellbeing issues, typically aims to invest in companies with high standards - or encourage high standards. Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Ethical policies
Has policies that set out their position on ethical or 'personal values' based issues. Strategies vary.
Tobacco & related product manufacturers excluded
Companies are excluded if they are involved in any aspect of the production chain for tobacco products, including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.
Armaments manufacturers avoided
Avoids companies that manufacture weapons intended specifically for military use. Strategies vary - may or may not include non-strategic military products.
Alcohol production excluded
Avoids companies that produce alcohol. Strategies vary; some may allow a small proportion of revenue to come from this area.
Gambling avoidance policy
Avoids companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some may allow a small proportion of revenues to come from this area.
Pornography avoidance policy
Avoids companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. Human Rights
Human rights policy
Has policies relating to human rights issues. Typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary.
Child labour exclusion
Has policies to avoid companies that employ children.
Responsible supply chain policy or theme
Has policies or a theme that relates to the responsible management of supply chains. These may relate to employment issues, notably people employed by their suppliers, as well as the sourcing of materials and products. Meeting Peoples' Basic Needs
Demographic / ageing population theme
Has a thematic investment approach focusing on the ‘silver economy’ - in particular (typically) the issues and opportunities presented by changing demographics. This could include finance, healthcare and medicines and/ or longevity science to extend lifespans. Strategies vary.
Invests > 5% in social housing
Have investments in social housing or similar assets. Governance & Management
Governance policy
Has policies that relate to corporate governance issues such as board structure, executive remuneration, bribery and/or corporate corruption. These funds will typically avoid companies with poor practices. Strategies vary.
Avoids companies with poor governance
Avoids investing in companies with poor governance practices.(e.g. board structure, management practices etc.) Views may however vary on what counts as 'poor' practices - and funds may not immediately divest as they may prefer to work to encourage higher standards.
Anti-bribery & corruption policy
Has policies explaining how managers will respond to assets / companies that do not comply with relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption standards or laws. Strategies vary; options include stewardship/ engagement and divestment - or a combination.
Encourage board diversity e.g. gender
Encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards) Product / Service Governance
ESG integration strategy
Find fund / asset managers that factor in 'environmental, social and governance' issues as part of their investment decision making process. A focus on 'ESG' typically means a fund is carrying out additional research to help reduce ESG related risks. It does not necessarily mean a focus on sustainability. Strategies vary. See fund literature. Asset Size
Over 50% large cap companies
Invests more than half of their money into what are commonly regarded as 'large companies'. This will typically mean that the market capitalisation (or value) of the companies they hold is in excess of £5 to £10 billion.
Invests in small, mid & large cap companies / assets
Invests in a combination of small, medium and larger (potentially multinational) companies / assets.
Invests mostly in large cap companies / assets
Invests mainly in larger companies / assets. (e.g. over circa £5-£10bn) Targeted Positive Investments
Invests >25% in environmental / social solutions companies
Invests >25% of their capital in companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.
Invests >50% of fund in environmental / social solutions companies
Invests >50% of their capital in companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges. Impact Methodologies
Aims to generate positive impacts (or 'outcomes')
Has policies that aim to help or support the delivery of positive social or environmental impacts (or societal/real world outcomes) by investing in companies they regard as beneficial to people and / or the planet. Strategies vary.
Measures positive impacts
Aims to measure the positive real world environmental and / or social benefits that are associated with their investment strategy. Investments that aim to deliver positive impacts and measure those impacts may be referred to as 'Impact' - although impact measurement is not restricted to Impact investments. Strategies vary.
Positive environmental impact theme
Specifically sets out to help deliver positive environmental impacts, benefits or 'real world' outcomes.
Positive social impact theme
Specifically states that they aim to deliver positive social (i.e. people related) impacts and/or outcomes.
Invests in environmental solutions companies
Directs investment towards companies where a major part of their business is about solving environmental challenges. e.g. companies helping to address climate change.
Invests in social solutions companies
Invest in companies where a major part of their business is specifically aimed at helping to address social challenges. e.g. companies helping to address poverty.
Invests in sustainability / ESG disruptors
Specifically sets out to invest in companies that are regarded as 'disrupting' existing business practices - typically through the development of innovative (sustainability aware) products and/or practices. How The Fund/Portfolio Works
Positive selection bias
Focuses on finding and investing in companies with positive / beneficial attributes. This strategy can be applied in addition to exclusion criteria and engagement/stewardship activity.
Negative selection bias
Has principle 'ethical approach' to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Strategies vary.
Strictly screened ethical investment
Has principle approach to apply positive or negative ethical, social and / or environmental screens. Strictly screened investments are likely to exclude more companies than other related options. Strategies vary.
Limited / few ethical exclusions
Has some exclusions - typically for example excludes tobacco or companies that breach commonly adopted standards or norms such as the UN Global Compact.
Assets mapped to SDGs
Invests in assets which can be 'mapped' (reviewed) their investment selection and management strategies to identify which of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the fund is helping to address.
Combines norms based exclusions with other SRI criteria
Investment selection process uses internationally agreed 'norms' (e.g. United Nations Global Compact - UNGC - or the UN Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs) alongside additional SRI criteria such as positive or negative stock selection policies and/or stewardship strategies.
Combines ESG strategy with other SRI criteria
Invests in assets which have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) together with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.
Balances company 'pros and cons' / best in sector
Considers both the 'positive' and 'negative' aspects of company behaviour and makes balanced, considered decisions as part of their investment approach. May apply to a range of different issues and policy areas.
Norms focus
Uses internationally agreed standards, conventions and 'norms' to help direct investment decisions (e.g. the UN Global Compact, UN Sustainable Development Goals).
SRI / ESG / Ethical policies explained on website
Publish explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. investment decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies). Intended Clients & Product Options
Faith friendly
Has attributes that commonly suit the aims of investors of faith - although they may not be specifically marketed as being only for religious investors. Strategies vary (as do investor aims).
Available via an ISA (OEIC only)
Available via a tax efficient ISA product wrapper. Labels & Accreditations
SDR Labelled
Find options that have chosen to adopt one of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) SDR labels. Please note: there are a range of reasons why potentially relevant options may not use an SDR label eg. adopting a label may be work in progress, the manager may not yet be allowed to do so because of the product type, a manager may feel they are insufficiently aligned to SDR requirements. Fund Management Company InformationAbout The Business
Responsible ownership / stewardship policy or strategy (AFM companywide)
Finds fund / asset management companies that have a published company wide stewardship, engagement and / or responsible ownership policy or strategy that covers all investments. Stewardship typically involves encouraging higher ESG standards through voting and dialogue.
ESG / SRI engagement (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that actively encourage higher 'environmental, social and governance' and / or 'sustainable and responsible investment' practices across investee companies - typically where the aim is to encourage positive change that is aligned with the best interests of investors. Strategies vary. See additional information and options.
Vote all* shares at AGMs / EGMs (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset managers that vote all* the shares they own at Annual General Meetings and Extraordinary General Meetings. A commitment to voting shares is a key indicator of 'responsible share ownership' demonstrating their support for or disagreement with management policy. (*situations can legitimately, occasionally occur where voting proves impossible, but in principle all shares should be voted.)
SDG aligned aims / objectives (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that aim to align all their investments (across all funds) to help meet the aims of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Responsible ownership policy for non SRI / sustainable options (AFM companywide)
Find options run by managers that apply Responsible ownership or 'Stewardship' policies to all or most of their investment assets. This means active involvement (e.g. voting, dialogue) with the companies across all or most funds, products and services.
Integrates ESG factors into all / most research (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues when deciding whether or not to invest in a company for all / almost all of their funds and other assets. This is increasingly seen as part of sound risk management.
In-house diversity improvement programme (AFM companywide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an in-house (company wide) diversity improvement programme - meaning that they are working to ensure that within their own businesses they employ people from diverse backgrounds - often typically focused on ethnicity and/or sex.
Diversity, equality & inclusion engagement policy (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that encourage the companies they invest in to have strong diversity, race, gender and other equality policies across all assets held, not simply screened or themed SRI/ESG funds. (ie Asset Management company wide). Collaborations & Affiliations
PRI signatory
Find fund / asset management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.
UKSIF member
Find fund / asset management companies that are members of UKSIF - the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance association
Fund EcoMarket partner
Find fund / asset management companies that have partnered with Fund EcoMarket - meaning that they are helping to improve access to information on sustainable and responsible investment by paying an annual fee to us which enables us to publish information for free. Partner funds are listed ahead of other funds and have their logos displayed.
TNFD forum member (AFM companywide)
A member of the Taskforce for Nature Related Financial Disclosures group which aims to aid risk management and shift money towards nature-positive outcomes.
Investment Association (IA) member
Fund management entity is a member of the Investment Association https://www.theia.org/ Resources
In-house responsible ownership / voting expertise
Find fund / asset management companies that employ people to steer and support fund managers in voting shares at company AGM's and EGMs in ways that are consistent with encouraging higher ESG/sustainability standards.
Employ specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability researchers
Find a fund / asset management company that directly employs specialist ESG/SRI/sustainability researchers or analysts. This allows asset managers to discuss environmental, social and governance risks and opportunities directly with companies.
Use specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability research companies
Find fund / asset management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.
ESG specialists on all investment desks (AFM companywide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have one or more ESG/sustainability experts on all investment teams or 'desks' (all asset types) Accreditations
PRI A+ rated (AFM companywide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'
UK Stewardship Code signatory (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset managers that are signatories to the FRC UK Stewardship Code, which sets out a framework for constructive investor / investee relations where managers are encouraged to behave like responsible, typically longer term 'company owners'. Engagement Approach
Regularly lead collaborative ESG initiatives (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that regularly initiate or run industry wide (collaborative) investor projects aimed at raising environmental, social and governance standards amongst investee companies.
Encourage responsible corporate taxation (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage more responsible corporate taxation.
Engaging on climate change issues
Fund / asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.
Engaging with fossil fuel companies on climate change
Fund / asset manager has a stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that involves working with fossil fuel companies on climate change related issues. See fund manager website for details.
Engaging to reduce plastics pollution / waste
Fund / asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.
Engaging to encourage responsible mining practices
Fund / asset manager has a stewardship / responsible ownership policy that means they are working to encourage more responsible mining practices - where environmental and social issues are properly dealt with by the companies they invest in.
Engaging on biodiversity / nature issues
The fund / asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy that focuses on biodiversity and nature issues relating to the assets they invest the aim of which will be to reduce harm and or deliver improvement. Strategies vary. https://tnfd.global
Engaging to encourage a Just Transition
Fund / asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy which means they are working to encourage the shift to more sustainable business practices in ways that respect and are sensitive to social issues and the impact change has on people effected by the changes that are taking place. https://www.transitionpathwayinitiative.org/ https://transitiontaskforce.net/
Engaging on human rights issues
Fund / asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place which aims to address human rights issues in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers) with the aim of raising standards
Engaging on labour / employment issues
Fund / asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place that aims to improve labour standards for the benefit of employees in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers)
Engaging on diversity, equality & / or inclusion issues
Fund / asset management company has a stewardship strategy in place which involves working to raise diversity, equality and inclusion standards across investee assets
Engaging on governance issues
Fund / asset managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets
Engaging on mental health issues
Fund / asset manager has stewardship strategy in place which involves discussing mental health issues with investee companies - with the aim of raising standards
Engaging on responsible supply chain issues
Has a stewardship / responsible ownership strategy that encourages responsible supply chain - ie the managers will discuss environmental, social and governance issues with investee companies with the aim of raising standards Company Wide Exclusions
Controversial weapons avoidance policy (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles. Climate & Net Zero Transition
Net Zero commitment (AFM companywide)
Fund / asset management organisations that have pledged to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to ‘net zero’. Strategies vary - this area is changing rapidly.
Voting policy includes net zero targets (AFM companywide)
Fund / asset manager AGM / EGM voting strategy has processes in place that mean they will normally be expected to vote in a way that will encourage the transition to net zero greenhouse gas emissions.
Net Zero - have set a Net Zero target date (AFM companywide)
This fund / asset management company has set a date by which they plan to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Encourage carbon / greenhouse gas reduction (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.
Carbon transition plan published (AFM companywide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have a company wide carbon transition plan - meaning that they have plotted a path to how they will move away from activities that produce or use carbon based energy sources (that emit greenhouse gases) towards clean, alternative, renewable energy sources.
‘Forward Looking Climate Metrics’ published / ITR (AFM companywide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have published ‘forward looking climate metrics’ e.g. 'implied temperature rise' data that are a total of the asset management company's share (% owned) of all the investee company emissions of the assets they manage, as well as their own direct and other indirect emissions.
Carbon offsetting - offset carbon as part of net zero plan (AFM companywide)
This fund / asset management company plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (CO2e) emissions with the help of a scheme that will lock away an amount of carbon that is equivalent to the company’s own emissions – so that the end result is ‘net zero’. Calculations and scope vary.
In-house carbon / GHG reduction policy (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.
Working towards a ‘Net Zero’ commitment (AFM companywide)
Finds organisations / fund management companies that are in the process of working out how to make a ‘net zero commitment’ - meaning that when that is finalised they will have started the process of reducing their total greenhouse gas emissions to 'zero'.
Committed to SBTi / Science Based Targets Initiative
See https://sciencebasedtargets.org/ Transparency
Publish responsible ownership / stewardship report (AFM companywide)
Find fund / asset management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.
Full stewardship / responsible ownership policy information on company website
Find fund / asset management companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.
Full stewardship / responsible ownership policy information available on request
Find fund / asset management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.
Publish full voting record (AFM companywide)
Fund / asset management companies that publish a full record of how they vote their shares at AGMs (annual general meetings) and EGMs (extraordinary general meetings). Voting strategies have an important role to play encouraging higher environmental, social and governance standards.
Sustainability transition plan publicly available (AFM companywide)
This fund / asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are to become a sustainable business - without significant negative environmental or social impacts.
Paris Alignment plan publicly available (AFM companywide)
This fund / asset management company has published a plan that explains how they will align to the climate change commitments made at the Paris Climate Talks, COP21.
Net Zero transition plan publicly available (AFM companywide)
This fund / asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are going to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Dialshifter statement
Find fund / asset management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information. Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:Our sustainable investment criteria comprise the following:
Sustainable themes We maintain a primary focus on companies exposed to sustainable themes through their products and services. These are best positioned to benefit from, and contribute to, a sustainable future. At minimum, these will comprise 75% of the Fund.
ESG quality An additional focus is on ESG quality – up to 25% of the Fund represents companies exhibiting best-in-class practices notwithstanding current exposure to sustainable products and services (although these companies must not materially detract from sustainable themes). ESG also provides a lens on quality and risk management across the Fund. We typically avoid companies with entrenched poor practices but may invest where we believe there is scope for related engagement to drive improvements.
Sustainable and ethical exclusions To underpin the Fund’s sustainability focus, we exclude companies offering unsuitable products and services i.e. those at odds with the fundamental concept of advancing sustainable development, inclusion of which we consider would not be consistent with the expectations of investors in the Fund: this is consistent with the criteria which have underpinned the Fund since launch. Our sustainable themes and the SDGs At a global level, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)[1] outline a number of sustainable development priorities and aspirations looking out to 2030, for support by both the public and private sectors. At a local level, challenges such as demographic change, housing need, and making the UK economy more environmentally sustainable also require solutions. Together these necessitate significant investment in, and support of, sustainable products, services and practices – indicative of a positive policy and market environment for companies targeted by the Fund. [1] The SDGs were originally drafted for governments but have since been adopted by investment companies.
Our eight sustainable themes are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), translated for use in an investment context. These themes are shown below, alongside a primary SDG with which they align (although we look across all SDGs when assessing companies in the Fund) and a relevant opportunity for UK equities.
When assessing a companies’ exposure to our themes we identify both current revenue exposure to the themes as well as strategy and innovation supporting delivery of sustainable outcomes. Importantly, we do not just consider positive exposure, but net exposure (positive less negative) across all products and services as they relate to the themes. As outlined above, 75% of the Fund must be positively exposed to these themes on a net basis. At minimum, all invested companies must be neutrally exposed or transitioning towards positive exposure to these themes (e.g. a food and beverages company repositioning their portfolio towards healthier food).
Depending on companies’ net revenue exposure, they are labelled as a sustainable outcome leader, advanced contributor, contributor, transition or neutral. Companies misaligned are excluded from the Fund.
For companies identified as no longer meeting the Sustainable Investment Guidelines, an appropriate action plan will be drawn up and an action plan comprising an exit strategy implements in the best interest of underlying investors.
ESG Quality Leadership and improvement on ESG and stewardship issues can signal future success, whilst creating a more sustainable, green and inclusive economy. Consequently, up to 25% of the Fund may represent companies selected for their strong ESG and stewardship practices.
ESG and stewardship also provide a lens on quality, risk management and the mitigation of negative impact – hence relevant for all companies in the Fund. We avoid companies with entrenched poor practices.
In identifying the strength of a company’s ESG and stewardship practices we take the following approach:
[1] Further information, including their full industry mapping of material factors, is available online.
To implement this approach, we undertake not only our own research but also use innovative tools. In particular our proprietary Responsible Investment (RI) model incorporates all the factors mentioned above and has been back tested to show positive results.
Active Ownership We also take the opportunity to engage with companies to better understand their perspectives, to offer input as responsible stewards and, as appropriate, to seek improvement in practices. This is particularly important for smaller companies, which typically have weaker governance arrangements as compared to larger peers.
Equally, we vote actively at company meetings and view this as a powerful way of sending signals to company management. Voting processes and policies reflect not only traditional governance issues, but also wider sustainability matters – such as company approaches to climate change and diversity.
For further information on our Responsible Investment approach across the firm, including engagement and our firm-wide voting policy, please see our Responsible Investment website (https://www.columbiathreadneedle.co.uk/en/investment-capabilities/governance-and-responsible-investment/).
Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:Responsible Investment Team We have a dedicated in-house Responsible Investment (RI) team, one of the most experienced and established teams of its kind. The award-winning 40+ member team supports our clients, our investment teams and our overall business through expertise across ESG thematic research, ESG integration, ESG policy, client reporting and thought leadership content. Beyond these core activities, the team also supports a plethora of activity from representation on responsible investment industry groups, public policy contribution, ESG thought leadership, ESG product development, portfolio level ESG analytics, screening for specialist ESG portfolios and reporting on active ownership activities. Active ownership is a key aspect of our RI work, and within the team there are more than 20 professionals focused on engagement and voting activity. The RI team works hand in hand with our research and investment professionals to enrich their understanding of key sustainability trends as they relate to specific sectors and issuers, collaborating to highlight risks and opportunities within industries and sectors, informing investment decisions across asset classes. The RI team was awarded ‘Best ESG Research Team’ at the 2018, 2019 and 2020 Investment Week Sustainable & ESG Investment Awards, ‘Best ESG Reporting – Asset Manager: Large’ at the 2019 Environmental Finance Awards, and ‘Best ESG Research: Fixed Income’ at the 2020 Environmental Finance Awards. We were also awarded ‘Best ESG Fund House’ at the 2022 ESG Clarity Awards.
Responsible Investment Advisory Council The Council is a six-member committee of experts, who are leaders in their fields and bring international experience across responsible investment, ethical, environmental, and social issues. Their primary role is to provide advice on the ethical criteria for our specialist Responsible strategy range. The Responsible Investment team is also able to draw on their expertise in informing our broader engagement and responsible investment approach. The Council’s president is the Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury. The Chair, who heads the quarterly meetings, is Howard Pearce, formerly Head of Environmental Finance and Pension Fund Management at the UK’s Environment Agency Pension Fund (EAPF). More detail on the Council can be found here.
Affiliations & Memberships We make efforts to promote responsible investment in multiple ways, including participation in speaking engagements, industry working groups, responsible investment conferences and collaborative initiatives. A list of key responsible investment memberships and affiliations for Columbia Threadneedle Investments is shown below.
Climate Action 100+ Climate Action 100+ is an investor initiative launched in 2017 to ensure the world’s largest corporate greenhouse gas emitters take necessary action on climate change. We are a member of the investor coalition, leading 8 and supporting 38 engagements. Date of joining: CTML: 2017, TAML: 2021
Transition Pathway Initiative (TPI) A PRI sponsored initiative; this is an asset-owner led initiative which assesses companies' preparedness for the transition to a low carbon economy. It is supported by London School of Economics, a research driven initiative on high emitting sectors carbon transition and strategic/management commitment to address climate transition. Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2021
Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative Founder signatory of this international group of asset managers committed to supporting the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 or sooner, in line with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius; and to supporting investing aligned with net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner. Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2021
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) Non-profit organisation that runs the global disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts. We are member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements. Date of joining: CTML: 2000, TAML: 2005
Carbon Trust We partner this organisation that supports companies to accelerate towards Net Zero. From target setting, Net Zero pathways, assurance and footprinting, to policy advice, strategy setting and programme delivery. Date of joining: 2010
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) We have committed to producing reporting as part of TCFD, an organisation that was established in December 2015 with the goal of developing a set of voluntary climate-related financial risk disclosures. Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2022
Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) ESG standard setter (Member Standards Advisory Group & sub-groups). SASB guides the disclosure of financially material sustainability information by companies to their investors. Date of joining: 2018
Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) The SBTi is a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). Guides companies to set science-based targets to mobilize the private sector to take urgent climate action. Date of joining: 2020
Impact Investing Institute Focuses on the development of outcome related investment, to encourage more investment made with the intention to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. TAML is a Founding supporter and member of the Advisory Council and working group for the Green+ Gilts Date of joining: 2020
Institutional Investor Group on Climate Change (IIGCC) IIGCC works with business, policy makers and investors to help define the investment practices, policies and corporate behaviours required to address climate change. A member of the RI team serves on the Board. We lead and support several engagements. Date of joining: 2001
IIGCC's Global Investor Statement A joint statement coordinated by the seven Founding Partners of The Investor Agenda to all world governments urging a global race-to-the-top on climate policy and warns that laggards will miss out on trillions of dollars in investment if they aim too low and move too slow. Date of joining: 2009
IIGCC’s Investor Position Statement on Transition Planning Signatory of this investor statement by 56 leading investors calling for the implementation of new corporate governance measures to ensure shareholders can hold companies to account in achieving net zero emissions commitments. Date of joining: 2021
Ceres Land Use and Climate WG (Biodiversity) Ceres works with the most influential capital market leaders to advance innovative solutions to the climate crisis and achieve a zero emissions future where people and the planet can prosper. Date of joining: 2020
Cerrado Manifesto SoS Public statement committing to halt deforestation in the Cerrado, adopt sustainable land management practices and mitigate financial risks associated with deforestation and climate change. It is endorsed by global FMCG companies and institutional investors. Date of joining: 2021
ChemScore Benchmark created by NGO International Chemical Secretariat (ChemSec). It ranks the world’s top 50 chemical producers on their work to reduce their chemical footprint. Date of joining: 2021
Nature Action 100 Founding member of investor-led collaborative engagement programme to engage with companies and policymakers on nature. Date of joining: 2022
Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures As a forum member, we support the taskforce aiming to develop and deliver a risk management and disclosure framework for organisations to report and act on evolving nature-related risks. Date of joining: 2020
Sustainability Policy Transparency Toolkit (SPOTT) SPOTT scores palm oil, tropical forestry, and natural rubber companies annually against over 100 sector specific ESG indicators to benchmark their progress over time. As an investor supporter we express need for enhanced transparency. Date of joining: 2019
Investor Policy Dialogue on Deforestation Collaborative investor initiative set up to engage with public agencies and industry associations on the issue of deforestation. The goal is to coordinate a public policy dialogue on halting deforestation. We are a member of the Advisory Council, leading/supporting engagements going forward. Date of joining: 2021
ShareAction Chemicals Working Group Investor group focused on engagement with the chemicals sector on decarbonisation. Date of joining: 2021
Global Network Initiative (GNI) Member of this initiative seeking to safeguard freedom of expression and personal privacy against government restrictions. The protections are facilitated by a coalition of companies, investors, civil society organisations, academics, and other stakeholders. Date of joining: CTML: 2008, TAML: 2002
Interfaith Centre on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR) Coalition of over 300 global faith- and values-based institutional investors. We are members of the Food Justice and Racial Equity workstream. Date of joining: 2020
ICCR's Investor Alliance on Human Rights (IAHR) Part of the ICCR, IAHR provides a collective action platform to facilitate investor advocacy on a full spectrum of human rights and labour rights issues. Date of joining: 2020
ICCR's Investors for Opioid and Pharmaceutical Accountability (IOPA) Part of the ICCR, IOPA addresses the fallout of the opioid crisis and other business risks by seeking accountability and mitigating further risk at pharmaceutical companies through comprehensive shareholder reforms. Date of joining: 2021
ShareAction Good Work Coalition Investor engagement initiative aimed at driving up standards in the workplace. Engagement focus on labour standards, living wage standards, accreditation, transparency of the FTSE350, extension to DEI with a focus on ethnic diversity. Date of joining: 2021
ShareAction Healthier Markets Investor initiative aimed at improving children's health by increasing access to affordable, healthy food. Date of joining: 2021
Access to Medicine Foundation Member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements. Independent, non-profit organisation working to stimulate and guide the pharmaceutical industry. Produces the Access to Medicine Index, Antimicrobial Resistance Benchmark, Access to Vaccines Index. Date of joining: 2021
Investor Action on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) A coalition between the Access to Medicine Foundation, the FAIRR Initiative, the Principles for Responsible Investment and the UK Government Department of Health and Social Care to galvanise investor efforts to address global AMR. We are leading and supporting engagements. Date of joining: 2021
Investor Initiative for Responsible Care Collaborative engagement group coordinated by UNI Global Union focused on working standards and quality of care in the listed nursing care sector. Date of joining: 2022
Workforce Disclosure Initiative (WDI) Disclosure body. We are Signatory, member of the Advisory Group; leading/supporting several engagements. Investor initiative aimed at improving corporate transparency and accountability on workforce issues. Provide companies and investors with comprehensive and comparable data. Date of joining: CTML: 2021, TAML: 2020
Global Investor Collaboration on Farm Animal Welfare & Global Investor Statement on Farm Animal Welfare Engagement collaboration with BBFAW (Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare), member of the investor coalition, supporting and leading several engagements. Date of joining: 2021
Platform Living wage Financials Coalition of financial institutions that encourages and monitors investee companies to address the non-payment of living wage in global supply chains. We are chair of the Platform's Garment Working Group; member of the Food, Retail and Agri working group. Date of joining: 2020
Find it, fix it, prevent it Engagement collaboration. Member, leading on engagements. Investor led initiative targeting UK-listed companies to demonstrate commitment to eradicating modern slavery from their supply chains. Date of joining: CTML: 2020, TAML: 2021
KnowTheChain Engagement collaboration. Member of the investor coalition, supporting several engagements. KnowTheChain is a resource for companies and investors to understand and address forced labour risks within their global supply chains. Date of joining: 2021
Access to Nutrition Index Engagement collaboration. Member of the investor coalition, supporting several engagements. Independent, non-profit organisation producing the Access to Nutrition Index. Benchmark evaluates the world's largest food and beverage manufacturers' policies and performance related to the world's most pressing nutrition challenges: obesity and undernutrition. Date of joining: 2021
Human Capital Management Coalition (US) Engagement collaboration. Member of the coalition of investors to elevate human capital management. Engages companies and other market participants with the aim of understanding and improving how human capital management contributes to the creation of long-term shareholder value. Date of joining: 2021
Investors for Racial Justice Member of this information sharing network and engagement collaboration. Date of joining: 2020
Votes Against Slavery 2022 Member of this investor collaboration engaging with FTSE 350 companies on their compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. We joined the collaboration for the 2021 campaign. Date of joining: 2021
International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN) Member of investor led organisation advancing the highest standards of corporate governance and investor stewardship worldwide in pursuit of long-term value creation. Date of joining: CTML: 2007, TAML: 2017
Investment Association (IA) Member of UK industry body; facilitates the monitoring and responding to ESG policy and regulatory changes impacting our activities. Date of joining: CTML: 2000, TAML: 1998
Corporate Governance Forum European focus - UK based asset management governance teams. Informal discussion on companies and industry issues. Date of joining: 2012
Global Institutional Governance Network (GIGN) US/Global focus - Global asset management governance teams. Discussions on companies and industry issues. Date of joining: 2012
Council of Institutional Investors (CII) Member of this non-profit organisation promoting effective corporate governance policies. Date of joining: 1996
Investor Forum Member and proactive collaborator with the Forum, which helps investors to work collectively to escalate material issues with the Boards of UK-listed companies. Date of joining: 2005
Asia Corporate Governance Association Member of independent, non-profit membership organisation dedicated to working with investors, companies and regulators in the implementation of effective corporate governance practices throughout Asia. Date of joining: CTML: 2004, TAML: 2010
Asia Research & Engagement (ARE) Engagement collaboration. Organisation that structures, implements and assembles investor collaborative engagement programmes across Asia. Performs in-depth industry and company research that provides strategic insight into key ESG issues to underpin engagement work. Date of joining: 2021
Pre-Emption Group (PEG) Members of the UK Capital markets group that sets guidelines on the application/dis-application of pre-emption rights in UK capital issuance. Date of joining: 2016
30% Club UK Investor Group Campaign for greater representation of women on company boards. Member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements. Date of joining: 2021
30% Club France Investor Group Member of this investor-led group aiming to boost the number of women in board seats and executive leadership of companies in the SBF 120 index. Date of joining: 2021
30% Coalition (US) Campaign for greater diversity on company boards. Member of the investor coalition, leading and supporting several engagements. Date of joining: 2021
Women in Finance Charter First asset manager signatory to the UK charter committing to support the progression of women into senior roles in the financial services sector, set targets and publicly report on progress against these targets to support transparency and accountability. Date of joining: 2016
Eumedion Member of this non-profit organisation aiming to promote good corporate governance and sustainability policies at Dutch listed companies and to promote engaged and responsible shareholding by its members. Date of joining: 2009
Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) Global responsible investment association, membership is a pre-requisite for many clients. TAML & BMO GAM are Founding Signatories to the UN supported PRI. CTML, formerly known as BMO GAM EMEA, was part of BMO GAM at the time of becoming a signatory. BMO GAM EMEA business was acquired by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. in 2021. CMIA became a signatory in 2014. Date of joining: CTML & TAML: 2006, CMIA: 2014
UK Stewardship Code Set of principles for asset owners and managers. We are signatories of the 2020 code. Date of joining: 2012
Investor Stewardship Group (ISG) Members of the network of investors and asset managers formed to promote good practice in stewardship and corporate governance, specific to the US. Date of joining: 2018
Investment Company Institute (ICI) US Industry body; facilitates the monitoring and responding to ESG policy and regulatory changes impacting our activities. Date of joining: 2019
UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF) Network focused on the UK sustainable investment market, pre-requisite for FNG certification. A member of the RI team chairs the Policy Committee. Date of joining: CTML: 2000, TAML: 2020
Taiwan Stewardship Code Signatory to the Taiwan Stewardship Code, which is based on a ‘comply or explain’ approach. Date of joining: 2022
Japan’s Stewardship Code Signatory to Japan’s Stewardship Code, which is maintained by Japanese Financial Services Agency, based on a ‘comply-or-explain’ approach where signatories comply with the principles of the code or explain why they do not comply. Date of joining: 2022
Global Real Estate Benchmark (GRESB) Member of this organization whose data facilitates our ability to track trends in corporate environmental and social risk management performance as it relates to property. Date of joining: 2013
London Stock Exchange Members of the LSE’s Primary Markets Group, advising on primary market issues. Date of joining: 2012
The Big Exchange TAML is a founding partner and members of the Impact Committee. Date of joining: 2019
Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN) Member of this leading non-profit dedicated to increasing the scale and effectiveness of impact investing Date of joining: 2020
FAIRR Collaborative investor network that focuses on ESG risks and opportunities around animal agriculture. Date of joining: 2021
Investor Tailings Safety Initiative & Investor 2030 Mining Agenda We are the founding supporter of this initiative and will co-lead on some of the corporate engagements. Date of joining: 2021
Centre for Audit Committee and Investor Dialogue Network initiative that enables investors, audit committee members and auditors to discuss issues of common interest. Date of joining: 2013
International Capital Markets Association (ICMA) The development of green, social and sustainability bond principles relevant to our fixed income investments in an RI context. Members of the Social Bond Working Group and members of working groups on the SDGs and on impact reporting. Date of joining: 2016 Source: Columbia Threadneedle Investments, as at March 2023. Includes memberships held by CMIA, TAML, CTML and other group affiliates. CMIA = Columbia Management Investment Advisors, LLC; TAML = Threadneedle Asset Management Limited; CTML = Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited. Dialshifter (Corporate)Our organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero by… Our methodology to implement our net zero commitment for equities and corporate debt is based on the Net Zero Investment Framework, developed by the Paris Aligned Investment Initiative. Our approach to net zero is focused on real world decarbonisation, using stewardship to help drive improvements in companies’ practices and alignment to a net zero trajectory. More details on our methodology can be found here: Net zero investing: Columbia Threadneedle Investments Approach At the enterprise level, we continue to evolve our climate change strategy and reporting, and in 2022 produced our first full carbon footprint assessment of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Voting RecordDisclaimerImportant Information PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL All information provided within this document is for the attention of the addressee only and solely for the purpose of evaluating the investment and advisory management services available from Columbia Threadneedle Investments. The information provided is on the basis that it remains private and confidential between the addressee and Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Accordingly, the addressee is not permitted, in the event that a request for information is made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, to disclose any of the information provided herein by Columbia Threadneedle Investments, given the duty of confidentiality that exists as between Columbia Threadneedle Investments and the addressee. Columbia Threadneedle Investments is the global brand name of the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies. CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT This document is issued by Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited. Should you decide or wish to receive the services detailed within this document, your contractual agreement will be with Columbia Threadneedle Management Limited. This entity is a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia Threadneedle Investments UK International Limited, whose direct parent is Ameriprise Inc., a company incorporated in the United States. Past performance should not be seen as an indication of future performance. The value of investments and income derived from them can go down as well as up as a result of market or currency movements and investors may not get back the original amount invested. The information, opinions, estimates or forecasts contained in this document were obtained from sources reasonably believed to be reliable and are subject to change at any time. The “Firm” referred to herein is part of the group of legal entities acquired by Ameriprise Financial Inc. on 8th November 2021. On 4th July 2022, we reached a significant milestone in the integration of our businesses being rebranded as Columbia Threadneedle Investments. We have made significant progress with the integration of our businesses, and while we now present ourselves externally as a single brand, there may be instances where the Firm’s legacy functions, systems, teams or policies remain in place until further integration milestones are reached. Where applicable, this document may make reference to such functions, systems, teams or policies, with any such references being subject to change as the integration work continues. |
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