Alquity Future World Fund

SRI Style:

Social Style

SDR Labelling:

Not eligible to use label

Product:

SICAV/Offshore

Fund Region:

Emerging Markets

Fund Asset Type:

Equity

Launch Date:

04/06/2014

Last Amended:

Nov 2024

Dialshifter ():

Fund Size:

£24.80m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Screened Themed SRI Assets:

£89.80m

Total Responsible Ownership Assets:

£89.80m

Total Assets Under Management:

£328.13m

ISIN:

LU1070052854, LU1617839193, LU1730018949, LU1070053076, LU1049769646, LU1049769133, LU1049768911, LU1049769059, LU1049769307, LU1730018865, LU1070052771

Objectives:

The Alquity Future World Fund prioritises domestic structural growth themes across Emerging Markets (such as increasing urbanization and changing demographics, decarbonisation and the shift from an informal to formal economy) by picking approximately 50-75 quality businesses after extensive fundamental research. The fund supports sustainable economic growth across Emerging Markets by only selecting responsibly run companies. Additionally, the small and mid-cap space offers us attractive, unrecognised growth opportunities. Portfolio construction is agile and supported by a strong risk framework, that enables the fund to successfully navigate through economic cycles and periods of market volatility. Finally, our donations provide direct support and impact through creating gainful employment and solving environmental challenges for those with the least.

 

Please note: Alquity Africa fund merged into the Alquity Future World fund in March 2024

 

Sustainable, Responsible
&/or ESG Overview:

Alquity is an asset management business that connects investors to their investments and to social progress in order to deliver better returns for all. ESG is therefore central to what we do. Our approach emphasizes not only financial analysis, but also material but also material non-financial factors, which incorporates forward-looking ESG analysis to assess management capability and values. This delivers a portfolio that is responsible by construction, targeting consistent out-performance and lower environmental impact (e.g. much lower GHG emissions and water usage than the index) through companies delivering long term, inclusive growth. We also measure and track the ESG performance and evolution of our companies (through our KPIs) as well as we engage consistently with all the companies we own.

However, we believe ESG integration alone is not enough and so we go further, donating a minimum of 10% of our management fees to transforming lives projects (both societal and environmental) in the regions in which we invest.

 

 

Primary fund last amended:

Nov 2024

Information directly from fund manager.

Fund Filters

Sustainability - General
Sustainability policy

Funds that have 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 fund information.

Sustainability focus

Find funds which substantially focus on sustainability issues

Encourage more sustainable practices through stewardship

A core element of these funds aim to encourage higher sustainability standards across business practices through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Report against sustainability objectives

Find funds that publicly report their performance against specifically named sustainability objectives (in addition to reporting their financial performance)

Green / Sustainable property strategy

Fund has a strategy that focuses on sustainability issues in the property sector - they may eg use GRESB / BREEAM scores to inform investment decisions.

Environmental - General
Environmental policy

Funds that have policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out the fund's stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Limits exposure to carbon intensive industries

Funds that limit or 'reduce' their exposure to carbon intensive industries (ie sectors which are major contributors to climate change. Funds vary - some funds may be 'underweight' in this area which means they may have some investment in highly carbon intensive areas. Funds of this kind may choose companies they consider to be 'best in sector' and encourage ever higher standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further details.

Environmental damage and pollution policy

Funds that have written policies explaining the approach they take when companies damage the environment or are significant polluters. Funds of this kind may work with companies to encourage higher standards, or exclude companies - sometimes dependent on the situation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Resource efficiency policy or theme

Find funds that have a policy or theme that relates to managing natural resources more efficiently. Funds with this policy will be likely to favour companies that make (or enable the) more efficient use of resources - and either avoid or encourage change amongst companies with lower standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Favours cleaner, greener companies

Funds that aim to invest in companies with strong or market leading environmental policies and practices. Strategies vary - in particular the balance between 'financial' aspects and environmental benefits. Some may invest substantially in solutions or 'positive impact' companies - others may invest in more conventional companies providing certain environmental criteria are met. See fund information for further detail.

Waste management policy or theme

Find funds that have a written policy or theme on waste management - typically a view to encouraging higher levels of recycling and better efficiency / reducing waste.

Plastics policy

Funds that are reviewing or encouraging companies to manage down the overuse of plastics (particularly single use, non-recyclable plastics). These funds will typically aim to encourage the use of alternative materials, but are unlikely to exclude companies purely on the basis of their use of plastics. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Nature & Biodiversity
Biodiversity / nature policy

Find funds that have a written biodiversity policy or theme aimed at encouraging and improving environmental protection and safeguarding the natural world (sometimes referred to as the preservation or enhancement of 'natural capital'). See eg https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/climate-issues/biodiversity

Deforestation / palm oil policy

Find funds that have policies in place designed to ensure they do not invest in companies that are significantly involved in deforestation. This typically relates to palm oil plantations where biodiversity loss is a major concern (as well as other issues). Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Illegal deforestation exclusion policy

Find funds that have policies in place explaining that they avoid companies involved in illegal and/or unsustainable deforestation. This may relate to palm oil, cattle farming or other concerns. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Responsible palm oil policy

Fund has a responsible palm oil policy which is likely to focus on the producers of palm oil and deforestation issues with a view to informing investment decisions (and / or engagement) to support and encourage high standards.

Sustainable fisheries policy

Fund has a sustainable fisheries policy that will inform where it can and can not invest

Water stewardship policy

Fund has a policy which sets out their expectations for how investee assets should manage water

Climate Change & Energy
Climate change / greenhouse gas emissions policy

Funds that have 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. Read fund details for further information.

Coal, oil & / or gas majors excluded

Funds that avoid investing in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Funds vary: some may exclude all companies that extract oil. Others may have exposure to oil extraction via more diversified energy companies. See fund literature to confirm details.

Fracking and tar sands excluded

Funds that avoid companies involved in fracking and tar sands - which are widely regarded as controversial methods of oil and gas extraction. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Arctic drilling exclusion

Funds that avoid companies that are involved in extracting oil from the Arctic regions. See fund literature for further details.

Fossil fuel reserves exclusion

Funds that avoid investing in companies with coal, oil and gas reserves. See fund information for further details.

Encourage transition to low carbon through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage the transition to lower carbon activities through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Nuclear exclusion policy

Find funds that have policies which say they avoid or limit their investment in the nuclear industry. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Fossil fuel exploration exclusion - direct involvement

The fund manager excludes companies with direct involvement in fossil fuel exploration (eg coal, oil and gas companies)

Social / Employment
Social policy

Find funds that have policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Funds with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.

Labour standards policy

Find funds that have a labour standards policy - which can be expected to mean that the fund will invest in / favour companies that have higher standards in this area - although fund strategies can vary significantly (as with all policy areas). See eg https://www.ilo.org/international-labour-standards

Favours companies with strong social policies

Find funds that invest in line with positive strategies that relate to 'people' issues - such as having strong human rights, labour standards and equal opportunities practices. Such funds are likely to invest in companies that have market leading standards with regard to employee and supplier practices. Read fund literature for further information.

Fast fashion exclusion

Find funds that exclude companies involved in the ‘fast fashion’ sector - these funds will typically be of the view that this area is unsustainable and prone to low environmental and social standards.

Health & wellbeing policies or theme

Find funds with policies or themes that set out their approach to health and wellbeing issues. Funds of this kind typically aim to invest in companies with high standards - or encourage high standards. Themed funds are likely to have more of an emphasis on this area. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Diversity, equality & inclusion Policy (fund level)

Find individual funds that have a written diversity policy – where the fund manager will aim to select companies with a carefully considered, sound approach to diversity. This should ideally cover a range of issues including gender, ethnicity, disability, beliefs, sexual orientation, etc.

Responsible mining policy

Fund has a policy that explains their position on which mining companies they may or may not invest in. Typically this may mean only investing in assets with high environmental and social standards. This is a growing concern given demand for rare earth metals eg lithium, cobalt. See fund information.

Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Tobacco and 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.

Tobacco and related products - avoid where revenue > 5%

Companies are excluded if they make more than 5% of their revenue from the manufacture, sale or distribution of tobacco products including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.

Armaments manufacturers avoided

Find funds that avoid companies that manufacture products intended specifically for military use. Fund strategies vary - particularly with regard to non-strategic military products. See fund literature for fund specific details.

Civilian firearms production exclusion

Find funds with a written civilian firearms exclusion policy - meaning that they will not invest in companies that make (or perhaps also sell) handguns made for non-military users.

Alcohol production excluded

Find funds that avoid investment in companies involved in the production of alcohol. Strategies vary; some funds allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund literature for further information.

Gambling avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some funds may allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund policy for further details.

Pornography avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. See fund details for further information.

Animal welfare policy

Find funds with policies that require specific animal welfare standards to be met. These may reference well-known welfare standards (3Rs - Replace, Reduce, Refine) or certification schemes. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Animal testing exclusion policy

Find funds that avoid companies that are involved in testing their products on animals. Precise application may vary. See fund literature for further information.

Human Rights
Human rights policy

Find funds that have policies relating to human rights issues. Funds of this kind typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some fund managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Child labour exclusion

Find funds that have policies in place to ensure they do not invest in companies that employ children.

Responsible supply chain policy or theme

Find funds that have 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. See fund literature for further information.

Modern slavery exclusion policy

The fund has a policy which excludes assets with involvement in Modern Slavery

Meeting Peoples' Basic Needs
Water / sanitation policy or theme

Find funds that have policies or themes that set out their position on investment in the water sector and/or sanitation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Antimicrobial resistance policy

Fund has a policy on ‘antimicrobial resistance’ - which is when organisms that cause infection can survive treatment - which is commonly associated with the overuse of antibiotics in factory farming and a threat to our health.

Gilts & Sovereigns
Does not invest in sovereigns

Find funds that do not invest in / exclude 'sovereigns' - debt issued by governments. See eg https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sovereign-debt.asp

Banking & Financials
Invests in banks

Find funds that include banks as part of their holdings / portfolio.

Predatory lending exclusion

Fund excludes financial services companies with widely criticised, aggressive lending practices where interest rates are typically very high, includes ‘doorstep lending’)

Governance & Management
Governance policy

Find fund options that have 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. See fund literature for further information.

Avoids companies with poor governance

Find funds that aim to avoid 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. See fund literature for further information.

UN sanctions exclusion

Exclude companies that are subject to United Nations sanctions. See eg https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list

Anti-bribery and corruption policy

Find funds that have 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. See fund literature for further information.

Digital / cyber security policy

Find funds that have policies explaining how the fund managers take into account digital/cyber security related risks. Funds with cyber policies will typically favour companies with higher standards or that are helping to solve problems - but strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Encourage board diversity e.g. gender

Fund managers encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)

Encourage TCFD alignment for banks & insurance companies

Find fund managers that encourage the banks and insurance companies they invest in to publish climate change related financial information - as set out by the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (with the aim of helping investors measure and respond to climate risk).

Encourage higher ESG standards through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage higher ESG standards through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement /voting activity

Fund Governance
ESG integration strategy

Find funds 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

Find funds that 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 and large cap companies / assets

Find a fund that invests in a combination of small, medium and larger (potentially multinational)companies.

How The Fund Works
Positive selection bias

Find funds that focus 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

Find funds where their main 'ethical approach' is to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Read fund literature for further information.

ESG weighted / tilt

Find funds that invest more heavily in those that have higher ESG ratings/standards or scores and less heavily in companies with lower ESG ratings. Where this is central to a fund's strategy you should expect it to invest in most sectors. Strategies vary.

Assets mapped to SDGs

Find funds that have '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 ESG strategy with other SRI criteria

Find funds that have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.

Focus on ESG risk mitigation

A major focus of these funds is the careful management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) related risks - typically by avoiding or being underweight in companies seen as posing major risks in these areas (i.e. not necessarily by using themes, exclusions etc).

SRI / ESG / Ethical policies explained on website

Find funds that have published explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. fund decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).

Unscreened Assets & Cash
No ‘diversifiers’ used other than cash

Fund that only invest in cash to aid the practical management (buying and selling) of assets. These funds do not use additional financial instruments.

All assets (except cash) meet published sustainability criteria

All assets held in the fund - except cash - meet the sustainability criteria published in fund documentation.

Intended Clients & Product Options
Intended for investors interested in sustainability

Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in sustainability issues.

Intended for clients who want to have a positive impact

Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in ‘Impact investment funds’ which 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. See fund literature for further information.

Bespoke SRI / ESG portfolios available (DFMs)

Only applicable for DFM’s & portfolio providers. Find service providers who offer bespoke ('personalised') SRI / ESG portfolio options

Labels & Accreditations
SFDR Article 8 fund / product (EU)

Finds funds classified under Article 8 of the EU’s SFDR (Sustainable Finance Disclosure Requirements). Article 8 of the SFDR is a set of requirements that apply to financial products that 'promote' environmental or social characteristics with high governance also. These rules do not currently apply to UK funds so many managers may leave this field blank.

Fund Management Company Information

About The Business
Boutique / specialist fund management company

Find fund management companies that are smaller or specialise in particular areas - notably, ideally ESG related. Strategies vary.

Specialist positive impact fund management company

Find fund management companies (or subsidiaries) that specialise in - or focus entirely on - investing in assets that are helping to deliver positive environmental and / or social impacts.

Responsible ownership / stewardship policy or strategy (AFM company wide)

Finds fund 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 company wide)

Find fund 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.

Integrates ESG factors into all / most (AFM) fund research

Find fund 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.

Diversity, equality & inclusion engagement policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund 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 management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.

Resources
In-house responsible ownership / voting expertise

Find fund 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.

Use specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability research companies

Find fund management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.

Accreditations
PRI A+ rated (AFM company wide)

Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'

Engagement Approach
Engaging on climate change issues

Fund manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.

Engaging to reduce plastics pollution / waste

Asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.

Engaging to encourage responsible mining practices

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 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

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

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

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 and / or inclusion issues

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 managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets

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 company wide)

Find fund management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles.

Tobacco avoidance policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that avoid investment in tobacco (manufacturing) companies across all their assets.

Fossil fuel exclusion policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that avoid investment in fossil fuel companies (e.g. coal, oil and gas) across all of their funds. (and/ or other assets.)

Coal exclusion policy (group wide coal mining exclusion policy)

This asset manager excludes direct investment in the coal mining industry. Managers ability to do this may depend on the geographic regions in which they invest.

Climate & Net Zero Transition
Net Zero commitment (AFM company wide)

Fund management organisations that have pledged to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to ‘net zero’. Strategies vary - this area is changing rapidly.

Publish 'CEO owned' Climate Risk policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that have published a Climate Risk policy or statement that is signed / owned by their Chief Executive.

Net Zero - have set a Net Zero target date (AFM company wide)

This 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 company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon offsetting - offset carbon as part of our net zero plan (AFM company wide)

This 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 company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.

Working towards a ‘Net Zero’ commitment (AFM company wide)

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'.

Transparency
Publish responsible ownership / stewardship report (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.

Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information on company website

Find companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.

Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information available on request

Find fund management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.

Just Transition policy on website (AFM company wide)

This asset management company has published information on their website about the delivery of a 'just transition' - ie the delivery of the necessary shift to a sustainable future that takes full account of social implications - how change effects people. See eg https://www.unepfi.org/social-issues/just-transition/ or LSE Grantham

Net Zero transition plan publicly available (AFM company wide)

This 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 management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information.

Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:

ESG analysis is a critical component of Alquity. There are certain practices we believe are inconsistent with long-term financial returns and an overall positive societal impact. Our Red Flags are exclusions for companies within sectors that are not consistent with our process and either are detrimental to or provide no environmental or societal benefits. This includes companies with over 5% of revenues or profits in their most recent financial report attributed to:

  • Tobacco
  • Liquor
  • Gambling
  • Narcotics
  • Adult entertainment
  • Armaments
  • Fossil Fuels (exploration and production)
  • Nuclear Power
  • Coal mining
  • Non-renewable power utilities
  • Fur Trade
  • Hydrogen power (unless green hydrogen)
  • Financial institutions engaging in abusive lending practices*

 

*Such as excessively high interest rates, excessive penalty fees, misleading marketing, and illegal debt collection practices should be excluded. Excessive interest rates are defined as rates that exceed fair compensation taking into account the target borrower’s risk profile as well as the lenders funding costs and operational expenses.

 

Here are our ESG green flags. We will consider companies that meet the following criteria:

  • Companies with independently audited accounts
  • Companies that meet investors or arrange regular open-access calls
  • Company that provide transparency on identity of majority shareholders
  • For high-risk industries we only select companies that publicly disclose Health and Safety policies
  • For non-pharmaceutical companies, we only select those that ban animal testing (unless it is required by law and must be a substantial minority (<20%) of overall sales)
  • For companies that use significant amounts of water in their operations or production processes, we only select companies that discloses usage and/or conservation levels
  • For high-risk industries we only select companies that publicly provide or disclose when requested GHG emissions data
  • Only companies with a clean bill of health and without ongoing ESG controversies and unresolved scandals

 

 

We believe that the increase in Greenhouse gas emissions generated by the extraction and burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have directly led to the warming of the Earth’s climate. We believe that if these activities are not dramatically reduced the world faces a rise in global temperatures that will lead to catastrophic consequences for the planet’s natural ecosystem and its ability to sustain the growing human population. We also believe that the transition to a net zero emission global economy must be a fair transition, and go hand in hand with ensuring a more sustainable and equitable society for all. The portfolio is aligned with our climate declaration as follows:

 

  • High Risk Industry classification: any company involved in sectors with high GHG emissions are subject to higher scrutiny and in addition to disclosure of GHG emissions, these companies should also have plans to reduce these in the future. In addition, companies in sectors subject to transformation due to the transition to a low carbon economy have their risk premium increased and hence are only included in portfolios if both their ESG standards and investment thesis are strong.
  • We exclude all companies involved in the exploration and production of fossil fuels (including thermal coal). In addition, sectors such as livestock farming, aviation and shipping are treated as “high risk” industries.
  • We engage with all our portfolio companies to encourage them to firstly disclose their GHG emissions and secondly implement plan to reduce these over time. We are advocates of a “just and fair” transition and as we are investing in many developing countries, we provide advice and share best practice to support company behaviour and plans.
  • Finally, donations from our funds help support equitable economic development where we invest, helping the most vulnerable out of poverty to act as contributors to the development of fairer, more sustainable world.

 

The Alquity Future World Fund portfolio is also intended to deliver a significantly smaller environmental footprint than its benchmark (at least, around half GHG emissions and 90% less water usage). The fund has set a GHG intensity reduction target aligned to the Paris 1.5 degree scenario and these commitments are disclosed publicly via the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative.

 

Where there may be divergence, we ensure that the reason is understood and transparently communicated to our clients through our reporting. The impact measurement supports our stewardship and engagement activities. Several of our companies specifically have a positive impact, through business models which aid decarbonisation, healthcare or energy efficiency. However, this is not a specific target.

 

 

Process:

All stocks that have met our themes are reviewed against our exclusions and green flags, through a combination of Google checks and/or a review of corporate information disclosure. If there are companies that are not excluded explicitly, but where we are not confident that management’s value are aligned with Alquity’s, then we will err on the side of caution and exclude the company.

A deeper ESG analysis takes place in the stage 2 of our investment process. We carry-out forward-looking, qualitative ESG assessment and rating conducted through significant engagement with management teams. Specifically, we look at behaviours and practices across the firm in the context of global and regional best practice. As a discipline, and for comparability, we then assign a rating to each institution, which captures risk and the quality of judgement and decision making. DCF valuations are influenced by the ESG scoring, via an increase or decrease of the equity risk premium: a 50bps reduction in for an “A” rating or a 50bps increase for a “C” rating. We include any changes in the ESG rating of the holding as part of the investment case review.

Only those companies rated C or better can be included in the portfolio. To be clear, this means that we will only invest in firms where there is satisfactory quality and alignment of management.

Moreover, we are interested not only in the absolute standard of “ESG Quality”, but also the ability of a firm to improve its judgement, communication and efficiency over time.

We track the impact of each of our portfolios against key metrics aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). This impact analysis is provided by Impact Cubed, an independent third-party who assess each fund against its relevant index. The outcomes of the portfolio assessment are analyzed by the investment team so that they can understand at

both a stock and portfolio level the environmental, social and governance footprint of our funds and engage with companies to improve these outcomes over time. Points we would like to see improved over time, and commitments made by management to enhance their ESG practices, are recorded on the “Engagement” section of our stock notes. These areas of improvement and commitment are reviewed on a regular basis when the investment team engage with the management of these companies. These notes can be made available upon request.

Exercising our voting rights is also an important aspect of Alquity’s investment process, as we must ensure our interests as minority shareholders are well represented. Voting is exercised by the investment team on a weekly basis and conducted in accordance with our Principles of Governance, which can be found on our website.

 

Almost all the research is carried-out in-house by the investment team. This allows a consistency of approach and a degree of rigor we do not believe we could achieve elsewhere. Moreover, ESG analysis is an integral part of our investment strategy (as opposed to a screening or secondary consideration) and therefore, occurs alongside traditional financial and business analysis.

Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:

As previously mentioned, almost all the research is done in-house.

The responsibilities of the investment team cover all aspects of company fundamental research (ESG and Financial). The team are interchangeable as they cover a range of stocks and sectors. We do not create sector or country specialists but rather focus on the consistent implementation of the investment process, shared understanding and constructive challenge during company reviews. Whilst led by Mike Sell (Head of Global Emerging Markets), Daniel Billis is a Portfolio Manager and Kieron Kader is Associate Portfolio Manager, so provide back up as well as the ability to execute trades as required. Francisco Gala, business analyst, supports the team with ESG analysis and the engagement activity.

 

The responsibilities of the investment team cover all aspects of the research. Additionally, to ensure that our investment team follows a robust and consistent approach to ESG investing, we have governance in place to monitor, evaluate and support the team’s investment process and our ESG ratings. This governance mechanism is chaired by our Head of Quantitative Risk (Marnie Aragon-Uy), and includes the entire investment team (Mike Sell, Kieron Kader and Daniel Billis) and our CEO (Paul Robinson).

 

We place a high priority on keeping our staff current on sustainability issues and follow the strict requirements that is imposed on us via the ISR Label which we are required to validate:

  1. Training in ESG analysis (internal and externally) and time spent by the management company on continuous training;
  2. Internal communication (funds managers, salespeople, etc.) of the extra-financial analyses conducted.

Furthermore, Alquity disseminates current industry issues on a regular basis to our all employees and also holds mandatory CPD sessions on relevant industry issues.

 

We are actively involved at a strategic level in encouraging companies to improve their ESG disclosure practices. This includes support not only for the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI), of which we are signatories since our foundation in 2010. We are also members of the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, of the FAIRR Initiative, the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, and the Plastic Solutions Investor Alliance. In addition, we are signatories of the Tobacco Free Portfolios’ pledge, among other initiatives.

Dialshifter

This fund is helping to ‘shift the dial from brown to green’ by…

...Using a combination of Red flags, ESG ratings, KPI driven engagement and transforming lives donations the fund drives the transition from brown to green across Emerging Markets with a focus on encouraging environmental disclosure and action towards implementation of tangible low carbon technologies and processes.

 

Our organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero:

As members of NZAM, Alquity has committed to reducing the GHG intensity of its funds by 60% relative to the 2019 intensity by 2030. This is in line with the Paris Climate Agreement and recognizes that the current global trajectory needs to be steeper than that predicted by NDCs.

 

SDR Labelling:

Not eligible to use label

Fund Holdings

Disclaimer

The Alquity Asia Fund, the Alquity Future World Fund, the Alquity Indian Subcontinent Fund and the Alquity Global Impact Fund are all sub-funds of the Alquity SICAV (“the Fund”) which is a UCITS Fund and is a recognised collective investment scheme for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 of the United Kingdom (the "FSMA"). This does not mean the product is suitable for all investors and as the Fund is invested in emerging market equities, investors may not get back the full amount invested.

This Document is qualified in its entirety by the information contained in the Fund’s prospectus and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”). Any offer or solicitation may be made only by the delivery of the Offering Documents. Before making an investment decision with respect to the Fund, prospective investors are advised to read the Offering Documents carefully, which contains important information, including a description of the Fund’s risks, conflicts of interest, investment programme, fees, expenses, redemption/withdrawal limitations, standard of care and exculpation, etc. Prospective investors should also consult with their tax and financial advisors as well as legal counsel. This Document does not take into account the particular investment objectives, restrictions, or financial, legal or tax situation of any specific prospective investor, and an investment in the Fund may not be suitable for many prospective investors. An investment in the Fund is speculative and involves a high degree of risk. Performance may vary substantially from year to year and even from month to month. Withdrawals/redemptions and transfers of Interests are restricted. Investors must be prepared to lose their entire investment, and without any ability to redeem or withdraw so as to limit losses.

The Fund’s investment approach is long-term, investors must expect to be committed to the Fund for an extended period of time (3-5 years) in order for it to have an optimal chance of achieving its investment objectives.

Fund Name SRI Style SDR Labelling Product Region Asset Type Launch Date Last Amended

Alquity Future World Fund

Social Style Not eligible to use label SICAV/Offshore Emerging Markets Equity 04/06/2014 Nov 2024

Objectives

The Alquity Future World Fund prioritises domestic structural growth themes across Emerging Markets (such as increasing urbanization and changing demographics, decarbonisation and the shift from an informal to formal economy) by picking approximately 50-75 quality businesses after extensive fundamental research. The fund supports sustainable economic growth across Emerging Markets by only selecting responsibly run companies. Additionally, the small and mid-cap space offers us attractive, unrecognised growth opportunities. Portfolio construction is agile and supported by a strong risk framework, that enables the fund to successfully navigate through economic cycles and periods of market volatility. Finally, our donations provide direct support and impact through creating gainful employment and solving environmental challenges for those with the least.

 

Please note: Alquity Africa fund merged into the Alquity Future World fund in March 2024

 

Fund Size: £24.80m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Screened Themed SRI Assets: £89.80m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Responsible Ownership Assets: £89.80m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Assets Under Management: £328.13m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

ISIN: LU1070052854, LU1617839193, LU1730018949, LU1070053076, LU1049769646, LU1049769133, LU1049768911, LU1049769059, LU1049769307, LU1730018865, LU1070052771

Contact Us: marc.rugel@alquity.com

Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Overview

Alquity is an asset management business that connects investors to their investments and to social progress in order to deliver better returns for all. ESG is therefore central to what we do. Our approach emphasizes not only financial analysis, but also material but also material non-financial factors, which incorporates forward-looking ESG analysis to assess management capability and values. This delivers a portfolio that is responsible by construction, targeting consistent out-performance and lower environmental impact (e.g. much lower GHG emissions and water usage than the index) through companies delivering long term, inclusive growth. We also measure and track the ESG performance and evolution of our companies (through our KPIs) as well as we engage consistently with all the companies we own.

However, we believe ESG integration alone is not enough and so we go further, donating a minimum of 10% of our management fees to transforming lives projects (both societal and environmental) in the regions in which we invest.

 

 

Primary fund last amended: Nov 2024

Information received directly from Fund Manager

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Fund Filters

Sustainability - General
Sustainability policy

Funds that have 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 fund information.

Sustainability focus

Find funds which substantially focus on sustainability issues

Encourage more sustainable practices through stewardship

A core element of these funds aim to encourage higher sustainability standards across business practices through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Report against sustainability objectives

Find funds that publicly report their performance against specifically named sustainability objectives (in addition to reporting their financial performance)

Green / Sustainable property strategy

Fund has a strategy that focuses on sustainability issues in the property sector - they may eg use GRESB / BREEAM scores to inform investment decisions.

Environmental - General
Environmental policy

Funds that have policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out the fund's stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Limits exposure to carbon intensive industries

Funds that limit or 'reduce' their exposure to carbon intensive industries (ie sectors which are major contributors to climate change. Funds vary - some funds may be 'underweight' in this area which means they may have some investment in highly carbon intensive areas. Funds of this kind may choose companies they consider to be 'best in sector' and encourage ever higher standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further details.

Environmental damage and pollution policy

Funds that have written policies explaining the approach they take when companies damage the environment or are significant polluters. Funds of this kind may work with companies to encourage higher standards, or exclude companies - sometimes dependent on the situation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Resource efficiency policy or theme

Find funds that have a policy or theme that relates to managing natural resources more efficiently. Funds with this policy will be likely to favour companies that make (or enable the) more efficient use of resources - and either avoid or encourage change amongst companies with lower standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Favours cleaner, greener companies

Funds that aim to invest in companies with strong or market leading environmental policies and practices. Strategies vary - in particular the balance between 'financial' aspects and environmental benefits. Some may invest substantially in solutions or 'positive impact' companies - others may invest in more conventional companies providing certain environmental criteria are met. See fund information for further detail.

Waste management policy or theme

Find funds that have a written policy or theme on waste management - typically a view to encouraging higher levels of recycling and better efficiency / reducing waste.

Plastics policy

Funds that are reviewing or encouraging companies to manage down the overuse of plastics (particularly single use, non-recyclable plastics). These funds will typically aim to encourage the use of alternative materials, but are unlikely to exclude companies purely on the basis of their use of plastics. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Nature & Biodiversity
Biodiversity / nature policy

Find funds that have a written biodiversity policy or theme aimed at encouraging and improving environmental protection and safeguarding the natural world (sometimes referred to as the preservation or enhancement of 'natural capital'). See eg https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/climate-issues/biodiversity

Deforestation / palm oil policy

Find funds that have policies in place designed to ensure they do not invest in companies that are significantly involved in deforestation. This typically relates to palm oil plantations where biodiversity loss is a major concern (as well as other issues). Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Illegal deforestation exclusion policy

Find funds that have policies in place explaining that they avoid companies involved in illegal and/or unsustainable deforestation. This may relate to palm oil, cattle farming or other concerns. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Responsible palm oil policy

Fund has a responsible palm oil policy which is likely to focus on the producers of palm oil and deforestation issues with a view to informing investment decisions (and / or engagement) to support and encourage high standards.

Sustainable fisheries policy

Fund has a sustainable fisheries policy that will inform where it can and can not invest

Water stewardship policy

Fund has a policy which sets out their expectations for how investee assets should manage water

Climate Change & Energy
Climate change / greenhouse gas emissions policy

Funds that have 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. Read fund details for further information.

Coal, oil & / or gas majors excluded

Funds that avoid investing in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Funds vary: some may exclude all companies that extract oil. Others may have exposure to oil extraction via more diversified energy companies. See fund literature to confirm details.

Fracking and tar sands excluded

Funds that avoid companies involved in fracking and tar sands - which are widely regarded as controversial methods of oil and gas extraction. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Arctic drilling exclusion

Funds that avoid companies that are involved in extracting oil from the Arctic regions. See fund literature for further details.

Fossil fuel reserves exclusion

Funds that avoid investing in companies with coal, oil and gas reserves. See fund information for further details.

Encourage transition to low carbon through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage the transition to lower carbon activities through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Nuclear exclusion policy

Find funds that have policies which say they avoid or limit their investment in the nuclear industry. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Fossil fuel exploration exclusion - direct involvement

The fund manager excludes companies with direct involvement in fossil fuel exploration (eg coal, oil and gas companies)

Social / Employment
Social policy

Find funds that have policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Funds with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.

Labour standards policy

Find funds that have a labour standards policy - which can be expected to mean that the fund will invest in / favour companies that have higher standards in this area - although fund strategies can vary significantly (as with all policy areas). See eg https://www.ilo.org/international-labour-standards

Favours companies with strong social policies

Find funds that invest in line with positive strategies that relate to 'people' issues - such as having strong human rights, labour standards and equal opportunities practices. Such funds are likely to invest in companies that have market leading standards with regard to employee and supplier practices. Read fund literature for further information.

Fast fashion exclusion

Find funds that exclude companies involved in the ‘fast fashion’ sector - these funds will typically be of the view that this area is unsustainable and prone to low environmental and social standards.

Health & wellbeing policies or theme

Find funds with policies or themes that set out their approach to health and wellbeing issues. Funds of this kind typically aim to invest in companies with high standards - or encourage high standards. Themed funds are likely to have more of an emphasis on this area. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Diversity, equality & inclusion Policy (fund level)

Find individual funds that have a written diversity policy – where the fund manager will aim to select companies with a carefully considered, sound approach to diversity. This should ideally cover a range of issues including gender, ethnicity, disability, beliefs, sexual orientation, etc.

Responsible mining policy

Fund has a policy that explains their position on which mining companies they may or may not invest in. Typically this may mean only investing in assets with high environmental and social standards. This is a growing concern given demand for rare earth metals eg lithium, cobalt. See fund information.

Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Tobacco and 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.

Tobacco and related products - avoid where revenue > 5%

Companies are excluded if they make more than 5% of their revenue from the manufacture, sale or distribution of tobacco products including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.

Armaments manufacturers avoided

Find funds that avoid companies that manufacture products intended specifically for military use. Fund strategies vary - particularly with regard to non-strategic military products. See fund literature for fund specific details.

Civilian firearms production exclusion

Find funds with a written civilian firearms exclusion policy - meaning that they will not invest in companies that make (or perhaps also sell) handguns made for non-military users.

Alcohol production excluded

Find funds that avoid investment in companies involved in the production of alcohol. Strategies vary; some funds allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund literature for further information.

Gambling avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some funds may allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund policy for further details.

Pornography avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. See fund details for further information.

Animal welfare policy

Find funds with policies that require specific animal welfare standards to be met. These may reference well-known welfare standards (3Rs - Replace, Reduce, Refine) or certification schemes. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Animal testing exclusion policy

Find funds that avoid companies that are involved in testing their products on animals. Precise application may vary. See fund literature for further information.

Human Rights
Human rights policy

Find funds that have policies relating to human rights issues. Funds of this kind typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some fund managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Child labour exclusion

Find funds that have policies in place to ensure they do not invest in companies that employ children.

Responsible supply chain policy or theme

Find funds that have 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. See fund literature for further information.

Modern slavery exclusion policy

The fund has a policy which excludes assets with involvement in Modern Slavery

Meeting Peoples' Basic Needs
Water / sanitation policy or theme

Find funds that have policies or themes that set out their position on investment in the water sector and/or sanitation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Antimicrobial resistance policy

Fund has a policy on ‘antimicrobial resistance’ - which is when organisms that cause infection can survive treatment - which is commonly associated with the overuse of antibiotics in factory farming and a threat to our health.

Gilts & Sovereigns
Does not invest in sovereigns

Find funds that do not invest in / exclude 'sovereigns' - debt issued by governments. See eg https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sovereign-debt.asp

Banking & Financials
Invests in banks

Find funds that include banks as part of their holdings / portfolio.

Predatory lending exclusion

Fund excludes financial services companies with widely criticised, aggressive lending practices where interest rates are typically very high, includes ‘doorstep lending’)

Governance & Management
Governance policy

Find fund options that have 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. See fund literature for further information.

Avoids companies with poor governance

Find funds that aim to avoid 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. See fund literature for further information.

UN sanctions exclusion

Exclude companies that are subject to United Nations sanctions. See eg https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list

Anti-bribery and corruption policy

Find funds that have 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. See fund literature for further information.

Digital / cyber security policy

Find funds that have policies explaining how the fund managers take into account digital/cyber security related risks. Funds with cyber policies will typically favour companies with higher standards or that are helping to solve problems - but strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Encourage board diversity e.g. gender

Fund managers encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)

Encourage TCFD alignment for banks & insurance companies

Find fund managers that encourage the banks and insurance companies they invest in to publish climate change related financial information - as set out by the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (with the aim of helping investors measure and respond to climate risk).

Encourage higher ESG standards through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage higher ESG standards through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement /voting activity

Fund Governance
ESG integration strategy

Find funds 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

Find funds that 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 and large cap companies / assets

Find a fund that invests in a combination of small, medium and larger (potentially multinational)companies.

How The Fund Works
Positive selection bias

Find funds that focus 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

Find funds where their main 'ethical approach' is to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Read fund literature for further information.

ESG weighted / tilt

Find funds that invest more heavily in those that have higher ESG ratings/standards or scores and less heavily in companies with lower ESG ratings. Where this is central to a fund's strategy you should expect it to invest in most sectors. Strategies vary.

Assets mapped to SDGs

Find funds that have '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 ESG strategy with other SRI criteria

Find funds that have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.

Focus on ESG risk mitigation

A major focus of these funds is the careful management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) related risks - typically by avoiding or being underweight in companies seen as posing major risks in these areas (i.e. not necessarily by using themes, exclusions etc).

SRI / ESG / Ethical policies explained on website

Find funds that have published explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. fund decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).

Unscreened Assets & Cash
No ‘diversifiers’ used other than cash

Fund that only invest in cash to aid the practical management (buying and selling) of assets. These funds do not use additional financial instruments.

All assets (except cash) meet published sustainability criteria

All assets held in the fund - except cash - meet the sustainability criteria published in fund documentation.

Intended Clients & Product Options
Intended for investors interested in sustainability

Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in sustainability issues.

Intended for clients who want to have a positive impact

Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in ‘Impact investment funds’ which 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. See fund literature for further information.

Bespoke SRI / ESG portfolios available (DFMs)

Only applicable for DFM’s & portfolio providers. Find service providers who offer bespoke ('personalised') SRI / ESG portfolio options

Labels & Accreditations
SFDR Article 8 fund / product (EU)

Finds funds classified under Article 8 of the EU’s SFDR (Sustainable Finance Disclosure Requirements). Article 8 of the SFDR is a set of requirements that apply to financial products that 'promote' environmental or social characteristics with high governance also. These rules do not currently apply to UK funds so many managers may leave this field blank.

Fund Management Company Information

About The Business
Boutique / specialist fund management company

Find fund management companies that are smaller or specialise in particular areas - notably, ideally ESG related. Strategies vary.

Specialist positive impact fund management company

Find fund management companies (or subsidiaries) that specialise in - or focus entirely on - investing in assets that are helping to deliver positive environmental and / or social impacts.

Responsible ownership / stewardship policy or strategy (AFM company wide)

Finds fund 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 company wide)

Find fund 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.

Integrates ESG factors into all / most (AFM) fund research

Find fund 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.

Diversity, equality & inclusion engagement policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund 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 management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.

Resources
In-house responsible ownership / voting expertise

Find fund 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.

Use specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability research companies

Find fund management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.

Accreditations
PRI A+ rated (AFM company wide)

Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'

Engagement Approach
Engaging on climate change issues

Fund manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.

Engaging to reduce plastics pollution / waste

Asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.

Engaging to encourage responsible mining practices

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 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

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

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

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 and / or inclusion issues

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 managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets

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 company wide)

Find fund management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles.

Tobacco avoidance policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that avoid investment in tobacco (manufacturing) companies across all their assets.

Fossil fuel exclusion policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that avoid investment in fossil fuel companies (e.g. coal, oil and gas) across all of their funds. (and/ or other assets.)

Coal exclusion policy (group wide coal mining exclusion policy)

This asset manager excludes direct investment in the coal mining industry. Managers ability to do this may depend on the geographic regions in which they invest.

Climate & Net Zero Transition
Net Zero commitment (AFM company wide)

Fund management organisations that have pledged to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to ‘net zero’. Strategies vary - this area is changing rapidly.

Publish 'CEO owned' Climate Risk policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that have published a Climate Risk policy or statement that is signed / owned by their Chief Executive.

Net Zero - have set a Net Zero target date (AFM company wide)

This 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 company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon offsetting - offset carbon as part of our net zero plan (AFM company wide)

This 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 company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.

Working towards a ‘Net Zero’ commitment (AFM company wide)

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'.

Transparency
Publish responsible ownership / stewardship report (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.

Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information on company website

Find companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.

Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information available on request

Find fund management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.

Just Transition policy on website (AFM company wide)

This asset management company has published information on their website about the delivery of a 'just transition' - ie the delivery of the necessary shift to a sustainable future that takes full account of social implications - how change effects people. See eg https://www.unepfi.org/social-issues/just-transition/ or LSE Grantham

Net Zero transition plan publicly available (AFM company wide)

This 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 management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information.

Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:

ESG analysis is a critical component of Alquity. There are certain practices we believe are inconsistent with long-term financial returns and an overall positive societal impact. Our Red Flags are exclusions for companies within sectors that are not consistent with our process and either are detrimental to or provide no environmental or societal benefits. This includes companies with over 5% of revenues or profits in their most recent financial report attributed to:

  • Tobacco
  • Liquor
  • Gambling
  • Narcotics
  • Adult entertainment
  • Armaments
  • Fossil Fuels (exploration and production)
  • Nuclear Power
  • Coal mining
  • Non-renewable power utilities
  • Fur Trade
  • Hydrogen power (unless green hydrogen)
  • Financial institutions engaging in abusive lending practices*

 

*Such as excessively high interest rates, excessive penalty fees, misleading marketing, and illegal debt collection practices should be excluded. Excessive interest rates are defined as rates that exceed fair compensation taking into account the target borrower’s risk profile as well as the lenders funding costs and operational expenses.

 

Here are our ESG green flags. We will consider companies that meet the following criteria:

  • Companies with independently audited accounts
  • Companies that meet investors or arrange regular open-access calls
  • Company that provide transparency on identity of majority shareholders
  • For high-risk industries we only select companies that publicly disclose Health and Safety policies
  • For non-pharmaceutical companies, we only select those that ban animal testing (unless it is required by law and must be a substantial minority (<20%) of overall sales)
  • For companies that use significant amounts of water in their operations or production processes, we only select companies that discloses usage and/or conservation levels
  • For high-risk industries we only select companies that publicly provide or disclose when requested GHG emissions data
  • Only companies with a clean bill of health and without ongoing ESG controversies and unresolved scandals

 

 

We believe that the increase in Greenhouse gas emissions generated by the extraction and burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have directly led to the warming of the Earth’s climate. We believe that if these activities are not dramatically reduced the world faces a rise in global temperatures that will lead to catastrophic consequences for the planet’s natural ecosystem and its ability to sustain the growing human population. We also believe that the transition to a net zero emission global economy must be a fair transition, and go hand in hand with ensuring a more sustainable and equitable society for all. The portfolio is aligned with our climate declaration as follows:

 

  • High Risk Industry classification: any company involved in sectors with high GHG emissions are subject to higher scrutiny and in addition to disclosure of GHG emissions, these companies should also have plans to reduce these in the future. In addition, companies in sectors subject to transformation due to the transition to a low carbon economy have their risk premium increased and hence are only included in portfolios if both their ESG standards and investment thesis are strong.
  • We exclude all companies involved in the exploration and production of fossil fuels (including thermal coal). In addition, sectors such as livestock farming, aviation and shipping are treated as “high risk” industries.
  • We engage with all our portfolio companies to encourage them to firstly disclose their GHG emissions and secondly implement plan to reduce these over time. We are advocates of a “just and fair” transition and as we are investing in many developing countries, we provide advice and share best practice to support company behaviour and plans.
  • Finally, donations from our funds help support equitable economic development where we invest, helping the most vulnerable out of poverty to act as contributors to the development of fairer, more sustainable world.

 

The Alquity Future World Fund portfolio is also intended to deliver a significantly smaller environmental footprint than its benchmark (at least, around half GHG emissions and 90% less water usage). The fund has set a GHG intensity reduction target aligned to the Paris 1.5 degree scenario and these commitments are disclosed publicly via the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative.

 

Where there may be divergence, we ensure that the reason is understood and transparently communicated to our clients through our reporting. The impact measurement supports our stewardship and engagement activities. Several of our companies specifically have a positive impact, through business models which aid decarbonisation, healthcare or energy efficiency. However, this is not a specific target.

 

 

Process:

All stocks that have met our themes are reviewed against our exclusions and green flags, through a combination of Google checks and/or a review of corporate information disclosure. If there are companies that are not excluded explicitly, but where we are not confident that management’s value are aligned with Alquity’s, then we will err on the side of caution and exclude the company.

A deeper ESG analysis takes place in the stage 2 of our investment process. We carry-out forward-looking, qualitative ESG assessment and rating conducted through significant engagement with management teams. Specifically, we look at behaviours and practices across the firm in the context of global and regional best practice. As a discipline, and for comparability, we then assign a rating to each institution, which captures risk and the quality of judgement and decision making. DCF valuations are influenced by the ESG scoring, via an increase or decrease of the equity risk premium: a 50bps reduction in for an “A” rating or a 50bps increase for a “C” rating. We include any changes in the ESG rating of the holding as part of the investment case review.

Only those companies rated C or better can be included in the portfolio. To be clear, this means that we will only invest in firms where there is satisfactory quality and alignment of management.

Moreover, we are interested not only in the absolute standard of “ESG Quality”, but also the ability of a firm to improve its judgement, communication and efficiency over time.

We track the impact of each of our portfolios against key metrics aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). This impact analysis is provided by Impact Cubed, an independent third-party who assess each fund against its relevant index. The outcomes of the portfolio assessment are analyzed by the investment team so that they can understand at

both a stock and portfolio level the environmental, social and governance footprint of our funds and engage with companies to improve these outcomes over time. Points we would like to see improved over time, and commitments made by management to enhance their ESG practices, are recorded on the “Engagement” section of our stock notes. These areas of improvement and commitment are reviewed on a regular basis when the investment team engage with the management of these companies. These notes can be made available upon request.

Exercising our voting rights is also an important aspect of Alquity’s investment process, as we must ensure our interests as minority shareholders are well represented. Voting is exercised by the investment team on a weekly basis and conducted in accordance with our Principles of Governance, which can be found on our website.

 

Almost all the research is carried-out in-house by the investment team. This allows a consistency of approach and a degree of rigor we do not believe we could achieve elsewhere. Moreover, ESG analysis is an integral part of our investment strategy (as opposed to a screening or secondary consideration) and therefore, occurs alongside traditional financial and business analysis.

Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:

As previously mentioned, almost all the research is done in-house.

The responsibilities of the investment team cover all aspects of company fundamental research (ESG and Financial). The team are interchangeable as they cover a range of stocks and sectors. We do not create sector or country specialists but rather focus on the consistent implementation of the investment process, shared understanding and constructive challenge during company reviews. Whilst led by Mike Sell (Head of Global Emerging Markets), Daniel Billis is a Portfolio Manager and Kieron Kader is Associate Portfolio Manager, so provide back up as well as the ability to execute trades as required. Francisco Gala, business analyst, supports the team with ESG analysis and the engagement activity.

 

The responsibilities of the investment team cover all aspects of the research. Additionally, to ensure that our investment team follows a robust and consistent approach to ESG investing, we have governance in place to monitor, evaluate and support the team’s investment process and our ESG ratings. This governance mechanism is chaired by our Head of Quantitative Risk (Marnie Aragon-Uy), and includes the entire investment team (Mike Sell, Kieron Kader and Daniel Billis) and our CEO (Paul Robinson).

 

We place a high priority on keeping our staff current on sustainability issues and follow the strict requirements that is imposed on us via the ISR Label which we are required to validate:

  1. Training in ESG analysis (internal and externally) and time spent by the management company on continuous training;
  2. Internal communication (funds managers, salespeople, etc.) of the extra-financial analyses conducted.

Furthermore, Alquity disseminates current industry issues on a regular basis to our all employees and also holds mandatory CPD sessions on relevant industry issues.

 

We are actively involved at a strategic level in encouraging companies to improve their ESG disclosure practices. This includes support not only for the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI), of which we are signatories since our foundation in 2010. We are also members of the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, of the FAIRR Initiative, the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, and the Plastic Solutions Investor Alliance. In addition, we are signatories of the Tobacco Free Portfolios’ pledge, among other initiatives.

Dialshifter (Fund)

This fund is helping to ‘shift the dial from brown to green’ by…

...Using a combination of Red flags, ESG ratings, KPI driven engagement and transforming lives donations the fund drives the transition from brown to green across Emerging Markets with a focus on encouraging environmental disclosure and action towards implementation of tangible low carbon technologies and processes.

 

Our organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero:

As members of NZAM, Alquity has committed to reducing the GHG intensity of its funds by 60% relative to the 2019 intensity by 2030. This is in line with the Paris Climate Agreement and recognizes that the current global trajectory needs to be steeper than that predicted by NDCs.

 

SDR Labelling:

Not eligible to use label

Fund Holdings

Disclaimer

The Alquity Asia Fund, the Alquity Future World Fund, the Alquity Indian Subcontinent Fund and the Alquity Global Impact Fund are all sub-funds of the Alquity SICAV (“the Fund”) which is a UCITS Fund and is a recognised collective investment scheme for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 of the United Kingdom (the "FSMA"). This does not mean the product is suitable for all investors and as the Fund is invested in emerging market equities, investors may not get back the full amount invested.

This Document is qualified in its entirety by the information contained in the Fund’s prospectus and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”). Any offer or solicitation may be made only by the delivery of the Offering Documents. Before making an investment decision with respect to the Fund, prospective investors are advised to read the Offering Documents carefully, which contains important information, including a description of the Fund’s risks, conflicts of interest, investment programme, fees, expenses, redemption/withdrawal limitations, standard of care and exculpation, etc. Prospective investors should also consult with their tax and financial advisors as well as legal counsel. This Document does not take into account the particular investment objectives, restrictions, or financial, legal or tax situation of any specific prospective investor, and an investment in the Fund may not be suitable for many prospective investors. An investment in the Fund is speculative and involves a high degree of risk. Performance may vary substantially from year to year and even from month to month. Withdrawals/redemptions and transfers of Interests are restricted. Investors must be prepared to lose their entire investment, and without any ability to redeem or withdraw so as to limit losses.

The Fund’s investment approach is long-term, investors must expect to be committed to the Fund for an extended period of time (3-5 years) in order for it to have an optimal chance of achieving its investment objectives.