ASI launches ESG corporate bond fund

Aberdeen Standard Investments (ASI) has launched a global corporate bond fund focusing on companies demonstrating strong management of ESG issues.

The Aberdeen Standard SICAV I – Global Corporate Bond Sustainable and Responsible Investment Fund will be managed by its global investment grade portfolio management team.

It will exclude companies identified as not having sustainable business practices, using a set of “Binary” exclusions, which identify controversial business activities and “Active” exclusions, which identify companies rated poorly based on their management of ESG risks within their business.

The fund will also engage with companies to gather a forward-looking insight into management of ESG risks and opportunities, actively influence the management of these factors in line with best practice standards, and target a carbon footprint that is lower than the benchmark.

Aberdeen Standard Investments head of ESG fixed income and global investment grade portfolio manager, Samantha Lamb, said the goal of the new fund was to make a positive difference – for its clients, society and the wider world.

“It’s about investing in companies doing the right things to create portfolios that will help our clients achieve their long-term financial goals. The fund supports making fully-informed decisions, delivering positive change and in turn, driving higher standards and stronger returns,” said Lamb.