Is ethical criteria important in volatile times?

Alexis Krajeski Director, governance and sustainability investment team, F&C Investments   There is an argument to suggest that, while returns are being impacted so heavily by global events, perhaps now is not the time to be too precious about ethical dilemmas. However, in our view, there is also a strong argument to suggest less ethical companies run a business risk by undertaking social or environmental practices that are unsustainable, or that might attract negative media attention. This could, in turn, have a detrimental effect on future profitability and impact on an alrea...