ESG more considered in real asset investing than three years ago

17% considering it a critical factor

Nine out of ten global institutional investors actively consider ESG factors when it comes to real assets investment, a new study from Aviva Investors has found.

In its fifth annual Real Assets Study, the firm surveyed 500 institutional investors around the world, a group representing over $3.5trn in assets. It reported that 67% felt they had a responsibility to invest sustainably, with 79% favouring an investment portfolio that prioritises financial returns whilst integrating ESG factors. The preference for a returns-based approach was more prevalent in North America (90%) versus 82% and 71% in European and Asia, respectively. Investments supporting the energy transition are expected to secure the best financial returns, according to 56% o...