ESG data takes center stage

In the latest Private Debt Investor ESG Report, Churchill’s Mickey Weatherston reflects on ESG integration, assessment trends, investor data priorities and the need for a harmonized industry approach.

Key themes discussed include:

• The importance of early integration of ESG criteria and assessment tools in the due diligence process
• The correlation of data quality and screening for material ESG risks and opportunities
• Carbon emissions as a major ESG consideration and priority for investors
• Sustainability-linked loans and the next frontier for ESG investing in private markets
• The evolution of private credit and need for a harmonized approach to ESG reporting

Responsible investing incorporates Environmental Social Governance (ESG) factors that may affect exposure to issuers, sectors, industries, limiting the type and number of investment opportunities available, which could result in excluding investments that perform well. ESG integration incorporates financially relevant ESG factors into investment research in support of portfolio management for actively managed strategies. Financial relevancy of ESG factors varies by asset class and investment strategy. Applicability of ESG factors may differ across investment strategies. ESG factors are among many factors considered in evaluating an investment decision, and unless otherwise stated in the relevant offering memorandum or prospectus, do not alter the investment guidelines, strategy or objectives.