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Natural capital

Natural capital as a shock absorber in investment portfolios

Gwen Busby
Head of Research and Strategy, Nuveen Natural Capital
Skye Macpherson
Head of Global Asset Management and Acting Head of Europe, Nuveen Natural Capital
30 Jun 2025  
1 min read
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Historic volatility and uncertainty in global equity markets — driven by the escalating trade war and related inflation fears — is leading some investors to re–evaluate portfolio allocations to ensure they are well–positioned to weather the current economic environment. Of primary importance are allocations that can serve as a shock absorber within an investment portfolio, mitigating overall portfolio risk and reducing the impact of market volatility.

Although optimal portfolio allocation by asset class will vary by investor, there is a common desire for portfolio diversification, stability, and downside risk management. We analyze historical performance data across a range of alternatives and traditional asset classes to evaluate how natural capital may serve these three objectives focusing on periods of high volatility and significant drawdowns.

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About the author

Gwen

Gwen Busby, Ph.D.

Head of Research and Strategy, Nuveen Natural Capital
Skye

Skye Macpherson, CAIA

Head of Global Asset Management and Acting Head of Europe, Nuveen Natural Capital

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