Gert Rautenberg: “Definitely, the introduction to ESG within my working environment has made me reflect on my day-to-day lifestyle.” (Photo: DR)

Gert Rautenberg: “Definitely, the introduction to ESG within my working environment has made me reflect on my day-to-day lifestyle.” (Photo: DR)

Many parts of the funds industry are laser focused on ESG right now by means of reporting, advisory, labelling and communication. Prior to the round table ‘ESG: all you need to know about the new regulation’, which will be held on May 4, we asked Gert Rautenberg, Head of Strategic Business Development at GFA, the data analytics specialist recently acquired by Acolin Group, for his views.

What are the biggest challenges for asset managers and service providers right now?

Gert Rautenberg. – “ESG considerations for asset managers and service providers can be very complex. These companies do not only need to consider their products and services, but must also consider conduct, behavior and several other attributes while running an ESG ever-evolving organization. This requires new standards, policies, procedures in all aspects of their business. 

By introducing ESG considerations, a company must also update its strategy and provide ongoing evidence keeping to its established ESG standards and commitments. 

In the big picture what does meaningful change in the financial sector look like, and is the world ready for it?

“The time is now for the financial sector to embrace ESG and all components associated to it. Meaningful change should be evident when ESG considerations are introduced. We believe adding these considerations could vastly enhance risk adjusted return potential by the reduction of investment risk and create a valuable investment proposition. 

Criteria associated to ESG will provide valuable insight that impacts the financial metrics of a company and provide meaningful investment decisions. 

Have you personally made any changes to your lifestyle with ESG in mind?

“Definitely, the introduction to ESG within my working environment has made me reflect on my day-to-day lifestyle. From personal investments to general social behaviours, these considerations are always embedded into my lifestyle for considering and taking the right approach to any situation.”

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