Sustainability

Investing in financial institutions with a strong social mission may advance the clients' economic development and livelihood by providing access to fair and tailored financial services. Through the investments, the funds strive to promote a sustainable development and create shared value by promoting good corporate governance and sound environmental and social practices. Financial inclusion is imperative for small business to grow and for giving people access to basic needs such as education, healthcare, clean water, sanitation facilities and clean energy.

For more information on the sustainability approach of the funds, please read the sustainability reports for the three funds:  

Sustainability reports

Social dimension
The social mission of the institutions significantly contributes to the clients’ livelihood. Having access to financial services enables the clients to generate an income, make savings, take out an insurance and provide for their families. Generating an income and make savings are factors playing a significant part in alleviating poverty. The social dimension of the funds is monitored via four indicators based on industry standards: outreach, client protection, community development and employment.

Environmental dimension
The group of clients depending on an income from agricultural and similar activities are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Heavier floods, landslides and changing temperatures are among the challenges that the clients are facing. Having access to agricultural loans, savings accounts, tailored insurance products and technical assistance put clients in a better position to mitigate and adapt to risks related to climate change. Portfolio companies' initiatives on climate change mitigation and adaptation is monitored. 

Governance dimension
Corporate governance promotes the rule of law, reduces risks, fosters a more robust private sector and contributes to a sustainable and profitable business environment. In the role as shareholders, board representatives and advisers, the funds play a key role in improving corporate governance practices, raising the level of professionalization and supporting anti-corruption measures. The portfolio companies’ corporate governance is evaluated according to the IFC methodology.

Going forward
Financial inclusion can be a significant contribution to the prosperity of each individual and to the economic progress of the developing countries. However, financial inclusion must be accompanied by other initiatives to alleviate poverty, reduce inequalities and provide access to basic needs for the population at the bottom of the pyramid. A stable political and economic environment together with investments in infrastructure, education and health and other important sectors are also crucial factors. As such, financial inclusion is not a guarantee for prosperity for everyone with access to formal and fair financial services, but it creates an important opportunity for poor people to improve their livelihoods from social and economic growth.