Practical analysis for investment professionals
24 April 2014

Poll: What Is the Best Way for Investment Professionals to Address Environmental Factors?

Earlier this week, in recognition of Earth Day, we asked CFA Institute Financial NewsBrief readers, “What is the best way for the investment profession to address environmental and related factors?”


Many people around the world celebrated Earth Day on Wednesday. What is the best way for the investment profession to address environmental and related factors?
Many people around the world celebrated Earth Day on Wednesday. What is the best way for the investment profession to address environmental and related factors?


Globally, such factors seem to be uncontroversial, but in the United States, environmental factors have a vocal minority of naysayers. So, it is notable that only 9% of respondents said to “wait for more evidence.” Although this poll is not technically scientific, this response seems to be a clear indication that consideration for the environment has taken hold in investing.

Not surprisingly, nearly half of respondents believe the best way to address environmental issues is to “consider the risks, costs and potential opportunities . . . when analyzing investments.” Yet, around one-quarter of respondents think it is important to intervene earlier, and they support training in business school or in other educational programs those who want to enter the investment profession. Finally, one in six respondents believe the best approach is for investors to favor investments that have a credibly beneficial effect on the environment.


Please note that the content of this site should not be construed as investment advice, nor do the opinions expressed necessarily reflect the views of CFA Institute.

About the Author(s)
Jason Voss, CFA

Jason Voss, CFA, tirelessly focuses on improving the ability of investors to better serve end clients. He is the author of the Foreword Reviews Business Book of the Year Finalist, The Intuitive Investor and the CEO of Active Investment Management (AIM) Consulting. Voss also sub-contracts for the well known firm, Focus Consulting Group. Previously, he was a portfolio manager at Davis Selected Advisers, L.P., where he co-managed the Davis Appreciation and Income Fund to noteworthy returns. Voss holds a BA in economics and an MBA in finance and accounting from the University of Colorado.

Ethics Statement

My statement of ethics is very simple, really: I treat others as I would like to be treated. In my opinion, all systems of ethics distill to this simple statement. If you believe I have deviated from this standard, I would love to hear from you: [email protected]

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