Environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors have evolved rapidly over a relatively short time frame. Global ESG assets, now calculated at approximately $35tn, will likely surpass $41tn by the end of 2022 and $50tn by 2025. These assets now comprise one-third of the projected total assets under management globally. #ESG has become of such importance to capital markets that by 2020, 88% of publicly listed companies, 79% of venture and private equity-backed companies and 67% of privately-owned companies had already put initiatives in place. This discussion paper sets out in general terms what ESG is and how the theme is developing from the perspective of corporate and financial market engagement.
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