HESTA has removed energy company Origin from its watchlist of stocks after the company made improvements to its climate strategy.
Improvements included divesting interests in the Beetaloo Basin and its intention to exit upstream exploration permits and articulating a climate strategy consistent with a 1.5oC pathway.
HESTA said: “We believe Origin has articulated a climate strategy consistent with a 1.5oC pathway and that their change in strategic direction will better support their ambitions to lead the energy transition through cleaner energy and customer solutions.”
However, the super fund said there were still areas of improvement for the firm’s Climate Transition Action Plan.
“It’s our view that Origin could play a more active role in supporting a just transition for affected communities. We also ask Origin to consider how it can leverage its membership of industry associations to advocate for greater alignment with their climate strategy and commitment with a 1.5°C pathway.”
The research house has offered a silver lining after super fund returns saw the end of a five-month streak last month.
A survey of almost 6,000 fund members has identified weakening retirement confidence, particularly among those under 55 years of age, signalling an opportunity for super funds to better engage with members on their retirement journey.
The funds have confirmed the signing of a successor fund transfer deed, moving closer to creating a new $29 billion entity.
A number of measures, including super on Paid Parental Leave, funding to recover unpaid super, and frameworks to encourage investment in the energy transition, have been welcomed by the superannuation industry.
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