IFM highlights 2023 ESG priorities
IFM Investors has recorded a rise in renewable capacity across its infrastructure portfolios and 15.6% growth in funds under management to $199 billion, according to its 2022 annual report.
The industry superannuation-fund-owned, global fund manager also achieved Climate Active Certification for carbon neutrality across its private equity portfolio and set an interim emissions reduction target of 45% by 2030.
Other performance highlights included a 12.8% rise in global institutional investors to 626, up from 555, and more than $800 million in funds raised across IFM’s private equity growth and long-term strategies.
According to the report, IFM deployed $1.86 billion in infrastructure debt deals which was “one of the highest annual deployments since 2013”.
“Through our responsible and sustainable investment approach, we are seeking to maximise long-term returns for our investors and the millions of every-day people they represent, and position our investments for stronger value creation,” said David Neal, IFM Investors chief executive.
The firm also announced its new long-term gender diversity targets of 45% across its workforce (currently 44%) and 45% at the director-and-above level (currently 38%) in the next four years.
Overall gender diversity on the IFM board increased from 19% in 2017 to 29% in 2021.
In the last financial year, other ESG measures on its investments and portfolios included leading a renewable energy purchasing program to supply over 400 gigawatts by 2025 to Australian infrastructure assets, partnering with Commonwealth Bank of Australia to launch ESG term deposits, and supporting its infrastructure companies with electric vehicle uptake on its toll roads and promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels at its airports.
Neal added: "Healthy long-term investment returns are dependent on healthy environmental and social systems, now and in the future. You can’t stock pick your way out of systemic risks like climate change. And we know that inclusive cultures and diverse workplaces build better and more resilient businesses”.
AUTHOR
Rhea Nath
Rhea L Nath is a journalist on Super Review and InvestorDaily, with a focus on funds management, superannuation, and institutional investment. Previously, she covered small business and entrepreneurship news at Dynamic Business and multicultural issues at Indian Link Media Group. In 2022, she was named Young Journalist of the Year at the NSW Premier’s Multicultural Communications Awards.
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