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Schroders to expand Singapore ESG hub

ESG investing 4Schroders has announced plans to bolster its Singapore-based sustainability centre by appointing more ESG specialists and expanding the range of ESG funds. The regional centre of excellence for sustainability (CoES) was launched in Singapore in October 2020. The aim was develop the office as the firm’s ESG hub for the Asia Pacific market. Eight months on, Schroders is adding a head of Asia sustainable strategy and will have four Asian ESG specialists by the year-end. All of the appointees will report to global head of sustainable investment, Andy Howard. According to Schroders, the specialists will be expected to “drive Schroders’ dialogues with Asian asset owners and intermediaries, delivering Asia-focused ESG insights and thought leadership”. Schroders will also expand its range of sustainable strategies available for local investors by bringing its global transformation range to Singapore. In addition, Schroders’ impact investing subsidiary BlueOrchard Finance has expanded its presence in Singapore by centralising its Asian business and research centre in the country. “The regional CoES in Singapore is a strategic extension of our global sustainability capability, reflecting the growing interest and sophistication of our client base across Asia,” said Howard. “Many of our clients are rapidly advancing in their ESG journey, and it is imperative that we have on-the-ground specialists to drive these engagements, recognising distinctive local contexts and our clients’ individual goals.” © 2021 funds global asia

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