Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM) investment subsidiary, Calvert Research and Management, has launched a suite of investment strategies related to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors in Europe, a press release reported.
“We are excited about leveraging Morgan Stanley Investment Management’s leading non-U.S. distribution capabilities to bring Calvert’s proven, principles-based sustainable investment strategies to a much broader universe of investors,” president and CEO of Calvert Research and Management, John Streur, said in the release. “Our proprietary research system drives our investment process and enables us to identify the companies leading their peers in managing financial material ESG risks and opportunities, and those that are positioned for longer-term success and improved societal outcomes.”
The Calvert strategy initiative, which follows the SFDR Article 9 guidelines, is intended to fulfill sustainable duties in the area. It also follows MSIM’s acquisition of Calvert’s parent company, Eaton Vance in March 2021.
According to the press release, the collaboration will make various Calvert Article 9 Funds available through Morgan Stanley Investment Management’s distribution network, including the one developed in Europe Equity Select Fund, the one developed by Markets Equity Select Fund, the Emerging Markets Equity Select Fund, the U.S. Equity Select Fund, the Sustainable Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Fund and the Calvert Sustainable Climate Aligned Fund.
“Promoting environmental sustainability and resource efficiency, advocating for equitable societies and enhanced societal outcomes as well as demanding accountable governance and transparent operations are the core of the Calvert Principles for Responsible Investment, which form the foundation of Calvert’s investment process,” the press release continues.
The company has contributed to significant global sustainable efforts involving the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative’s Principles of Responsible Investing (PRI), the Women’s Empowerment Principles and the UN Global Compact, and that of other ESG-oriented research organizations and academic institution.
“Investors are increasingly focused on sustainability, and the launch of these new funds demonstrates our focus on delivering our clients best-in-class and market-leading products and solutions that align investor values with financial outcomes,” said Jacques Chappuis, global head of distribution and co-head of the solutions and multi-asset group at Morgan Stanley Investment Management, in a press release. “European investors have a sophisticated understanding of how sustainability factors can lead to business success and Calvert has been honing this process for 40 years.”
Established in 1982, the prominent investing party specializes in the use of fundamental economic research, financial material ESG data analysis and direct company engagement to improve its clients’ results.
“The combination of our research and engagement processes plus our work to support global change initiatives position us to offer impact-driven, responsible investing strategies that deliver long-term shareholder value and drive positive change,” Streur said.