In the pole position for a third year running is Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Valéry Lucas-Leclin, 42, and Sarbjit Nahal, 41, produce "in-depth research that's an indispensable reference and a great framework for understanding environmental, social and governance themes and their relevance for mainstream, as well as niche, investing," according to one asset manager. Some of the topics the London-based pair has been exploring are the global water supply, extreme weather and the fight against obesity, and how these issues affect individual companies as well as industries. For example, the Midwestern drought and Hurricane Sandy in the U.S. have spurred interest in the financial impact of climate change, Nahal says. One U.S. portfolio manager appreciates the duo's examination of investment opportunities, including "the financial and profit implications for the sectors, companies and regions analyzed." — Carolyn Koo |
Economics & Strategy – Socially Responsible Investing: First
