In this episode of the Green Dream, the video series where ESG Clarity interviews key figureheads in the responsible investment world to get their views on the latest trends, news and movements in this evolving landscape, ESG Clarity global head of ESG insight Natalie Kenway speaks to Simon Bond, director of responsible investment at Columbia Threadneedle and manager of the Threadneedle Social Bond Fund franchise.
He explains how the social crisis in terms of the pandemic has resulted in a 790% increase in social bond issuance, and why this level of issuance is likely to continue.
Bond also talks about how he works with with Big Issue Invest on the strategy and the eight areas of social outcome the funds adhere to, as well as the tangible benefits the fund has seen including encouraged the establishment of a charity sector in the bond market.
He also explains how he launched the campaign in May 2019 for a green gilt and how he felt the moment when the UK Chancellor confirmed this would be rolled out this summer and his thoughts on a ‘Green Plus Gilt’.
Finally, in a heart-warming story, he shares what his daughter taught him about palm oil and the product the British public either love or hate…
The link the Annual Impact Report mentioned in the video interview can be found here.
