Description

From an obscure concept a decade ago, ESG criteria has risen to become a prominent topic for both investors and companies alike. However, there is a lively discussion about whether the use of ESG is a marketing or a public relations ploy, or whether it involves real change in investment analysis approach. The criticism by Tariq Fancy from BlackRock that ESG is little more than a ‘dangerous placebo’ and will not lead to any meaningful impact has triggered both cheers of agreement and dissenting voices. 

In Czechia, ESG criteria integration or the adoption of ESG reporting have been slow, informed by skepticism about its usefulness and purpose. Yet, one way or another, ESG investing and reporting are both here to stay, especially due to the new wish to understand the non-financial risks faced by companies, such as climate change and social impacts. While the current indicators leave a lot to be desired, will continuous improvements in data and technology lead to notable change? 

This event will examine the developments in the ESG investing and reporting space, looking at how both investors and companies have learnt to benefit from the change. We will explore whether ESG integration leads to meaningful change, what indicators matter most, and whether ESG data offers useful insights into new value drivers. 

Questions we will discuss will include: 

• Does the use of ESG criteria offer any advantages for investors? 

• Which indicators to focus on first or most? 

• Why and how should companies and investors approach ESG integration? 

• What has changed in ESG reporting and integration over the last year, and what impact will EU regulation have? 

• What to expect from the EU Sustainable Finance agenda and its focus on data and taxonomies?

The event is organised in collaboration with the British Embassy in Prague, and will take place at the Embassy’s premises.

To express interest in the event, please email events@isfc.org