EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
The COVID-19 pandemic has , of course , had a huge impact on the performance of the market over the past twelve months . Which other societal factors from 2020 do you believe will have the most significant impact for investors – particularly in relation to sustainability ?
2020 has highlighted several themes relating to the ‘ S ’ of ESG that my colleagues in the Responsible Investment team at BMO have been engaging on for several years . For example , considering the ways that companies approach diversity ( particularly ethnic diversity ), how they support their employees ’ health and safety , and how well they engage with local communities , all help to inform an investment thesis . We see several thematic opportunities on the societal side . These include companies that enable education , flexible working , or better access to capital ( particularly in developing countries ). 2020 has really brought home to all of us just how suddenly things can change , with devastating consequences and on such a huge scale . While this will bring a welcome increase in empathy , it also underpins the need for an ongoing , global response to existential risks ( such as climate change or decreasing biodiversity ), even when the probability of very negative outcomes is hard to agree on . For example , very few people today will argue that climate change or pandemics are issues that should not be addressed at all .
In a previous interview , I saw that you ’ d referenced part of the Hippocratic Oath – “ First , do no harm ” – when discussing one stage of your team ’ s approach to building BMO ’ s sustainable range . What ’ s your own , unshakeable , oath , when it comes to fund selection ?
That ’ s an interesting question ! One phrase that comes close to describing the ethos of myself and the team is “ Always act for our clients as we would for ourselves ”. We always remember that ultimately , we are here to serve our clients and act as stewards for their money , with all the responsibility that this entails . This is a powerful guiding principle that my colleagues and I find brings a useful perspective when deep in the weeds of a typical day .
Simon Holmes , Director and Portfolio Manager in the Multi-Asset team , joined the company in September 2007 . Simon has experience across equities , fixed income , foreign exchange and alternative asset classes , covering sustainable investment , risk-targeted and income solutions . In previous roles , Simon has worked at McKinsey & Co ., Salomon Smith Barney ( now Citigroup ) and Barclays Capital , after starting his career in 1996 . He has a BSc ( Hons ) in Natural Sciences from the University of Durham , an MBA from INSEAD Business School and is a CFA charter holder . Beyond work , Simon is an enthusiastic ( though mediocre ) hockey player for Southgate Hockey Club .
For more information on our Universal MAP and Sustainable Universal MAP ranges , and how our funds can benefit your clients , please contact the UK intermediary Sales Support team on 0800 085 0383 and visit our website at RedefiningValue . com
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