Investment Read Time: 3 min

Investing with Your Heart

Some individuals believe that return on investment shouldn’t be the only criterion for how they invest their money. For them, the social impact of investing is just as important – perhaps more important.

The history of socially responsible investing stretches as far back as the mid-18th century, but its more-modern form began taking shape in the 1960s, amidst the fight for civil rights and the emerging Vietnam War protests.

More than $17 trillion is managed under sustainable and responsible investing principles. This includes mutual funds, endowments, and even venture capital funds. It should be noted that amounts in mutual funds are subject to fluctuation in value and market risk. Shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Mutual funds are sold only by prospectus. Please consider the charges, risks, expenses, and investment objectives carefully before investing. A prospectus containing this and other information about the investment company can be obtained from your financial professional. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.1

What Is “Socially Responsible Investing?”

The definition of socially responsible investing has evolved. And it may be referred to by different names, such as “sustainable and responsible investing” or “values-based investing.”

Whatever term is used, this investment discipline is usually characterized by a set of principles that govern how investments are selected. One widely used framework includes environmental, social, and corporate governance criteria (ESG).

What’s ESG?

ESG criteria of good corporate governance, positive environmental impact, and responsible community involvement are a guide for making investment selections, akin to other investment-related criteria, such as price-to-earnings ratio or revenue growth.

The underlying belief is that good corporate practices may lead to better long-term corporate performance.

Investor experience with socially responsible investing will vary. As with any mutual fund or exchange-traded fund, socially responsible investments are subject to fluctuation in value and market risk. Shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

Individuals should also recognize that each investment approach may operate under a different set of principles, so you should be careful that your selection mirrors your personal values and beliefs.

1. USSIF.org, 2020 (most recent data available)

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

What Do Your Taxes Pay For?

What Do Your Taxes Pay For?

Here's a breakdown of how the federal government spends your tax money.

The Most Overlooked Item of Any Home Improvement

The Most Overlooked Item of Any Home Improvement

The item most homeowners forget on their home improvement project checklist is insurance.

Consider These 3 Things Before Driving Off the Lot

Consider These 3 Things Before Driving Off the Lot

There are a few things to consider when buying or leasing your next vehicle.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Yours, Mine, and Ours: Estate Strategies for Second Marriage

Second marriages are a trigger event to revisit any existing estate strategies.

Six Surprising Facts About Retirement Confidence

This attention-grabbing infographic covers retirement topics you may not have considered.

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

View all articles

How Much Home Can I Afford?

With a few simple inputs you can estimate how much of a mortgage you may be able to obtain.

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Saving for Retirement

This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.

View all calculators

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.

Managing Your Lifestyle

Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

View all presentations

The Power of Compound Interest

Learn how to harness the power of compound interest for your investments.

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.

Finding the Balance

The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.

View all videos