Is SFDR encouraging greenwashing? Some early evidence
About 31% of fund assets in Europe have been classified under SFDR as article 8 or 9, with 28% as 8 and 3% as 9. Yet there are still some question marks about the effects of this regulation.
Concern over divergence on sustainability rules
If Europe’s nations decide to enforce different local guidelines when it comes to the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) it would be detrimental not just to asset managers but also investors, industry insiders have warned.
The SFDR came into effect on 10 March, when asset managers in the European Union had to decide whether their funds fit into one of three categories set out by the regulation, designating the level of sustainable characteristics. But that was only the beginning.
‘21% of European open-ended funds promote sustainability'
More than a fifth of European Ucits funds claim to be compatible with Article 8 or 9 of the new European Sustainability Regulation SFDR in their prospectus. ‘Interpretation of the definitions varies greatly, with some managers taking a much looser approach than others,’ notes head of sustainability research at Morningstar Hortense Bioy in conversation with Investment Officer.
Luxembourg banks play it safe amid SFDR uncertainty
With less than a week until the SFDR reporting deadline, client advisers and asset managers in Luxembourg and internationally are gently testing the water. From how to classify different funds and what to report to investors, the financial industry is progressing with caution.
Additional SFDR requirements to prevent greenwashing
The European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) EBA, Eiopa and Esma have adjusted proposed requirements under the EU sustainable finance disclosure regulation (SFDR). This was done in order to prevent possible greenwashing by asset managers, according to Esma president Steven Maijoor (pictured).
Alfi - Lack of data main challenge for SFDR implementation
The lack of available data on company-level will be the main challenge for asset managers to deal with after the regulation for sustainability‐related disclosures in the financial services sector, better known as SFDR, comes into force in March next year, according to Alfi’s Nathalie Dogniez (picture).
Sustainability deadlines looming: here’s what to look out for
There are less than five months to the first sustainable finance disclosure regulation (SFDR) deadline, and the next is just eight months away. Stéphane Badey, a partner with Arendt & Medernach speaking at the recent LuxFlag Sustainable Investment Week on 14 October, highlighted some of the key concepts.