News

Upsized Shimizu bond a 'paradigm shift' for Japanese 'blue bond' market

The debut JPY20 billion ($126 million) deal from Japanese firm Shimizu is a significant evolution of 'blue' bonds ahead of what could be a "breakout year" for the sustainable water-focused sustainable bond label in Japan.

High Seas Treaty comes into force

The world's first treaty to recognise and protect international waters has entered into force, following decades of tense negotiation.

Passage of US anti-ESG bill 'could be enormously negative' for industry

A bill to limit the ability of US retirement funds to consider sustainability factors in investment decisions "could have an enormously negative impact on pension beneficiaries, investors, and the nation's economy," an expert warned.

Canada climate progress slows under Carney, finds RBC

Canadian climate progress has shown signs of running out of steam as policy uncertainty and difficulties in accessing decarbonisation incentives have taken a toll, according to Royal Bank of Canada (RBC).

People Moves, 16 January: Amundi, IIGCC, BNP Paribas, L&G ... and more

US House passes bill to block pension funds from considering ESG factors

NGFS backs extending 'greening' to central bank-issued debt & reserves

Central banks should consider extending work to 'green' their own assets to cover 'liabilities', including short-term debt and monetary reserves, according to a group of central banks and supervisors.

Microfinance firm Sarvodaya plans debut 'Orange Bond'

Sri Lankan microfinance lender Sarvodaya Development Bank is planning to raise up to LKR2 billion ($6.4 million) from a debut gender-focused social bond, known as an 'Orange Bond'.

Sustainalytics exit follows 'SPOs becoming less decisive' for impactful sustainable bonds

Morningstar Sustainalytics decision to shutter its second-party opinion (SPO) business will prompt market reflection on the "less decisive" role the assessments play in identifying impact in sustainable debt markets, a senior banker argues.

Morningstar Sustainalytics 'winding down' SPO business after 12 years

Morningstar Sustainalytics has confirmed it plans to close its business providing second-party opinions (SPO) for sustainable finance instruments - despite having been the leading player in the market as little as two years ago.