Industry News: ESG5

The National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) was set up to facilitate automatic enrolment for workers in the UK as part of the government's workplace pension reform in 2008. As of March 31st 2018, NEST managed £ 2.7 billion in behalf of 6.4 million members, making it the largest defined contribution master trust in the UK.

The consideration of ESG risk factors in the investment management process is part of NEST's core beliefs, as it can improve risk adjusted returns, support long-term wealth creation and help managing reputational risks. The responsible investment strategy focuses on addressing climate change, improving banking conduct and culture, understanding workforce and human capital, and promoting audit best practices. To achieve these goals, ESG issues are integrated in risk management and active ownership. Further, NEST engages with regulators and standard setters such as the TCFD, the Workforce Disclosure Initiative, and the Parliamentary Environmental Audit Committee among others. Going forward, NEST is seeking to divest its tobacco holdings from all of its portfolios in the next two years.

Principles for Investing Responsibly

Voting Policy

Responsible Investing Report – 2018