In recent years, a consensus has emerged among investors, shareholders, financiers, customers, and other stakeholders that corporations, and businesses in general, should bear the responsibility of trying to solve the problems that the world faces. These include climate change, slavery, human trafficking, and human rights’ crises, alongside more workplace-based issues, such as promoting a healthier, balanced, and inclusive working environment. There is a rising expectation from stakeholders that corporations should integrate these Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors into their business strategy and are willing to reward or punish corporations accordingly. Such methods of encouragement include impact investment, sustainable fi nance, consumer boycotts or even refusing further investments in fi rms that do not follow the ESG criteria. Similarly, companies are increasingly required to identify, manage, and disclose their ESG risks and initiatives to investors and regulators.

The panel will explore the current topics in ESG compliance and will share insights into how investment and financing decisions are made, and how they prepare to seize the opportunities this trend brings from their respective businesses.