Martin Currie recognised for ESG achievements

Martin Currie has reached an A+ rating for its approach to environmental, social and governance (ESG) approach for the fourth consecutive year.

The award was given by the Principles for Responsible Investment Association (PRI) which reports on firm’s responsible investing priorities and ESG engagement. The firm had been a signatory to the PRI since 2009.

Martin Currie, a specialist investment manager with Franklin Templeton, achieved the highest rating in the areas of strategy and governance, listed equity incorporation and active ownership.

In Australia, the firm runs a variety of ESG-specific funds including Legg Mason Martin Currie Sustainable Equity, Ethical Income and Ethical Values with Income.

David Sheasby, head of stewardship and ESG at Martin Currie, said: “Whilst we made significant advancement in our ESG capabilities last year with the development of a proprietary rating system and an increased focus on scenario analysis, we are constantly looking at new ways to improve such as analysing carbon value-at-risk (CVaR) through a proprietary carbon sensitivity model and a project to map company analysis against the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“At Martin Currie, stewardship is at the heart of our client proposition. Understanding our clients’ needs and priorities and aligning these, through active ownership, with the companies that can create long-term, sustainable value.”