02 October 2024 | 4 min. readingtime
a.s.r. asset management focuses on responsible investing and creating positive impact through investments. With a clear strategy, a.s.r. aims to reduce negative effects and promote positive changes in society and the environment. Recently, new strategic ambitions have been announced to further strengthen this focus.
The new strategic ambitions are based on three main objectives. First, the goal is to minimize the negative impact of activities on the environment and society. This is achieved, among other things, by making responsible investment choices and setting clear rules for excluding certain sectors (see also our Policy on Responsible Investments) that cause severe harm to people and the planet.
Second, a.s.r. aims not only to respond to societal challenges but also to actively contribute to solutions and use our influence to encourage positive changes for people and the planet. We do this by investing on behalf of our clients in companies and countries that we believe have the potential to become more sustainable and demonstrate their commitment to this goal. We also engage in dialogue with companies and policymakers, highlighting areas where improvements are needed and providing them with the capital necessary for the transition.
Finally, creating a positive impact on society is a priority. a.s.r. believes that financial resources can also be utilized to address social issues. Therefore, part of our managed assets is allocated to impact investments. By investing in organizations and companies that have a positive effect on the environment or society, a.s.r. aims to contribute to a better society.
a.s.r.’s ambition is based on strategic principles. We see transparency and responsible business practices as foundations for building trust with clients and stakeholders. Additionally, a.s.r. focuses on four specific themes: climate change and energy transition, preservation of natural resources and biodiversity, health and well-being, and human rights.
For investments, two preferred areas have been identified as part of the new ambitions: local impact and innovation. a.s.r. invests in local Dutch initiatives that create value for communities and supports innovations and technologies that can facilitate societal transitions.
Last June, new targets were announced to objectively measure our progress and align our investment activities with our sustainability strategy. We aim for ‘net-zero’ financed emissions by 2045, with interim targets for 2030 and 2040. Additionally, we want to have invested at least 10% of managed assets in impact investments by 2027, of which at least 2 billion euros will be directed towards social impact (impact investments that contribute to health and well-being and human rights).
Read more about our responsible investment policy.