There were no big bang announcements in Rachel Reeves's Budget this week, but policy still matters – and it can be as much a hindrance as an enabler, as the latest insights in the UK's social investment market from Better Society Capital shows.
New research from the UK’s social investment wholesaler shows a 12% year-on-year increase largely driven by a jump in investment in social and affordable housing, while the picture is more mixed in other segments of the market.
OPINION: There’s a message blowing across the Atlantic that the business of investment is to maximise return, and considering people and planet is woke nonsense. This argument is outdated, says GSG Impact chair Nick Hurd.
This week: the big news from COP30; growth in Australia’s impact investing market; and the total number of social enterprises across Africa is revealed.
Government says new ‘central point of contact’ for impact economy recognises the ‘untapped potential’ of the country’s social impact sector, while the movement welcomes ‘joined up’ support.
Ukraine posts second highest number of climate-focused, blended finance transactions in the world in 2024 – and enters top 10 countries for first time – as blended finance identified as “form of crisis financing” – new Convergence research.
The final report from the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group points to the lack of a coherent cross-department strategy and calls for “sustainable and visible leadership” in government and the adoption of a “mobilisation mindset”.
This week: UK pensions bill amendment aims to clarify fiduciary duty to unlock funding, four social outcomes funds launch in Africa, how ships could soon be powered by algae – and more.
