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 This argument is outdated, says GSG Impact chair Nick Hurd.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.
As impact investors become increasingly risk-averse, innovative social enterprises further struggle to raise the investment they need. Laura Joffre introduces this month's digest of impact investing news and analysis.
Venture capital isn’t always the best option to back impact startups, especially as the approach is coming under increasing criticism. Dr Markus Freiburg flags a new fund which could help finance a new, innovation-driven impact middle market.
