Posted in Managed Funds & Unit Trusts.

Hunter Hall - Investing Ethically for 20 years

hunterhallResponsible & ethical investing has been very much in the news over the past few weeks.

The current furore has largely come about due to media investigations into the holdings of a number of Kiwisaver providers, and their exposure to controversial weapons and other (arguably unethical) areas such as tobacco companies. The ensuing debate and reaction demonstrates the fact that many investors expect their fund managers not only to achieve good returns, but to do so in a responsible manner.

As you may be aware, Hunter Hall, from very early in its’ history, has taken an ethical approach to investing. For Hunter Hall, this means avoiding investments in businesses that in its opinion are involved in activities that are harmful to people, animals and the environment. To achieve this, Hunter Hall adopts a negative screening process that seeks to avoid investment in companies that derive operating revenues from direct and material business involvement in…

In addition, Hunter Hall is an active owner and incorporates ESG issues into its ownership policies and practices. For example, in the year ending June 2016, Hunter Hall voted in every company meetings where it was eligible to vote. 

Hunter Hall is a signatory to the UN PRI, and a member of the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia (RIAA) and ESG Research Australia. Hunter Hall’s products are certified as an “ethical investment” by RIAA. Since listing on the ASX in February 2001, the parent of the Hunter Hall Group, Hunter Hall International Limited (ASX.HHL) has donated 5% of its pre-tax profits to charities or charitable purposes. As at 30 June 2016, Hunter Hall has donated A$10.8m.

Each year, Hunter Hall produces a Sustainability Report which provides a detailed overview of its approach to responsible investing and corporate social responsibility. A copy of the 2016 Report is now available by clicking here.

Not forgetting the importance of investment returns, Hunter Hall has established a long term track record of both responsible and successful investing. For the 20 year period to 31 August, the Hunter Hall Value Growth Trust has achieved a return of 13.8% per annum (vs the MSCI World Total Return Index, Net Dividends re-invested in $NZD which has returned 5.8%). You can access a copy of the latest monthly performance report for the Value Growth Trust by clicking here.

If you are interested in investing iin one of the Hunter Hall funds or would like to discuss them please call Bay Financial Partners on 07 578 3863.

Managed Funds