In a statement, the global asset manager said it would manage the ANU’s Endowment for Excellence, the university’s active fixed income strategy with an ESG overlay.
The endowment fund is the university’s entity that receives and manages donations and gifts from university alumni, staff and friends, according to the ANU website.
The fixed income strategy screens out securities from companies that derive over 20 per cent revenue from tobacco, coal, gambling or adult entertainment.
The university noted Aberdeen Standard Investment’s “proven expertise in delivering financial returns within an environmental, social and governance framework” and their “highly regarded and solid domestic fixed income team”.
Aberdeen Standard Investments Australia managing director Brett Jolie said it was “particularly pleasing” to be awarded “such a high profile mandate”.
“We are delighted to work together with ANU, employing the skill and breadth of experience from the Australian fixed income team,” he said.
“Importantly, our globally-resourced ESG capability is being implemented for Australian investors and our integrated approach allows us to offer bespoke ESG solutions that meet individual needs.”
In a time where investors were taking into consideration “their wider fiduciary responsibilities”, Mr Jolie described ESG integration as an “important conversation” with “significant growth potential”.
