RBC Asset Management Inc. today became the first bank-owned mutual fund firm to join the Social Investment Organization (SIO) as an associate member.

SIO is a national, non-profit association for the socially responsible investment industry in Canada with a primary mandate to promote the use of social and environmental criteria within the Canadian investment community.

“We are committed to supporting the development of socially responsible investing and corporate governance in Canada and are pleased to join the SIO in its efforts to promote these considerations,” says Brenda Vince, president, RBC Asset Management Inc.

In a recent SIO report, RBC Asset Management Inc. was recognized for its track record of voting in support of shareholder resolutions, as well as its provision of user-friendly voting records at www.rbcam.com.

“We are pleased to have RBC Asset Management join our organization and we appreciate their support in promoting social responsible investing,” says Eugene Ellmen, executive director of the SIO.

In July 2007, RBC Asset Managment introduced the RBC Jantzi Funds, a socially responsible investing option for the growing number of investors who believe environmental, social and governance factors should be primary considerations in making investment decisions.