Toronto-based BMO Asset Management Inc. (BMO AM) announced on Friday that it is now a member of the Toronto-based Responsible Investment Association (RIA).
BMO AM’s involvement with the RIA proves the firm’s commitment to incorporating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into its investment strategies, according to Lesley Marks, the firm’s chief investment officer.
“While our fundamental equity group already formally includes and evaluates ESG principles as part of our ongoing investment decision-making process, we look forward to working with the Responsible Investment Association to refine our approach and continue our track record of responsible and sustainable investing,” says Marks in a statement.
The firm is also a signatory of the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment Initiative, a global network of 1503 signatories that includes asset owners and investment managers.
The RIA is excited to welcome BMO AM as an associate member, says Deb Abbey, CEO of the RIA, in a statement.
“The decision to join our organization demonstrates leadership and strengthens our capacity to advance responsible investment in Canada,” she adds.
The RIA is a national, membership-based organization composed of financial institutions, mutual fund companies, investment firms, financial advisors and various organizations and individuals who practice and support responsible investing.
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