Actions have consequences. As a responsible investor, Aegon's global asset management business knows this is true of the decisions it makes on behalf of its clients. The latest Responsible Investment Report explains Aegon Asset Management's actions in 2019.
Aegon Asset Management - part of Aegon Group - believes in active, engaged and responsible investment. In practice, our global asset management business integrates ESG factors across its investment platform, fulfills its stewardship responsibilities by remaining active owners of its clients' portfolios and develops focused responsible investment solutions that aim to deliver on ESG objectives alongside competitive returns.
The 2019 Responsible Investment Report outlines Aegon Asset Management's approach and key developments across the three pillars: ESG integration, active ownership and responsible investment solutions.
Building on its rich heritage of responsible investment dating back over 30 years, Aegon Asset Management has enhanced its responsible investment activities as the marketplace has evolved. Notable developments in 2019 include:
- Enhanced ESG integration across asset classes and developed proprietary ESG research methodologies, specifically within corporate and securitized fixed income research.
- Increased active ownership activity by engaging with 564 companies, up from 360 the prior year. Voted on 2,321 meetings globally, a 69% increase from 2018.
- Launched progressive responsible investment strategies including a best-in-class ESG high yield strategy and sustainability-themed solution in fixed income, with additional strategies under development. These products complement our existing suite of responsible investment solutions with EUR 206 billion under management/advisement* across four key categories: exclusions, best-in-class, sustainability-themed and impact investments.
While Aegon Asset Management has made great progress, there’s more work to do. To that end, the asset manager remains committed to responsible investing and aspires to drive the industry forward by promoting best practices for the benefit of its clients, the industry and society at large.
*As of December 31, 2019. Assets under management/advisement excludes joint ventures. Responsible investment products and services may vary regionally.