New research on Australia’s ASX 300 companies finds that diversity within board committees, particularly in terms of gender, independence, and professional background, leads to smarter and more efficient investment decisions. The study shows that diverse committees make more disciplined and forward-looking choices, linking inclusion directly to better financial performance and long-term value creation.

This CGAP technical guide outlines how lenders can apply gender-intentional approaches to credit scoring to expand women’s access to finance without increasing portfolio risk. Using data from AB Bank Zambia and TymeBank South Africa, it demonstrates practical methods for integrating gender analysis, adjusting scorecards, and improving lending outcomes for women.

The report analyses the growth and practices of gender lens investing (GLI) across asset classes. It highlights how institutional investors and impact funds integrate gender equality goals into investment strategies, identifies challenges such as limited data and standardisation, and provides guidance to deepen GLI’s contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality.

AXA Research Lab on Gender Equality (Gender Lab) at Bocconi University in Milan advances empirical research and education on gender economics, diversity and policy impact. The lab publishes reports, hosts events and fosters academic-industry collaboration to promote gender equality across labour markets, fertility dynamics, culture and political representation.

TIRESIA (Technology Innovation & REsearch for Social ImpAct) is a research centre within the School of Management at Politecnico di Milano. It focuses on impact finance, social entrepreneurship, inclusive innovation and impact measurement. Through academic research, advisory services and executive education, it supports hybrid organisations and the public sector in embedding social value across strategy and governance.

Phenix Capital Group is an Amsterdam-based impact investing intelligence and advisory firm. It helps institutional investors and fund managers access curated impact fund data, conduct impact due diligence, and develop financial-first impact strategies tied to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This report summarises asset managers allocating capital to sustainability and transition-focused investments. Published by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and SRI-Connect, it profiles firms investing in environmental, social and economic transition strategies to help companies attract sustainability-oriented investors.

This report by First Sentier Investors outlines a holistic approach to responsible investment that integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors. It argues that considering synergies and trade-offs across ESG issues enables better risk management and long-term value creation. Case studies illustrate practical applications across supply chains, infrastructure and resource sectors.

This month’s sustainability roundup covers Australia’s new 2035 emissions target, ASIC’s final climate disclosure guidance, and Fortescue’s revised transition plan. It also examines global developments, from ISSB reporting updates and TNFD nature disclosures to Woodside’s gas extension, rising physical climate risks, and evolving ESG policy debates shaping corporate and investor responses.

This report summarises guidance from the AASB and AUASB on applying AASB Practice Statement 2 to climate-related and other emerging risks. It explains how such risks may be material to financial statements, outlines related accounting and auditing considerations, and emphasises the need for transparent disclosure and investor-relevant information.

Lazard offers global financial advisory and asset management services, specialising in mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, capital markets and investment strategy. Founded in 1848, it serves institutional clients, corporations, governments and high-net-worth individuals across 40+ cities worldwide.

This report summarises recommendations from Canada’s Expert Panel on Sustainable Finance to mobilise private capital for low-carbon, resilient growth: improve market clarity and standards (incl. TCFD), build national climate data (C3IA), and develop financing solutions such as green and transition instruments, infrastructure investment, and building retrofits, supported by enabling policy.

Global Fossil Fuel Divestment Database: a comprehensive, publicly accessible tracker of institutional fossil-fuel divestment commitments worldwide, maintained by Stand.earth. Lists institutions, commitment types (full, partial, coal/tar sands), and total assets committed, supporting benchmarking and verification of announcements.

ResponsibleReturns is a directory that enables users to find independently certified ethical, sustainable or responsible banking, superannuation and investment products.

This report summarises legal opinions by Noel Hutley SC and Sebastian Hartford Davis for the Centre for Policy Development, concluding that Australian company directors must assess, disclose and manage foreseeable climate risks. It highlights growing regulatory and investor expectations, making climate oversight a key element of directors’ duties and liability exposure.

This report summarises global sustainable investment trends from 2016 to 2018, noting a 34 per cent increase to USD 30.7 trillion. Japan saw the fastest growth, while Europe remained the largest market. The leading strategies were ESG integration, exclusionary screening, and shareholder engagement across major investment regions.