BetaShares launches new diversified bond ETF
BetaShares has launched its new exchange traded fund (ETF), which will expand its ethical range, and offer investors access to a diversified portfolio of high-quality global and Australian bonds that meet responsible investment criteria.
The new fund, the BetaShares Sustainability Leaders Diversified Bond ETF – Currency Hedged (GBND), would be the first ETF on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) which specifically targeted a proportion of ‘green bonds’.
According to the company, GBND would be well suited for advisers and investors who were seeking the benefits of fixed income but also wished to focus on sustainability.
The fund would follow the index that tracked utilities strict environmental, social and governance (ESG) screening processes to select eligible bonds such as those with material exposure to the fossil fuel industry or engaged in activities that carried significant ESG risks.
“With interpretations of responsible investing varying widely, we’re finding investors want to know that their money is being invested in a way that aligns with their values, rather than ethical in name alone”, Alex Vynokur, BetaShares’ chief executive, said.
“The statistics make it clear that global and Australian investors alike are increasingly using ethical investment options as they realise the impact their money can have on promoting positive environmental and social outcomes.”
GBND would join BetaShares’ range of ethical ETFs, which currently provided investors access to a portfolio of global shares (ETHI) and Australian Shares (FAIR) using similar rigorous eligibility screening, the firm said.
AUTHOR
Oksana Patron
Recommended for you
The $673 billion global investment manager has appointed a former Zenith sales head as it seeks to expand its reach in the Australian wealth management market.
Fund managers may be operating in a squeezed environment, but a salary guide shows they are willing to pay up for specialist talent to diversify their fund range.
Reach Alternative Investments has entered into a strategic partnership with Russell Investments to bolster its wholesale private markets offering for financial advisers and investors.
Boutique investment consulting and research house Genium Investment Partners has announced a senior appointment to drive further growth in its research ratings business.
