you're
probably used to the annual press release stating: the rich are
getting richer owning as much as half the worlds poorest people do.
The report is timely presented just before the World Economic
Forum meeting in Davos. It's
aim: to urge attending companies, politicians, visionary leaders,
researchers and non profits to collaborate on global challenges such
as poverty & inequality and integrate them in the
transformation into the 4th Industrial
Revolution*.
As you
made your fortune in IT, the catalyst of the 3rd
Industrial Revolution, built one of the largest companies in the
world and work in impact investment, a catalyst for societal &
environmental returns, you have a unique set of skills, expertise,
network and financial means.
I
challenge you to buy a dozen listed companies
In
basic needs & impact tech sectors and transform the companies
into ''model'' New Capitalism companies offering solutions
to societal challenges. Without undermining profitability,
because without profit and growth the companies will perish and so
will their societal solutions.
A
dozen companies as beacons & examples to stress the
urgency of inclusive basic needs and impact tech's leapfrog
promise to accelerate & scale solutions rapidly &
globally.
Private
but Public Equity Capital
I know
impact investing is often considered as mainly a private
equity investment activity, but the UN Sustainable
Development Goals specifically include all
private capital & companies to pursue these Global Goals.
Super
Sustainable sector leaders, especially
in Europe, have embraced the SDGs, but American companies seem to be
inert or lag behind**. As do most traditional small & midcap
companies considering ESG: Environmental,
Social & Governance policies a
luxury they cannot afford.
Perfect
timing
Many
politicians made sure ''they didn't waste a good crisis''
for reform and future proof
transformations during the last global financial & credit crisis.
Companies can use the present economic progress to invest
in sectoral challenges and opportunities.
Mission Possible, but you have to start today to think at least ten
years from now.
Unique
instrument
A
dozen show cases of listed companies fast forwarding the 4th
Industrial Revolution incorporating
the UN's SDGs in their
mission, strategy and tactics can inspire, lead, offer a road map and
save on (capital) investments.
It
has never been done before
Why
listed companies?
Because
of their financial
transparency educating
financial analysts on strategies towards New Capitalism,
so to avoid decades of discussion on the return of responsibly &
sustainably managed companies. Also a dozen case studies in the
here & now are much sexier
than educating analysts and intermediaries on Facts & Figures,
Trends, visions etc.
Obviously
the model companies will be(come) integrated reporters (GRI), publish
ESG performance and impact metrics.
Listed
companies are ''inclusive'' for
(retail) investors. Being catalysts for the 4th
Industrial Revolution gives them
opportunity to attract new and bigger investors***, get access to
(cheaper) capital and new customers in their new marketing strategy
of societal solutions (revenue & profit).
Private
equity may get better returns but the public listed equity market
is much larger & better regulated. It will attract more
investors (back) in the present economic climate because of it's
safeguards from regulation & legislation.
An
iconic initiative in transforming listed companies will affect
the financial system and global economy on a much larger scale than
exclusive, less transparent private equity investments.
We
need a skilled entrepreneur, with knowledge of global challenges &
experience in sustainable & impact investing as strategic theory
of change.
My
proposal is a tactical move with exponential effect on
financial markets.
Are
you game?
kind regards,
Alcanne Houtzaager
Inclusive²
Impact Investing
Tools
& Thoughtpieces
***
The introduction of Green or Climate Bonds in 2007 has sparked a
market with over 1560billion US$ in emissions in 2017 with
expectations for 2-018 ranging from 250-300 Billion US$.
Www.Climatebonds.net
