Socially Responsible Investing

Aligning your investments with your values and global sustainability goals.

What is SRI?

Socially responsible investing (SRI), also known as sustainable, ethical, or impact investing, aims to generate both financial return and positive social/environmental impact. Originating in the 1960s, SRI has evolved to address global issues such as climate change, inequality, and corporate accountability.

Today, it's a growing priority for institutions integrating ESG factors into long-term investment strategies.

Key Considerations

Before choosing an SRI product, investors should assess:

Personal or institutional goals and values
Investment horizon and liquidity needs
Eligibility under the Investment Policy Statement (IPS)

Introducing IMPACT GICs

Developed in partnership with leading Canadian financial institutions, IMPACT GICs are exclusive to the Cash Management Group. They are designed to help public sector and institutional investors align investments with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Why IMPACT GICs?

Negative Screens

The first and most common approach to socially responsible investing is divestment from industries and entities that create negative consequences for the world around them. This is called a "negative screen"—a commitment to prevent investor capital from being used in activities that conflict with their values.

For example, Canadian investors concerned about climate change should review pooled funds or managed products for fossil fuel exposure. IMPACT GICs are subject to 10 negative screening categories where no lending activity will occur.

Positive Screens

The second approach is the "positive screen"—a proactive commitment to invest in initiatives that further broad social goals. For investors with a broad focus, the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals serve as a framework to guide impactful decision-making.

These goals form the foundation of the IMPACT GIC program. All lending activity is aligned with at least one of these SDGs.

An infographic of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, displaying 17 icons and titles for goals such as No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life Below Water, Life on Land, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and Partnerships for the Goals.

The Cash Management Group is proud to have been a supporting member of the Responsible Investment Association (RIA) since 2015.

The RIA is Canada’s leading membership association dedicated to advancing responsible investing. As members, we believe that integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into investment selection and management not only enhances risk-adjusted returns but also contributes to meaningful, positive societal impact.

The Responsible Investment Association’s purpose is to:

Support the responsible investment activities of its members
Promote the integration of ESG factors into investment analysis and decision-making
Advance the practice and awareness of responsible investing across Canada