Social and governance issues are equally or even more important than the environmental factor in driving the ESG investment decisions of US consumers.

These findings are from a study by Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America, which surveyed 1,000 respondents aged 18 years or older.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Of those surveyed, 73% considered social issues like employee working conditions and racial/gender equality while investing.

Besides, 69% of the respondents weighed governance issues including business transparency and level of executive compensation.

Environmental concerns including natural resource conservation or a company’s impact on climate change were found to guide the decisions of 73% of the investors.

When asked about the significant factor driving their desire to do business with a company, 34% of the respondents cited a company’s stance on social issues.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Twenty seven percent of the respondents emphasised corporate governance issues in this regard, while 22% focussed on a company’s record on environmental issues.

Also, 71% of the respondents said they would stop investing in a firm that was unethical.

Allianz Investment Management CIO Todd Hedtke said: “While environmental factors are certainly important, the average investor in the U.S. is just as interested in a company’s social and governance practices before they make investment decisions.

“From a business perspective, companies need to pay attention to the fact that ESG is not some passing fad.

“Companies that view this as an opportunity to make changes are likely to realise a positive impact in both the near- and long-term.”