Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/esg-investing-setting-standards-conducting-analysis
In the rapidly evolving world of finance, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing has emerged as a critical consideration for both individual and institutional investors. To navigate this complex landscape, I recently enrolled in Coursera’s ‘ESG Investing: Setting Standards & Conducting Analysis’ course, and I can confidently recommend it to anyone looking to gain a solid foundation in this area.
The course does an excellent job of bridging the gap between traditional financial knowledge and the fundamental concepts of ESG. It clearly outlines the rationale behind ESG’s inception and its developmental journey. Through a well-structured series of video lectures, engaging webinars, and insightful readings, the course effectively breaks down the core principles of the ‘E’, ‘S’, and ‘G’.
A significant portion of the course is dedicated to tracing the origins of ESG, showing its evolution from Socially Responsible Investing (SRI). It highlights key historical milestones, such as the Community Reinvestment Act and the formation of the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment. The impact of pivotal UN reports and the subsequent rise of initiatives like the Principles for Responsible Investing (PRI) and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) are also thoroughly explored.
What truly sets this course apart are the ‘Industry Insights’ segments featuring Gabelli Funds. These webinars offer a practical, real-world perspective on ESG investing. Chris Marangi, a portfolio manager at Gabelli Funds, provides candid discussions on defining ESG, its objectives like altering corporate behavior and mitigating risks, and identifying investment opportunities. The Q&A sessions are particularly valuable, addressing crucial topics such as climate change, supply chains, nuclear power, integrated oil companies, and the nuances of performing due diligence within an ESG framework. Marangi also tackles important concerns like ESG and volatility, regulation, screening strategies, and corporate accountability.
The ‘ESG Fundamental Analysis’ module is where theory meets practice. It frames ESG issues as potential risks to financial performance, offering practical strategies for conducting due diligence and identifying investment opportunities, particularly in the green asset sphere. The ‘Reading Reinforcements’ modules are designed to equip learners with the knowledge to critically analyze ESG’s origins and evolution, ensuring a deep understanding of sustainability-related terminology and the relationship between ESG factors and financial performance.
Overall, ‘ESG Investing: Setting Standards & Conducting Analysis’ is a comprehensive and accessible course that provides a robust understanding of ESG principles and their application in investment decision-making. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to the field, this course offers invaluable insights and practical knowledge to confidently approach ESG investing.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/esg-investing-setting-standards-conducting-analysis