Dutch asset manager Robeco has launched two equity strategies and repositioned two fixed-income ones to bolster its position on transition investing. The moves aim to enable investors to tap into the growth potential of the green transition from both a financial and sustainable perspective. The new Emerging Markets Climate Transition Equities strategy will specifically focus on the low-carbon economy transition and aligning with the goals of the Paris Agreement, while the broader Transition Asian Equities strategy will consider environmental and social objectives while having a transition focus. The two repositioned fixed-income strategies include the Sustainable Emerging Credits strategy, which has become the Transition Emerging Credits strategy, and the Sustainable Asian Bonds – which is now the Transition Asian Bonds strategy. Robeco flagged that an estimated US$125 trillion are needed to transfer global emerging economies to net zero by 2050, with the biggest changes needed in Asia and emerging markets – justifying its focus. The asset manager also noted that transition leaders have historically outperformed laggards – both in developed and emerging markets. “We acknowledge the significance and opportunities of transition finance,” said Lucian Peppelenbos, Climate and Biodiversity Strategist at Robeco. “Our expertise in equities and credits, our deep understanding of emerging markets, as well as our sustainability background, are key ingredients to drive successful transition investments.”
