Today we have released a new SDI Classification dataset. The universe was extended to include high yield bond issuers, in response to user demand and includes overall mutations in the SDI universe due to corporate actions (e.g. mergers, IPO’s) and classification rule refinements. We have also moved from a semi-annual to quarterly release cycle.
We are excited to announce that SDI AOP subscribers using Aladdin, a BlackRock technology platform that unifies the investment process, can now directly access SDI AOP data via the platform, as well as Aladdin Risk. Aladdin enhances our offering with sophisticated risk analytics for comprehensive portfolio management, trading, and operations tools on a single platform.
The Dutch VBDO (the Dutch Association for Investors for Sustainable Development) has examined the impact investment policies of Dutch pension plans. One of the conclusions of the report is that pension plans have started to incorporate contributions to society in their responsible investment policies. However, they find it hard to measure their impact. The SDI AOP approach enables investors to help investors to measure contributions consistently.
Investors are facing challenges in trying to report to several frameworks that have yet to mature. Having access to traceable and consistent data is important to be able to report under these frameworks, while at the same time maintaining the ability to inform the investment process with proprietary choices. The SDI AOP data helps to deliver on this and thus acts as a basis for global investors navigating the regulatory space.
We announced the launch of the SDI Asset Owner Platform at the PRI event in Paris in 2019. We’re excited to now add a new product to the SDI AOP offering and launch the SDI Innovation Outlook on 1 December in Barcelona as a side event at the PRI In Person 2022. Asset owners, asset managers, investment consultants are invited to join the event.
Every year, Dutch Financieele Dagblad and Pensioen Pro issues the “Pensioen Pro Awards”. These are awards granted for pioneering work in the pension sector. Last week APG won the award in the Asset Management category for the iSTOXX APG World Responsible Investment indices. We are proud that the data sets includes one derived from the SDI AOP.
