Embark Investments, as the Authorised Corporate Director (ACD) of the Horizon fund range, is a signatory of the United Nations supported Principles for Responsible Investment (UN PRI), a globally recognised benchmark for the consideration of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues. Embark Investments are committed to the integration of fundamental ESG principals into the Horizon Multi Asset Fund range and continue to evolve the Horizon Funds in line with changing investment markets and client needs.
The six principles for the PRI match the framework that Embark Investments employs to oversee the Horizon funds, helping us to embrace an international standard. The ACD monitors the funds through a number of ESG-related indicators on a monthly basis and proactively engages with the appointed investment manager, Columbia Threadneedle Investments.
The multi-asset fund managers responsible for the five Horizon funds at Columbia Threadneedle, as well as the portfolio managers of Horizon’s underlying sub-funds, are supported in their decision-making by Columbia Threadneedle’s Responsible Investment (RI) team. Their proprietary RI ratings tool provides insights into a company’s leadership, governance, culture and operational standards of practice, with a focus on issues that are material to its long-term performance. Their approach includes understanding linkages between sustainability opportunities on the one hand, and growth and competitive advantage on the other.
Columbia Threadneedle Investments are one of the founding signatories of the UN PRI. In 2020 Columbia Threadneedle received an overall PRI assessment rating of A+, the highest rating possible which they have enjoyed for the sixth year running. They have been a signatory to the UK Stewardship code since 2010.