Strategic transition
On Wednesday 3 June, the JSE announced a partnership with FTSE Russell, which will see the data collection and assessment methodology previously conducted for purposes of the annual SRI index review aligned to the evolved approach of FTSE Russell.
The transition is an evolution of the SRI index, and builds on its achievements and the strides made by listed companies. The change is in response to needs identified during the strategic review in 2012.
The new approach replaces the SRI Index Series, calculation of which will be terminated by the end of 2015.
For the JSE, the partnership provides new synergies and an enhanced value proposition for its clients.
Companies have the opportunity to be assessed as part of a global process, and become part of a global sustainability universe alongside their international peers. It affords them exposure to a greater pool of international investors, and enables engagement on global best practice issues.
The strategy is more closely positioned to the needs of the investment community for expanded access to ESG data and more flexibility to create ESG products.
The transition takes place with immediate effect to progress investor demand.
In this cycle the research will draw from FTSE Russell’s ESG coverage of JSE-listed companies that are included in FTSE Russell’s All-World Index Series. Currently FTSE Russell’s research covers 85 JSE-listed companies (making up 93% of the market cap of the FTSE/JSE All Share Index). FTSE Russell undertook the first cycle of research last year, and will commence this year’s review shortly.
Timelines and dates for the assessments will be finalised and communicated to companies once FTSE Russell have firmed up company reporting release dates.
Sustainability thought leadership at the JSE
- The JSE will be hosting its inaugural topical seminar on 28 July, titled “Corporate SA in the discourse on corruption and ethics management”. The session is the first in an offering of periodic discussions on ESG related issues. It is directed at listed company leadership, with the aim of having an interactive discussion with a panel of subject matter experts.
- On 27 August, investor firms will have an opportunity to engage companies from the 2014 SRI index review on their sustainability strategies. The
2015 JSE ESG Investor Briefing is a full day event with companies from diverse sectors presenting in line with the UN Global Compact Value Driver Model. The event is directed at institutional and boutique investors and remains one of the most popular events on the JSE event calendar.
To view the media release on the JSE FTSE Russell collaboration announcement, please go to
www.jse.co.za or contact us on sri@jse.co.za. |
