Firm's second sustainability-focused boutique, led by veteran portfolio manager, debuts with two mutual fund offerings
Building on its commitment to promote sustainable investing, Mackenzie Investments has announced a new ESG-focused investment boutique.
Led by veteran portfolio manager Andrew Simpson, Mackenzie Betterworld is the firm’s second investment boutique that prioritizes sustainable investment after Greenchip Financial, which Mackenzie acquired late last year. Serving both Canadian investors and advisors, it seeks to provide industry-leading solutions that centre on sustainable objectives by incorporating ESG factors.
“Mackenzie is dedicated to building a sustainable and responsible future, one investment at a time. Sustainable investing is truly at the core of our purpose, culture, corporate practices and investment processes,” said Fate Saghir, Mackenzie’s head of Sustainable Investing. “As part of our ongoing commitment to being Canada’s sustainable investing partner of choice, we’re extremely excited to introduce the Mackenzie Betterworld Investment Team.”
Simpson’s team at Betterment includes Shelly Dhawan, David Frazer, and Stan Li. With decades of ESG expertise and investment success, the team uses original, independent ESG research to identify companies with growth potential that are also aligned to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Their proprietary process, which emphasizes diversified, large-cap equity portfolios and long-term value, is driven by a methodology that leads with ESG followed by financial analysis. Companies are assessed through the lens of all stakeholders – including shareholders, the environment, and the community – while seeking outperformance and strong growth opportunities.
Along with the Betterment launch, Mackenzie has introduced the boutique’s first two funds: Mackenzie Betterworld Global Equity Fund and Mackenzie Betterworld Canadian Equity Fund.
Aimed at providing investors with long-term capital appreciation, the funds invest primarily in equity securities – mainly large-caps that are diversified across sectors and industries – issued by companies considered to have progressive corporate practices and best-in-class ESG.
“Our team uses a bottom-up approach that assesses a company’s ability to generate positive impact for people and the planet in addition to financial fundamentals,” Simpson said. “We believe the Funds we’re introducing today are strong options for Canadian advisors and investors who seek to include sustainable solutions in their portfolios without sacrificing returns.”
