Investment Today: Seaya Ventures, Bolsa Social, and Attalea Partners at South Summit 2020

## Responsible Investing: Exploring the Concepts of ESG and Impact Investing

In this video, we delve into the world of responsible investing, where achieving financial returns is not the sole focus. Join our panel of experts as we discuss the importance of investing with social and environmental impacts in mind. Leading the conversation is Maria Merry del Val, Partner at Attalea Partners, who will guide us through the key concepts and differences between ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and impact investing.

Responsible investing has gained significant traction in recent months, with almost 50 percent of venture capital firms in Spain signing up to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investing[^1]. Notably, the importance of responsible investing has never been more evident than in today’s world[^2]. But what exactly are the concepts behind responsible investing, and how can investors and entrepreneurs actively participate in positive social and environmental change?

To start, it is crucial to grasp the essence of ESG. ESG focuses on incorporating environmental, social, and governance factors into investment processes and company strategies[^3]. By doing so, it not only generates value but also preserves it. For instance, cyber security plays a crucial role in the tech industry, while fintech businesses must prioritize consumer protection. Furthermore, environmental factors are of utmost importance in agritech and medtech sectors[^3].

On the other hand, impact investing centers around purpose and is considered a dedicated investment strategy. Many experts even believe it will emerge as a separate asset class[^3]. Impact investing aims to achieve positive financial returns alongside a positive environmental or social impact, ultimately contributing to a better world. The two concepts, ESG and impact investing, may differ significantly but share the common goal of driving positive change.

Joining us today are three esteemed panelists who will enlighten us on the concepts and correlations between ESG and impact investing. Cyril Gouiffès, Head of Social Impact at the European Investment Fund, will offer his insights into the differences between ESG and impact investing and their correlation with investment returns. The European Investment Fund (EIF) holds a significant position as Europe’s most prominent institutional investor and has played a substantial role in shaping the investing landscape through its commitment to impact investing[^4].

Antonio Giménez de Córdoba, Partner at Seaya Ventures, will shed light on what led their venture capital firm to sign up for the UNPRI (United Nations Principles for Responsible Investing)[^5]. He will address the changes the organization underwent in terms of investment processes and highlight any challenges faced along the way. Seaya Ventures has been at the forefront of incorporating ESG and impact investing considerations into their investment criteria.

Lastly, José Moncada, Managing Partner at Bolsa Social, will share his perspective as an impact investor focusing on projects and startups that intentionally pursue a positive environmental or social impact[^6]. José will elaborate on why impact investing is crucial and how it can drive change in a sustainable and meaningful way.

If you’re interested in responsible investing and want to gain a deeper understanding of ESG and impact investing, join us for this engaging and insightful discussion. Together, we can make a difference in the investment landscape while also creating a better world for future generations.

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Sources:

[^1]: [UNPRI Signatories](https://www.unpri.org/pri/about-the-pri/signatories)
[^2]: [Responsible Investing in the News](https://www.ft.com/content/47433a12-7ef0-4694-813b-6280f79110fa)
[^3]: [ESG and Impact Investing Explanation](https://www.msci.com/esg-and-impact-investing)
[^4]: [European Investment Fund (EIF)](https://www.eif.org/)
[^5]: [Seaya Ventures](https://seaya.vc/)
[^6]: [Bolsa Social](https://www.bolsasocial.com/)

– Cyril Gouiffès – EIF
– Antonio Giménez de Córdoba – Seaya Ventures
– José Moncada – Bolsa Social
– María Merry del Val – Attalea Partners