Amundi Global Gender Equality UCITS ETF Acc

Issuer: Amundi ETF

Asset Class: Equity

TER: 20bps

Trading Currency: GBP

Pays Income: False

Listing Date: 14 Feb 2018

Ticker: GEND

ISIN: LU1691909508

This investment product offers exposure to the growing theme of gender equality, providing a way to align portfolios with social values without compromising on potential financial returns. It targets global companies that are leaders in promoting gender diversity and equality within their operations. The underlying principle is that firms with strong gender equality policies often exhibit superior corporate governance, enhanced innovation, and better financial performance over the long term. By investing in these forward-thinking companies, investors can tap into a source of potential alpha driven by robust human capital management and a positive public image, which can translate into a more resilient and profitable business model.

The fund achieves its objective by tracking an index that employs a rigorous, data-driven methodology to identify qualifying companies. This process involves screening thousands of publicly traded companies across the globe against a comprehensive set of criteria. These metrics include gender balance across all levels of the workforce, particularly in leadership and board positions; equal compensation and work-life balance policies; and a commitment to transparency and accountability in promoting women's empowerment. This ensures the portfolio consists of a diversified basket of companies that are not just making public commitments but are actively implementing policies that foster an equitable workplace.

This thematic investment is suitable for those looking to add a socially responsible satellite holding to a core global equity portfolio. It provides exposure to a unique factor—gender equality—that is increasingly recognized as a key component of the 'S' in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing. By focusing on companies that lead in this area, the fund offers a distinct investment thesis centered on the belief that empowering women in the workplace is not only a social imperative but also a smart business strategy that can drive sustainable, long-term shareholder value.