BNP Paribas Asset Management has expanded its range of sustainable thematic investments with the launch of its first blue economy exchange-traded fund (ETF).
The fund will build on the work BNP achieved with the circular economy ETF it launched in May 2019.
This new ETF, called the BNP Paribas Easy ECPI Global ESG Blue Economy Ucits ETF, replicates an index from ECPI.
It has been listed on German stock exchange Xetra, and Euronext since 6 October 2020.
The fund will select companies according to five categories: coastal livelihood (protection, eco-tourism), energy & resources (offshore wind, marine biotech, wave & tidal ), fisheries & seafood, pollution reduction (recycling/waste management, environmental services) and maritime transport.
The equally-weighted index consists of 50 companies with a positive ESG rating and with the largest market capitalisation within their category.
The theme of the fund also aligns with BNPP AM’s sustainable investment priorities of energy transition, environmental protection and equality & inclusive growth.
Isabelle Bourcier, head of Quantitative & Index Management at BNPP AM, said:
“The launch of the first blue economy ETF globally is a logical continuation of our strong commitment to develop ESG systematic approach that we initiated more than 12 years ago. It reaffirms BNPP AM’s desire to be a pioneer in ESG investment management and highlights our ambition to be ever more innovative in the responsible investment themes that we offer to our clients.”
Olivier Héreil , deputy CEO, AM at BNP Paribas Cardif, stated:
“BNP Paribas Cardif made the decision to invest in this blue economy ETF because as a long-term investor, we want to contribute to a greener future. We believe that protecting the world’s oceans and marine and coastal ecosystems – and more broadly, biodiversity – is absolutely critical. Our policy of responsible investing takes these issues into account, enabling us to have a positive impact on society and the environment.”