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Corporate Responsibility in the Financial Sector

16th Feb. 2023

There are a growing number of New Zealand companies that have a business purpose beyond profit maximisation. Corporate social responsibility and stakeholder interests are part of business practices, along with mission statements to make companies a force for good.

“People don’t immediately think of the service sector in general (for corporate responsibility). But it is really critical in the role that they play in the broader system in terms of financing companies and driving the outcomes that we want to see.” - Qiulae Wong, Aotearoa NZ Manager for B-Lab AANZ

There are a growing number of New Zealand companies that have a business purpose beyond profit maximisation. Corporate social responsibility and stakeholder interests are part of business practices, along with mission statements to make companies a force for good. 

However, these concepts are far less common in the New Zealand financial sector. Consideration of social and environmental issues are now mainstream for investment providers, but largely as a means to manage financial risk rather than as an opportunity to make a positive difference. 

This seminar examined the reasons and constraints, with examples of financial enterprises that have built their values into their business purpose. 

Mindful Money’s CEO, Barry Coates moderated the panel discussion with:

  • Qiulae Wong, Aotearoa NZ manager for B-Lab AANZ 
  • Nick Stewart, CEO of Stewart Group, a financial advisory firm with B-Corps certification
  • Jules Riley, Senior Growth Manager for Investment Funds at Medical Assurance Society (MAS)

Our featured panelists shared their experiences as financial businesses who have integrated corporate responsibility into their operations. Discussing important topics such as what is happening in the sector, the opportunities of adopting corporate responsibility, constraints and barriers, and what role fiduciary duty plays. 

If you are curious  about corporate responsibility in the financial sector and what it could  mean for you as a consumer or a business, this seminar is for you. 

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Appearance on Money for Good is not an endorsement by Mindful Money or the views of the presenters, guests, or the entities they represent. Their views are their own. Money for Good is not financial advice. We recommend talking to a licensed financial adviser. Investing involves risk. You might lose the money you start with. Content is current at the time. 

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