ECB’s collateral policy criticised for favouring high-carbon assets

Europe’s central bank sending a dangerous message, says non-profit Reclaim Finance

Explainer: how HSBC is expected to disclose ‘facilitated emissions’

PCAF responds to criticism and explains the process behind developing emission disclosure standards for banks

More guidelines on ESG ratings risks fragmentation

Many countries are establishing non-binding guidelines, with firmer regulation on the horizon

Transition planning or just greenwashing?

No one seems to have a clear definition of what makes a robust transition plan

Indonesian banks under increasing regulatory pressure to disclose climate risks

Indonesia’s financial watchdog expects all banks to start scrutinising their carbon-intensive loan books more closely for climate risks, but accurate emissions data remains challenging.

Explainer: How does the EU’s CSRD affect you?

On January 1, 2024, the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive came into force. But what is it, and what do you need to know about it? 

The battle of the standards for net-zero targets and emissions

Are standards developed to help banks set net-zero targets and report emissions being watered down?

UNEP FI guidance helps banks address biodiversity loss

Banks must be at the forefront of shifting financial flows to incentivise nature gain, UNEP FI says.

Sustainable AI must feature in banks’ code of ethics, says report

As AI permeates almost every aspect of society, financial institutions and other firms need to revisit their code of ethics to ensure that they are ethically and sustainably using the technology, experts warn.

Becoming a B Corp

How does a B Corp certification benefit a bank operating in some of the most complex and challenging markets in the world? Crown Agents Bank’s head of ESG, Charlie Bronks, talks to The Banker about its journey to accreditation and why it is such an important step for the organisation.

How can development banks work on their ESG credentials?

Amid growing pressure on financial institutions to push for greener ways to do business internationally, development banks are being called on to upscale their sustainability and human rights efforts. 

Would regulators approve of your ESG marketing?

Banks are advised to take a ‘measured’ approach to the marketing of their ESG credentials and policies as regulators crack down on greenwashing. 

For the UK to lead on ESG regulation, it must think globally

With HM Treasury considering regulation on ESG ratings, the UK can demonstrate leadership and strengthen market clarity – but it’s critical that a global market is considered.

ESG ratings are still our best option

Often criticised, ESG ratings have an important role to play in the ESG ecosystem, but we need regulation that will improve measurement. 

How financial institutions can keep up with ESG requirements

Regulations are proving increasingly complex for UK and EU-based financial institutions, write Frederik Winter and Kim Rybarczyk.

ESG ratings: the case for reform

The current system of ESG ratings that funds rely on to comply with the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation is only leading to greenwashing.

To comply with ESG you first need to understand it

Environmental, social and governance criteria are three separate goals that do not necessarily go hand-in-hand, says a Commerzbank white paper. 

Harry Boyd-Carpenter: Time to shift the balance on climate adaptation finance vs climate mitigation

With climate change impacts becoming more apparent, it is time to up the ante on adaptation finance, suggests Harry Boyd-Carpenter, managing director of climate strategy and delivery at the EBRD.

Climate finance revamp required for low-carbon transition

While progress is being made in the world’s mission to preserve the climate, a big boost in annual finance and improved standards are necessary to stay on track.