The global pandemic has highlighted the importance of strong corporate governance in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of businesses. However, in recent years, the definition of good corporate governance has evolved beyond the traditional focus on financial performance to encompass a broader range of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the impact that businesses can have on the world around them, and the need for companies to take responsibility for their actions.
ESG factors are now seen as a crucial component of corporate governance, and investors are increasingly looking to incorporate ESG considerations into their investment strategies. In fact, according to the Global Sustainable Investment Alliance, global sustainable investment assets reached $35.3 trillion in 2020, representing a 15% increase over the previous two years.
This trend is being driven by a growing awareness of the links between ESG performance and financial performance, as well as a desire among investors to align their investments with their values.
At the heart of this shift towards ESG investing is the recognition that businesses have a responsibility to not only create value for their shareholders, but also to operate in a way that is sustainable and socially responsible. This means taking into account the impact that their operations have on the environment, their employees, customers, suppliers, and the communities in which they operate.
So how can a business ensure that they’re operating in a sustainable and socially responsible manner? To meet these obligations, companies need to ensure that they have strong governance frameworks in place that allow them to manage ESG risks effectively. But how can a business strengthen their frameworks?
Entity management software allows companies to track and manage their subsidiaries, as well as their compliance obligations across multiple jurisdictions. By providing a centralized platform for managing corporate governance and compliance, entity management software can help companies to ensure that they are meeting their ESG obligations and mitigating any associated risks.
By using entity management software, companies can:
For example, entity management software can automate the management of subsidiaries, making it easier to track changes in ownership, governance structures, and compliance obligations. It can also provide real-time updates on changes in ESG regulations, allowing companies to adapt their strategies accordingly.
In addition to helping companies comply with ESG regulations, entity management software can also help them to enhance their ESG performance. By providing a centralized platform for tracking ESG data, companies can monitor their progress against ESG targets, identify areas for improvement, and report on their performance to stakeholders. This can help to improve transparency and accountability, and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and good corporate governance.
Looking to the future, it is clear that ESG considerations will continue to play an increasingly important role in corporate governance. As investors and other stakeholders demand greater transparency and accountability, companies will need to ensure that they have robust ESG frameworks in place to manage their risks and create long-term value.
Entity management software will be a key tool in achieving this goal, providing a centralized platform for managing ESG compliance and performance. Athennian offers a variety of products that can help your business reach their ESG goals. Contact us today for a custom consultation.