All Angles - MFS Sustainability Podcast

AI, Human Rights and ESG Metrics: 3 Top Moments from Season 3

What were the top moments from All Angles Season 3? And why are they important to investors? In the final episode of season 3, host Vishal Hindocha and George Beesley, Client Sustainability Senior Strategist, listen back to the three top themes —AI, human rights and ESG metrics — and explore how they impact investors.
Have any topics you would like to hear covered in season 4? Please email them to AllAngles@MFS.com !
Related Content: Stewardship Resourcing Report from the Thinking Ahead Institute:
Putting Resources Where Stewardship Ambitions are Structured Measurement to Empower Asset Owner-Asset Manager Conversations
https://www.thinkingaheadinstitute.org/content/uploads/2024/05/PRI_TAI_Stewardship_Resourcing_Report.pdf
The Stewardship Resources Assessment Framework
https://www.thinkingaheadinstitute.org/content/uploads/2024/05/PRI_TAI_The-Stewardship-Resources-Assessment-Framework.pdf
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. 
Distributed by:  U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments.
South Africa - This document, and the information contained is not intended and does not constitute, a public offer of securities in South Africa and accordingly should not be construed as such. This document is not for general circulation to the public in South Africa. This document has not been approved by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and neither MFS International (U.K.) Limited nor its funds are registered for public sale in South Africa.
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.
MFS may incorporate environmental, social, or governance (ESG) factors into its investment decision making, fundamental investment analysis and engagement activities when communicating with issuers. The degree to which MFS incorporates ESG factors into its investment decision making, investment analysis and/or engagement activities will vary by strategy, product, and asset class, and may also vary over time, and will generally be determined based on MFS’ opinion of the relevance and materiality of the specific ESG factors (which may differ from judgements or opinions of third parties, including investors). Any ESG assessments or incorporation of ESG factors by MFS may be reliant on data received from third-parties (including investee companies and ESG data vendors), which may be inaccurate, incomplete, inconsistent, out-of-date or estimated, or only consider certain ESG aspects (rather than looking at the entire sustainability profile and actions of an investment or its value chain), and as such, may adversely impact MFS’ analysis of the ESG factors relevant to an investment.

Integrating Social Issues Into Investment Research

How can investors include human rights and worker safety in their valuation analysis? And what’s the best way to engage with companies on these social issues? ESG disclosures matter but they may not provide the full picture. In this episode of the All Angles podcast, Rob Wilson, Director of Global ESG Integration at MFS, delves into the use of increasingly available labor data to question corporate management and help make long-term investment decisions.
Chapters:(0:36) Rob’s professional background(3:42) Turning point from traditional equity analyst to sustainability specialist(9:13) The intersection of human rights issues and investments(12:35) Using hard data as well as corporate disclosures to make informed decisions(15:27) How median pay data helped to compare consumer discretionary companies(20:13) The rich opportunity set for active, long-term investors(23:21) Example of collaborative approach to questioning corporate management
 
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
Distributed by: U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments.South Africa - This document, and the information contained is not intended and does not constitute, a public offer of securities in South Africa and accordingly should not be construed as such. This document is not for general circulation to the public in South Africa. This document has not been approved by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and neither MFS International (U.K.) Limited nor its funds are registered for public sale in South Africa. 
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.
MFS may incorporate environmental, social, or governance (ESG) factors into its investment decision making, fundamental investment analysis and engagement activities when communicating with issuers. The degree to which MFS incorporates ESG factors into its investment decision making, investment analysis and/or engagement activities will vary by strategy, product, and asset class, and may also vary over time, and will generally be determined based on MFS’ opinion of the relevance and materiality of the specific ESG factors (which may differ from judgements or opinions of third parties, including investors). Any ESG assessments or incorporation of ESG factors by MFS may be reliant on data received from third-parties (including investee companies and ESG data vendors), which may be inaccurate, incomplete, inconsistent, out-of-date or estimated, or only consider certain ESG aspects (rather than looking at the entire sustainability profile and actions of an investment or its value chain), and as such, may adversely impact MFS’ analysis of the ESG factors relevant to an investment.

Thinking Ahead: Embracing Systems Theory to Transform the Investment World

Can systems thinking help address the investment world’s growing complexity? What capabilities do leaders need to create transformative change? In this episode of the All Angles podcast, Roger Urwin, Global Head of Investment Content at Willis Towers Watson, explores how a systems-based perspective could unlock new opportunities for the investment industry to adapt and thrive in the face of pressing global issues.
 
CHAPTERS
(0:12) Roger’s professional background and purpose
(6:33) 3D investing, universal ownership and culture
(11:38) Introduction to systems thinking
(15:52) Applying systems thinking to the investment world
(20:26) Leadership capabilities to embed systems theory into practice
(25:40) Systemic stewardship as co-operation alongside competition
(28:17) Lessons learned from integrating systems leadership
(34:31) Collaborating to build better beta for the entire system
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments.
South Africa - This document, and the information contained is not intended and does not constitute, a public offer of securities in South Africa and accordingly should not be construed as such. This document is not for general circulation to the public in South Africa. This document has not been approved by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and neither MFS International (U.K.) Limited nor its funds are registered for public sale in South Africa.
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.
 
MFS may incorporate environmental, social, or governance (ESG) factors into its investment decision making, fundamental investment analysis and engagement activities when communicating with issuers. The degree to which MFS incorporates ESG factors into its investment decision making, investment analysis and/or engagement activities will vary by strategy, product, and asset class, and may also vary over time, and will generally be determined based on MFS’ opinion of the relevance and materiality of the specific ESG factors (which may differ from judgements or opinions of third parties, including investors). Any ESG assessments or incorporation of ESG factors by MFS may be reliant on data received from third-parties (including investee companies and ESG data vendors), which may be inaccurate, incomplete, inconsistent, out-of-date or estimated, or only consider certain ESG aspects (rather than looking at the entire sustainability profile and actions of an investment or its value chain), and as such, may adversely impact MFS’ analysis of the ESG factors relevant to an investment.

Aggregate Confusion: Understanding ESG Metrics with Professor Roberto Rigobon

Ratings agencies measure ESG metrics in the same way, right? If not, why might they differ and what does it mean for investors? In this episode of the All Angles podcast, MIT Sloan Professor Roberto Rigobon digs into the sources of discrepancies in ESG ratings and explains how investors can learn to live with imperfect measurements. He also explores what it takes to be a truly long-term investor with fiduciary responsibility. 
 
CHAPTERS
0:14 Roberto’s path from macroeconomics to measuring ESG
5:43 Unpacking the methodology of ESG rating agencies
12:22 Understanding the sources of discrepancies in ESG measurements
15:21 Why imperfect measurement can lead to over-reaction
22:14 Using constructive stewardship to build trust with companies
24:50 What it takes to think and invest long term
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
 
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
 
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments. 
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.
MFS may incorporate environmental, social, or governance (ESG) factors into its investment decision making, fundamental investment analysis and engagement activities when communicating with issuers. The degree to which MFS incorporates ESG factors into its investment decision making, investment analysis and/or engagement activities will vary by strategy, product, and asset class, and may also vary over time, and will generally be determined based on MFS’ opinion of the relevance and materiality of the specific ESG factors (which may differ from judgements or opinions of third parties, including investors). Any ESG assessments or incorporation of ESG factors by MFS may be reliant on data received from third-parties (including investee companies and ESG data vendors), which may be inaccurate, incomplete, inconsistent, out-of-date or estimated, or only consider certain ESG aspects (rather than looking at the entire sustainability profile and actions of an investment or its value chain), and as such, may adversely impact MFS’ analysis of the ESG factors relevant to an investment.

State of Play: Effective Stewardship and Reaching Net Zero

Where are we on the road to net zero? And how can investors help companies along the transition? In this episode of the All Angles podcast, Franziska Jahn-Madell, Director of Global Stewardship at MFS, explains recent developments in the transition to net zero and describes how investors can constructively engage with companies. Fran also shares her thoughts on stewardship megatrends and questions the industry should be asking companies but aren’t (yet).
 
(1:10) State of play for the transition to net zero
(4:05) Recent evolution of stewardship megatrends
(6:10) Lessons from MFS’ net zero progress report
(11:06) Key ideas on constructivism from partnering with academics
(16:01) Topics on the minds of clients and stakeholders
(18:23) Right-sizing resources for effective stewardship
(25:14) Questions the industry should be asking companies but aren’t
(28:55) Fran’s inspirational book recommendation
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
 
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
 
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments. 
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.

Global Infrastructure: Putting Money to Work in Public Equities

What exactly is ‘listed Infrastructure’? And how can investors access this increasingly crucial asset class? In this episode of the All Angles podcast, seasoned portfolio manager Florence Taj provides fresh perspectives on why infrastructure should be on every investor's radar, and shares her unique insights on which long-term opportunities she invests in. Florence also delves into the difference between exposure via public versus private markets. Listen now to explore the transformative power of listed infrastructure investments.
 
(01:25) Florence’s background from strategic consultant to investment officer
(05:42) Lessons from 25 years of investing
(11:11) Listed infrastructure investment opportunities and outlook
(18:15) Why investing in infrastructure is not boring
(24:59) Long-term nature of new trends and emerging paradigms
(28:41) Accessing infrastructure via public versus private markets
(38:22) Why governance matters when selecting assets to invest in
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
 
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
 
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments. 
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.

Natural Capital: Practical Ways to Assess Financial Materiality for Companies

How does biodiversity impact investment portfolios? What are the risks and opportunities to companies from natural capital? In this episode of the All Angles podcast, Pooja Daftary sheds light on calculating the financial materiality of natural capital for companies and offers practical ways for investors to integrate natural capital into an investment strategy. Listen now for insights into building a repeatable process to assess this nascent but existential investment theme.
 
Chapters:
(01:24) How natural capital has developed in the past 18 months
(04:40) Starting point for investors to analyze natural capital risks
(08:52) Examples of food sector analysis influencing investment thesis
(14:08) Challenges to integrating analysis into thesis
(18:08) Complexity and interconnectedness of natural capital and net zero
(22:23) Engaging with companies to assess financial materiality
(33:38) Useful resources for investors to get started in this space
(35:29) Where to find standardized information from companies today
 
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments.Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries. 

AI Tipping Point: A Deep Dive into Semiconductors

Which semiconductor companies will be long-term winners from the AI boom? What risks do supply chains and energy usage bring to the sector? This episode of the All Angles podcast features Genevieve Gilroy, sector lead for semiconductors and consumer staples at MFS. Genevieve describes the challenges and opportunities in the semiconductor space and explains why valuations matter when navigating the AI hype cycle.
 
(00:44) Genevieve’s career path at MFS
(02:22) Differences in analyzing semiconductors versus consumer staples
(05:28) How AI is impacting the semiconductor sector
(09:17) Assessing risks and returns of AI disruption at company level
(13:58) How semiconductors are dealing with supply chain risks
(18:41) Materiality of energy usage in the face of sustainability challenges
(21:43) Keeping anchored in valuation and away from the AI hype cycle
(23:31) Dog walks, The Overstory and the kindness of mentors
 
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
 
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
 
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments. 
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries. 
 

Simplicity and Complexity: Striking a Balance in Sustainable Investing

In this episode of the All Angles podcast, Barnaby Wiener, Chief Sustainability Officer at MFS, discusses the changing landscape of sustainability and the challenges and opportunities for investors. Barnaby talks about the effect of polarization, how investors should think about impact and need to embrace complexity while being wary of simplicity. Barnaby also shares what makes him optimistic about the future.
 
(00:47) Challenges and opportunities for sustainability-minded investors
(04:27) Whether and how investors should think about impact
(09:47) Why sustainability has become a controversial topic for investors
(14:07) Being mindful of investor biases
(17:03) Examples of embracing complexity and corporate engagement
(21:05) Mind the metrics – the dangers of simplifying to a single number
(27:36) AI and sustainability – an obsession with tools and measurements
(28:24) Barnaby’s hope for the future
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
 
The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
 
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
 
Distributed by: 
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER.  Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800.  This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments. 
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.

Wrap Up: All Angles Season 2 Insights and Reflections

Miss any episodes or want a reminder of the key sustainability insights from Season 2? Episode 7 of the All Angles podcast turns the tables, with host Vish Hindocha taking the guest seat and sharing his reflections on this season with George Beesley. Join them for a whistlestop tour of the previous six episodes.
 
(00:50) Episode 1 with Bob Eccles (Culture Wars: Rising Above the Politicization of ESG)
(10:55) Episode 2 with Carol Geremia (Go Long: Playing a Bigger Game)
(19:50) Episode 3 with Shari Friedman (Polycrisis Prep: One Solution Doesn’t Fit All Companies)
(25:13) Episode 4 with Alex Edmans (Grow the Pie: Finding a Win-Win for Investors and Society)
(33:46) Episode 5 with Mahesh Jayakumar (Governance Matters: Assessing Sustainability in Emerging Market Debt)
(44:49) Episode 6 with Michelle Thompson-Dolberry (Authentic DEI: Making it Personalized, Actionable and Transparent)
(48:29) WISDOM – The power of introspection
 
This material is intended for investment professional use only and not intended for retail investors.
Neither MFS nor any of its subsidiaries is affiliated with Robert Eccles.
­ The views expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change at any time. These views are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase any security, or as an offer of securities or investment advice. No forecast can be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Please keep in mind that a sustainable investing approach does not guarantee positive results and all investments, including those that integrate ESG considerations into the investment process, carry a certain amount of risk including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.
Distributed by:
U.S. – MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., MFS Investment Management and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.; Latin America – MFS International Ltd.; Canada – MFS Investment Management Canada Limited. Note to UK and Switzerland readers: Issued in the UK and Switzerland by MFS International Limited, a private limited company registered in England and Wales with the company number 03062718, and authorised and regulated in the conduct of investment business by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. MIL UK, an indirect subsidiary of MFS®, has its registered office at One Carter Lane, London, EC4V 5ER. Note to Europe readers: Issued in Europe by MFS Investment Management S.à r.l. – authorized under Luxembourg law as a management company for Funds domiciled in Luxembourg and which both provide products and investment services to institutional investors and is registered office is at S.a r.l. 4 Rue Albert Borschette, Luxembourg L-1246. Tel: 352 2826 12800. This material shall not be circulated or distributed to any person other than to professional investors and should not be relied upon or distributed to persons where such reliance or distribution would be contrary to local regulation; Singapore – MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Australia/New Zealand - MFS International Australia Pty Ltd holds an Australian financial services licence number 485343. MFS Australia is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.; Hong Kong - MFS International Limited, a private limited company licensed and regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. MIL HK is approved to engage in dealing in securities and asset management regulated activities and may provide certain investment services to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance.; For Professional Investors in China – MFS Financial Management Consulting Co., Ltd. 2801-12, 28th Floor, 100 Century Avenue, Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone, 200120, China, a Chinese limited liability company registered to provide financial management consulting services.; Japan - MFS Investment Management K.K., is registered as a Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Finance Bureau No.312, a member of the Investment Trust Association, Japan and the Japan Investment Advisers Association. As fees to be borne by investors vary depending upon circumstances such as products, services, investment period and market conditions, the total amount nor the calculation methods cannot be disclosed in advance. All investments involve risks, including market fluctuation and investors may lose the principal amount invested. Investors should obtain and read the prospectus and/or document set forth in Article 37-3 of Financial Instruments and Exchange Act carefully before making the investments.­
Unless otherwise indicated, logos, product and services names are trademarks of MFS and its affiliates and may be registered in certain countries.