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Environmental, social and governance risk exposures of mutual funds

Author

Listed:
  • Christine Helliar

    (University of South Australia)

  • Barbara Petracci

    (Bologna University)

  • Nongnuch Tantisantiwong

    (CIMB Thai Bank)

Abstract

Frequent natural disasters caused by climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased global awareness of sustainability issues with a consequent focus on sustainable finance. This study disaggregates the exposures of mutual funds to environmental, social, and governance risks using data from 18,648 investment funds. We find that investment in technology and financial firms and herding behavior support an environmental strategy but not necessarily governance or social responsibility. Further, funds with longer-tenured managers are less sustainability-focused, possibly entrenched from an era before ESG became a societal concern.

Suggested Citation

  • Christine Helliar & Barbara Petracci & Nongnuch Tantisantiwong, 2025. "Environmental, social and governance risk exposures of mutual funds," Journal of Asset Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 26(3), pages 316-332, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:assmgt:v:26:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1057_s41260-025-00401-7
    DOI: 10.1057/s41260-025-00401-7
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