Description
The Big Exchange is an investment platform offering a range of funds direct to retail customers in the UK wishing to invest for the benefit of people and planet. Funds are selected based on their sustainability credentials and are independently assessed. Our methodology reflects the precise definition of what sustainability means to us and sets the standard for what we expect. The Big Exchange was founded in partnership with the Big Issue in October 2020. Approach
To measure sustainability our process looks at the contribution that companies make by revenue to achieving progress against the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs were developed by the United Nations to reflect solutions to the world’s greatest problems. A medal is awarded to reflect that contribution of gold, silver or bronze with a minimum of a bronze medal needed to qualify to be included. Medal thresholds are set according to the proportion of the fund invested in companies that make a positive contribution to the SDGs.
Managers disclose their full holdings so that our impact analysts can review exactly what each fund invests in. In addition, fund managers joining the platform face a rigorous and detailed due diligence onboarding process as follows:
- meet managers to check they meet TBE’s requirements
- complete TBE detailed questionnaire
- provide full list of current fund holdings
- independent third-party assessment measured against the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- pass the assessment with a minimum of a bronze medal
- pass reassessment once a year
- notify TBE of any material changes
- oversight from independent investment committee