For anyone interested in ESG (Ethical, Social, Governance) investing, this is a fascinating discussion with Jean-Marc Routier, head of ESG within Emerging Markets at Blackrock.

The unique aspect about Jean-Marc is he has an inside view on how the largest asset manager in the world – BlackRock – is making decisions around ESG that impact their entire funds business.

This funds business has $8.2 trillion under management which is larger than Germany’s GDP for reference.

In a fascinating and really insightful conversation, Jean-Marc and Adam cover the following:

How pursuing an ESG objective will provide a significant advantage for all asset managers

The underlying factors that currently make up the perfect storm for ESG assets

Why BlackRock decided to remove Coal companies from all their active funds from last year. And what they will be doing this year.

How the largest company in the world just added ESG to their CEOs KPI for the year.

Make sure to listen to the end, where Jean-Marc defines the important difference between companies that “Do Good” and others that “Do No Harm” and the implications for investing in either.