BNP Paribas Asset Management has announced a strategic shift, stating it will no longer invest in new bonds issued by companies involved in oil and gas exploration and production. This decision, outlined in the company’s strategy update from November, underscores its commitment to supporting the transition to sustainable energy.
Policy Aims to Support Sustainable Transitions
The French asset manager’s new policy aims to assist oil and gas companies in their shift towards renewable energy sources. However, it will exclude companies that are not adapting fast enough to meet sustainability goals. BNP Paribas Asset Management clarified that it will continue investing in existing debt and equity of these companies, with some exclusions and conditions applied.
The company has $1.8 billion of equity exposure to oil and gas companies across its open-ended and exchange-traded funds.
Ongoing Investments in Existing Bonds
While the new policy excludes investments in new bonds issued by oil and gas companies, BNP Paribas Asset Management will maintain its current holdings. This includes investments in companies like TotalEnergies, which is part of 49 of its funds.
Commitment to Climate Action
As part of its commitment to climate goals, BNP Paribas Asset Management will review eligible oil and gas companies to ensure they have credible climate action plans. Companies that fail to meet these standards will be encouraged to adopt more sustainable, lower-carbon business models.
Aligning with Broader BNP Paribas Group Policies
This shift aligns BNP Paribas Asset Management’s policies with the broader BNP Paribas Group. The group has avoided bond issuance by oil and gas exploration companies since 2023.
The company’s new approach reflects a wider trend among European financial institutions. These firms are reducing investments in the oil and gas sector. This is driven by sustainability rules and investor pressure.
Pressure from Sustainability Advocates
The pressure group Reclaim Finance praised the move, noting that BNP Paribas Asset Management is the first major asset manager globally to adopt such measures. This decision marks a significant step in the financial industry’s push for more sustainable, climate-conscious investing.