Institutional Investors Maintain Course Amid Escalating Geopolitical Risks

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The survey found that a significant 82% of respondents have noticed an increase in geopolitical risks since the start of the year. European investors particularly feel the pressure, with 85% responding to increased risks, compared to 80% in the Americas and other regions. Unstable political environments and shifting global alliances are major factors contributing to this sentiment.

Despite these challenges, 75% of the institutional contingent report their risk appetite remains unchanged, indicating resilience amid turbulent times. Bfinance highlighted that the view of increased risk is shared across all investor categories, from pension funds to sovereign wealth funds, suggesting a wide-reaching consensus on the issue.

In terms of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, nearly half of the investors report no change in strategy. However, opinions are shifting, with 24% viewing ESG as less appealing amidst growing policy resistance in the US. Around 50% are actively reassessing their approaches to ESG-related investments, focusing particularly on sustainability and climate-oriented strategies.

This divide on ESG priorities varies among investor types. Mission-linked investors like endowment funds are staying committed to ESG objectives, while those under more economic performance scrutiny are reconsidering their positions. Notably, institutional investors showed a split stance: 36% are staying the course, yet significant proportions are either downgrading (25%) or upgrading (17%) the appeal of ESG.

Ultimately, Bfinance's study shows a strategic recalibration phase for institutional investors, even as geopolitical uncertainties and policy shifts, especially in the US, prompt reassessments of certain tactics. Yet the dedication to long-term goals persists, with European investors leading in maintaining ESG principles whereas US investors navigate a shifting policy environment.

Published:Thursday, 17th Apr 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Strong Marina Data Points to a Competitive Boat Buying Market

26 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia’s marina sector has delivered one of the clearest signals yet that boating demand remains resilient, even as households continue to navigate higher living costs and careful lending conditions. The Marina Industries Association’s latest research, covering the 2025 Health of the Australian Marina Industry Survey and the 2026 Employment & Salary Survey, paints a picture of an industry with solid revenue, high occupancy and a growing need for investment. - read more

New DFAC WorkReady Truck Sharpens the Light-Duty Finance Decision

26 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

DFAC Trucks Australia has added a new challenger to the busy light-duty market, launching the Captain 45 WorkReady with an introductory drive-away price of $59,990. For tradies, contractors and small transport operators who have outgrown a dual-cab ute, the arrival of a ready-to-work 4.5-tonne truck at this price point could make the step into a larger payload vehicle more achievable. - read more

What Judo Bank’s Loan Losses Mean for SME Borrowers

26 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

Judo Bank’s sharp share price fall on 25 June 2026 has put a spotlight back on the health of Australia’s SME lending market. The specialist small business lender told the market that a small cluster of business loans had deteriorated in recent weeks, prompting it to lift expected credit costs and cut its full-year profit guidance. - read more

What ASIC?s Car Finance Findings Mean for Caravan Buyers

26 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

ASIC’s latest review of car finance has landed at a useful moment for Australians considering a caravan purchase. While the report focused on car loans, many of the lessons translate neatly to caravan finance because buyers are often weighing up secured lending, dealer-arranged options, broker support and personal loan-style products before committing to a major lifestyle asset. - read more

Why the Medicare Levy Surcharge Matters Before Surgery Finance

26 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

Australians planning elective procedures may need to revisit their numbers after fresh ATO data showed a sharp rise in people paying the Medicare levy surcharge. The latest Canstar analysis, published on 25 June 2026, says 885,087 taxpayers paid the surcharge in the 2023-24 tax year, with an average cost of $1,284. That is not a cosmetic surgery cost, but it can affect the same household cash flow many borrowers rely on when setting up a personal loan. - read more

Click for more Finance News