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

ASIC Investigates Private Lending Sector Amid Rapid Expansion

04 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the private lending sector, revealing significant inconsistencies and potential risks. This scrutiny comes in response to the sector's rapid expansion, with private credit extending approximately $200 billion in loans, primarily to high-risk real estate developers and property investors. - read more

ASIC Halts City Finance Lending's Small Amount Credit Contracts

04 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently issued an interim stop order against City Finance Lending Pty Ltd, preventing the company from issuing its small amount credit contracts (SACCs) to retail clients. This action was taken due to deficiencies identified in the company's target market determination (TMD), raising concerns about the suitability of these products for consumers. - read more

Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions Penalised $7 Million for Unlawful Lending Practices

04 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently imposed significant penalties on Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions, along with their respective directors, for operating an illegal payday lending scheme. The Federal Court has ordered each company to pay $3 million, with additional fines of $500,000 levied against directors Mark Swanepoel and Brenton Harrison. This enforcement action underscores ASIC's commitment to protecting consumers from predatory lending practices. - read more

Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions Penalised for Unlawful Payday Lending Practices

04 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant ruling, the Federal Court has imposed a $7 million fine on Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions for operating an illegal payday lending scheme that contravened Australian credit laws. This decision underscores the Australian Securities and Investments Commission's (ASIC) commitment to safeguarding consumers from predatory financial practices. - read more

Macquarie Bank Achieves 28% Growth in Mortgage Portfolio Through Broker Partnerships

04 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori

Macquarie Bank has reported a remarkable 28% increase in its home loan portfolio, reaching $181.3 billion as of 31 March 2026. This substantial growth is primarily attributed to the bank's strategic focus on the mortgage broker channel, with over 95% of new loans being originated through brokers. - read more

Click for more Finance News