Avoiding Greenwashing: What Trustees Need to Know About Ethical Investment Marketing
Introduction: Not All That Glitters Is Green As ethical investing becomes more popular, so do the claims. From “climate-conscious portfolios” to “responsible ESG strategies,” it seems every investment manager is now committed to sustainability. But beneath the surface, these claims don’t always hold up. This is known as greenwashing—and it’s something trustees must be equipped to recognise […]
Top 10 Questions Every Charity Should Ask Their Investment Manager
Introduction: Asking the Right Questions Choosing an investment manager is one of the most important decisions a charity board can make. Whether you’re reviewing an existing relationship or appointing a new provider, trustees have a duty to ensure that their investment partner aligns with the financial, ethical, and governance needs of the charity. This is especially important for churches, […]
HSBC Engagement: ITV Interview and Feature, January–February 2024
Andrew Harper’s recent interview with ITV’s Business and Economics Editor Joel Hills, in collaboration with the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, was featured online and nationwide as part of the primary news topic on ITV News at 10 on 19 January 2024. Their work revealed that HSBC, despite climate pledges to the contrary, continues to support […]
Barclays Shareholder Resolution/Co-filing, 2023–2024
Epworth, alongside other institutional investors co-ordinated by ShareAction, co-filed a shareholder resolution against Barclays in December 2023. The resolution was put forward due to the bank being a clear laggard in its industry as a major financier of fossil fuel companies, specifically those who are still giving the green light to new and expansive projects. […]
What to Include in Your Ethical Investment Policy: A Practical Guide for Charities
Introduction: Ethics Need More Than Good Intentions For many charities and churches, ethical investment is a moral imperative. But good intentions aren’t enough. To turn values into action, you need a clear and comprehensive Ethical Investment Policy. This guide walks charity trustees and finance teams through what to include in an ethical investment policy that is: […]
Biblical Foundations for Ethical Investment
Introduction: Investing as Discipleship For Christians, investment is not a morally neutral act. Where we place our money—like where we place our time, energy, and trust—reflects what we believe. For churches and Christian charities, investment should serve not just financial goals, but the mission of God. In this blog, we explore the biblical foundations for ethical investment, […]
Navigating Charity Commission Expectations on Investment: A Guide for Trustees
Introduction: Investing with Confidence and Compliance As a charity trustee, you are responsible for ensuring that your organisation’s investments are made prudently, legally, and in line with your mission. But with evolving ethical standards, reputational risks, and growing public scrutiny, it’s no longer enough to simply seek the best financial return. The Charity Commission’s guidance increasingly expects charities […]
Why We Don’t Invest in Fossil Fuels, Tobacco, or Weapons
Introduction: What You Choose Not to Invest In Matters At Epworth, ethical investment begins with a clear moral stance: some industries are incompatible with the Christian values we are called to uphold. For us—and for the churches and charities we serve—there is no place in our portfolios for companies whose core business undermines human dignity, exploits […]
Faith, Finance, and the Climate Crisis: What Investors Can Do
Introduction: Climate Action Is a Moral Responsibility The climate crisis is not just an environmental issue—it’s a theological and moral challenge. For churches, charities, and Christian investors, the question is clear: How can we use our financial resources to care for God’s creation, protect the vulnerable, and advocate for justice? At Epworth, we believe the climate […]
Why Churches Choose Faith-Aligned Investment Solutions
Introduction: Investing as an Expression of Faith For churches and Christian charities, investing is never just about money. It is an act of stewardship, rooted in faith and shaped by mission. Whether you are a large denominational trust, a local congregation, or a national Christian charity, your capital should reflect the values you proclaim. At Epworth […]