Gender equality

Pensions for Purpose calls for DEI to become a ‘red flag’ topic, urging asset owners to divest from companies that don’t take the issue seriously.

Managed by Next Billion Capital Partners, the fund plans to invest in local companies driving financial and digital inclusion across emerging markets. Investors at first close include Impact Engine and responsAbility.

The Horizon Capital’s fund has attracted support from a wide range of investors, reflecting a growing recognition of Ukraine’s economic resilience and the key role of private capital in supporting the country’s reconstruction and recovery.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Impact Investor spoke to leading figures in the industry about the role of impact investing in developing a more inclusive society and the lessons learnt as women building a career in the sector.

Plus, 2X Ignite opens second acceleration programme aimed at African women-led gender smart fund managers | S&P Dow Jones Indices launches biodiversity-focused benchmarks

The investments in green chemistry startup DUDE CHEM and deep tech startup CarbonX aim to support the development of sustainable alternatives in the manufacture of EV batteries and chemicals used in medication.

A new UN report reveals how impact funds can strengthen gender lens investing to drive inclusive and sustainable development beyond surface-level impact.

The Swedish DFI has made its first investment in Côte D’Ivoire since the opening of its regional office in West Africa.

Spitzer marshals a strong case for giving unheard women’s voices a platform, so that they can “help hold up half the sky”, writes Christopher Walker.

Investments in low-income or least-developed countries totalled €1.2bn, while Africa took in the largest share of total new commitments, according to the Association of European Development Finance Institutions.