Responsible investment

As early as the 1990s, Desjardins Group put forward an innovative approach by marketing one of the first green funds in the country. Since then, integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into investment decisions has become standard practice for many of the most sophisticated institutional investors on the planet. This responsible investment (RI) approach is in harmony with the mission, vision and values of our cooperative, which aim to contribute to the economic and social well-being of people and communities.​

As key stakeholders, Desjardins Group employees actively participate in this mission. Likewise, the Desjardins Group Pension Plan (DGPP), within the compatible limits of its field of action and its fiduciary responsibility, supports Desjardins Group’s commitments in terms of RI and sustainable finance.​

As a long-term investor, the DGPP believes that effective management of ESG risks and opportunities can favourably influence the financial performance of its investments while having a concrete and positive socio-economic effect on communities.

Responsible investment policy

The DGPP has adopted a responsible investment policy that provides a clear, flexible framework to help incorporate ESG criteria into its asset management, taking into account the markets in which it invests. The policy oversees the implementation of responsible investment in DGPP activities and define monitoring mechanisms and reporting related to DGPP's responsible investment activities.​​

For more information, see the​ DGPP's Responsible Investment Policy: (PDF, 7.36 Mo​).​


​The DGPP'S approach​

In order to successfully embody its ambitions and sustainability values, the DGPP puts forward a three-part approach.​

Integration of ESG factors​​

The DGPP considers ESG risks and opportunities throughout its investment process: from developing the asset allocation strategy to the selection and monitoring of its portfolio managers and investments.

In particular, the DGPP assesses the ability of portfolio managers to focus on the factors most likely to have a material impact on the results of the companies they analyze, including through reference frameworks from organizations such as the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) or the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).​

The DGPP also ensures that it has a long-term view of systematic ESG risks that can influence its financial returns. The DGPP seeks to refine its understanding and integration of investment strategies in order to increase the positive impact of its investments.​

The DGPP may exclude the securities of certain companies. These exclusions apply when a company's products are restricted under Canadian law or by international treaties. Similarly, the DGPP may exclude certain securities based on ESG factors when it deems necessary, consistent with the ESG positions adopted by Desjardins Group.​

Currently, the DGPP excludes from its investment scope tobacco companies, companies linked to the thermal coal sector and companies associated with the manufacture of unconventional weapons or weapons of mass destruction.​

​RI influence strategy​​

In accordance with the best practices listed among long-term asset holders, the DGPP deploys an influence strategy to stimulate the emergence of conditions favourable to sustainability in the financial markets.​


​Training​

In order to foster a robust RI strategy across its investment activities, there is a continuing education program for members of DGPP’s governing bodies and teams to ensure that they consider RI in their decision-making process and in their respective business practices.​​​