Investment Strategy
The Berenberg EM Bonds ESG fund invests in emerging markets government and corporate bonds, using a systematic and active investment process. It aims to achieve an appropriate and steady increase in value while applying ESG investment criteria. In addition, it adheres to strict guidelines for the exclusion of non-ESG-compliant investments. Wide-ranging sustainability aspects are also analysed and taken into account when selecting individual bonds for the portfolio. The final portfolio is also subject to ongoing risk management at country and company level.
- Active investment approach in EM government and corporate bonds with continuous consideration of ESG exclusion and inclusion criteria.
- Active positioning against a market benchmark
- Average duration is between 5 and 7 years
- Investment segments are primarily government and corporate bonds in hard currencies
Learn more about our Berenberg Fixed Income investment philosophy
Further details on the opportunities and risks of this fund can be found in the sales prospectus.
Indexed performance
Performance in 12-month periods
Currencies
Sectors
Countries
Asset classes
Top Holdings
Monthly market comment
Weak US labor market data and further declining inflation figures in the US led to a continued decrease in yields on the US yield curve. The yield on 10-year US Treasury bonds fell by 12 basis points (bps) in August, from 4.02% to 3.90%. The sell-off in carry trades due to the rise in JPY quickly stabilized throughout the month, especially for emerging market bonds. The credit spreads of EM sovereigns and corporates in hard currency narrowed by 12 bps and 10 bps respectively. The Berenberg EM Bond ESG Fund achieved positive performance thanks to the correct duration positioning and security selection.
Portfolio Management
Consideration of ESG Elements
Identifying companies and business models that will be successful in the long term is the basis for good investment decisions. Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors are key factors in decision making and are therefore integral
components of the investment process.
CO₂-Intensity
The fund does not actively manage its carbon footprint, however, emissions data such as CO2 intensity are relevant parameters which can be used to assess the efficient management of a company and the extent of transition risks.
ESG Score
The data provider MSCI ESG uses an ESG score of 0 to 10 to assess the management of material ESG risks of portfolio holdings compared to competitors.
ESG Controversies Screen
Investments in the fund are monitored for ESG controversies and, with the help of MSCI ESG data, flagged according their severity. Thereby, potential ESG risks of investments are identified. In the case of an orange flag (severe controversy), we enter into an active exchange with the company. In the case of a red flag (very severe controversy), the company is excluded.