Pathfinder gets B Corp status

Pathfinder Asset Management has become the first fund manager in New Zealand declared a Certified B Corporation.

Monday, August 31st 2020, 5:00AM

John Berry

Pathfinder manages CareSaver KiwiSaver and also a suite of managed funds outside of KiwiSaver including its Global Water Fund and Ethical Trans-Tasman Fund.

It is the 34th company in New Zealand to achieve the status. Others include Allbirds, Kathmandu and Sharesies.

Companies obtaining B Corp status have a desire to reduce inequality, promote a sustainable economy, create a healthier environment, and build stronger communities.

John Berry, chief executive and co-founder of Pathfinder, said the B Corp certification was a fantastic achievement for Pathfinder’s team.

“We want to make great returns for our investors and at the same time generate these great returns in a way that is good for our planet and communities. Our team is committed to this mission.

“Obtaining B Corp certification is not easy. It requires a high level of transparency as well as social and environmental performance. It is not simply about what we do and don’t invest in as a fund manager. It is about our purpose and touches every part of our business. This is immensely important to us.”

Pathfinder also announces it has achieved an A+ rating from the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investing (UNPRI) for governance and strategy. Pathfinder shares the highest A+ rating with the NZ Super Fund.

Certified B Corporations achieve a minimum verified score on the B Impact Assessment – an assessment of a company’s impact on its workers, customers, community, and environment – and make their B Impact Report transparent on bcorporation.net. Certified B Corporations also amend their legal governing documents to require their board of directors to balance profit and purpose.

Tags: ESG ethics Pathfinder Asset Management Sustainability UNPRI