Credit Suisse, JPMorgan Launch Sustainable Nutrition Fund
Credit Suisse and J.P. Morgan Asset Management announced today the launch of the Credit Suisse JPMorgan Sustainable Nutrition Fund, aimed at investing in companies addressing the links between nutrition, health, biodiversity and climate.
The new fund follows the establishment earlier this year of a partnership between the two firms to develop a sustainable nutrition-focused investment strategy, helping to tackle some of the biggest global health and environmental challenges, with food systems responsible for 20% of global Greenhouse gas emissions and accounting for more than 90% of the world’s fresh water consumption.
Lydie Hudson, CEO of Sustainability Research and Investment Products, at Credit Suisse, said:
“Credit Suisse and J.P. Morgan Asset Management are committed to delivering both financial and purpose-driven outcomes, whilst building lasting portfolio value. This is what makes this fund so interesting as it effectively combines the need to address the climate challenges associated with the nutrition industry while seeking attractive returns on investment.”
The new UCITS fund, launched with assets under management of more than $250 million, will target United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) #2 (Zero Hunger) and #13 (Climate Action), with a particular focus on companies making food systems less carbon intensive.
Jennifer Wu, Global Head of Sustainable Investing at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, said:
“As we transition towards a more sustainable global economy, a focus on sustainable nutrition should sit at the heart of this transition. This new strategy seeks to make a positive contribution to a healthier future, investing in companies which are seeking to address current inefficiencies in the food value chain by making food systems less carbon intensive and ultimately enabling healthier diets.”
Addressing nutrition, the fund will focus on small and mid-cap innovators across the value chain, from growing and processing to consuming food in areas such as vertical farming, plant-based proteins, and food testing. Key sub-themes of the fund include sustainable agriculture, efficient food processes, and sustainable & healthy diets.
Claude Kurzo, CEO Switzerland J.P. Morgan Asset Management, said:
“We are excited about partnering with Credit Suisse. Both companies are bringing together their best sustainability and investment knowledge and skills for this unique investment strategy that will be exclusively available to Credit Suisse clients.”
Michael Strobaek, Global Chief Investment Officer at Credit Suisse, added:
“I am proud to see this important fund launch with assets under management of over USD 250 million. This illustrates the trust our clients put in us and our partners and also shows the importance of nutrition as a thematic investment topic.”