HKEX to Provide ESG Metrics for Listed Companies, Publishes Net Zero Guide for Business
Exchange group Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) announced today a series of new sustainability-focused initiatives, including the publication of ESG metrics of Hong Kong-listed companies for use by investors, and the launch of a guide aimed at helping businesses develop a pathway to net zero emissions.
HKEX will provide ESG metrics from leading ESG ratings providers including Hang Seng Indexes, MSCI and S&P Global, with the launch of an equities section on its Sustainable and Green Exchange (STAGE) platform. HKEX launched STAGE in December 2020, seeking to provide investors with more information and improved transparency regarding sustainable investing products, and to provide data for benchmarking for issuers seeking to raise funds for sustainable projects. STAGE initially focused on sustainability, green, and transition bonds from leading corporate issuers, with the intention to broaden the platform across multiple asset classes.
The Net-Zero Guide outlines the essential steps for businesses to develop a pathway to decarbonization, including identifying the resources to calculate and establish a carbon emission baseline, setting near-and long-term carbon emission reduction targets, assessing emissions reduction potential, understanding mitigation strategies, and evaluate the net zero strategies implemented by industry leaders.
HKEX Head of Green and Sustainable Finance, Grace Hui, said:
“We are today delighted to add two new tools that will help advance our collective sustainability journey. HKEX’s role in global financial markets, and within our community, is one that comes with great responsibility, and as the world now grapples to meet climate targets, we want to continue to play our role in the greatest challenge of our generation. We are staunch advocates of the transition to a low-carbon economy and we encourage all companies and investors to join us in securing a sustainable future for this generation and the next.”