Impact in Private Markets: COVID-19 Implications for Impact Strategies in Alternative Asset Classes

Moderator: Kostis Tselenis, Managing Partner, Swiss Impact Office

Speakers:

• Arturo Sneider, CEO, Primestor Development
• Justina Alders-Sheya, Fund Manager, Triodos Investment Management
• Jacob Haar, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Community Investment Management (CIM)
• Anna Shiel, Head of Origination, Big Society Capital

The COVID-19 pandemic poses unprecedented challenges to participants in the alternative funds market - asset owners and fund managers alike. Meanwhile, it could be a test and opportunity for fund managers to build and strengthen their track records and show real commitment to their goals. What have been the pandemic’s implications on portfolio companies, and what actions have impact investors taken? What is the current outlook, and what are the next steps to build back stronger?

According to the panelists, the slowdown in economic activity caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased challenges. Nonetheless, no significant defaults have yet been experienced, which is linked to a large extend to governmental response programs. In line with the pandemic, the speakers addressed the opportunities that come along with the new normal. These include an increased information flow and an acceleration of recent trends, including technological advancements.

The effects of the pandemic encouraged companies to revisit their portfolios, analyzing the robustness of different investments. Overall, the impact investing industry has proven a high degree of resilience, explained Kostis Tselenis (Managing Partner, swiss impact office). This is beneficial for the industry, as more capital owners can be convinced of entering the market.

Furthermore, an increased level of collaboration between stakeholders in the impact investing industry can be observed. According to the panelists, this trend can be expected to continue, driving the industry forward. Justina Alders-Sheya (Fund Manager, Triodos Investment Management) pointed towards the role of Development Finance Institutions in being front-runners in inviting impact investors to collaborate.

On a closing note, Anna Shiel (Head of Origination, Big Society Capital) explained that we find ourselves in a time of opportunity, as “people have heightened awareness. We should not waste it”.

About Phenix Virtual Impact Summit:

Phenix Virtual Impact Summit is a highly curated virtual conference that enables institutional investors and asset owners to share knowledge, exchange best practices and navigate the opportunities within impact investing industry.  
All information and Recordings of the Virtual Impact Summit 2020 are the proprietary products of and owned by Phenix Capital. The reproduction, misuse, dissemination or modification is strictly prohibited without the knowledge and permission of Phenix Capital. 

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