Mr. Vasin Vanichvoranun, KAsset Executive Chairman, said, “KAsset is at the forefront of Thailand’s asset management industry, with assets under management (AUM) of more than 1.5 trillion Baht. We are well-aware of our duties and responsibilities in managing the funds of investors. We believe that the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), which account for environmental, social and corporate governance issues of the entities we invest in, separate from returns and risks from investment, will bring about the optimum benefits for investors and sustainability for the overall capital market over the long term. 

 “KAsset is delighted to become a PRI signatory. This move demonstrates our commitment to aligning with the internationally recognized Principles for Responsible Investment, which conform to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Our business operations are consistent with KBank’s strategy that places emphasis on conducting its business in line with the principles of a Bank of Sustainability. KBank is the first bank in Thailand to become a signatory of the Principles for Responsible Banking for the second consecutive year. We look forward to a collaboration with other signatories globally in working towards responsible and sustainable investment initiatives,” said Mr. Vasin.

 

Mr. Vasin added, “KAsset has applied the firm-wide ESG policy framework that the company has implemented since 2013 in the investment process, which comprises securities analysis, screening and valuation, plus investment portfolio design for all asset classes. Over the past years, KAsset has been determined to develop and improve our practical guidelines in alignment with the responsible investment principles.”  

David Aitken, CEO of the Principles for Responsible Investment, said, “We’re pleased to welcome KAsset as the first Thai asset management company to sign our Principles. In joining PRI, we share a goal in steering the principles of responsible investment and promoting the awareness of incorporating ESG factors into investment consideration for the benefit of investors and a sustainable society over the long term.”

 

The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) is a UN-supported network of investors, launched in New York City in 2006. Its principles of responsible investment work through the incorporation of environmental, social and governance issues in decision-making for investment, as well as the promotion of active ownership. Cooperation between the UN Global Compact, UNEP Finance Initiatives and signatories of PRI would help to create stability and long-term sustainability in the capital market, society and global economy. Currently, more than 4,500 institutions worldwide have become signatories to PRI, with total assets under management exceeding USD 121 trillion. PRI signatories agree to abide by six principles of responsible investment, as follows:

Principle 1: We will incorporate ESG issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes.

Principle 2: We will be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our ownership policies and practices.

Principle 3: We will seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest.

Principle 4: We will promote acceptance and implementation of the Principles within the investment industry.

Principle 5: We will work together to enhance our effectiveness in implementing the Principles.