{"id":7230,"date":"2013-05-24T08:45:50","date_gmt":"2013-05-24T12:45:50","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=7230"},"modified":"2013-05-24T08:45:50","modified_gmt":"2013-05-24T12:45:50","slug":"consider-your-options-for-socially-responsible-investing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=7230","title":{"rendered":"Consider your options for socially responsible investing"},"content":{"rendered":"

Your investment plans can reflect your personal values<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

By Bronwyn Martin<\/strong>, Columnist, The Times<\/em><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\"UTColLogoBronwynMartin\"<\/a>As the global climate change discussions heat up in Washington, many investors are paying attention to the impact of their investments on the environment and the well being of people around the world. As this trend has increased, so has the demand for investment choices that demonstrate not only financial soundness, but also a concern for quality of life. This investment philosophy, known as socially responsible investing (SRI), has a special appeal to many individuals concerned with the future of our planet.\"\"<\/p>\n

What constitutes socially responsible investing?<\/b><\/p>\n

Investors who adopt an SRI strategy believe their decisions should be governed not only by economics, but also by social issues. <\/b>This often means refraining from investing in companies or industries that produce products or offer services the investor disapproves of, regardless of the company\u2019s or industry’s potential for profit or value. Investors who maintain an SRI strategy may choose to avoid investing in companies related to alcohol, tobacco, gambling and weapons. It can also mean investing in companies that promote workplace diversity, actively participate in community volunteer programs or work to improve the environment.<\/p>\n

Benefits, drawbacks and strategies of SRI<\/b><\/p>\n

As with all types of investing, there are tradeoffs that come with socially responsible investing. Those who practice SRI can feel good that their investment choices reflect their values. However, socially responsible investors must balance this benefit with more limited choices with regard to portfolio diversification.<\/p>\n

Some strategies that those interested in SRI may employ include divesting from companies that don\u2019t align with their personal morals or beliefs, and participating in shareholder activism or engagement. They may also include:<\/p>\n