We look for companies which have the ability to deliver a high level of sustainable return over the long-term. Consequently, we screen for companies which not only have strong operational and financial metrics, but also companies which have sound ESG practices thus allowing for sustainable shareholder wealth creation over the long-term. At the same time, we analyze ESG factors to identify possible risks/opportunities and integrate that into our investment decision making process, in our valuation models and risk exposures.
Furthermore, we have a Shariah compliant range of investment products and as a result, we have strict Shariah rules which need to be met before we consider investing /staying invested in a specific underlying investment. As a consequence, we do apply negative/exclusionary screening based on product and acitivity of the underlying investment. The process is deemed confidential in nature but includes a strong bias towards responsible investing. We also have an independent Shariah Board who scrutinizes our Shariah compliance once a year and determines whether we meet the strict ethical investment guidelines prescribed by the Shariah board.
We also focus on long-term trends and themes which are either opportunities or risks. This includes a focus on food security, infrastructure requirements in Africa as well as a focus on sectors with low labor and energy intensity.