Examples of sustainability issues to be addressed during the program include:

Why is the transition to a sustainable society a critical issue today?

• Planetary boundaries, circular economy, disruptive behavioral changes, sustainable development goals, etc.
• Effects on business models, operating risk and financial risk.

How can the financial sector contribute to this transition?

• Investments, lending and payment infrastructure.

What do all of the different terms in sustainability actually mean?

• In-depth understanding of the central concepts in the sustainability field: ESG, SRI, sustainable investing, impact investing, stranded assets, shared value, SDG, GRI, PRI, materiality, HLEG and TCFD, etc.

What different methods are used in sustainable investment?

• Different screening methods, active ownership, ‘impact investing’, ESG-integration, etc

What does the research say about the effects on returns from sustainable investments?

• The portfolio perspective – is it even possible to measure? Empirical data, arguments for positive and negative effects on return.
• The company perspective – effects on profitability and cost of capital. Are certain sustainability aspects extra important to different kinds of companies?

What is sustainable lending?

• ESG-integrated lending (materiality, stakeholder analysis, governance, etc.), green bonds, blue bonds, etc.

What are the methodological challenges?

• The quality of ESG data – external rating, reliability of the companies’ reporting, understanding effects of sustainability initiatives on a company’s entire value chain, short versus long time horizon, etc.

Format and teaching
In Sustainable Finance, research meets practical application. Theory sessions are mixed with guest lectures, practical case work, group exercises and discussions. Another important part of the program is that you get to meet and exchange experiences with others regarding sustainability issues within finance.

The program is for those who want to develop their knowledge and insight into sustainability work within the financial sector. The course is primarily developed for those who work with risk and business decisions in the financial sector, including the insurance and pension sector. Sustainable Finance is relevant in many different roles and functions, such as for those who work as analysts, managers, advisers, account managers, or with risk, lending decisions or investments.

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After attending Sustainable Finance, you will have deepened and broadened your knowledge and your understanding in several current issues in the intersection between sustainability and finance. It will increase your confidence and possibilities of driving and contributing to issues concerning sustainability in your operations.

Hanna Setterberg, PhD in Accounting and Finance from the Stockholm School of Economics and a researcher within sustainable finance. In addition to researchers from the Stockholm School of Economics and the Stockholm Sustainable Finance Center, guest lecturers with practical experience of Sustainable Finance will also participate.