BNY Mellon Investment Management CEO Smits on ESG Outlook

The video features Hanneke Smits, CEO of BNY Mellon's Investment Management, discussing the growth and future of ESG investing, regulatory challenges, and the role of active management. She highlights the importance of consistent ESG regulations to combat greenwashing and the need for harmonization between US and EU standards. The discussion also touches on the potential of blockchain and crypto in investment management, emphasizing the need for digital asset solutions.

What is the primary focus of Hanneke Smits' discussion in the introduction?

• The role of technology in investment

• The growth and future of ESG investing

• The impact of interest rates on investments

• The challenges of global markets

What is a significant step taken by the EU to address greenwashing?

• Development of a new currency

• Introduction of the SFDR

• Implementation of new tax laws

• Creation of a global investment fund

Why is it important for the US to adopt ESG regulations similar to the EU?

• To increase investment in technology

• To harmonize and coordinate ESG standards

• To reduce taxes on investments

• To promote local businesses

How does the lack of clear ESG standards in the US affect investment management?

• It simplifies the investment process

• It creates challenges in fund development

• It increases investment returns

• It has no impact on investments

What opportunity does active management have in the ESG industry?

• Avoiding regulatory compliance

• Focusing solely on fossil fuels

• Engaging with issuers and management teams

• Reducing investment costs

What is the new approach to ESG investing beyond screening?

• Engagement and voting

• Focusing on short-term gains

• Avoiding all risk

• Investing in only tech companies

What is the expected outcome of COP 26 for the asset management industry?

• A focus on traditional energy sources

• Clarity on managing the transition to sustainable funds

• Increased taxes on investments

• A decrease in global cooperation

What role does blockchain technology play in investment management according to the discussion?

• Increasing transaction fees

• Removing friction in less liquid asset classes

• Decreasing investment opportunities

• Focusing on traditional banking methods

What is the current client demand for blockchain solutions?

• No interest in blockchain

• Complete shift to blockchain investments

• Exploring possibilities with moderate demand

• High demand for specific solutions

What is the focus of Bank of New York Mellon's Digital Assets Unit?

• Focusing on physical asset management

• Eliminating all digital assets

• Providing digital custody solutions

• Developing new currencies