Solène Hanquier has worked in the fields of sustainable finance and sustainable development for nearly 15 years. Today, the leader is central to NBI's responsible investment strategies.
«Today, even traditional funds are adopting responsible investment approaches, as they typically take into account environmental, social and governance considerations — i.e., ESG criteria — in addition to financial analysis. They do so in particular from a risk management perspective. »
However, when it comes to sustainable investment funds, responsible investment approaches and ESG considerations take a prominent place in the investment strategy. "We turn up the volume: they become the core of the objective," sums up the expert.
A lever for change
If Solène Hanquier made a shift to the financial sector in her career, it was to have a greater influence: "I realized that with the power of capital, it is possible to make a difference. Through our investment, through shareholder engagement, we can really change business practices but also choose those that offer solutions to the challenges of today and tomorrow, such as climate change or an aging population. »
In her opinion, the investments that make up our portfolio are a huge lever to accelerate the adoption of more sustainable practices. In a context of economic and political turbulence, when many may feel powerless, investing according to one's priorities and interests allows you to make your voice heard.
«In the face of volatile markets and political tensions, it is important to take a step back and look ahead to the long term. Tomorrow's major challenges won't go away. By choosing sustainable investing, clients are sending a signal to the market and companies that the adoption of sustainable practices is important and should be valued.»
Solène Hanquier, Senior Director and Head of Responsible Investment, National Bank Investments
Reconciling convictions and financial objectives
By choosing to invest in a more sustainable and fair economy, should we compromise on the expected return? "Over the long term horizon, several studies show that the returns of a sustainable investment fund are comparable to those of a traditional fund," says NBI's Senior Director and Head of Responsible Investment.
However, it is important to keep in mind that, by its very nature, sustainable investing is part of a long-term perspective: "Companies that adopt sustainable practices and integrate ESG criteria into their business strategy tend to be more resilient and naturally better positioned to meet the challenges of the future. They are also more effective at managing risk and generating long-term shareholder value. »
New sustainable solutions from BNI
In 2024, sustainable funds reached a record $3.200 billion in assets under management globally1, demonstrating a growing interest in this type of financial product.
At National Bank Investments, the new NBI Sustainable Portfolios offer turnkey solutions to these investors. What makes them special? They incorporate a variety of recognized approaches to responsible investment. "Among these approaches, let's think about shareholder engagement and excluding certain activities," says Solène Hanquier, who adds: "It is also possible to invest in the most exemplary companies in their sector, or in companies that seize the opportunities generated by a fairer and more sustainable economy, such as clean energy or drug discovery."
Sustainable investing is often seen through the prism of risk management, but as the expert concludes, it is also an interesting way to explore promising investment opportunities.
Some examples of companies held in BNI solutions
Stantec, a Canadian architecture and engineering firm, has adopted exemplary governance methods, such as its ESG oversight practises on the board of directors and a whistleblowing program that is accessible at all times. In 2024, it was recognized as the ninth most sustainable company in the world.
Deere & Co. (John Deere), an agribusiness equipment manufacturer, has developed machines that measure ideal trench depth to optimise water use and improve agricultural land use, while helping reduce carbon emissions in the agribusiness sector.
Discover the NBI Sustainable Portolios