Just Wealth has launched a training programme to support its self-employed advisers’ knowledge of environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing.

The financial advice firm’s new programme will be delivered alongside The Openwork Partnership.

Training covers the factors that advisers must use to determine a businesses’ ESG rating, and how to talk to clients who are interested in sustainable investing.

The popularity of ESG funds has increased exponentially over the last few years. According to Refinitiv Lipper data, out of 80 exchange-traded funds and mutual fund launches in the UK in the first half of 2021, 37 were ESG vehicles, which is up from just 17 ESG launches in the entirety of 2017.

Just Wealth head of wealth, David Magee, said that investors are “more interested than ever” in ensuring their money is having a positive impact on the planet.

“It is crucial the firm’s advisers can give knowledgeable guidance on the subject,” he commented.

“By working with closely with Openwork’s exceptional Investment Managers, we can provide Just Wealth advisers with all the expertise they need to deliver ESG advice. One of the key benefits that Just Wealth provides is the continual investment in developing our team, and this course helps to ensure we can discuss this subject matter accurately and confidently within our holistic advice to clients.”

The Openwork Partnership client portfolio manager, Rohit Vaswani, added: “It is crucial that financial advisers are continually learning and keeping on top of the latest trends. ESG has moved beyond a niche topic that a select few investors are interested in and has become mainstream.

“It has grown in importance to the stage now that the question is no longer whether a financial institution should take ESG factors into account, but rather when and how. Our training will ensure the Just Wealth team can deliver expert advice, and give them all the tools they need to advise on ethical investing.”

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