Investing for Tomorrow

Welcome to Investing for Tomorrow, the Thinking Ahead Institute’s (TAI) podcast channel. The world is transforming at breakneck speed and we’re here to talk about what this means for investments. TAI is a global not-for-profit group whose members comprise asset owners, asset managers and other groups motivated to influence the investment industry for the good of savers worldwide.

1. The human, the machine and the cyborg 06/04/2024

1. The human, the machine and the cyborg Welcome to Season 3 of Investing for Tomorrow! We're exploring a hot topic: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology. Computers and cloud technology are crucial in the investment world, and AI is generating a lot of buzz. How can AI enhance our strategies? How can human intelligence (HI) collaborate with AI to improve decision-making? Are we on the brink of a cyborg future? In this episode, we tackle these questions with Michael Sofer, Director of Investment Systems Management at the Future Fund; Mark Beardall, Chief Information Officer at WTW; and Paul Martin, Chief Investments Operating Officer at WTW. Join us as we examine how AI and tech will transform institutional investment and help us address the industry's most critical issues. Resources mentioned: Book: Louis de Bernieres- /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/31511487

5. Sustainability shapers on natural resources and running for resilience 04/30/2024

5. Sustainability shapers on natural resources and running for resilience Join us for the finale of Sustainability shapers as we engage in a compelling conversation with Maya Beyhan, Global Head of Sustainability, Index Investment Strategy at S&P Dow Jones Indices. Maya takes us on a journey from her roots in portfolio strategy to her current expertise in sustainability indices. Highlighting how running has enhanced her resilience in this role. Discover the pivotal role of natural resources, notably carbon credits, in achieving the net-zero energy transition. As Maya underscores the importance of collaboration and education in propelling sustainable investment forward. Related resources: S&P /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/30980848

4. Sustainability shapers on widening social inequalities and writing for the soul 03/06/2024

4. Sustainability shapers on widening social inequalities and writing for the soul In this episode, Jodie Tapscott, Vice President and Director of Responsible Investing Strategy at AllianceBernstein, shares her inspiring journey in finance and how a National Geographic article changed her career trajectory toward sustainability. Delve into the systemic risk of widening social inequalities, explored through AllianceBernstein's strategy. Discover the three key areas guiding their investment strategies and the impact on economic, social, and political landscapes. Plus, get a surprising glimpse into Jodie's creative pursuit outside investment—writing. /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/29595563

8. Bonus: Global Pension Assets Study 2024 02/28/2024

8. Bonus: Global Pension Assets Study 2024 The Global Pension Assets Study estimates global pension fund assets across 22 major pension markets (the P22). At the end of 2023 these markets had estimated pension assets of USD 55,688 bn, marking an anticipated 11% growth compared to 2022. In our special bonus episode, we engage in conversation with Anastassia Johnson and Jessica Gao, researchers at the Thinking Ahead Institute. We discuss the study's significant figures, prevalent themes of the year, and anticipate challenges for the forthcoming year. Resources mentioned: Global industry study: Press release: Article: Research paper: Research paper: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/29986653

3. Sustainability shapers on decarbonisation and the magic of sci-fi 02/14/2024

3. Sustainability shapers on decarbonisation and the magic of sci-fi Join us for this captivating conversation with Daniel Hochman, Head of Sustainability Research at Bridgewater Associates, on the latest episode of Sustainability shapers. Explore Daniel's background and the vital role of decarbonisation for a sustainable future. Uncover Bridgewater's research methodology as we dissect emissions distribution and pinpoint transformative sectors. We discuss the crucial need to seamlessly integrate sustainability into core business practices, fostering a comprehensive 360-degree understanding. Additionally, gain insights into the impact of science fiction in nurturing the ability to envision different possible futures. Resources mentioned: Book series: Book series: Please see for important disclosures and other information. /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/29034418

2. Sustainability shapers on water depletion and living with the ups and downs 01/24/2024

2. Sustainability shapers on water depletion and living with the ups and downs In this episode of "Sustainability Shapers," Piet Klop, Head of Responsible Investment at PGGM, delves into the pressing concern of water depletion. Learn more about Piet himself including how he feels about the importance of connection to nature. Discover how PGGM manages water risk in its portfolio, exploring metrics, engagement, and opportunities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Piet emphasises the need for the financial sector to address location-specific risks and reflects on the challenge of ecosystem degradation. Join us for an insightful conversation with this sustainability leader. Resource mentioned: Tool: Research paper: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/29031058

1. Sustainability shapers on the just transition and the importance of history 12/12/2023

1. Sustainability shapers on the just transition and the importance of history Introducing Thinking Ahead Institute's new spin-off series "Sustainability shapers on systemic risk". This first episode features an insightful conversation with Leon Kamhi, Head of Responsibility at Federated Hermes. Together, with host Isabella Martin, they unravel the complexities of systemic risks, focusing on climate change, social inequalities, and the concept of a just transition. Leon shares his wealth of experience, emphasising the vital role of investor stewardship in shaping a sustainable and equitable future. Resource mentioned: Book: Quick LinksGet Embed PlayerDownload Audio File /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/28877613

7. Diving into our research highlights for 2023 12/12/2023

7. Diving into our research highlights for 2023 Embark on a compelling journey through the breadth of research conducted by the Thinking Ahead Institute in the past year, transcending the realms of the investment industry. Join Marisa Hall, the Head of the Institute, as she engages in insightful conversations with our researchers, offering a comprehensive overview of our 2023 research highlights. Delve into diverse topics, including the evolution of ESG, the future landscape of pensions, climate scenarios, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our exploration extends to pivotal subjects like stewardship, the investment organisation of tomorrow, systemic risk, and the crucial role of collaboration in shaping the trajectory of the industry. Resources mentioned: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/28855388

6. Nature's bottom line: the wealth of biodiversity 10/19/2023

6. Nature's bottom line: the wealth of biodiversity Biodiversity and nature have emerged as a prominent next focus for many investors, given how closely they are intertwined with the challenges of climate change. In this episode, we speak with two experts: Thomas Viegas, Partnerships Lead at the TNFD and Liudmila Strakodonskaya, ESG Analyst at AXA Investment Managers. Together we explore the launch of the TNFD, why biodiversity loss is not only a risk but also an opportunity for investors, the adoption of new standards, the development of innovative investment products, and ways that investors can begin to collaborate. Resources mentioned: -Report: WWF- -Research: IPBES- -Book: Robin Wall Kimmerer- /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/28286486

5. The future of ESG 09/13/2023

5. The future of ESG The future of ESG is contested. Despite this, many believe that ESG is an unstoppable train that is picking up speed. In this episode we talk to Luba Nikulina, Chief Strategy Officer at , and Roger Urwin, Global Head of Investment Content at and Co-founder of the , about the current reality; what’s on the horizon; the importance of rightsizing your sustainability commitments and how all of this is relevant for investment organisations today. Resources mentioned: Report: PwC - Book: Malcolm Gladwell - TED Talk: Malcolm Gladwell - Thinking Ahead Institute’s 2023 /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/27900390

4. Artificial intelligence: friend or foe? 07/26/2023

4. Artificial intelligence: friend or foe? Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving field. It’s changing the way we live, work and play. In this episode, we talk to two experts in the field: Dr Andy Lingard, Portfolio Development Leader in Insurance Technology at WTW, and Dr Eleanor Drage Senior Research Fellow at the at the University of Cambridge. We discuss the latest developments in AI, specific applications for the investment industry, the ethical implications, and the future of this technology. Resources mentioned: Investment Insight: Global study: Podcast: Books: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/27559746

3. Cultural self-awareness is key 06/29/2023

3. Cultural self-awareness is key Culture is one of seven organisational ‘superpowers’ and probably: the hardest to describe, the easiest source of blame, the hardest to change and the most critical for success. In this episode, we talk to Andy Walker – Employee Experience Global Head of Sales at WTW – and Stacy Apter – Vice President and Treasurer in Corporate Finance for the Coca-Cola Company – about why cultural self-awareness is key. Resources mentioned: Research paper: Research paper: Video: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/27310425

2. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): the systemic risk investors should be talking about 05/31/2023

2. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): the systemic risk investors should be talking about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), according to the World Health Organisation, is one of the top 10 threats facing humanity today. Antimicrobials (including antibiotics) are medicines used to treat infection in humans, animals and plants. Their misuse or overuse drives the development of drug-resistant pathogens (think parasites for example) that no longer respond to medicines. In this episode, we step into the public health arena and speak to Abigail Herron, Global Head of ESG Strategic Partnerships at Aviva Investors. We discuss more about AMR, why it is a systemic risk, why investors should care and how they can act. Resources mentioned: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/26959251

1. The just transition and the importance of leaving no one behind 04/27/2023

1. The just transition and the importance of leaving no one behind The to the net-zero transition would ensure we leave no one behind In this episode we cover findings from our Thinking Ahead paper, ‘The ‘S’ of ESG- moving from interest to action’, the Just Transition Finance Challenge and much more with two different, special guests. We speak to both Annika Brouwer Sustainability Specialist at Ninety One, a global asset manager with emerging markets roots and a Thinking Ahead member. And Sarah Teacher joint, interim CEO at the Impact Investing Institute, launched in 2019 to accelerate the growth and improve the effectiveness of the impact investing market. Resources mentioned: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/26669760

Bonus: Global Pension Assets Study 2023 02/15/2023

Bonus: Global Pension Assets Study 2023 The Global Pension Assets Study estimates global pension fund assets across 22 major pension markets (the P22), which at the end of 2022 had estimated pension assets of USD 47,861 bn. In this special bonus episode, we chat with Anastassia Johnson and Jessica Gao, researchers at the Thinking Ahead Institute about key figures from the study, core themes from the year and challenges for the year ahead. Articles and papers mentioned: /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/25909767

5. Looking back at our research highlights for 2022 12/01/2022

5. Looking back at our research highlights for 2022 Marisa Hall, Co-Head of the Thinking Ahead Institute, joins as guest host, with Isabella Martin to reflect on the team's research highlights set against a year of challenges. They cover many topics ranging from thought leadership, the future of work and systems thinking to the just transition, biodiversity and global trends in the investment industry. The article mentioned is Why Curiosity Matters, featured in the . /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/25173900

4. The climate transition and its risks for investors 11/01/2022

4. The climate transition and its risks for investors There has never been more focus on the ramifications of climate change and yet it seems that the investment industry is not acting swiftly or definitively enough to address them. This month we chat to Tim Hodgson, Co-head of the Thinking Ahead Institute (TAI), and Jeff Chee, who is the Global Head of Portfolio Strategy at about the climate transition and its risks for investors. As we step into creativity, we also chat to Susanna Basso, Creative Director of , about the power of storytelling to drive climate action and shift culture. /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/24820605

3. Latest trends from the world’s largest pension funds 10/03/2022

3. Latest trends from the world’s largest pension funds Marisa Hall, Co-head of the Thinking Ahead Institute, and Roger Urwin, Co-founder, discuss the key data points from the ‘’ report. In addition to covering overarching trends in the industry and the direction of travel. /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/24569160

2. Stewardship and engagement may be challenging but it presents significant opportunities for people and planet 09/01/2022

2. Stewardship and engagement may be challenging but it presents significant opportunities for people and planet Stewardship and engagement have grown in scope and scale and are now buzzwords in the investment industry. We chat to Adam Gillett, Head of Sustainable Investment and Eleanor Mahmoud, from the SI team at about its challenges and opportunities. Resources: Make My Money Matter ad- /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/24237378

1. Hybrid working and the transformation of the modern-day organisation 08/02/2022

1. Hybrid working and the transformation of the modern-day organisation Introducing our new podcast series Investing for Tomorrow. This month we chat to Marisa Hall, Co-head of the , and Roger Urwin, Co-founder of the Institute, about hybrid working and how it will affect the investment industry and organisations into the future. Additionally, we chat to Hugo from in London about how to design collaborative workspaces. /episode/index/show/thinkingaheadinstitute/id/23937633

Investing for Tomorrow

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