
Fidelity MoneyBuilder Corporate Bond Fund
SRI Style:
Limited Exclusions
SDR Labelling:
Unlabelled with sustainable characteristics
Product:
OEIC
Fund Region:
Global
Fund Asset Type:
Equity Income
Launch Date:
12/09/1995
Last Amended:
Aug 2024
Dialshifter (
):
Fund Size:
£1668.00m
(as at: 31/03/2024)
Total Screened Themed SRI Assets:
£30652.00m
Total Responsible Ownership Assets:
£120279.00m
Total Assets Under Management:
£322704.00m
ISIN:
GB0003863916, GB00B3Z9PT62, GB00B417LB58, GB00BK8LPC10, GB00BK8LP321, GB00BBGBFM09
Contact Us:
Objectives:
The fund’s investment objective is to achieve an attractive level of income together with some long-term capital growth from a portfolio invested primarily in the UK. The portfolio will invest in a combination of UK government and corporate bonds and other fixed interest securities, preference shares, convertibles and ordinary shares. The fund has a strategic asset allocation set at about 65% equities and 35% fixed income (with a +/- 5% tolerance). The Portfolio Managers work closely together on the overall portfolio construction but specialise within asset classes to offer investors the best possible focus of skill.
The Portfolio Managers apply an active multi-strategy approach which aims to add value against the benchmark from many different sources, whilst ensuring no single position dominates portfolio risk. The fixed income component of the portfolio invests predominantly in UK government bonds (Gilts) but has flexibility to invest in sterling denominated investment grade corporate bonds.
Sustainable, Responsible
&/or ESG Overview:
The fund is part of the Fidelity Sustainable Family of Funds and adheres to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Framework under which at least 70% of the fund’s net assets will be invested in issuers deemed to maintain sustainable characteristics. The fund will also adhere to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Exclusion Policy. Investments with sustainable characteristics are those which the Portfolio Managers believe to have effective governance and management of environmental and social issues and deliver long term sustainable outcomes through positive societal impact. Such investments are identified through Fidelity’s Sustainable Investing process, which is built on three related elements: integrated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis, engagement, and collaboration.
Sustainable characteristics based on ESG considerations are analysed by Fidelity and principally assessed based on various criteria such as, climate change mitigation and adaptation, water and waste management and biodiversity, product safety, supply chain, health and safety and human rights.
Primary fund last amended:
Aug 2024
Information directly from fund manager.
Fund Filters
Sustainability - General
Funds that have policies that consider (environmental and social) sustainability issues. Strategies vary but are likely to consider environmental issues like climate change, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, resource management, environmental impacts; and social issues like equal opportunities, human rights, labour standards, diversity and adherence to internationally recognised codes. See fund information.
Find funds which substantially focus on sustainability issues
Find funds where there is a significant emphasis on (environmental and social) sustainability. Funds with a 'sustainability theme' typically place more emphasis on the area than funds with a 'sustainability policy' - meaning that it is more likely to drive investment selection. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
A core element of these funds aim to encourage higher sustainability standards across business practices through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity
Find funds that use the UN Global Compact to inform or help direct where they can or cannot invest and will typically not invest in companies with significant breaches (low standards) - although strategies vary. (The UNGC covers a wide range of issues - search 'UNGC'). See https://unglobalcompact.org/
Environmental - General
Funds that have policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out the fund's stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.
Climate Change & Energy
Funds that have policies (documented strategies that explain their position on) climate change related issues such as greenhouse gas/carbon emissions, net zero, transitioning to lower carbon. Strategies vary. Read fund details for further information.
Funds that avoid investing in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Funds vary: some may exclude all companies that extract oil. Others may have exposure to oil extraction via more diversified energy companies. See fund literature to confirm details.
Funds that avoid companies that are involved in extracting oil from the Arctic regions. See fund literature for further details.
Funds that avoid investing in companies with coal, oil and gas reserves. See fund information for further details.
The fund manager excludes companies with direct involvement in fossil fuel exploration (eg coal, oil and gas companies)
Find funds that require all, or almost all, of the companies it invests in to have a ‘net zero action plan’ - meaning that the companies they invest in have worked out how they will, over time, reduce their total carbon (and other greenhouse gas) emissions to nil.
Will only invest in companies that report greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategies in line with the framework set out the by the Taskforce for Climate Related Financial Disclosure, which is increasingly becoming mandatory. See https://www.fsb-tcfd.org/ https ://www.ifrs.org/sustainability/tcfd/
Social / Employment
Find funds that have policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Funds with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.
Find funds that have a labour standards policy - which can be expected to mean that the fund will invest in / favour companies that have higher standards in this area - although fund strategies can vary significantly (as with all policy areas). See eg https://www.ilo.org/international-labour-standards
Find funds with policies or themes that set out their approach to health and wellbeing issues. Funds of this kind typically aim to invest in companies with high standards - or encourage high standards. Themed funds are likely to have more of an emphasis on this area. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
All mining companies excluded
Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Find funds that have policies that set out their position on ethical or 'personal values' based issues. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
Companies are excluded if they are involved in any aspect of the production chain for tobacco products, including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.
Find funds that avoid companies that manufacture products intended specifically for military use. Fund strategies vary - particularly with regard to non-strategic military products. See fund literature for fund specific details.
Find funds with a written civilian firearms exclusion policy - meaning that they will not invest in companies that make (or perhaps also sell) handguns made for non-military users.
Find funds that avoid investment in companies involved in the production of alcohol. Strategies vary; some funds allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund literature for further information.
Find funds that avoid companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some funds may allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund policy for further details.
Find funds that avoid companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. See fund details for further information.
Human Rights
Find funds that have policies relating to human rights issues. Funds of this kind typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some fund managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
Find funds that have policies in place to ensure they do not invest in companies that employ children.
Find funds with policies that exclude companies or other assets where regimes are not democratic, or where people may be oppressed. May use eg. Freedom House research. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.
Find funds that have policies or a theme that relates to the responsible management of supply chains. These may relate to employment issues, notably people employed by their suppliers, as well as the sourcing of materials and products. See fund literature for further information.
The fund has a policy which excludes assets with involvement in Modern Slavery
Gilts & Sovereigns
Find funds that do not invest in / exclude 'sovereigns' - debt issued by governments. See eg https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sovereign-debt.asp
Governance & Management
Find fund options that have policies that relate to corporate governance issues such as board structure, executive remuneration, bribery and/or corporate corruption. These funds will typically avoid companies with poor practices. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.
Find funds that aim to avoid investing in companies with poor governance practices.(e.g. board structure, management practices etc.) Views may however vary on what counts as 'poor' practices - and funds may not immediately divest as they may prefer to work to encourage higher standards. See fund literature for further information.
Exclude companies that are subject to United Nations sanctions. See eg https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list
Find funds that have policies explaining how managers will respond to assets / companies that do not comply with relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption standards or laws. Strategies vary; options include stewardship/ engagement and divestment - or a combination. See fund literature for further information.
Find funds that have policies explaining how the fund managers take into account digital/cyber security related risks. Funds with cyber policies will typically favour companies with higher standards or that are helping to solve problems - but strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.
Fund managers encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)
Find fund managers that encourage the banks and insurance companies they invest in to publish climate change related financial information - as set out by the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (with the aim of helping investors measure and respond to climate risk).
A core element of these funds will aim to encourage higher ESG standards through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement /voting activity
Asset Size
Find funds that invests more than half of their money into what are commonly regarded as 'large companies'. This will typically mean that the market capitalisation (or value) of the companies they hold is in excess of £5 to £10 billion.
Find funds that have SRI strategies and focus their investment stock selection on larger companies. (e.g. over circa £5-£10bn)
How The Fund Works
Find funds that focus on finding and investing in companies with positive / beneficial attributes. This strategy can be applied in addition to exclusion criteria and engagement/stewardship activity.
Find funds where their main 'ethical approach' is to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Read fund literature for further information.
Find funds that invest more heavily in those that have higher ESG ratings/standards or scores and less heavily in companies with lower ESG ratings. Where this is central to a fund's strategy you should expect it to invest in most sectors. Strategies vary.
Aims to avoid companies that do significant harm. This originates from the EU’s sustainable finance ‘DNSH’ (do no significant harm) work, which is not necessarily used by UK investors.
Find funds that make significant use of internationally agreed 'norms' (e.g. United Nations Global Compact - UNGC - or the UN Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs) as part of their investment selection process alongside additional SRI criteria such as positive or negative stock selection policies and/or stewardship strategies.
Find funds that have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.
A major focus of these funds is the careful management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) related risks - typically by avoiding or being underweight in companies seen as posing major risks in these areas (i.e. not necessarily by using themes, exclusions etc).
Find funds that have published explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. fund decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).
This fund has changed its mandate. It was previously not an ESG/sustainable fund. The information published here shows the upgraded fund strategy.
This fund uses, or can use, specialist strategies to aid performance which involve ‘lending’ fund assets to others at specific points in time.
Unscreened Assets & Cash
The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.
The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.
The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets
All assets held in the fund - except cash - meet the sustainability criteria published in fund documentation.
Intended Clients & Product Options
Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in sustainability issues.
Find funds that are available via a tax efficient ISA product wrapper.
Fund Management Company Information
About The Business
Finds fund management companies that have a published company wide stewardship, engagement and / or responsible ownership policy or strategy that covers all investments. Stewardship typically involves encouraging higher ESG standards through voting and dialogue.
Find fund management companies that actively encourage higher 'environmental, social and governance' and/or 'sustainable and responsible investment' practices across investee companies - typically where the aim is to encourage positive change that is aligned with the best interests of investors. Strategies vary. See additional information and options.
Find fund managers that vote all* the shares they own at Annual General Meetings and Extraordinary General Meetings. A commitment to voting shares is a key indicator of 'responsible share ownership' demonstrating their support for or disagreement with management policy. (*situations can legitimately, occasionally occur where voting proves impossible, but in principle all shares should be voted.)
Find fund managers that consider responsible ownership and ESG to be a key differentiator for their business.
Find fund management companies that take sustainability criteria into account when selecting and/or managing all of their property / real estate investments.
The leadership team of this asset manager have performance targets linked to environmental goals.
Find fund management companies that aim to align all their investments (across all funds) to help meet the aims of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Find funds run by fund managers that apply Responsible ownership or 'Stewardship' policies to all or most of their investment assets. This means active involvement (e.g. voting, dialogue) with the companies they invest in across funds (not normally limited to ethical or SRI options.) Read fund literature for further information.
Find fund management companies that consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues when deciding whether or not to invest in a company for all / almost all of their funds and other assets. This is increasingly seen as part of sound risk management.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an in-house (company wide) diversity improvement programme - meaning that they are working to ensure that within their own businesses they employ people from diverse backgrounds - often typically focused on ethnicity and/or sex.
Find fund management companies that encourage the companies they invest in to have strong diversity, race, gender and other equality policies across all assets held, not simply screened or themed SRI/ESG funds. (ie Asset Management company wide).
Asset manager has information on their website that explains how they treat 'vulnerable clients' (as set out in FCA regulation)
This asset management company invests in companies which have recently listed on a stock exchange (which is important as it can help grow new businesses).
Asset management company has investments in bonds designed to meet sustainability requirements - however these assets may not be 'ringfenced' for this purpose. See fund manager website for details.
Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers)
Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers)
Collaborations & Affiliations
Find fund management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.
Find fund management companies that are members of UKSIF - the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance association
Find fund management companies that have partnered with Fund EcoMarket - meaning that they are helping to improve access to information on sustainable and responsible investment by paying an annual fee to us which enables us to publish information for free. Partner funds are listed ahead of other funds and have their logos displayed.
A member of the Taskforce for Nature Related Financial Disclosures group which aims to aid risk management and shift money towards nature-positive outcomes.
Fund management entity is a member of the Investment Association https://www.theia.org/
Resources
Find fund management companies that employ people to steer and support fund managers in voting shares at company AGM's and EGMs in ways that are consistent with encouraging higher ESG/sustainability standards.
Find a fund management company that directly employs specialist ESG/SRI/sustainability researchers or analysts. This allows asset managers to discuss environmental, social and governance risks and opportunities directly with companies.
Find fund management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have one or more ESG/sustainability experts on all investment teams or 'desks' (all asset types)
Accreditations
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'
Find fund managers that are signatories to the FRC UK Stewardship Code, which sets out a framework for constructive investor / investee relations where fund managers are encouraged to behave like responsible, typically longer term 'company owners'.
Engagement Approach
Find fund management companies that regularly initiate or run industry wide (collaborative) investor projects aimed at raising environmental, social and governance standards amongst investee companies.
Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage more responsible corporate taxation.
Fund manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.
Asset manager has a stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that involves working with fossil fuel companies on climate change related issues. See fund manager website for details.
Asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.
Asset manager has a stewardship / responsible ownership policy that means they are working to encourage more responsible mining practices - where environmental and social issues are properly dealt with by the companies they invest in.
The asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy that focuses on biodiversity and nature issues relating to the assets they invest the aim of which will be to reduce harm and or deliver improvement. Strategies vary. https://tnfd.global
Asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy which means they are working to encourage the shift to more sustainable business practices in ways that respect and are sensitive to social issues and the impact change has on people effected by the changes that are taking place. https://www.transitionpathwayinitiative.org/ https://transitiontaskforce.net/
Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place which aims to address human rights issues in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers) with the aim of raising standards
Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place that aims to improve labour standards for the benefit of employees in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers)
Asset management company has a stewardship strategy in place which involves working to raise diversity, equality and inclusion standards across investee assets
working with the assets they hold to help stamp out modern slavery - where direct or indirect company employees are exploited for business benefits.
Fund managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets
Company Wide Exclusions
Find fund management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles.
Climate & Net Zero Transition
This asset management company has set a date by which they plan to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.
Finds organisations / fund managers that have a company wide carbon transition plan - meaning that they have plotted a path to how they will move away from activities that produce or use carbon based energy sources (that emit greenhouse gases) towards clean, alternative, renewable energy sources.
This asset management company plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (CO2e) emissions by reducing their emissions. Calculations and scope vary.
Find fund management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.
Finds organisations / fund management companies that are in the process of working out how to make a ‘net zero commitment’ - meaning that when that is finalised they will have started the process of reducing their total greenhouse gas emissions to'zero'.
See https://sciencebasedtargets.org/
Transparency
Find fund management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.
Find companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.
Find fund management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.
Fund management companies that publish a full record of how they vote their shares at AGMs (annual general meetings) and EGMs (extraordinary general meetings). Voting strategies have an important role to play encouraging higher environmental, social and governance standards.
This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are to become a sustainable business - without significant negative environmental or social impacts.
This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they will align to the climate change commitments made at the Paris Climate Talks, COP21.
This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are going to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Find fund management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information.
Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:
The fund is part of the Fidelity Sustainable Family of Funds and adheres to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Framework under which at least 70% of the fund’s net assets will be invested in issuers deemed to maintain sustainable characteristics. The fund will also adhere to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Exclusion Policy. Investments with sustainable characteristics are those which the Portfolio Managers believe to have effective governance and management of environmental and social issues and deliver long term sustainable outcomes through positive societal impact. Such investments are identified through Fidelity’s Sustainable Investing process, which is built on three related elements: integrated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis, engagement, and collaboration.
Sustainable characteristics based on ESG considerations are analysed by Fidelity and principally assessed based on various criteria such as, climate change mitigation and adaptation, water and waste management and biodiversity, product safety, supply chain, health and safety and human rights.
Process:
Fidelity utilises a three-step process:
- Idea generation
- Portfolio construction
- Risk management
Idea generation
Our investment process is built on the strength of our research platform. We blend fundamental credit and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), quantitative and trading inputs to build a holistic view of any prospective holding. We have a collaborative team environment in which everyone is encouraged to express views and challenge ideas.
The inputs into our idea generation process combine to give ideas a Relative Value (RV) which then feeds into the portfolio construction process.
- i) Credit and ESG research
Fundamental credit research forms the basis of the strategy’s investment process. The Credit Research Team consists of 42* individuals, based in London, Hong Kong, China and Toronto. Fidelity operates a career analyst model with the Credit Team consisting of a blend of home-grown talent (primarily through the graduate program) and experienced hires.
*Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2023. Excludes investment graduates and includes Toronto-based analysts, who are part of Fidelity Canada Investment Management (FCIM). FCIM is an affiliated entity of FIL Limited.
Each analyst screens their universe to determine which companies receive which level of coverage (alpha, beta, or credit bench).
The credits are analysed and compared across sectors and are each awarded a Fundamental Rating (an independent view of credit fundamentals), a Fundamental Outlook (a forward-looking assessment of credit fundamentals), an RV score (1 Strong Buy - 5 Strong Sell) and an ESG Rating (both stand-alone and forward-looking) along with a sub-ESG score (on ‘Environmental’, ‘Social’ and ‘Governance’ from 0 to 3), which is jointly determined by the credit and equity research analysts.
- ii) Macro Research
The Portfolio Managers draw on inputs from multiple expert teams to help inform duration views. The output of which tends to be no more than plus or minus 1 years around the index.
- Our Macro Research Team is a group of macro and market experts working on a cross-asset basis, and supporting fixed income, equities, solutions and multi asset, and real estate. They research and maintain macroeconomic models, generate inflation projections and opine on likely central bank outlook.
- Our Quantitative Research Team has developed and maintains a suite of quantitative models which allow portfolio managers to spot opportunities in the sovereign and credit space, including cross-country sovereign relative value opportunities and curve dislocations, directional and cross-market models based upon underlying macro and micro signals. The quant model recommendations are incorporated into Fidelity’s Tactical Rates Team view on duration across the three main markets (US Dollar, Euro and UK Sterling), and inform Portfolio Managers' views on credit beta.
- Our sovereign and credit traders engage with all Fixed Income Team members by providing market colour around positioning, consensus and technical conditions. They generate relative value and directional trade ideas that are incorporated into our portfolios at the discretion of the portfolio managers.
- Specialist Portfolio Managers on government bond and IG regional markets (US Dollar, Euro and UK Sterling) are focused on managing duration against a particular government bond curve. Thanks to their expertise, they inform the sovereign and duration view for the broader Fixed Income Team, both informally through engaging with other portfolio managers, and more formally through their vote in the Tactical Rates Team.
- Credit and equity research analysts also provide a unique perspective on the state of the economy through a bottom-up lens. The several thousand meetings held with the senior representatives of the companies that we invest into, not only give us a view on each company's overall health and creditworthiness, but also are a key indicator of the underlying state of the economy. The aggregate regional and sector views, from our bottom-up analysis, are a unique and highly valuable input into our macro, credit and sovereign positioning.
- iii) Quantitative research
The Tactical Quantitative Research Team's approach to trade idea generation is to aim to create ideas, models, scorecards and overlays that are back tested, uncorrelated, timely, automated, and unbiased:
- Back-testing: By rigorously testing against historical data, the team aims to;
- Rapidly distinguish trading strategies with potential from those that don’t add value.
- Set position sizes based on historical data and worst-case drawdown scenarios.
- Identify strategies that continue working in diverse environments - both in Quantitative Easing (QE)-and non-QE environments or different parts of the macroeconomic cycle.
Diversification: Quants identify, recommend and monitor multiple signals across many different asset classes and from many different sources for a large number of instruments. Combining uncorrelated strategies from areas as different as momentum, mean-reversion, seasonality and yield curve slope reduces risk for a given alpha.
Data: Quants can take advantage of massive data sets. We take into account a wider range of data inputs on every bond in our universe and unearth less-obvious relationship than manual analysis can.
Automation: With increased automation of data processing and analyses, quants can update the analysis of every asset every day. Missed opportunities from delayed analysis as well as mistakes from human error can be reduced using quantitative strategies, and quantitative screens can funnel pre-screened high-potential opportunities to specialists in the Credit Analyst Team for deeper review.
Reduction of behavioural biases: Quantitative strategies can mitigate or eliminate the behavioural biases of manual investing by making the assumptions in our investment process more explicit and by imposing structure on the investment process – and they can help us exploit the biases of other market participants.
- iv) Specialised traders
A key distinction of our fixed income approach is that traders provide portfolio managers with market intelligence, flow information and trade recommendations. Traders are dedicated by asset class which is especially important for markets affected by seasonal liquidity and influenced by technical trends. Ideas generated by the team tend to be either short-term tactical trades, typically where the idea is flow-driven based on a pricing anomaly, or longer-term and strategic trades, gained through insight from meetings with official institutions such as central banks and issuing agencies. Ideas may also be based on shifting demand trends.
Traders are also integral to the new issue process, forming opinions on new issue demand, premium and success of a deal. In doing so, traders work in close collaboration with portfolio managers, credit and quantitative analysts to formulate an investment thesis.
Portfolio construction
There are three elements to portfolio construction:
- i) Position sizing
The highest conviction RV rated ideas are used to build portfolios. We size positions with reference to their credit rating band and their RV rating assigned by our credit analysts. Higher conviction credits from higher quality issues are held in larger size than those of lower quality credits where we have less conviction. We also take into account issuance size, maturity and currency. Positions in different bonds issued by the same entity are aggregated together, to give a genuine view of risk to one company.
RV ratings are constantly reviewed for example, an RV rating could move down as a result of a company’s credit profile deteriorating or if the bond performs well and therefore looks less attractive on a valuation basis. The downgrading of an RV rating below 3 is a clear signal to consider selling.
- ii) Execution
Transactions are directed by the Portfolio Managers through a global trading platform and implemented by a group of specialist traders in conjunction with the Portfolio Services Group (PSG). There is continuous dialogue between the Portfolio Managers, the traders and PSG as execution is often contingent on market levels. This structure has been established to enable traders to build strong external counterparty relationships, which is crucial for assessing market liquidity and ensuring best execution. PSG further supports the risk management and implementation process by actively monitoring fund investment guidelines and other requirements, such as pre-trade compliance reviews. In addition, the team has different reporting lines, which contributes to the reduction in the overall operational and execution risk by providing an additional and independent layer of control.
Overseeing every transaction is Compliance. The team is responsible for ensuring compliance rules are appropriately maintained and adhered to. They act as a second line of defence against portfolio breaches via rigorous end-of-day testing. Their expertise provides a framework within which the investment team can manage complex and bespoke portfolio requirements
Buy trades require a rating of RV1, 2 or 3 and bonds rated RV4 or 5 should be considered for sale as no longer hold value. There are two possible reasons why the rating could be downgraded and in turn sold:
- The credit has deteriorated, and the investment case changed.
- The bond has performed well, and is no longer attractive relative to the opportunity set, with better value found elsewhere.
- iii) Risk budgeting
Our Portfolio Construction and Risk (PCR) Team collaborated with portfolio managers to develop a suite of proprietary tests to ensure portfolios have appropriate levels of risk. Our starting point is the expected alpha the client wishes to achieve and the opportunity set within the guidelines. The model then generates an expected tracking error range by asset class, which is monitored over time. Continual monitoring and formal reviews at weekly franchise meetings ensure that sufficient (and efficiently diverse) levels of risk are taken to achieve the return target, and vice versa that risk levels have not exceeded the expected range on a persistent basis. Temporary breaches outside of either the top or bottom of the tracking error range are discussed and documented, but are not remedied unless they persist. This recognises that certain market environments encourage a “risk on” attitude to investing for periods of time, whilst on occasion when conviction is low, managers may dial down the risk they are running and we feel both are acceptable if transient.
Portfolio monitoring and oversight
Our risk processes follow three lines of defence model in adherence with a robust risk management framework.
First level
Investment team: Portfolio Managers use desktop risk management systems on a daily basis to analyse risk within portfolios. Reports typically include measures of tracking error, volatility, concentration, credit quality and other relevant measures.
Portfolio Managers are responsible for building portfolios that are consistent with the risk expectations and investment guidelines of our clients.
Portfolio Construction and Risk Team: This team helps Portfolio Managers understand and manage the risks associated with their portfolios through the provision of reporting and expertise.
Quarterly Fund Review (QFR): The Chief Investment Officer (CIO) / head of asset class meets with Portfolio Managers to discuss their respective portfolios in detail. During the meeting, factors such as the portfolio’s structure, turnover, trading activity, risk profile, performance, and level of active money are analysed.
Quarterly Sustainability Review (QSR): The QSR is designed to place additional scrutiny on the way that sustainability factors are being integrated and monitored at the fund level. A wider and deeper review of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors, as well as our stewardship activities (including engagement and voting) will thus be formally performed on a quarterly basis.
Second level
Investment Risk Team: This team ensures that material investment risks are adequately covered and understood by senior management and the board. The team provides risk metrics to support Compliance, senior management and other stakeholders.
Compliance: This function reviews all trades daily for asset eligibility and to ensure portfolios stay within their investment parameters. It also monitors trades to ensure best execution in the market, including appropriate pricing and timeliness.
Furthermore, Fidelity operates a network of shared first- and second-line Investment Risk Committees (IRCs) across the firm to support each asset class and specific investment management teams.
Fund Counterparty Risk Committee (FCRC): The FCRC is responsible for ensuring all risks associated with derivatives and counterparty exposures are continuously assessed and that an appropriate control environment is implemented by line management.
Fund Liquidity Risk Committee (FLRC): The FLRC is responsible for reviewing appropriateness of risk mitigations when Fidelity’s funds exceed agreed internal liquidity thresholds as well as reviewing and approving the Fund Liquidity Risk Framework.
Third level
The Internal Audit function provides an independent review of all risk functions as per regulatory requirements.
Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:
At Fidelity, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible risk-adjusted returns for our investors. We believe that high standards of corporate responsibility generally make good business sense and have the potential to protect and enhance investment returns. Consequently, we integrate ESG issues into our research and investment decision-making process; we believe it has the potential to affect the long-term value of the investment.
Our integrated ESG approach is relevant across all asset classes, sectors and markets in which we invest.
ESG integration is carried out at the fundamental research analyst level within our investment teams, primarily through the implementation of Fidelity's proprietary ESG Rating. This rating leverages our internal research capabilities and our engagement with companies to inform our view on a company’s sustainability credentials. Please refer to our response to question B6 for detailed information on Fidelity’s proprietary ESG Rating and other proprietary tools that support our internal research process.
The cornerstone of our investment approach is bottom-up research. As well as studying financial results, our portfolio managers and analysts are dedicated to carrying out additional qualitative analysis of potential investments. They visit companies in person, examining everything that could have an effect on its business, from the shop floor to the boardroom. Customers and suppliers also come in for scrutiny. In this way we can develop a 360-degree view of every company in which we invest and ESG factors are regularly considered in this research process.
Our approach to integrating ESG aspects into our investment processes is detailed in the following policies, with all documents accessible via the following website: https://professionals.fidelity.co.uk/sustainable-investing/our-policies-and-reports:
Sustainable Investing Principles: The document sets out the guiding principles and minimum requirements for Fidelity’s sustainable investing activities across asset classes and geographies. The Sustainable Investing Principles build on our beliefs to set out our sustainable investing frameworks, our approach to sustainable client solutions, exclusions, investment stewardship and engagement, the integration of ESG risks and opportunities across our investment management process, and an overview of compliance with regional sustainability regulations.
Exclusion Framework: Our Exclusion Policy forms part of our sustainable investment policy and defines the main requirements for an effective exclusion framework applicable throughout the organisation.
Engagement Policy: Our Engagement Policy sets out how Fidelity undertakes stewardship and shareholder engagement across our listed equity and fixed income holdings.
Voting Policy: Our sustainable investing voting principles and guidelines document provides information on how we exercise ownership rights through voting to improve sustainable business behaviour and client returns.
Climate Investing Policy: Our Climate Investing Policy details how we plan to work with stakeholders to reduce climate risk across all investment strategies in a way that aligns with our foundation in active, bottom-up research.
We use a combination of internal and external resources.
Internal
The bulk of the engagement and analysis is carried out by our research analysts who strive to go beyond studying just financial results and look to incorporate ESG and other factors into a measured viewpoint. They are supported by our team of 38* sustainable investing specialists who engage with companies on issues like corporate governance (for example, board structure, executive remuneration), shareholder rights (for example, election of directors, capital amendments), changes to regulation (for example, green house gas emissions restrictions, governance codes), physical threats (for example, extreme weather, climate change, water shortages), and so on. Our sustainable investing specialists engage with senior management of investee companies as well as their Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) / ESG professionals. They access external ESG-themed research as well as the company ratings based on ESG factors that an external vendor produces.
Fidelity has developed a proprietary ESG Rating Framework, leveraging our internal research and interactions with issuers. The rating is designed to generate a forward-looking and holistic assessment of ESG risks and opportunities. Analysts qualify the direction of change of companies’ ESG performance (positive, neutral or negative trajectory). The ESG ratings and full company reports are accessible on our centralised research management system, Fidelity Insight, so that each analyst has a first-hand view of how each company under their coverage is rated according to ESG factors. In addition, ESG ratings are included on our analyst research notes. These notes are published internally on Fidelity Insight and form an important part of our investment decision.
Fidelity has also developed an SDG mapping tool, which provides the percentage of an entity’s or portfolio’s alignment with each SDG, and where relevant the underlying targets and indicators. This provides a quantitative, transparent, and consistent approach to measuring the alignment of portfolios against the underlying targets and indicators behind the SDGs.
Additionally, we have been developing our proprietary Climate Rating which utilises our fundamental research capabilities to identify climate risks, net zero investments and targets for transition engagement within the Fidelity investment universe. It assesses which companies are in the best position to transition to net zero, or have a positive trajectory towards transition.
The Climate Rating is designed to complement our broader ESG Ratings, which already incorporate climate change factors.
Climate Ratings have been assigned to over 2,000 issuers so far, with the objective to further scale up this coverage over time. We will use various approaches, including the Climate Rating, to set individual fund decarbonisation targets appropriate to each fund’s investment strategy and universe. We will gradually increase targets to reach 100% alignment with the Paris Agreement in every fund by 2050.
Carbon emissions data is available via Insight and is accessible to all analysts and portfolio managers. This data includes (but is not limited to) portfolio carbon emissions and intensity, weighted average carbon intensity, top emitting holdings, emissions attribution analysis, scenario analysis, physical risk assessment, fossil fuel reserves and green/brown share of electricity generation (from held utilities).
*Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2024. Excludes China AMC resources.
External
Fidelity is a signatory to many industry initiatives such as the Principles for Responsible Investing (PRI), UK Stewardship Code and the Japanese Stewardship Code. We are also active members of the Asian Corporate Governance Association, Assogestioni, the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association, the UK Investor Forum and many other trade and industry bodies around the world.
Fidelity uses a number of external research sources globally that provide ESG-themed reports, research, ratings and data on themes such as corporate involvement in verified or alleged failures to respect international norms, for example the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) as well as on carbon emission, fossil fuel and power generation. The coverage of companies varies by provider and the providers currently cover more than 10,000 companies globally.
We also subscribe to a number of corporate governance and voting advisory services, including products supported by Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) and Glass Lewis, to MSCI for ESG data and to ISS for carbon footprint metrics.
We constantly explore new data sets and approaches that can provide enhanced insights into companies.
Sustainable Investing Team
Fidelity has a Sustainable Investing Team, which includes sustainability and stewardship professionals covering various subject matter areas and competencies. The Sustainable Investing Team is part of Fidelity’s Investment Team and it supports Fidelity’s investment analysts and portfolio managers to monitor, analyse, and engage with investee companies.
Fidelity’s Sustainable Investing Team has expanded to 38* members (2020: 13 members) to meet the growing demands for sustainable research, thought leadership and support for analysts and portfolio managers. The scope of the team’s work now covers a broad array of activities related to ESG integration, engagement, policy, product development and sales and marketing, as well as proxy voting.
Located in seven locations across Europe and the Asia Pacific region the Sustainable Investing Team covers a broad range of skills, including research, policy, climate science and governance. The team has a broad range of professional experience and diversity of tenure. Some specialists of the team have worked in similar roles throughout their career, while others have transitioned to sustainability over the course of their career development. The team is also diverse in terms of gender and national origin. When adding new members to the team, we have prioritised improving the team’s skillset to support our organisational stewardship objectives, as well as supporting the development of young talent in the firm, through our graduate intake.
The continued build out of our Sustainable Investing Team ensures that we remain able to meet the evolving needs of our clients and other stakeholders. New members have brought skills to complement and add to the existing capabilities of the team, including legal expertise, thematic expertise (for example, climate), client and distribution expertise and additional governance expertise.
The team will continue to evolve based on our sustainable investing strategy and aim to service all areas of the business. For example, we are planning to hire experienced asset class leads, growing the breadth and depth of our sustainable investing process and product offering. Fidelity’s investment analysts are responsible for researching companies under their coverage, leveraging the expertise of the Sustainable Investing Team as appropriate. Under this approach, ESG is fully integrated in the investment process. This collaboration has improved quality and outcomes of engagement across asset classes.
*Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2024. Excludes China AMC resources.
Oversight of ESG at Fidelity
The following individuals and teams are responsible for maintaining and integrating Fidelity’s ESG policies:
- The board members of FIL Limited (the ultimate holding company of the group that trades as Fidelity International) have oversight and accountability for sustainable investing. The Sustainable Investing Team reports to the board on its activities at least once per year. The board approves any changes or amendments to our Sustainable Investing Principles, including our voting guidelines.
- A Sustainable Investing Operating Committee (SIOC) was formed in 2017. The purpose of the group is to ensure a comprehensive oversight of all ESG matters within the company across all jurisdictions and business areas. The group is comprised of members of our senior management team representing all asset classes. The SIOC meets monthly to review any ESG company policy changes, industry developments, client requirements, new product innovations and regulatory updates, and will ensure the alignment of all active ESG initiatives across the company. Ad-hoc meetings may be called to address pressing issues that may arise that need addressing in advance of the next scheduled meeting.
- Andrew McCaffery, our Global Co-Chief Investment Officer Fixed Income, Multi Asset and Private Assets (and a member of our Global Operating Committee (GOC)) also has oversight and accountability for our sustainable investing strategy and activities globally.
- Jenn-Hui Tan, our Chief Sustainability Officer, oversees Fidelity’s strategy and policies on engagement, voting and ESG integration across our active product range. He manages our dedicated Sustainable Investing Team that is comprised of 38* sustainable investing specialists, based in London, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Melbourne, Sydney and Tokyo, who work closely with the investment management teams globally across all asset classes. They are responsible for consolidating our approach to ESG integration, engagement and voting.
- Our heads of research are also directly involved in the implementation of sustainable investing principles and procedures in the company. Specifically, our global head of research has final approval on which external ESG research vendors we engage.
- Fidelity’s research analysts have overall responsibility for analysing and rating the ESG performance of the companies and buildings in which we invest. Our portfolio managers are also active in analysing the potential effects of these factors when making investment decisions, ensuring that each stock in the final portfolio adheres to the strategy’s and clients’ ESG requirements.
- The Compliance Monitoring Team monitors the portfolios with screening criteria systematically through hard-coded restrictions in the investment guidelines.
*Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2024. Excludes China AMC resources.
Industry collaboration
Fidelity recognises the importance of networks and information platforms to share tools, pool resources, and make use of investor reporting as a source of learning. Fidelity is a member or signatory to the following:
- #10000 Black Interns
- 30% Club Australia
- 30% Club Hong Kong
- 30% Club Investors Group
- 30% Club Japan
- 40:40 Vision
- Asia Investor Group on Climate Change (AIGCC)
- Asia Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (ASIFMA)
- Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)
- Asian Corporate Governance Association (ACGA)
- Assogestioni
- BBBA Talent Accelerator
- Black North Initiative
- Black Young Professionals
- Bright Network Women in Leadership
- Catalyst After School Programme (CASP)
- CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project)
- Climate Bonds Initiative (CBI)
- Climate Investment Summit (CIS)
- Coalition for Climate Resilient Investment (CCRI)
- Corporate Governance Forum (CGF)
- Council for Sustainable Business (CSB)
- Disability:IN
- Diversity Project
- Edinburgh Airport Sustainability Pledge
- Environment management system standard ISO 14001
- European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA)
- European Sustainable Investment Forum (EUROSIF)
- Farm Animal Investment Risk and Return (FAIRR)
- Finance for Biodiversity
- Finance for Biodiversity Pledge
- Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ)
- Global Standard on Responsible Corporate Climate Lobbying
- Green Finance Industry Taskforce Singapore
- Green Praxis biodiversity
- Hong Kong Green Finance Association (HKGFA)
- Hong Kong Principles of Responsible Ownership (Stewardship code)
- Inspiring More Sustainability (IMS)
- Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC)
- International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN)
- International Regulatory Strategy Group (IRSG)
- Investment Association (IA)
- Investor Agenda
- Investor Forum (in the UK)
- Investor Group on Climate Change (IGCC)
- Investors Against Slavery and Trafficking Asia-Pacific (IAST Asia Pacific)
- Japanese Stewardship Code
- LGBT Great
- Lord Mayor's Appeal
- Lord Mayor's Appeal - We Can Be (Previously 'She Can Be')
- Maastricht University & (GRESB)
- Mental Health First Aid Training (MHFA)
- MSDUK
- (Minority Supplier Development UK)
- Natural Capital Investment Alliance (NCIA - part of Sustainable Markets Initiative)
- Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative (NZAMI) (led by IIGCC)
- One Planet Asset Manager initiative (OPAM) [One Planet Sovereign Wealth Fund (OPSWF)]
- OutBritain
- Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF)
- Point Zero Carbon Programme
- Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA)
- President’s Challenge Enabling Employment Pledge and Enabling Mark
- Principles for Responsible Investing (PRI)
- Purposeful Company
- Race at Work Charter
- Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA)
- Social Enterprise UK (SEUK)
- Social Mobility Foundation (SMF)
- Stonewall
- Sustainable Trading
- Taiwan Stock Exchange’s Stewardship Principles for Institutional Investors
- Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) Forum
- Trans in the City - Campaign Trans Rights are Human Rights
- Transition Pathway Initiative (TPI)
- World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA)
- UK Stewardship Code
- (Financial Reporting Council (FRC))
- UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF)
- European Sustainable Investment Forum (EUROSIF)
- UN Climate Change Conference (COP26)
- UNFCCC - Signatory to COP26 Financial Sector Commitment on Eliminating Agricultural Commodity-Driven Deforestation
- (Initiative re-named to Forest Sector Deforestation Action FSDA)
- Valuable 500
- Veteran Owned UK
- WeConnect International (Social Enterprise UK)
- WEF Stakeholder Capitalism Metrics
- Women in Finance Charter
- Women on Boards
- WorkWell Leaders
Dialshifter
Our organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero by…
We take a pro-active approach to minimising our own environmental footprint. We are committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2030 for Fidelity International’s operational emissions (including all Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions we have direct control over). Our focus will be on the reduction of emissions through operational changes and investment in operational efficiencies, on-site renewals and purchasing of renewable energy whilst offsetting those we are unable to eradicate.
The goal at Fidelity is to conduct current and future business operations in a sustainable manner which helps create a better future for the environment. Fidelity ensures Environmental Sustainability is managed as any other critical business activity in an integrated, systematic way. The framework is designed to ensure Pollution Prevention, Carbon Reduction, Waste minimisation, responsible use of resources and compliance with legislation through good practice and continuous improvement.
Fidelity’s Commitment:
- Manage Environmental Sustainability requirements in a systematic way aligned to the environmental management system standard ISO 14001;
- Develop carbon, Natural Resources and Waste data systems to effectively monitor and analyse performance;
- Continuous improvement through setting realistic objectives to ensure sustainability management is improved in line with resources;
- Complying with legal and other mandatory requirements in relation to sustainability issues;
- Providing adequate control of environmental risks arising from our work activities and operations, including Pollution Prevention;
- Develop an environmentally sustainable culture where every employee can contribute towards Fidelity International goal to create a better future for the environment;
- Ensure effective communication and consultation on Environmental Sustainability with employees keeping them informed, motivated, and suitably trained;
- Ensure that business strategies, via the Environmental Sustainability Group, integrate Environmental Sustainability requirements;
- Reduce our consumption of resources (energy, water, materials, packaging), where feasible;
- Minimise Waste through a commitment to the Waste hierarchy to reduce, re-use, recover or recycle Waste, where feasible;
- To pursue Energy Efficiency in the design, maintenance, management and operation of our owned/operated buildings;
- Seek to use products that have the least possible environmental impact; and
- Reviewing and revising this policy, as necessary, at regular intervals.
Reports on environmental performance are produced covering a range of areas including energy management, carbon footprint, waste reduction, water usage and recycling. This data is collated on a monthly basis and communicated to Senior Management on a regular basis.
Our environmental management policy is based around our ability to obtain regular, accurate information on our environmental performance, not only in energy use and waste management, but also areas such as monitoring our carbon emissions in (for instance) air travel.
We receive regular reports from our incumbent service providers, and collate these for review. We then hold regular meetings with them to investigate areas for improvement. Where the meetings produce ideas which may help reduce the environmental impact of our operations, they are implemented and monitored. Where successful, they are incorporated into our procedures.
Fidelity’s corporate sustainability team have initiated carbon footprinting for a number of offices in recent years and are consolidating that in 2020 to produce global carbon emissions for Fidelity’s activities.
SDR Labelling: Unlabelled with sustainable characteristics
Fund Holdings
Voting Record
Disclaimer
Disclaimer
This information must not be reproduced or circulated without prior permission.
Fidelity only offers information on products and services and does not provide investment advice based on individual circumstances, other than when specifically stipulated by an appropriately authorised firm, in a formal communication with the client.
Fidelity International refers to the group of companies which form the global investment management organisation that provides information on products and services in designated jurisdictions outside of North America. This communication is not directed at, and must not be acted upon by persons inside the United States and is otherwise only directed at persons residing in jurisdictions where the relevant funds are authorised for distribution or where no such authorisation is required.
Unless otherwise stated all products and services are provided by Fidelity International, and all views expressed are those of Fidelity International. Fidelity, Fidelity International, the Fidelity International logo and F symbol are registered trademarks of FIL Limited. FIL Limited assets and resources as at 30/04/2024 - data is unaudited. Research professionals include both analysts and associates.
UK: The Key Investor Information Document (KIID) is available in English and can be obtained from our website at www.fidelityinternational.com. The Prospectus may also be obtained from Fidelity. Fidelity Investment Funds, Fidelity Investment Funds 2, Fidelity Investment Funds III, Fidelity Investment Funds IV and Fidelity Investment Funds IX are open-ended investment companies (OEICs) with variable capital, incorporated in England and Wales, being authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Authorised Corporate Director of these OEICs is FIL Investment Services (UK) Limited.
Investors should note that for funds distributed in France, relative to the expectations of the Autorité des marchés financiers, this fund presents disproportionate communication on the consideration of non-financial criteria in its investment policy.
The availability of the investment discipline(s) and portfolio manager(s) proposed in this document is based on the situation at the time of submission and may be subject to change.
RFP2024CN7071
Fund Name | SRI Style | SDR Labelling | Product | Region | Asset Type | Launch Date | Last Amended |
|
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![]() Fidelity MoneyBuilder Corporate Bond Fund |
Limited Exclusions | Unlabelled with sustainable characteristics | OEIC | Global | Equity Income | 12/09/1995 | Aug 2024 | |
ObjectivesThe fund’s investment objective is to achieve an attractive level of income together with some long-term capital growth from a portfolio invested primarily in the UK. The portfolio will invest in a combination of UK government and corporate bonds and other fixed interest securities, preference shares, convertibles and ordinary shares. The fund has a strategic asset allocation set at about 65% equities and 35% fixed income (with a +/- 5% tolerance). The Portfolio Managers work closely together on the overall portfolio construction but specialise within asset classes to offer investors the best possible focus of skill. The Portfolio Managers apply an active multi-strategy approach which aims to add value against the benchmark from many different sources, whilst ensuring no single position dominates portfolio risk. The fixed income component of the portfolio invests predominantly in UK government bonds (Gilts) but has flexibility to invest in sterling denominated investment grade corporate bonds. |
Fund Size: £1668.00m (as at: 31/03/2024) Total Screened Themed SRI Assets: £30652.00m (as at: 31/03/2024) Total Responsible Ownership Assets: £120279.00m (as at: 31/03/2024) Total Assets Under Management: £322704.00m (as at: 31/03/2024) ISIN: GB0003863916, GB00B3Z9PT62, GB00B417LB58, GB00BK8LPC10, GB00BK8LP321, GB00BBGBFM09 Contact Us: salessupport@fidelity.co.uk |
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Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG OverviewThe fund is part of the Fidelity Sustainable Family of Funds and adheres to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Framework under which at least 70% of the fund’s net assets will be invested in issuers deemed to maintain sustainable characteristics. The fund will also adhere to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Exclusion Policy. Investments with sustainable characteristics are those which the Portfolio Managers believe to have effective governance and management of environmental and social issues and deliver long term sustainable outcomes through positive societal impact. Such investments are identified through Fidelity’s Sustainable Investing process, which is built on three related elements: integrated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis, engagement, and collaboration. Sustainable characteristics based on ESG considerations are analysed by Fidelity and principally assessed based on various criteria such as, climate change mitigation and adaptation, water and waste management and biodiversity, product safety, supply chain, health and safety and human rights. |
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Primary fund last amended: Aug 2024 |
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Information received directly from Fund Manager |
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Fund FiltersSustainability - General
Sustainability policy
Funds that have policies that consider (environmental and social) sustainability issues. Strategies vary but are likely to consider environmental issues like climate change, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, resource management, environmental impacts; and social issues like equal opportunities, human rights, labour standards, diversity and adherence to internationally recognised codes. See fund information.
Sustainability focus
Find funds which substantially focus on sustainability issues
Sustainability theme or focus
Find funds where there is a significant emphasis on (environmental and social) sustainability. Funds with a 'sustainability theme' typically place more emphasis on the area than funds with a 'sustainability policy' - meaning that it is more likely to drive investment selection. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
Encourage more sustainable practices through stewardship
A core element of these funds aim to encourage higher sustainability standards across business practices through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity
UN Global Compact linked exclusion policy
Find funds that use the UN Global Compact to inform or help direct where they can or cannot invest and will typically not invest in companies with significant breaches (low standards) - although strategies vary. (The UNGC covers a wide range of issues - search 'UNGC'). See https://unglobalcompact.org/ Environmental - General
Environmental policy
Funds that have policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out the fund's stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information. Climate Change & Energy
Climate change / greenhouse gas emissions policy
Funds that have policies (documented strategies that explain their position on) climate change related issues such as greenhouse gas/carbon emissions, net zero, transitioning to lower carbon. Strategies vary. Read fund details for further information.
Coal, oil & / or gas majors excluded
Funds that avoid investing in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Funds vary: some may exclude all companies that extract oil. Others may have exposure to oil extraction via more diversified energy companies. See fund literature to confirm details.
Arctic drilling exclusion
Funds that avoid companies that are involved in extracting oil from the Arctic regions. See fund literature for further details.
Fossil fuel reserves exclusion
Funds that avoid investing in companies with coal, oil and gas reserves. See fund information for further details.
Fossil fuel exploration exclusion - direct involvement
The fund manager excludes companies with direct involvement in fossil fuel exploration (eg coal, oil and gas companies)
Require net zero action plan from all/most companies
Find funds that require all, or almost all, of the companies it invests in to have a ‘net zero action plan’ - meaning that the companies they invest in have worked out how they will, over time, reduce their total carbon (and other greenhouse gas) emissions to nil.
TCFD reporting requirement (Becoming IFRS)
Will only invest in companies that report greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategies in line with the framework set out the by the Taskforce for Climate Related Financial Disclosure, which is increasingly becoming mandatory. See https://www.fsb-tcfd.org/ https ://www.ifrs.org/sustainability/tcfd/ Social / Employment
Social policy
Find funds that have policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Funds with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.
Labour standards policy
Find funds that have a labour standards policy - which can be expected to mean that the fund will invest in / favour companies that have higher standards in this area - although fund strategies can vary significantly (as with all policy areas). See eg https://www.ilo.org/international-labour-standards
Health & wellbeing policies or theme
Find funds with policies or themes that set out their approach to health and wellbeing issues. Funds of this kind typically aim to invest in companies with high standards - or encourage high standards. Themed funds are likely to have more of an emphasis on this area. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
Mining exclusion
All mining companies excluded Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Ethical policies
Find funds that have policies that set out their position on ethical or 'personal values' based issues. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
Tobacco and related product manufacturers excluded
Companies are excluded if they are involved in any aspect of the production chain for tobacco products, including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.
Armaments manufacturers avoided
Find funds that avoid companies that manufacture products intended specifically for military use. Fund strategies vary - particularly with regard to non-strategic military products. See fund literature for fund specific details.
Civilian firearms production exclusion
Find funds with a written civilian firearms exclusion policy - meaning that they will not invest in companies that make (or perhaps also sell) handguns made for non-military users.
Alcohol production excluded
Find funds that avoid investment in companies involved in the production of alcohol. Strategies vary; some funds allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund literature for further information.
Gambling avoidance policy
Find funds that avoid companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some funds may allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund policy for further details.
Pornography avoidance policy
Find funds that avoid companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. See fund details for further information. Human Rights
Human rights policy
Find funds that have policies relating to human rights issues. Funds of this kind typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some fund managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.
Child labour exclusion
Find funds that have policies in place to ensure they do not invest in companies that employ children.
Oppressive regimes (not free or democratic) exclusion policy
Find funds with policies that exclude companies or other assets where regimes are not democratic, or where people may be oppressed. May use eg. Freedom House research. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.
Responsible supply chain policy or theme
Find funds that have policies or a theme that relates to the responsible management of supply chains. These may relate to employment issues, notably people employed by their suppliers, as well as the sourcing of materials and products. See fund literature for further information.
Modern slavery exclusion policy
The fund has a policy which excludes assets with involvement in Modern Slavery Gilts & Sovereigns
Does not invest in sovereigns
Find funds that do not invest in / exclude 'sovereigns' - debt issued by governments. See eg https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sovereign-debt.asp Governance & Management
Governance policy
Find fund options that have policies that relate to corporate governance issues such as board structure, executive remuneration, bribery and/or corporate corruption. These funds will typically avoid companies with poor practices. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.
Avoids companies with poor governance
Find funds that aim to avoid investing in companies with poor governance practices.(e.g. board structure, management practices etc.) Views may however vary on what counts as 'poor' practices - and funds may not immediately divest as they may prefer to work to encourage higher standards. See fund literature for further information.
UN sanctions exclusion
Exclude companies that are subject to United Nations sanctions. See eg https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list
Anti-bribery and corruption policy
Find funds that have policies explaining how managers will respond to assets / companies that do not comply with relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption standards or laws. Strategies vary; options include stewardship/ engagement and divestment - or a combination. See fund literature for further information.
Digital / cyber security policy
Find funds that have policies explaining how the fund managers take into account digital/cyber security related risks. Funds with cyber policies will typically favour companies with higher standards or that are helping to solve problems - but strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.
Encourage board diversity e.g. gender
Fund managers encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)
Encourage TCFD alignment for banks & insurance companies
Find fund managers that encourage the banks and insurance companies they invest in to publish climate change related financial information - as set out by the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (with the aim of helping investors measure and respond to climate risk).
Encourage higher ESG standards through stewardship activity
A core element of these funds will aim to encourage higher ESG standards through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement /voting activity Asset Size
Over 50% large cap companies
Find funds that invests more than half of their money into what are commonly regarded as 'large companies'. This will typically mean that the market capitalisation (or value) of the companies they hold is in excess of £5 to £10 billion.
Invests mostly in large cap companies / assets
Find funds that have SRI strategies and focus their investment stock selection on larger companies. (e.g. over circa £5-£10bn) How The Fund Works
Positive selection bias
Find funds that focus on finding and investing in companies with positive / beneficial attributes. This strategy can be applied in addition to exclusion criteria and engagement/stewardship activity.
Negative selection bias
Find funds where their main 'ethical approach' is to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Read fund literature for further information.
ESG weighted / tilt
Find funds that invest more heavily in those that have higher ESG ratings/standards or scores and less heavily in companies with lower ESG ratings. Where this is central to a fund's strategy you should expect it to invest in most sectors. Strategies vary.
Significant harm exclusion
Aims to avoid companies that do significant harm. This originates from the EU’s sustainable finance ‘DNSH’ (do no significant harm) work, which is not necessarily used by UK investors.
Combines norms based exclusions with other SRI criteria
Find funds that make significant use of internationally agreed 'norms' (e.g. United Nations Global Compact - UNGC - or the UN Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs) as part of their investment selection process alongside additional SRI criteria such as positive or negative stock selection policies and/or stewardship strategies.
Combines ESG strategy with other SRI criteria
Find funds that have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.
Focus on ESG risk mitigation
A major focus of these funds is the careful management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) related risks - typically by avoiding or being underweight in companies seen as posing major risks in these areas (i.e. not necessarily by using themes, exclusions etc).
SRI / ESG / Ethical policies explained on website
Find funds that have published explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. fund decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).
Converted from ‘non ESG’ strategy
This fund has changed its mandate. It was previously not an ESG/sustainable fund. The information published here shows the upgraded fund strategy.
Use stock / securities lending
This fund uses, or can use, specialist strategies to aid performance which involve ‘lending’ fund assets to others at specific points in time. Unscreened Assets & Cash
Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives 70 - 79%
The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.
Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives 80 – 89%
The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.
Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives > 90%
The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets
All assets (except cash) meet published sustainability criteria
All assets held in the fund - except cash - meet the sustainability criteria published in fund documentation. Intended Clients & Product Options
Intended for investors interested in sustainability
Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in sustainability issues.
Available via an ISA (OEIC only)
Find funds that are available via a tax efficient ISA product wrapper. Fund Management Company InformationAbout The Business
Responsible ownership / stewardship policy or strategy (AFM company wide)
Finds fund management companies that have a published company wide stewardship, engagement and / or responsible ownership policy or strategy that covers all investments. Stewardship typically involves encouraging higher ESG standards through voting and dialogue.
ESG / SRI engagement (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that actively encourage higher 'environmental, social and governance' and/or 'sustainable and responsible investment' practices across investee companies - typically where the aim is to encourage positive change that is aligned with the best interests of investors. Strategies vary. See additional information and options.
Vote all* shares at AGMs / EGMs (AFM company wide)
Find fund managers that vote all* the shares they own at Annual General Meetings and Extraordinary General Meetings. A commitment to voting shares is a key indicator of 'responsible share ownership' demonstrating their support for or disagreement with management policy. (*situations can legitimately, occasionally occur where voting proves impossible, but in principle all shares should be voted.)
Responsible ownership / ESG a key differentiator (AFM company wide)
Find fund managers that consider responsible ownership and ESG to be a key differentiator for their business.
Sustainable property strategy (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that take sustainability criteria into account when selecting and/or managing all of their property / real estate investments.
Senior management KPIs include environmental goals (AFM company wide)
The leadership team of this asset manager have performance targets linked to environmental goals.
SDG aligned aims / objectives (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that aim to align all their investments (across all funds) to help meet the aims of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Responsible ownership policy for non SRI funds (AFM company wide)
Find funds run by fund managers that apply Responsible ownership or 'Stewardship' policies to all or most of their investment assets. This means active involvement (e.g. voting, dialogue) with the companies they invest in across funds (not normally limited to ethical or SRI options.) Read fund literature for further information.
Integrates ESG factors into all / most (AFM) fund research
Find fund management companies that consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues when deciding whether or not to invest in a company for all / almost all of their funds and other assets. This is increasingly seen as part of sound risk management.
In-house diversity improvement programme (AFM company wide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an in-house (company wide) diversity improvement programme - meaning that they are working to ensure that within their own businesses they employ people from diverse backgrounds - often typically focused on ethnicity and/or sex.
Diversity, equality & inclusion engagement policy (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that encourage the companies they invest in to have strong diversity, race, gender and other equality policies across all assets held, not simply screened or themed SRI/ESG funds. (ie Asset Management company wide).
Vulnerable client policy on website (AFM company wide)
Asset manager has information on their website that explains how they treat 'vulnerable clients' (as set out in FCA regulation)
Invests in newly listed companies (AFM company wide)
This asset management company invests in companies which have recently listed on a stock exchange (which is important as it can help grow new businesses).
Invests in new sustainability linked bond issuances (AFM company wide)
Asset management company has investments in bonds designed to meet sustainability requirements - however these assets may not be 'ringfenced' for this purpose. See fund manager website for details.
Offer structured intermediary training on sustainable investment
Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers)
Offer unstructured intermediary sustainable investment training
Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers) Collaborations & Affiliations
PRI signatory
Find fund management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.
UKSIF member
Find fund management companies that are members of UKSIF - the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance association
Fund EcoMarket partner
Find fund management companies that have partnered with Fund EcoMarket - meaning that they are helping to improve access to information on sustainable and responsible investment by paying an annual fee to us which enables us to publish information for free. Partner funds are listed ahead of other funds and have their logos displayed.
TNFD forum member (AFM company wide)
A member of the Taskforce for Nature Related Financial Disclosures group which aims to aid risk management and shift money towards nature-positive outcomes.
Investment Association (IA) member
Fund management entity is a member of the Investment Association https://www.theia.org/ Resources
In-house responsible ownership / voting expertise
Find fund management companies that employ people to steer and support fund managers in voting shares at company AGM's and EGMs in ways that are consistent with encouraging higher ESG/sustainability standards.
Employ specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability researchers
Find a fund management company that directly employs specialist ESG/SRI/sustainability researchers or analysts. This allows asset managers to discuss environmental, social and governance risks and opportunities directly with companies.
Use specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability research companies
Find fund management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.
ESG specialists on all investment desks (AFM company wide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have one or more ESG/sustainability experts on all investment teams or 'desks' (all asset types) Accreditations
PRI A+ rated (AFM company wide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'
UK Stewardship Code signatory (AFM company wide)
Find fund managers that are signatories to the FRC UK Stewardship Code, which sets out a framework for constructive investor / investee relations where fund managers are encouraged to behave like responsible, typically longer term 'company owners'. Engagement Approach
Regularly lead collaborative ESG initiatives (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that regularly initiate or run industry wide (collaborative) investor projects aimed at raising environmental, social and governance standards amongst investee companies.
Encourage responsible corporate taxation (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage more responsible corporate taxation.
Engaging on climate change issues
Fund manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.
Engaging with fossil fuel companies on climate change
Asset manager has a stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that involves working with fossil fuel companies on climate change related issues. See fund manager website for details.
Engaging to reduce plastics pollution / waste
Asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.
Engaging to encourage responsible mining practices
Asset manager has a stewardship / responsible ownership policy that means they are working to encourage more responsible mining practices - where environmental and social issues are properly dealt with by the companies they invest in.
Engaging on biodiversity / nature issues
The asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy that focuses on biodiversity and nature issues relating to the assets they invest the aim of which will be to reduce harm and or deliver improvement. Strategies vary. https://tnfd.global
Engaging to encourage a Just Transition
Asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy which means they are working to encourage the shift to more sustainable business practices in ways that respect and are sensitive to social issues and the impact change has on people effected by the changes that are taking place. https://www.transitionpathwayinitiative.org/ https://transitiontaskforce.net/
Engaging on human rights issues
Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place which aims to address human rights issues in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers) with the aim of raising standards
Engaging on labour / employment issues
Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place that aims to improve labour standards for the benefit of employees in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers)
Engaging on diversity, equality and / or inclusion issues
Asset management company has a stewardship strategy in place which involves working to raise diversity, equality and inclusion standards across investee assets
Engaging to stop modern slavery
working with the assets they hold to help stamp out modern slavery - where direct or indirect company employees are exploited for business benefits.
Engaging on governance issues
Fund managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets Company Wide Exclusions
Controversial weapons avoidance policy (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles. Climate & Net Zero Transition
Net Zero - have set a Net Zero target date (AFM company wide)
This asset management company has set a date by which they plan to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Encourage carbon / greenhouse gas reduction (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.
Carbon transition plan published (AFM company wide)
Finds organisations / fund managers that have a company wide carbon transition plan - meaning that they have plotted a path to how they will move away from activities that produce or use carbon based energy sources (that emit greenhouse gases) towards clean, alternative, renewable energy sources.
Carbon offsetting – do NOT offset carbon as part of net zero plan (AFM company wide)
This asset management company plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (CO2e) emissions by reducing their emissions. Calculations and scope vary.
In-house carbon / GHG reduction policy (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.
Working towards a ‘Net Zero’ commitment (AFM company wide)
Finds organisations / fund management companies that are in the process of working out how to make a ‘net zero commitment’ - meaning that when that is finalised they will have started the process of reducing their total greenhouse gas emissions to'zero'.
Committed to SBTi / Science Based Targets Initiative
See https://sciencebasedtargets.org/ Transparency
Publish responsible ownership / stewardship report (AFM company wide)
Find fund management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.
Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information on company website
Find companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.
Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information available on request
Find fund management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.
Publish full voting record (AFM company wide)
Fund management companies that publish a full record of how they vote their shares at AGMs (annual general meetings) and EGMs (extraordinary general meetings). Voting strategies have an important role to play encouraging higher environmental, social and governance standards.
Sustainability transition plan publicly available (AFM company wide)
This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are to become a sustainable business - without significant negative environmental or social impacts.
Paris Alignment plan publicly available (AFM company wide)
This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they will align to the climate change commitments made at the Paris Climate Talks, COP21.
Net Zero transition plan publicly available (AFM company wide)
This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they are going to achieve net zero greenhouse gas / CO2e emissions.
Dialshifter statement
Find fund management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information. Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:The fund is part of the Fidelity Sustainable Family of Funds and adheres to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Framework under which at least 70% of the fund’s net assets will be invested in issuers deemed to maintain sustainable characteristics. The fund will also adhere to the Fidelity Sustainable Family Exclusion Policy. Investments with sustainable characteristics are those which the Portfolio Managers believe to have effective governance and management of environmental and social issues and deliver long term sustainable outcomes through positive societal impact. Such investments are identified through Fidelity’s Sustainable Investing process, which is built on three related elements: integrated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis, engagement, and collaboration. Sustainable characteristics based on ESG considerations are analysed by Fidelity and principally assessed based on various criteria such as, climate change mitigation and adaptation, water and waste management and biodiversity, product safety, supply chain, health and safety and human rights. Process:Fidelity utilises a three-step process:
Idea generation Our investment process is built on the strength of our research platform. We blend fundamental credit and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), quantitative and trading inputs to build a holistic view of any prospective holding. We have a collaborative team environment in which everyone is encouraged to express views and challenge ideas. The inputs into our idea generation process combine to give ideas a Relative Value (RV) which then feeds into the portfolio construction process.
Fundamental credit research forms the basis of the strategy’s investment process. The Credit Research Team consists of 42* individuals, based in London, Hong Kong, China and Toronto. Fidelity operates a career analyst model with the Credit Team consisting of a blend of home-grown talent (primarily through the graduate program) and experienced hires. *Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2023. Excludes investment graduates and includes Toronto-based analysts, who are part of Fidelity Canada Investment Management (FCIM). FCIM is an affiliated entity of FIL Limited. Each analyst screens their universe to determine which companies receive which level of coverage (alpha, beta, or credit bench). The credits are analysed and compared across sectors and are each awarded a Fundamental Rating (an independent view of credit fundamentals), a Fundamental Outlook (a forward-looking assessment of credit fundamentals), an RV score (1 Strong Buy - 5 Strong Sell) and an ESG Rating (both stand-alone and forward-looking) along with a sub-ESG score (on ‘Environmental’, ‘Social’ and ‘Governance’ from 0 to 3), which is jointly determined by the credit and equity research analysts.
The Portfolio Managers draw on inputs from multiple expert teams to help inform duration views. The output of which tends to be no more than plus or minus 1 years around the index.
The Tactical Quantitative Research Team's approach to trade idea generation is to aim to create ideas, models, scorecards and overlays that are back tested, uncorrelated, timely, automated, and unbiased:
Diversification: Quants identify, recommend and monitor multiple signals across many different asset classes and from many different sources for a large number of instruments. Combining uncorrelated strategies from areas as different as momentum, mean-reversion, seasonality and yield curve slope reduces risk for a given alpha. Data: Quants can take advantage of massive data sets. We take into account a wider range of data inputs on every bond in our universe and unearth less-obvious relationship than manual analysis can. Automation: With increased automation of data processing and analyses, quants can update the analysis of every asset every day. Missed opportunities from delayed analysis as well as mistakes from human error can be reduced using quantitative strategies, and quantitative screens can funnel pre-screened high-potential opportunities to specialists in the Credit Analyst Team for deeper review. Reduction of behavioural biases: Quantitative strategies can mitigate or eliminate the behavioural biases of manual investing by making the assumptions in our investment process more explicit and by imposing structure on the investment process – and they can help us exploit the biases of other market participants.
A key distinction of our fixed income approach is that traders provide portfolio managers with market intelligence, flow information and trade recommendations. Traders are dedicated by asset class which is especially important for markets affected by seasonal liquidity and influenced by technical trends. Ideas generated by the team tend to be either short-term tactical trades, typically where the idea is flow-driven based on a pricing anomaly, or longer-term and strategic trades, gained through insight from meetings with official institutions such as central banks and issuing agencies. Ideas may also be based on shifting demand trends. Traders are also integral to the new issue process, forming opinions on new issue demand, premium and success of a deal. In doing so, traders work in close collaboration with portfolio managers, credit and quantitative analysts to formulate an investment thesis.
Portfolio construction There are three elements to portfolio construction:
The highest conviction RV rated ideas are used to build portfolios. We size positions with reference to their credit rating band and their RV rating assigned by our credit analysts. Higher conviction credits from higher quality issues are held in larger size than those of lower quality credits where we have less conviction. We also take into account issuance size, maturity and currency. Positions in different bonds issued by the same entity are aggregated together, to give a genuine view of risk to one company. RV ratings are constantly reviewed for example, an RV rating could move down as a result of a company’s credit profile deteriorating or if the bond performs well and therefore looks less attractive on a valuation basis. The downgrading of an RV rating below 3 is a clear signal to consider selling.
Transactions are directed by the Portfolio Managers through a global trading platform and implemented by a group of specialist traders in conjunction with the Portfolio Services Group (PSG). There is continuous dialogue between the Portfolio Managers, the traders and PSG as execution is often contingent on market levels. This structure has been established to enable traders to build strong external counterparty relationships, which is crucial for assessing market liquidity and ensuring best execution. PSG further supports the risk management and implementation process by actively monitoring fund investment guidelines and other requirements, such as pre-trade compliance reviews. In addition, the team has different reporting lines, which contributes to the reduction in the overall operational and execution risk by providing an additional and independent layer of control. Overseeing every transaction is Compliance. The team is responsible for ensuring compliance rules are appropriately maintained and adhered to. They act as a second line of defence against portfolio breaches via rigorous end-of-day testing. Their expertise provides a framework within which the investment team can manage complex and bespoke portfolio requirements Buy trades require a rating of RV1, 2 or 3 and bonds rated RV4 or 5 should be considered for sale as no longer hold value. There are two possible reasons why the rating could be downgraded and in turn sold:
Our Portfolio Construction and Risk (PCR) Team collaborated with portfolio managers to develop a suite of proprietary tests to ensure portfolios have appropriate levels of risk. Our starting point is the expected alpha the client wishes to achieve and the opportunity set within the guidelines. The model then generates an expected tracking error range by asset class, which is monitored over time. Continual monitoring and formal reviews at weekly franchise meetings ensure that sufficient (and efficiently diverse) levels of risk are taken to achieve the return target, and vice versa that risk levels have not exceeded the expected range on a persistent basis. Temporary breaches outside of either the top or bottom of the tracking error range are discussed and documented, but are not remedied unless they persist. This recognises that certain market environments encourage a “risk on” attitude to investing for periods of time, whilst on occasion when conviction is low, managers may dial down the risk they are running and we feel both are acceptable if transient.
Portfolio monitoring and oversight Our risk processes follow three lines of defence model in adherence with a robust risk management framework.
First level Investment team: Portfolio Managers use desktop risk management systems on a daily basis to analyse risk within portfolios. Reports typically include measures of tracking error, volatility, concentration, credit quality and other relevant measures. Portfolio Managers are responsible for building portfolios that are consistent with the risk expectations and investment guidelines of our clients. Portfolio Construction and Risk Team: This team helps Portfolio Managers understand and manage the risks associated with their portfolios through the provision of reporting and expertise. Quarterly Fund Review (QFR): The Chief Investment Officer (CIO) / head of asset class meets with Portfolio Managers to discuss their respective portfolios in detail. During the meeting, factors such as the portfolio’s structure, turnover, trading activity, risk profile, performance, and level of active money are analysed. Quarterly Sustainability Review (QSR): The QSR is designed to place additional scrutiny on the way that sustainability factors are being integrated and monitored at the fund level. A wider and deeper review of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors, as well as our stewardship activities (including engagement and voting) will thus be formally performed on a quarterly basis.
Second level Investment Risk Team: This team ensures that material investment risks are adequately covered and understood by senior management and the board. The team provides risk metrics to support Compliance, senior management and other stakeholders. Compliance: This function reviews all trades daily for asset eligibility and to ensure portfolios stay within their investment parameters. It also monitors trades to ensure best execution in the market, including appropriate pricing and timeliness. Furthermore, Fidelity operates a network of shared first- and second-line Investment Risk Committees (IRCs) across the firm to support each asset class and specific investment management teams. Fund Counterparty Risk Committee (FCRC): The FCRC is responsible for ensuring all risks associated with derivatives and counterparty exposures are continuously assessed and that an appropriate control environment is implemented by line management. Fund Liquidity Risk Committee (FLRC): The FLRC is responsible for reviewing appropriateness of risk mitigations when Fidelity’s funds exceed agreed internal liquidity thresholds as well as reviewing and approving the Fund Liquidity Risk Framework.
Third level The Internal Audit function provides an independent review of all risk functions as per regulatory requirements.
Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:At Fidelity, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible risk-adjusted returns for our investors. We believe that high standards of corporate responsibility generally make good business sense and have the potential to protect and enhance investment returns. Consequently, we integrate ESG issues into our research and investment decision-making process; we believe it has the potential to affect the long-term value of the investment. Our integrated ESG approach is relevant across all asset classes, sectors and markets in which we invest. ESG integration is carried out at the fundamental research analyst level within our investment teams, primarily through the implementation of Fidelity's proprietary ESG Rating. This rating leverages our internal research capabilities and our engagement with companies to inform our view on a company’s sustainability credentials. Please refer to our response to question B6 for detailed information on Fidelity’s proprietary ESG Rating and other proprietary tools that support our internal research process. The cornerstone of our investment approach is bottom-up research. As well as studying financial results, our portfolio managers and analysts are dedicated to carrying out additional qualitative analysis of potential investments. They visit companies in person, examining everything that could have an effect on its business, from the shop floor to the boardroom. Customers and suppliers also come in for scrutiny. In this way we can develop a 360-degree view of every company in which we invest and ESG factors are regularly considered in this research process. Our approach to integrating ESG aspects into our investment processes is detailed in the following policies, with all documents accessible via the following website: https://professionals.fidelity.co.uk/sustainable-investing/our-policies-and-reports: Sustainable Investing Principles: The document sets out the guiding principles and minimum requirements for Fidelity’s sustainable investing activities across asset classes and geographies. The Sustainable Investing Principles build on our beliefs to set out our sustainable investing frameworks, our approach to sustainable client solutions, exclusions, investment stewardship and engagement, the integration of ESG risks and opportunities across our investment management process, and an overview of compliance with regional sustainability regulations. Exclusion Framework: Our Exclusion Policy forms part of our sustainable investment policy and defines the main requirements for an effective exclusion framework applicable throughout the organisation. Engagement Policy: Our Engagement Policy sets out how Fidelity undertakes stewardship and shareholder engagement across our listed equity and fixed income holdings. Voting Policy: Our sustainable investing voting principles and guidelines document provides information on how we exercise ownership rights through voting to improve sustainable business behaviour and client returns. Climate Investing Policy: Our Climate Investing Policy details how we plan to work with stakeholders to reduce climate risk across all investment strategies in a way that aligns with our foundation in active, bottom-up research. We use a combination of internal and external resources.
Internal The bulk of the engagement and analysis is carried out by our research analysts who strive to go beyond studying just financial results and look to incorporate ESG and other factors into a measured viewpoint. They are supported by our team of 38* sustainable investing specialists who engage with companies on issues like corporate governance (for example, board structure, executive remuneration), shareholder rights (for example, election of directors, capital amendments), changes to regulation (for example, green house gas emissions restrictions, governance codes), physical threats (for example, extreme weather, climate change, water shortages), and so on. Our sustainable investing specialists engage with senior management of investee companies as well as their Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) / ESG professionals. They access external ESG-themed research as well as the company ratings based on ESG factors that an external vendor produces. Fidelity has developed a proprietary ESG Rating Framework, leveraging our internal research and interactions with issuers. The rating is designed to generate a forward-looking and holistic assessment of ESG risks and opportunities. Analysts qualify the direction of change of companies’ ESG performance (positive, neutral or negative trajectory). The ESG ratings and full company reports are accessible on our centralised research management system, Fidelity Insight, so that each analyst has a first-hand view of how each company under their coverage is rated according to ESG factors. In addition, ESG ratings are included on our analyst research notes. These notes are published internally on Fidelity Insight and form an important part of our investment decision. Fidelity has also developed an SDG mapping tool, which provides the percentage of an entity’s or portfolio’s alignment with each SDG, and where relevant the underlying targets and indicators. This provides a quantitative, transparent, and consistent approach to measuring the alignment of portfolios against the underlying targets and indicators behind the SDGs. Additionally, we have been developing our proprietary Climate Rating which utilises our fundamental research capabilities to identify climate risks, net zero investments and targets for transition engagement within the Fidelity investment universe. It assesses which companies are in the best position to transition to net zero, or have a positive trajectory towards transition. The Climate Rating is designed to complement our broader ESG Ratings, which already incorporate climate change factors. Climate Ratings have been assigned to over 2,000 issuers so far, with the objective to further scale up this coverage over time. We will use various approaches, including the Climate Rating, to set individual fund decarbonisation targets appropriate to each fund’s investment strategy and universe. We will gradually increase targets to reach 100% alignment with the Paris Agreement in every fund by 2050. Carbon emissions data is available via Insight and is accessible to all analysts and portfolio managers. This data includes (but is not limited to) portfolio carbon emissions and intensity, weighted average carbon intensity, top emitting holdings, emissions attribution analysis, scenario analysis, physical risk assessment, fossil fuel reserves and green/brown share of electricity generation (from held utilities). *Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2024. Excludes China AMC resources.
External Fidelity is a signatory to many industry initiatives such as the Principles for Responsible Investing (PRI), UK Stewardship Code and the Japanese Stewardship Code. We are also active members of the Asian Corporate Governance Association, Assogestioni, the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association, the UK Investor Forum and many other trade and industry bodies around the world. Fidelity uses a number of external research sources globally that provide ESG-themed reports, research, ratings and data on themes such as corporate involvement in verified or alleged failures to respect international norms, for example the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) as well as on carbon emission, fossil fuel and power generation. The coverage of companies varies by provider and the providers currently cover more than 10,000 companies globally. We also subscribe to a number of corporate governance and voting advisory services, including products supported by Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) and Glass Lewis, to MSCI for ESG data and to ISS for carbon footprint metrics. We constantly explore new data sets and approaches that can provide enhanced insights into companies.
Sustainable Investing Team Fidelity has a Sustainable Investing Team, which includes sustainability and stewardship professionals covering various subject matter areas and competencies. The Sustainable Investing Team is part of Fidelity’s Investment Team and it supports Fidelity’s investment analysts and portfolio managers to monitor, analyse, and engage with investee companies. Fidelity’s Sustainable Investing Team has expanded to 38* members (2020: 13 members) to meet the growing demands for sustainable research, thought leadership and support for analysts and portfolio managers. The scope of the team’s work now covers a broad array of activities related to ESG integration, engagement, policy, product development and sales and marketing, as well as proxy voting. Located in seven locations across Europe and the Asia Pacific region the Sustainable Investing Team covers a broad range of skills, including research, policy, climate science and governance. The team has a broad range of professional experience and diversity of tenure. Some specialists of the team have worked in similar roles throughout their career, while others have transitioned to sustainability over the course of their career development. The team is also diverse in terms of gender and national origin. When adding new members to the team, we have prioritised improving the team’s skillset to support our organisational stewardship objectives, as well as supporting the development of young talent in the firm, through our graduate intake. The continued build out of our Sustainable Investing Team ensures that we remain able to meet the evolving needs of our clients and other stakeholders. New members have brought skills to complement and add to the existing capabilities of the team, including legal expertise, thematic expertise (for example, climate), client and distribution expertise and additional governance expertise. The team will continue to evolve based on our sustainable investing strategy and aim to service all areas of the business. For example, we are planning to hire experienced asset class leads, growing the breadth and depth of our sustainable investing process and product offering. Fidelity’s investment analysts are responsible for researching companies under their coverage, leveraging the expertise of the Sustainable Investing Team as appropriate. Under this approach, ESG is fully integrated in the investment process. This collaboration has improved quality and outcomes of engagement across asset classes. *Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2024. Excludes China AMC resources.
Oversight of ESG at Fidelity The following individuals and teams are responsible for maintaining and integrating Fidelity’s ESG policies:
*Source: Fidelity International, as at 31 March 2024. Excludes China AMC resources.
Industry collaboration Fidelity recognises the importance of networks and information platforms to share tools, pool resources, and make use of investor reporting as a source of learning. Fidelity is a member or signatory to the following:
DialshifterOur organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero by… We take a pro-active approach to minimising our own environmental footprint. We are committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2030 for Fidelity International’s operational emissions (including all Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions we have direct control over). Our focus will be on the reduction of emissions through operational changes and investment in operational efficiencies, on-site renewals and purchasing of renewable energy whilst offsetting those we are unable to eradicate. The goal at Fidelity is to conduct current and future business operations in a sustainable manner which helps create a better future for the environment. Fidelity ensures Environmental Sustainability is managed as any other critical business activity in an integrated, systematic way. The framework is designed to ensure Pollution Prevention, Carbon Reduction, Waste minimisation, responsible use of resources and compliance with legislation through good practice and continuous improvement. Fidelity’s Commitment:
Reports on environmental performance are produced covering a range of areas including energy management, carbon footprint, waste reduction, water usage and recycling. This data is collated on a monthly basis and communicated to Senior Management on a regular basis. Our environmental management policy is based around our ability to obtain regular, accurate information on our environmental performance, not only in energy use and waste management, but also areas such as monitoring our carbon emissions in (for instance) air travel. We receive regular reports from our incumbent service providers, and collate these for review. We then hold regular meetings with them to investigate areas for improvement. Where the meetings produce ideas which may help reduce the environmental impact of our operations, they are implemented and monitored. Where successful, they are incorporated into our procedures. Fidelity’s corporate sustainability team have initiated carbon footprinting for a number of offices in recent years and are consolidating that in 2020 to produce global carbon emissions for Fidelity’s activities.
SDR Labelling: Unlabelled with sustainable characteristics Fund HoldingsVoting RecordDisclaimerDisclaimer This information must not be reproduced or circulated without prior permission. Fidelity only offers information on products and services and does not provide investment advice based on individual circumstances, other than when specifically stipulated by an appropriately authorised firm, in a formal communication with the client. Fidelity International refers to the group of companies which form the global investment management organisation that provides information on products and services in designated jurisdictions outside of North America. This communication is not directed at, and must not be acted upon by persons inside the United States and is otherwise only directed at persons residing in jurisdictions where the relevant funds are authorised for distribution or where no such authorisation is required. Unless otherwise stated all products and services are provided by Fidelity International, and all views expressed are those of Fidelity International. Fidelity, Fidelity International, the Fidelity International logo and F symbol are registered trademarks of FIL Limited. FIL Limited assets and resources as at 30/04/2024 - data is unaudited. Research professionals include both analysts and associates. UK: The Key Investor Information Document (KIID) is available in English and can be obtained from our website at www.fidelityinternational.com. The Prospectus may also be obtained from Fidelity. Fidelity Investment Funds, Fidelity Investment Funds 2, Fidelity Investment Funds III, Fidelity Investment Funds IV and Fidelity Investment Funds IX are open-ended investment companies (OEICs) with variable capital, incorporated in England and Wales, being authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Authorised Corporate Director of these OEICs is FIL Investment Services (UK) Limited. Investors should note that for funds distributed in France, relative to the expectations of the Autorité des marchés financiers, this fund presents disproportionate communication on the consideration of non-financial criteria in its investment policy. The availability of the investment discipline(s) and portfolio manager(s) proposed in this document is based on the situation at the time of submission and may be subject to change. RFP2024CN7071 |