ESG reporting: what is the endgame?

Non-financial reporting is a challenge for issuers, investors and standard-setters on both sides of the Atlantic. The task ahead is to develop a coherent vision and unified agenda.

Image: Shutterstock
On a chilly evening in early December 2018 the Oxford Union was filled to capacity to witness a debate on the seemingly arcane topic of non-financial information.
The motion before the House was the question as to whether corporate sustainability reporting should be mandated and standardised by the FASB and IASB for it to be most useful for investors.
The debate itself was a spirited mixture of rhetorical flourish, informed insight and entertainment, replete with cries of “rubbish”, accusations of rudeness, continual interruptions and cocksure interjections from swashbuckling undergrads.
At the end of it all, the House was divide
For thoughtful journalism, expert insights on corporate governance and an extensive library of reports, guides and tools to help boards and directors navigate the complexities of their roles, subscribe to Board Agenda