As political debates on ESG issues get more heated in the US, companies are cooling their talk on the topic, research shows.

The FRC has commissioned a review to investigate how ESG ratings agencies and proxy advisers affect investment decisions.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak says requiring firms to disclose transition plans would help the UK to “set new global standards for sustainability”.

The pandemic has underlined the importance of sustainable investing to global progress on ESG and stakeholder governance.

With consumers, employees and investors increasingly focused on sustainability, green initiatives should be key to any post-Covid strategy.

Open letter from the Investment Association details how members will help to “keep corporate Britain working”, with guidance on executive pay, dividends and financial reporting.

The taxonomy of sustainable finance must be a tool that helps companies grow and create jobs, while facilitating the transition to a greener economy.

Research reveals climate change is now rated the most important engagement topic by institutional investors, eclipsing corporate strategy.

A total of 48% of the top 50 global investors have issued position papers on their ESG strategy, although a gap remains between commitments and reality.

Asset owners and managers signed up to the Net-Zero Asset Owner Alliance include Nordea, Zurich, Allianz and Folksam, with more than $2.4trn in investments.