Impact Investing

Catalog description

"Impact investing" refers to investments aiming to generate financial returns while at the same time improving social and environmental conditions for the public. Impact investing is also referred to as "blended value" combining the best aspects of traditional investing and philanthropy. This emerging investment strategy is developing rapidly worldwide supporting nonprofit and for-profit ventures in improving the lives of millions of people on issues such as energy, water, climate change, health or education. The promise of "doing well by doing good" has garnered significant attention and many large asset managers (for example, Blackrock, Goldman Sachs, KKR) are establishing impact investing practices as well as products to meet the demands of asset owners (pension funds, endowments, foundation or family offices). This course provides a comprehensive overview of the impact investing market covering key concepts and practical knowledge needed to engage in this space. Students will examine the developing marketplace, actors as well as financial products. Case studies and guests will explore challenges and best practices in creating successful fund and deal structures.