Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!

Best ESG funds for responsible investing from Kiplinger. The review is written by Coryanne Hicks. Her picks include equity, fixed income and balanced funds. What individual sustainable stocks might be good to look at for a post-pandemic recovery. Our friend Tim Nash at Corporate Knights favours Unilever and Cisco. has been thinking about that too

PODCAST: Best ESG Funds for Responsible Investing

Transcript & Links, Episode 33, June 5, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 33 published on June 5 titled "Best ESG Funds for Responsible Investing"— and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

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Best ESG Funds for Responsible Investing

Well, we have another good review of the best ESG funds for responsible investing from Kiplinger. It's written by Coryanne Hicks and is titled 15 Best ESG Funds for Responsible Investors.

Here are the recommended funds. Now this will be a little taxing to listen too. If it's too much, just go to this podcast's page to read and to get the fund links.

Now, I'll first mention the fund names and then follow that with selected quotes from the article pertinent to each fund. So, listen up!

1) Equity Funds Vanguard Fund

"Vanguard FTSE Social Index Fund Admiral (VFTAX) [It's] one of the least expensive socially responsible funds available. Morningstar Director Alex Bryan says the Vanguard FTSE Social Index Fund Admiral is geared toward 'investors who want a broadly diversified portfolio without exposure to firms operating in controversial industries.'

iShares Funds

iShares MSCI Global Impact ETF (SDG). Kostya Etus, director of research at Orion Portfolio Solutions in Omaha, Nebraska, says 'the iShares MSCI Global Impact ETF is composed of companies around the world who base their operations to further the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals,' she says. These 17 goals include clean energy, eliminating poverty and hunger, education for all and stopping global warming.'

iShares ESG MSCI USA ETF (ESGU) is a passively managed ESG fund that tracks the MSCI USA Extended ESG Focus Index. This benchmark takes the MSCI USA Index of large- and mid-cap American companies and whittles it down to 'positive' ESG companies by excluding firms in the tobacco or civilian weapons industries, as well as firms that have suffered through 'very severe business controversies.'

iShares ESG MSCI EAFE ETF (ESGD). If you want international diversification but emerging markets feel too risky, you can invest in the developed world via the iShares ESG MSCI EAFE ETF. [It] invests in the developed nations of Europe, Australasia and the Far East (EAFE)… no single company makes up more than 3% of the portfolio.

Parnassus Funds

Parnassus Core Equity Fund Investor (PRBLX) 'From an ESG perspective, Parnassus believes that quality companies with strong social, environmental and corporate governance practices are better positioned to understand and manage risks, reducing [the] probability of adverse outcomes and controversies,' says Celia Cazayoux, a senior investment manager at Parnassus Investments.

Parnassus Mid Cap Fund Investor (PARMX). This solid option for ESG exposure to mid-cap stocks has earned five stars and a Silver rating by Morningstar, and has been lauded for its 'talented stock-pickers' and 'disciplined, well-executed approach.'

Nuveen Funds

Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value ETF (NULV). The Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value Fund tracks the TIAA ESG USA Large-Cap Value Index… The ESG value index has outperformed the traditional value index every year since 2015.

Nuveen ESG Small-Cap ETF (NUSC), which tracks the TIAA ESG USA Small-Cap Index, which applies ESG criteria to the MSCI USA Small Cap Index. The 640-holding portfolio is thickest in information technology stocks (18%), health care stocks (15%), and industrials (15%), but it offers exposure to every sector – which isn't necessarily a win, depending on what your ESG values are.

2) Clean Energy Funds

iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN). Some investors might home in on specific ESG issues, such as clean energy. That has led to the creation of benchmarks such as the S&P Global Clean Energy Index, which tracks a tight group of 30 of the largest clean energy companies from the 11,000-plus stocks in the S&P Global Broad Market Index.

SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF (SPYX) [Is] another way to invest with clean-energy principles in mind… [it] simply exclude[s] fossil fuels from your portfolio.

3) Emerging Market Fund

iShares ESG MSCI EM ETF (ESGE) provides exposure to emerging markets. It tracks the MSCI Emerging Markets Extended ESG Focus Index, which takes a broader MSCI EM index and excludes tobacco/firearms companies, as well as those involved in 'severe' controversies…'

The remaining portfolio of about 300 stocks is most heavily weighted in China (39%), Taiwan (13%) and South Korea (12%).

4) Women's Leadership Fund

Pax Ellevate Global Women's Leadership Fund (PXWEX) at nearly $500 million in assets under management, is proof that there's real investor interest in corporate gender diversity. [Its] portfolio of more than 400 gender-diverse companies outperformed 93% of its global equity peers within the Lipper Global Multi-Cap Core category in the five years ending March 31, 2020.

5) Bond Funds

TIAA-CREF Core Impact Bond Fund (TSBRX). The fund holds investment-grade bonds from companies that are ESG leaders within their industry and/or have direct and measurable environmental or social impact in areas like natural resources, renewable energy and affordable housing.

iShares ESG USD Corporate Bond ETF (SUSC) is another fixed-income ESG fund that's specifically geared toward corporate debt. Its aim is to optimize exposure to ESG criteria while matching the risk-return characteristics of the Bloomberg Barclays US Corporate Index… the Bloomberg Barclays MSCI US Corporate ESG Focus Index, frowns upon civilian firearm producers and retailers, weapons makers, fossil fuel producers or power generators, and a few other industries.

6) Balanced Fund

Walden Balanced Fund (WSBFX) aims for a 70% to 80% equity allocation, and it was at the lower end of that as of the end of April. At 29% fixed-income exposure, it boasted about twice the allocation to bonds of the category average.

The fixed-income portfolio consists of U.S. government and government-related bonds, corporate bonds, municipal bonds and cash and cash equivalents… The managers apply an ESG screen to holdings." End quotes.

Again, for review, go to this podcast's page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this podcast.

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Two ESG Stocks for Responsible Investors

Some of you might be wondering what individual sustainable stocks might be good to look at for a post-pandemic recovery. Our friend Tim Nash at Corporate Knights has been thinking about that too. In an article titled Pandemic Portfolio: Two stocks positioned for an economic recovery – and a second COVID wave, he writes about that. His two picks are Unilever (UL) and Cisco (CSCO).

About Unilever, Mr. Nash writes that "Unilever owns a whole bunch of well-known brands from soaps (Dove) and cleaners (Seventh Generation) to soups (Knorr) and ice cream (Ben & Jerry's) … The company is positioned to weather an ongoing storm but will also get a boost if the economy reopens quickly… The company's sustainability reporting is top-notch and measures progress on issues like gender diversity, the health and hygiene of consumers and carbon emissions… Unilever's share price fell by 27% during the crash and is currently down about 11% since the start of the year. The stock is expected to pay a 3.39% annual dividend." End quote.

Concerning Cisco, Mr. Nash says that "Cisco is an American tech company that earns most of its revenue from selling infrastructure platforms made up of networking hardware like routers, switches and data centres. As more business happens online, Cisco has diversified to offer applications, security and technical support services… The company gets top marks from sustainability data providers Sustainalytics and MSCI, and is ranked fourth on the 2020 Corporate Knights' Global 100 list of the world's most sustainable corporations… Cisco's share price fell by 33% during the crash and is currently down about 11% since the start of the year. The stock is expected to pay a 3.2% annual dividend." End quote.

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End Comment

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for this podcast: Best ESG Funds for Responsible Investing.

And to get all the links, stock symbols, and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. We can all do our part in helping create a better world – especially in these deeply troubled times.

Contact me if you have any questions.

Stay well, healthy, and wise!

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on June 19. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

ESG Stock Market Leaders in pandemic. See the individual stocks and ETFs! Singapore's pandemic success offers potential sustainable investing profits. Energy stocks to buy? McCormick & Company and Northland Power are ESG stocks that benefit whilst pandemic continues, says Tim Nash. Analyst recommendations from Zacks, The Motley Fool, InvestorPlace, Singapore Business, Corporate Knights and ccmarkets

PODCAST: Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

Transcript & Links, Episode 32, May 22, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 32 published on May 22 titled "Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders"— and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Hey, the ESG analysts are back. A few days of up markets have brought them to life! So, let's rip!

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1) Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

We start with an article from InvestorPlace written by Todd Shriber – an old friend of these podcasts – and it's titled 5 of the Best Socially Responsible ETFs to Buy.

I'm going to quote Mr. Shriber stating the name of the ETF followed by a quote for each one.

"Xtrackers MSCI U.S.A. ESG Leaders Equity ETF (USSG)

Expense Ratio: 0.10% per year. The Xtrackers MSCI U.S.A. ESG Leaders Equity ETF is one of the true success stories in the socially responsible ETF space. At just over a year old, [it] has $1.65 billion in assets under management…

Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF (SNPE)

Expense Ratio: 0.11% per year. The Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF is the one ESG ETF that follows the S&P 500 ESG Index — the ESG offshoot of the famed domestic equity benchmark…

Nuveen ESG Small-Cap ETF (NUSC)

Expense Ratio: 0.40%. [Its] home to $227 million in assets under management, the Nuveen ESG Small-Cap ETF is the biggest ESG small-cap ETF on the market.

iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF (SUSL)

Expense Ratio: 0.10% per year. The iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF is the iShares rival to the aforementioned Xtrackers MSCI U.S.A. ESG Leaders Equity ETF as both funds follow the MSCI USA ESG Leaders Index.

iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF (DSI)

Expense Ratio: 0.25% per year. The iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF turns 14 years old later this year, making it one of the oldest funds in the socially responsible ETF category."

End quotes.

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2) Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

In these days of COVID-19, most of you have heard about the great success of Singapore in subduing the pandemic there. And it's done that without having to shut down its economy!

Hence, it's businesses are likely to generally show better results than in most other countries. So, it could be a place where some of you might consider investing. If that's you have a look at this article in Singapore Business titled Top 5 ESG stocks outpace STI's blue chips.

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3) Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

Another analyst who I like to quote is Tim Nash. Writing again for Corporate Knights he has penned a post titled Pandemic Portfolio: Two stocks to watch as COVID-19 drags on.

The two stocks are McCormick & Company (MKC) and Northland Power (NPI).

Regarding McCormick. Mr. Nash says that "With restaurants closed, home chefs are having their moment… McCormick & Company is a spice and flavour manufacturer that sells a wide array of spices, condiments and sauces…

Its environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores from the Corporate Knights research arm, as well as MSCI and Sustainalytics, are among the best in its sector…" End quote.

Concerning Northland Power, Mr. Nash writes that "Renewable energy utilities are in the enviable position of having consistent cash flows, since they have long-term purchase price agreements that set a fixed price on the electricity they generate. Northland Power, headquartered in Toronto, is one such utility… the company's cash flows shouldn't suffer if the pandemic's stay-at-home orders persist…

The stock is expected to pay a 3.91 per cent annual dividend." End quote.

Mr. Nash produces a useful scorecard on the companies that you can review in his article.

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4) Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

Now I have two articles that offer their perspectives on renewable energy. They both appear on The Motley Fool site and have the same contributors. A few of the companies appear in both articles. The authors are Travis Hoium, Tyler Crowe, Jason Hall, Matthew DiLallo, and John Bromels.

The first article is titled 5 Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Right Now. Since I've covered these companies – often many times in this podcast – I'm just going to mention the company names. You can go to the article's link on my podcast page for greater detail on these analysts' current thoughts on these companies' stocks. The companies are Ormat Technologies (NYSE:ORA), Vivint Solar (NYSE:VSLR), Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE:BEP), SunPower (NASDAQ:SPWR), and Atlantica Yield (NASDAQ:AY).

The second article is titled Looking at Oil Stocks? 5 Renewable Energy Stocks That Are Better Buys Right Now. As previously, I'm just going to mention their names and you can follow the link on this podcast page. The companies recommended are First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR), Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE:BEP), Clearway Energy (NYSE:CWEN), NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE), and Vivint Solar (NYSE:VSLR).

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5) Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

The site cmcmarkets.com has a post titled The 7 top ESG ETFs for ethical investing. I'll give their names followed by a short description of each one from the post. Incidentally, two of them were previously recommended in this podcast.

iShare ETFs

"The biggest: iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF (DSI). With over $1.7 billion in net assets, this is the largest fund in the category… It steers clear of companies that make money from alcohol, tobacco or firearms.

Europe's best performer: iShares MSCI Europe SRI UCITS ETF (ACC)

The iShares MSCI Europe SRI UCITS ETF topped Just ETF's list of best performing ESG ETFs for the 12 months up to 30 April 2020. The fund screens out companies with exposure to fossil fuels through extraction and other activities.

For US stocks: iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF (SUSL)

Started in June 2019, this fund tracks US large and medium caps and was up 21.7% since inception at the beginning of February.

The emerging markets: iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (LDEM)

The iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF might be less than six months old, but it's already seen huge inflows of cash with Finnish pension-provider IImarien pumping $650 million into the fund. A good sign as Ilmarien has a track-record backing high-performing ESG ETFs.

For low emissions: iShares MSCI ACWI Low Carbon Target ETF (CRBN)

One for the environmentally-minded, this fund filters companies based on their greenhouse emissions.

For clean energy: iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)

The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF gives investors access to the clean energy sector, including wind power, solar power and renewable energy. The fund has a global outlook."

SPDR ETF

For gender diversity: SPDR SSGA Gender Diversity Index ETF (SHE)

This gender-diversity fund tracks the 1000 major companies in the US, looking at the ratio of men and women in senior positions. Of those, it invests in only the top 10%." End quotes.

The article itself has more data on each of these ETFs. To read it you'll have to subscribe to the site. But that's free. Again, the link to the article is on this podcast's webpage.

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6) Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders

Zacks has produced another research report titled ESG Stocks Remain Resilient to Virus Slump: 5 Top Picks. Here are the 5 stocks. Quote:

"Eli Lilly and Company (LLY) discovers, develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 12.8% compared with the Zacks Large Cap Pharmaceuticals industry's projected earnings growth of 7.1%.

Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) develops, licenses and supports software, services, devices and solutions. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 19.8% against the Zacks Computer - Software industry's projected earnings decline of 4.9%.

NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA), operates as a visual computing company. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 28.7% against the Zacks Semiconductor - General industry's projected earnings decline of 21%.

DexCom, Inc. (DXCM) designs, develops, and commercializes continuous glucose monitoring systems. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 21.2% compared with the Zacks Medical - Instruments industry's projected earnings growth of 6.8%.

Adobe Inc. (ADBE) operates as a diversified software company. Its expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 24.4% against the Zacks Computer - Software industry's projected earnings decline of 4.9%."

End quotes.

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End Comment

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for this podcast: Pandemic's ESG Stock Market Leaders.

And to get all the links, stock symbols, and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Stay well and healthy -- and prosperous!

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on June 5. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

Change Healthcare, Hannon Armstrong, Plug Power, Brookfield Renewable Partners, are among the more sustainable investing ideas covered in this podcast. Listen to find out more. Ethical and sustainable investors need to go beyond company ESG ratings. They need to especially consider what components of ESG are truly 'material' to a company's operational and financial performance

PODCAST: More Sustainable Investing Ideas

Transcript & Links, Episode 31, May 8, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 31 published on May 8 titled "More Sustainable Investing Ideas"— and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Well, the analysts are still asleep. The news-flow continues low. So, this will be another short podcast. Though short, there are still some useful recommendations.

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1) More Sustainable Investing Ideas

The first item is by Michael Marcus at TipRanks with his article 3 "Perfect 10″ Stocks That Tick All the Boxes. However, I'm just going to write about two of them that I believe are relevant for ethical and sustainable investors.

Change Healthcare (CHNG).

Quote "Change Healthcare is a software company that provides solutions for analysis, connectivity, communication, payment, and workflow optimization for healthcare providers. Change's products connect patients, payers, and providers in the health system. In the current pandemic situation, a company that connects the data dots for the healthcare system should find itself in demand.

Change reported its fiscal third quarter results in February, its third since going public, and beat the earnings estimates by 10%. Earnings per share came in at 33 cents, and revenue was $808.2 million… In line with his bullish view, Steven Halper of Cantor Fitzgerald, gives the stock a Buy rating with a $20 price target that suggests an impressive upside of 96%." End quote.

Hannon Armstrong (HASI)

Mr. Marcus says this about the company. Quote, "Hannon Armstrong [is] a financial services company focused on climate change. Where some just talk about the need to support green initiatives, Hannon Armstrong puts its money where its mouth is, investing in, and funding ventures in, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure. As of December 2019, the company was managing more than $6 billion in assets…

The company also raised its dividend by a half cent, to an even 34 cents quarterly. The new dividend makes the annualized payment $1.36 and went into effect this month. At 5.2%, the yield is significantly higher than the market average, and simply blows away Treasury bonds. Hannon has a 7-year history of dividend reliability." End quote. Not sure about comparing Hannon Armstrong's yield with treasury bonds as they are two very different types of investments for two very different purposes.

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2) More Sustainable Investing Ideas

Now, are you still interested in renewable energy? Many of you might have heard of Plug Power (NASDAQ: PLUG), the hydrogen fuel cell technology company. But even more of you will know Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP). Well, John Bromel compares the two companies in his article Better Buy: Plug Power vs. Brookfield Renewable Partners. It appears on The Motley Fool site.

He writes that "Plug Power is a leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology for vehicles. Its products have found a niche market in industries where extended downtime (to recharge a battery) isn't an option: Mostly warehouse forklifts and airport safety vehicles.

However, Plug wants to break out of this niche into the broader vehicle market. It's been working on fuel-cell-powered delivery vans and has provided small fleets of them to shipping giant DHL and to FedEx…

Conversely… Brookfield Renewable Partners invests across the renewable energy spectrum and sells the electricity it generates to utilities. The bulk of its revenues come from hydroelectric dams, but it also operates significant wind and solar infrastructure…

This wasn't much of a contest. Even though it may not be priced at a discount, Brookfield Renewable Partners beats Plug Power hands down. Investors looking to put money into green energy should consider taking a stake in Brookfield." End quotes.

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3) More Sustainable Investing Ideas

Some of the articles I've included in these podcasts recommended Renewable Energy Group (NASDAQ: REGI). Probably many of you invested in them. If you have any interest in this company you should read Maxx Chatsko's new article 1 Question to Ask Yourself Before Buying Renewable Energy Group.

Mr. Chatsko says that "Global consumption of crude oil has fallen by roughly 30% from pre-pandemic levels. Combine that with an oil price war started by Saudi Arabia and dwindling storage options, and it's not too surprising global crude oil benchmarks have dipped below $20 per barrel.

What might be more surprising is the relative resilience demonstrated by shares of Renewable Energy Group. The biomass-based diesel producer has lost only 13% of its market value since the beginning of March, while some oil supermajors have lost over 25%...

Renewable Energy Group is one of the country's largest manufacturers of biomass-based diesel fuels… In December, Congress retroactively reinstated an expired tax credit to the first day of 2018 and extended it through the last day of 2022…

That helps to explain why shares of the renewable fuels leader have been relatively resilient.

The reinstatement of tax credits will help to insulate the business from tumbling selling prices, but a shortage of feedstocks could more than offset the advantage. Long story short, now is not a great time to open a new position or add to an existing position in this biodiesel stock." End quote.

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4) More Sustainable Investing Ideas

Now here's some news that I think you'll be interested in and it's a topic I've brought up before. The article is by Emily Steinbarth and appeared in Advisor Perspectives with the title Don't Be Fooled by Most ESG Rankings. Focus on Materiality Instead.

Ms. Steinbarth says that "The Wall Street Journal recently ran an article about how big technology stocks dominate ESG funds. Tech companies are not usually associated with the big ESG issues like climate change, renewable energy, or diversity. So, are investors being fooled?" End quote.

In her article, she makes a case for not just focusing on ESG scores. ESG scores and their components each may or may not affect the material functioning and profitability of a company. Hence the need to consider what is factually material or impactful to the company's operations and bottom line. That way you can make more well-considered investment decisions. Ms. Steinbarth's article is worth reading for all ethical and sustainable investors.

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End Comment

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for this podcast: More Sustainable Investing Ideas.

And to get all the links, stock symbols, and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Stay well and healthy. And enjoy the fact that ethical and sustainable funds and portfolios are generally outperforming their conventional counterparts!

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on May 22. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

BlackRock launches sustainable investing fund supporting UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Areas it invests in include sustainable food, clean energy, affordable housing, and public health. Tom Lydon promotes the Global X Conscious Companies ETF, reflecting the Concinnity Conscious Companies Index emphasizing ESG and focuses on customers, suppliers, stock & debt holders, local communities, and employees. More investing, funds,

PODCAST: Sustainable Investments Making Our World Better. More…

Transcript & Links, Episode 30, April 24, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 30 published on April 24, 2020, titled "Sustainable Investments Making Our World Better. More…"—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

With much of the investment industry in lock down, the news flow is down incredibly. Hence, this podcast is shorter than normal.

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1) Sustainable Investments Making Our World Better. More…

Some of you might have heard the name Blackrock. BlackRock is the largest money management firm in the world. Well, the company was recently called upon by the US Treasury and the Federal Reserve to manage the buying of massive amounts of bonds and mortgage-backed securities. Now that same firm has just launched the BlackRock Global Impact Fund.

Writing on the climatechange.com site under the title, BlackRock launches sustainable investing-focused impact fund, Camilla Watkiss says that the fund "enables investors to direct finance towards companies that are supporting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." End quote. Well, that's great!

Also, BlackRock's Chairman and CEO, Larry Fink, gained notoriety earlier this year by proposing that sustainable investing is both here and now and the way of the future! Quoting him, he said that, "Every government, company, and shareholder must confront climate change… we will be increasingly disposed to vote against management and board directors when companies are not making sufficient progress on sustainability-related disclosures and the business practices and plans underlying them." End quote.

Since BlackRock is hugely influential in the investment world, their stance on sustainable investments making our world better has sent shock-waves throughout the investment industry.

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2) Sustainable Investments Making Our World Better. More…

Now, as you know from my previous posts, companies, and funds emphasizing sustainability and ESG principles are doing better than their 'conventional' equivalents. Even in these down markets. Now, Tom Lydon in his article titled Crisis Reveals Utility of Emphasizing Conscious Companies describes his favourite fund in this regard. It appeared on the ETF Trends site.

Mr. Lydon says that "Tough times can reveal a lot about a person. The same is true of corporate reaction to crises and investors are getting a real-time taste for how companies are dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. That's also shedding light on ETFs, such as the Global X Conscious Companies ETF (NasdaqGM: KRMA)."

Further, he says that the "Global X Conscious Companies ETF, which turns four years old in July, tries to reflect the performance of the Concinnity Conscious Companies Index, which tracks companies that achieve financial performance in a sustainable and responsible manner and exhibit positive Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) characteristics…. [its] methodology focuses on stakeholders, such as Customers, Suppliers, Stock & Debt Holders, Local Communities, and notably, Employees, according to Global X." End quotes.

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3) Sustainable Investments Making Our World Better. More…

This next article recommends four stocks that have appeared in this podcast many times. Hence, I almost hesitated to repeat them! But with so little news flow and seeing that they are still top-of-the-line holdings of most ESG funds, I reconsidered. So, here they are. The article is titled Coronavirus Crisis Brings These 4 ESG Stocks in Focus and is written by Zacks' researchers. I found it on the Yahoo! Finance site.

I'll mention the name of each company and then follow it with a quote.

Companies cited:

1) Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) [it] has taken a leap in corporate social responsibility and supports its staff with regular pay even as several companies across the world have announced layoffs and salary cuts.

Microsoft's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 17.3% compared with the Zacks Computer - Software industry's projected earnings growth of 3.2%... Microsoft carries a Zacks Rank #3 (which is a Hold).

2) Chipmaker NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA)… makes a mark among ESG stocks with a strict policy regarding conflict minerals.

The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 22.1% against the Zacks Semiconductor - General industry's projected earnings decline of 12.7%... NVIDIA carries a Zacks Rank #3.

3) The Procter & Gamble Company (PG) [the company] provides branded consumer packaged goods. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 9.5% against the Zacks Soap and Cleaning Materials industry's projected earnings decline of 1.1%... The Procter & Gamble Company carries a Zacks Rank #3.

And 4) is NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE). The company is responsible for the generation and supply of energy throughout most of the state of Florida through its regulated subsidiaries. Its ESG ratings have remained unchanged amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 8.1% compared with the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry's projected earnings growth of 3.6%... NextEra Energy carries a Zacks Rank #3." End quotes

Here are the links to the free Zacks reports on these companies.

Microsoft Corporation (MSFT): Free Stock Analysis Report

NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA): Free Stock Analysis Report

NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE): Free Stock Analysis Report

Procter & Gamble Company (The) (PG): Free Stock Analysis Report

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End Comment

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for this podcast: Sustainable Investments Making Our World Better, over the past two weeks.

And to get all the links, stock symbols, and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Do stay well and healthy – and stay wise with your investments in these troubling times.

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on May 8. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul..

ESG funds, stocks, outperforming their 'conventional' counterparts in markets' downturn. Several analysts believe now is a good time to buy these stocks and funds. See which ones they recommend! Investors should also consider artificial intelligence and infrastructure stocks too. With companies reducing or eliminating dividends, one dividend-paying socially responsible stock comes highly regarded. And More

PODCAST: ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

Transcript & Links, Episode 29, April 10, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 29 for April 10, 2020, titled "ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn."—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols – and bonus material at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And, Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Now with the recent market turnaround, many investors are feeling a sense of relief and thinking beyond the COVID-19 turmoil! With that in mind, the analysts' research I'm reporting on now might be of interest to you.

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1) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

So, let's start with the first research comment that illustrates again the ESG funds, stocks, opportunities in this downturn. This comment is titled ESG ETFs Appear Unscathed by the Coronavirus Carnage by Zacks analyst Sanghamitra Saha.

She writes that" Wall Street just recorded the worst quarter since the fourth quarter of 2008. But ESG ETFs appeared somewhat resilient to the acute selloffs." End quote. Ms. Saha cites the following ESG ETFs as having gained significant assets during the sell-off. They are:

Global X Conscious Companies ETF (KRMA). Quote "Its top holdings are Regeneron, Clorox, Biogen, Newmont, Netflix and Amazon." End quote.

Next is SP Funds S&P 500 Sharia Industry Exclusions ETF (SPUS). Quote "The underlying S&P 500 Sharia Industry Exclusions Index comprises the constituents of the S&P 500 Sharia Index other than those from the following sub-industries: Aerospace & Defense, Financial Exchanges & Data, and Data Processing & Outsourced Services…" End quote.

Finally, the Nuveen ESG Mid-Cap Growth ETF (NUMG). Again, quoting her she says that "It uses a rules-based methodology that provides investment exposure that generally replicates that of mid-cap growth benchmarks through a portfolio of securities that adhere to predetermined ESG, controversial business involvement and low-carbon screening criteria." End quote.

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2) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

Now a post for those ethical and sustainable investors wishing to get back into the markets with individual stocks. Ian Jenkins has written an article titled 6 Stocks Cashing In On The $30 Trillion Impact Investing Trend that appears on the oilprice.com site. Here are his six picks.

Now I'm just going to name the company and then follow it with a short quote by Mr. Jenkins on that company.

Alphabet (GOOGL). "Is a shining star in the tech world. Despite being one of the largest companies on the planet, in many ways it has lived up to its original 'Don't Be Evil' slogan."

Facedrive Inc. (FD.V). "For the first time in ride-sharing history, Facedrive is giving customers a choice to be more environmentally conscious. That's because it's utilizing new technology to calculate the estimated CO2 emissions for each ride and allocating a portion of the proceeds accordingly to local organizations to help offset those emissions."

Apple Inc. (AAPL). "Not only have they decreased their average product's energy use by 70 percent… They've reduced their total carbon footprint by more than 35 percent in just a few short years…"

Microsoft Inc. (MSFT). "It's pushing so hard that it is aiming to be carbon NEGATIVE by 2030. That's a huge pledge. And if anyone can do it, it's Microsoft."

NextEra Energy (NEE). "[The] world's leading producer of wind and solar energy… By 2025, the company aims to reduce their own emissions by 67 percent while doubling their electricity production from a 2005 benchmark."

Lastly, Total (TOT). "One of the world's largest oil and gas companies… Through its subsidiaries and new investments, Total is making major waves in the 'green revolution.'" End quotes.

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3) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

Do you favour tech stocks like most ethical and sustainable investors? Then you might want to see the recommendations of Billy Duberstein. His article is titled 3 Top Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Buy in April and appeared on The Motley Fool site.

Here are the stocks he recommends with each followed by a quote from him.

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX). "Makes the machines that allow chipmakers to produce smaller, more powerful chips."

Alteryx (NYSE: AYX). "Its main product is an end-to-end, comprehensive software suite, which allows both data scientists and non-data scientists to work together building and deploying machine learning algorithms."

Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU). "Micron's product portfolio will be essential to future artificial intelligence applications, which will require lots and lots of DRAM memory and NAND flash storage. In addition to these products, Micron is also one of only two companies to have 3D Xpoint, a new kind of non-volatile memory that is faster than NAND, though also more expensive. Micron is the only company to have all three technologies." End quotes.

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4) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

It appears that the next big US fiscal stimulus plan may involve huge spending on infrastructure. Due to this many investors are looking for companies engaged in that sector to buy into.

In her post on the Motley Fool site, Neha Chamaria writes about 3 Top Infrastructure Stocks to Watch in April. They are – and again followed by a quote from her on each company.

Nucor (NYSE: NUE). "Nucor is North America's largest manufacturer and supplier of critical infrastructure steel and steel products."

Vulcan Materials (NYSE: VMC). "Vulcan is the nation's largest manufacturer of construction aggregates, primarily crushed stone, gravel, and sand, as well as a major producer of asphalt and concrete."

Caterpillar (NYSE: CAT). "If infrastructure spending picks up, Caterpillar should be a leading indicator as the world's largest construction-and-mining equipment manufacturer." End quotes.

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5) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

Ms. Chamaria has also written a post titled 3 Top Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy in April, also on the Motley Fool site. So, following the same format as previously, I'll say the company followed by a quote from her.

NextEra Energy Partners (NYSE: NEP). "NextEra Energy Partners was formed in 2014, when NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) spun-off its solar and wind energy projects to form an exclusive clean-energy focused limited partnership."

Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP). "One of the best diversified renewable energy stocks you can find. While NextEra Energy Partners is focused on wind and solar, Brookfield Renewable specializes in hydropower, or the generation of electricity from water streams."

TPI Composites (NASDAQ: TPIC). "The world's largest independent composite wind-blade manufacturer." End quotes.

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6) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

With this downturn, many investors are finding that dividends they'd become used to from stocks are being cut or even eliminated. Thus, those looking for dividends to provide income has become a real concern!

Now, this might be helpful to you in that regard. BNK Invest has published an article titled FirstEnergy a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 3.9% Yield (FE). They write that "FirstEnergy Corp (FE) has been named a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock by Dividend Channel, signifying a stock with above-average 'DividendRank' statistics including a strong 3.9% yield, as well as being recognized by prominent asset managers as being a socially responsible investment, through analysis of social and environmental criteria." End quote.

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7) ESG Funds, Stocks. Opportunities in Downturn.

Tom Lydon of ETF Trends is making the case for green bonds at this juncture. In a post titled Going Green With Bonds Is a Winning Idea he recommends the VanEck Vectors Green Bond ETF (NYSEArca: GRNB).

He writes that "The VanEck Vectors Green Bond ETF tracks the S&P Green Bond Select Index, which is 'comprised of labeled green bonds that are issued to finance environmentally friendly projects, and includes bonds issued by the supranational, government, and corporate issuers globally in multiple currencies,' according to VanEck." End quote.

Here's another interesting item from his article. Mr. Lydon quotes Thomas Wacker, head of credit at UBS Global Wealth and reported in Bloomberg reports as saying that "Sustainable bonds are a 'defensive opportunity' that credit investors should favor over non-green, investment-grade corporate notes,'" End quote.

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End Comment

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for ethical and sustainable investors over the past two weeks.

And to get all the links, stock symbols and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And, please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Do stay well and healthy – and most wise with your investments at this extraordinary time.

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on April 24. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

ESG funds outperform in market downturn according to research by Bloomberg and Morningstar! One big reason is they are big on tech: the FANG's – Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix; and Alphabet (Google). Consumers spending more time at home due to COVID-19 are buying and using the products and services of these companies. Other news covered too

PODCAST: ESG Funds Outperform in Market Downturn. And More…

Transcript & Links, Episode 28, March 27, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 28 for March 27, 2020, titled "ESG Funds Outperform in Downturn. And More…"—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols – and bonus material at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And, Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Despite the market turmoil, there are still a few analysts willing to stick their necks out in favour of ESG and sustainable investments!

Now to this episode.

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A) ESG Funds Outperform in Market Downturn

This first article is highly encouraging as it reports on how ESG funds outperform in market downturn. Titled As coronavirus infects markets, sustainable funds prove their mettle. It's written by Naveena Sadasivam and appeared on the Grist site. Here are some quotes. "Could portfolios that avoided oil and gas companies, tobacco, and other profitable but controversial industries have high enough returns to satisfy investors? Would they survive during times of market upheaval?...

According to a Bloomberg analysis, the average ESG fund fell by about 12 percent this year. That's a big tumble, but it's just half the decrease seen by the S&P 500 Index over the same period. A separate analysis of about 200 U.S. funds by Morningstar, a financial services firm, also found that, although ESG funds have taken a hit, they're faring better than their conventional counterparts and are overrepresented in the top quartiles of their peer groups, in terms of their performance." End quote.

So that's something to help you feel better knowing that ESG funds outperform in market downturn.

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10 Companies To Invest In If You Want To Fight Climate Change

Another article that could help cheer you up and refocus your attention on what is still likely the most important issue facing our planet – which is, of course, climate change!

Victoria Simpson writing on the World Atlas site has penned a post titled 10 Companies To Invest In If You Want To Fight Climate Change. However, I'm only going to cover 9 of the companies. Ms. Simpson starts with her last pick.

" 9) General Electric (GE)

GE is now dominant in the wind business. The company's shares have gone down considerably in recent years, but some restructuring has them now more streamlined and focusing on aviation, healthcare and power exclusively, including wind turbines.

8) Vestas Wind Systems (VWS.CO)

It… has $8 billion in annual revenue, making this an impressive venture. From Denmark, Vestas is said to have a more than [a] 30% increase in its backlog of wind turbine orders.

7) First Trust Global Wind Energy (FAN)

First Trust Global Wind Energy is an exchange-traded fund. It holds shares in many wind-energy companies including Vestas (VWS.CO) and GE (GE).

6) Sunrun (RUN)

According to Nasdaq.com, Sunrun is a company making solar panels that is doing well. It has experienced a 200% increase since 2017 and is presently the number one residential solar installer in the US. Sales are thought to increase considerably in Florida and Texas in the near future as policy changes are opening the markets in these areas.

5) BASF (BAS.DE)

A key component to consuming less energy is having the right insulation in your walls… BASF is a world leader in thermal insulation materials with an estimated 6% annual growth rate projected to take place from 2019 to 2025.

4) Beyond Meat (BYND)

The market in plant-based meat substitutes has been around for a long while, but it has taken a new leap with Beyond Meat products. They have now been introduced to Tim Horton's, Subway, Denny's, TGIF Friday's, and other major restaurant chains…

For those seeking a more established stock with a similar outlook, there is also Kellogg (K). The cereal company acquired MorningStar Farms back in 1999, and it is now selling 90 million pounds of meat-free proteins through names like Morningstoar, Kashi, and Gardenburger.

3) First Solar (FSLR)

In addition to Sunrun, which is mentioned above, First Solar is a company to look at when considering an investment in solar power. The company is an American manufacturer of solar panels. It is also a provider of utility-scale PV power plants and supporting services, including construction, finance, maintenance, and end-of-life panel recycling, according to Wikipedia… This is a company to watch, according to Investopedia.com.

2) Tesla (TSLA)

Tesla is not sticking to cars alone. It acquired SolarCity, a solar panel and solar roof tile manufacturer, and is it also specializing in battery energy storage from home to grid-scale.

1) United Natural Foods (UNFI)

United Natural Foods is also a prime supplier of organic foods to the public… It could be a good bet for environmentally conscious investors." End quotes.

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B) ESG Funds Outperform in Market Downturn

Another recent article that focused on climate change investing is titled 7 Great ETFs to Invest in Climate Change. It's written by Jeff Reeves and appeared on the US News & World Report and Yahoo! Finance sites. Some of these funds are probably among the ESG funds outperforming in market downturn. Check them out.

Here are Mr. Reeves's suggestions and quotes by him on the seven ETFs.

1) Invesco WilderHill Clean Energy ETF (PBW)

Tied to the WilderHill Clean Energy Index… this ETF gives you a look at the major domestic names in the space. That includes conventional stocks you may think of like residential solar provider Sunnova Energy International (NOVA) as well as hydrogen fuel cell company Bloom Energy Corp. (BE). Collectively, the roughly 40 stocks in the fund add up to a pretty diversified look at alternative energy companies in America.

2) iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)

iShares Global Clean Energy ETF covers publicly traded companies that are engaged in solar, wind and other renewable power sources around the world… The drawback here is that with only about 30 companies and a number of large-scale utility stocks like this, you get fewer of the component manufacturers and service stocks that appear in Invesco WilderHill Clean Energy ETF. So, while more geographically diverse, investors should be aware of the focus on power generation players.

3) Invesco Solar ETF (TAN)

Invesco Solar ETF tracks about two dozen solar energy players including First Solar (FSLR) and SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG)… Solar stocks are the go-to alternative energy investment for many on Wall Street, and Invesco Solar ETF allows you to play this subsector in one simple instrument. Just remember that it's more volatile than other broader energy funds.

4) First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund (FAN)

Wind turbines alone account for more than 8% of total energy generation in the U.S. That's on par with both nuclear capacity and hydroelectric power capacity, and significantly ahead of the 3% share of solar. First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund does wrap up some of the biggest dedicated plays like Denmark-based Vestas (VWS.CO)as well as firms like General Electric Co. (GE) that are major producers of wind turbines and related technologies.

5) Invesco Cleantech ETF (PZD)

If you want smaller players with growth potential or a focus on secondary technology instead of large-scale power production, Invesco offers a 'clean-tech' ETF designed to target companies that derive the majority of their revenue from products or services that are environmentally conscious. Among its 50 or so holdings are Luxembourg-based Eurofins Scientific (ERFSF) that designs environmental and 'agriscience' testing products to help measure health and environmental impact, or biologics player Novozymes (NVZMY) that is trying to replace plastics and harsh chemicals with microorganisms and natural enzymes in everyday products.

6) SPDR MSCI ACWI Low Carbon Target ETF (LOWC)

On the other side of these firms focused on green energy or natural products are the end users. And while consumer behavior matters, the fate of the planet is perhaps more reliant on the actions and business models of major corporations than individual household habits. The SPDR MSCI ACWI Low Carbon Target ETF is designed to focus on the corporations that are the most environmentally conscious.

7) Invesco Water Resources ETF (PHO)

One of the harsh realities of global warming is the increase in water demand caused by rising temperatures. This is particularly true in the American west, where states like California and Arizona have seen persistent droughts and related wildfires. The Invesco Water Resources ETF is a way to profit from this trend, however, through roughly 35 water-related holdings that include publicly traded water utilities like American Water Works Co. (AWK) as well as pump, flow control and service providers such as industrial giant Danaher Corp. (DHR).

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Ending Comments

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for this podcast:ESG Funds Outperform in Market Downturn. And More…

And to get all the links, stock symbols and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And, please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Stay well and healthy and wise with your investments!

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on April 7. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

Covered are some of the best stocks, bonds, funds for climate change action and remediation. The picks come from great ESG, renewable energy and infrastructure analysts at Kiplinger, The Motley Fool and Zacks. Also, what's one of the best renewable energy dividend stocks? Want to know the best gun-free funds to invest in America? More

PODCAST: Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…

Transcript & Links, Episode 27, March 13, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 27 for March 13, 2020, titled "Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…"—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols – and bonus material at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And, Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Despite the market turmoil, we should know that there is a future and some stock market sectors will shine in the years ahead. And, hopefully, some of the companies and sectors covered in these podcasts will be among the winners.

Now to this episode.

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1) Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…

I want to lead with articles that review some stocks, bonds, funds for climate change.

First, this article titled 6 Stocks, 3 Bond Funds That Are Good for the Environment and Your Portfolio by Nellie Huang and John Waggoner. It appeared on the Kiplinger site.

Their first pick is Darling Ingredients (DAR)… which they say, "collects food waste and various animal by-products and transforms it all into more useful things for customers in the food, animal feed and fuel industries, among others." End quote.

The second company is Waste Management (WM) quote "The firm is the largest trash collector (and disposer) in North America. It owns 252 solid waste landfills, 132 recycling facilities and 314 transfer stations, which consolidate, compact and transport waste to landfills… We should note that Waste Management has plenty of competition. Nor is the stock cheap." End quote.

The third company is TPI Composites (TPIC) which Huang and Waggoner say "makes propellers for the wind industry that are strong, light and very, very large… TPI is also entering the fast-growing electric vehicle market, making light, high-strength electric bus bodies." End quote.

Fourthly is First Solar (FSLR) which the writers say is "one of the brightest lights in the photovoltaic solar energy industry. And in the volatile world of solar stocks, it's probably the safest bet. 'It's the ExxonMobil of solar,' says fund manager Waghorn, whose fund owns the stock…" End quote.

Then their fifth pick is, quote, "Nutrien (NTR), a Canadian firm whose stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange, is the world's largest fertilizer company." End quote.

And finally, they write about Xylem (XYL) which quoting them, "provides equipment and services that address the full water cycle, from collection to distribution and use, to the return of water to the environment." End quote.

Huang and Waggoner's recommended bond funds

Now to Huang and Waggoner's recommended bond funds. They begin with their first pick which is the IShares Global Green Bond (BRGN). Quoting them they say it "opened in 2018 [and this] exchange-traded fund invests in investment-grade sovereign and government-related debt, corporate bonds, and securitized IOUs denominated in local currencies in countries around the world… And all bonds in the fund are either branded 'green' or meet standards set by financial firm MSCI…" End quote.

Continuing, their second choice is the VanEck Vectors Green Bond (GRNB), launched in 2017, and yields a more robust 2.40%...

And their last pick, quoting them is the "TIAA-CREF Green Bond (TGROX) launched in 2018 lead manager Stephen Liberatore has been picking socially and environmentally oriented bonds for more than a decade." End quote.

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2) Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…

Nellie Huang and John Waggoner have also written Funds That Prosper From Fighting Climate Change. They are:

1) Invesco WilderHill Clean Energy ETF (PBW) 2) Invesco Solar ETF (TAN) 3) First Trust Global Wind Energy (FAN) 4) VanEck Vectors Environmental Services (EVX) 5) IShares MSCI ACWI Low Carbon Target ETF (CRBN) 6) SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free (SPYX) 7) SPDR MSCI EAFE Fossil Fuel Reserves Free 8) Green Century Balanced (GCBLX) 9) Artisan Mid Cap (ARTMX) 10) Dodge & Cox Stock (DODGX)

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3) Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…

Besides the environment, another popular theme for ethical and sustainable investors are infrastructure stocks. Scott Levine at the Motley Fool states his top picks in an article titled 3 Top Infrastructure Stocks to Watch in March. His choices are:

1) American Water Works (NYSE: AWK), he writes that "American Water Works is the largest publicly traded water and wastewater treatment utility company in the United States." End quote.

2) Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (NYSE: BIP), Mr. Levine says that "For infrastructure-oriented investors who are seeking a diversified approach, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners is a viable option." End quote.

And 3) NV5 Global (NASDAQ: NVEE), he says "will appeal to dividend-minded investors. The company's board of directors recently approved a 7% increase to the quarterly distribution, which is now $0.54 per unit." End quote.

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4) Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…

In my last podcast, I covered a story listing the top ten most held stocks in ESG funds. Well three of them are again listed in this article titled 8 of the Best Stocks to Buy for ESG Investors written by Josh Enomoto and published on the InvestorPlace site. So, I'm just going to cover the five in Mr. Enomoto's article that wasn't covered previously.

They are Home Depot (NYSE: HD), Emcor Group (NYSE: EME), Nike (NYSE: NKE), and Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS).

For Home Depot he says, "The company specializes in the home goods and renovation industry… Home Depot [sources] most of their wood from right here in the U.S. Also noteworthy is the "company's efforts toward diversity." End quote.

On Emcor Group, Mr. Enomoto writes that "First, Emcor has adopted several environmentally sustainable practices in its operations… Additionally, the company leads in reducing waste as well as monitoring its carbon footprint." End quote.

For Nike, he says that "Social justice advocates have pressured Nike for years regarding accusations of sweatshop labor... On the other end of the spectrum, Nike stock wins out on the environmental sustainability segment." End quote.

Regarding Hasbro Mr. Enomoto has this to say, that "With my last idea for stocks to buy, I'm going to go with the riskiest name, toymaker Hasbro. Obviously, Hasbro stock is not a name for the risk averse… However, if sustainability ranks highly for your portfolio considerations, then you may want to pick up the discount in Hasbro stock." End quote.

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5) Stocks, Bonds, Funds for Climate Change. More…

Looking for a high yielding renewable energy stock? Well, Matthew DiLallo has one for you. His post is titled Why I Just Bought This High-Yielding Renewable-Energy Stock and appeared on the Motley Fool site.

He says this stock, Clearway Energy (NYSE: CWEN)(NYSE: CWEN.A) "Owns and operates a portfolio of clean power-generating assets… [that] sells [its power]… to end users under long-term, fixed-rate contracts… Those agreements provide the company with relatively predictable cash flow, which gives Clearway Energy the money to pay a dividend -- which currently yields 3.9% -- and expand its clean energy portfolio." End quote.

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3 Weapon-Free Funds for Ethical Investing

Gun violence is problematic almost everywhere and a major concern for many ethical and sustainable investors. So it's welcome that Zacks analyst Nitish Marwah writes an article titled 3 Weapon-Free Funds for Ethical Investing.

His first pick is, quote, "New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX) [that] invests in companies that contribute to a sustainable environment… has an annual expense ratio of 1.12%, which is below the category average of 1.30%. The fund has three and five-year returns of 16.2% and 10.6%, respectively." End quote.

Next pick is Pax Ellevate Global Women's Leadership Fund Individual Investor Class (PXWEX) which Mr. Marwah says "seeks returns on investment that exceed the price and yield performance of the Pax Global Women's Leadership Index. The fund invests more than four-fifths of its assets in securities of the components of the Women's index. [It] has an annual expense ratio of 0.81%, which is below the category average of 1.10%. The fund has three and five-year returns of 12.1% and 9.1%, respectively." End quote.

Finally, the Calvert Global Water Fund Class A (CFWAX). Mr. Marwah writes "tracks the performance of the Calvert Global Water Research Index. The fund normally invests the majority of its assets in equity securities of domestic as well as foreign companies from the water industries or are involved in water-related service and technologies. [It] has an annual expense ratio of 1.24%, which is below the category average of 1.36%. The fund has three and five-year returns of 8.3% and 6.6%, respectively." End quote.

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Ending Comments

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for ethical and sustainable investors over the past two weeks.

And to get all the links, stock symbols and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And, please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on March 27. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

These little-known sustainable stocks offer great potential. Hydrogen sees bright future. Participate with this ETF. Good yields with yieldcos – which are renewable energy income-generating assets with steady income streams. The top ten holdings in ESG funds are Microsoft, Alphabet, Disney, Apple, Nvidia, Gilead Sciences, Clorox, V.F. Corporation, Lin Media, and Verisk Analytics. And more

PODCAST: Little-Known Sustainable Stocks with Potential. And More…

Transcript & Links, Episode 26, February 28, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 26 for February 28, 2020, titled "Little-Known Sustainable Stocks with Potential.And More…"—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols – and bonus material at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And, Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Also, I know the markets are incredibly depressing of late, as is the spread of Covid-19, the coronavirus. But the world is not coming to an end!

Now to this episode.

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1) Little-Known Sustainable Stocks with Potential

Paloma Kubiak has written an article about little-known sustainable stocks with potential. It's titled, Six little-known shares to tap into the sustainable investing theme in the UK publication Your Money.

Here, I'm going to quote extensively from Ms. Kubiak. She writes that:

"Thomas Fitzgerald, co-manager of the EdenTree Amity International fund, suggests Aptiv (Aptiv PLC: APTV)… This global technology company develops safer, greener and more connected technology solutions for cars…

Fitzgerald says: 'The company's product portfolio matches key technological shifts in the automotive industry, while addressing some pressing socioeconomic challenges.'

For Jerry Thomas, head of global equities at Sarasin & Partners, TE Connectivity (TE Connectivity Ltd.: TEL), the supplier of connectors for the full Tesla range, is one to watch. He says the global connector industry is a $70bn niche market that has enjoyed 5% annual growth since the 1980s. 'Connectors are non-standard, must not fail components that link the essential electrical components in the harsh environment that is the modern car.'

Another area investors could consider are companies that focus on reducing carbon emissions. One example is Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure (Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.: HASI) which looks to reduce carbon emissions by providing capital to companies operating in the energy efficiency and renewable energy markets.

Will Argent suggests, "NIBE Industrier, part of a group which contributes to a smaller carbon footprint and better use of energy."

Argent says: 'It has three business areas which develop, manufacture and market a wide range of eco-friendly, energy-efficient solutions for indoor climate control in all types of property.'

With liquified natural gas in strong demand as electricity generators close down coal and oil-fired plants, Gaztransport & Technigaz (Gaztransport & Technigaz SA: GTT.PA) is playing a small but crucial role to lower emissions, according to John Buckland, research analyst at Waverton Investment Management. He says: 'Currently Gaztransport & Technigaz is securing nearly 100% market share for the design of containment systems for new LNGC -- liquefied natural gas carriers -- and it is also prominent in the design of LNG fuel tanks for ships generally, as well as land-based storage. LNG fuel enables ship internal combustion engines to meet strict International Maritime Organization 2020 emission regulations to reduce sulphur emissions.'

For a slightly different take on the sustainable investing theme, US biopharmaceutical group AbbVie (AbbVie Inc.: ABBV) is one stock to consider. It is a leader in areas such as immunology, oncology and neuroscience, according to Johan Swahn, portfolio manager of Nordea's Global Stars Equity strategy. Nordea assesses companies on whether they conduct business responsibly in relation to their stakeholders and Swahn says AbbVie is a good example of a positive ESG company.'' End quote.

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2) Little-Known Sustainable Stocks with Potential

Another UK writer, Michael Baxter, posts his opinions also around the idea of little-known sustainable stocks with potential.

He wrote about the Smurfit Kappa Group (Smurfit Kappa Group plc: SK3.IR) in an article Why I think this FTSE 100 stock is a must for both ethical and income investors originally appeared on the Motley Fool UK site.

He writes that "Smurfit Kappa is a paper packaging company with a worldwide client base. It manufactures, distributes, and sells paper-based packaging products. That means that the company is, so to speak, at the front line in the battle against climate change and plastic pollution. That makes it popular with ethical investors.

Smurfit Kappa's latest results were good — earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) increased 7% in the latest 12-month period compared to the year before… dividends are up 12%... at 3.5% [yield], [and] have been increasing every year since 2011… However, it's the longer term potential of Smurfit Kappa that I think makes this company exciting. As more and more consumers demand better packaging, Smurfit Kappa is likely to see demand for its type of product explode." End quote.

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Hydrogen Help For This Clean Energy ET

Everyone is excited about the potential for electric vehicles. However, it may well be that over the longer-term hydrogen becomes the best source of energy. Tom Lydon of ETF Trends makes this case in an article titled Hydrogen Help For This Clean Energy ETF.

Mr. Lydon writes that "Investors should not overlook the opportunities afforded by hydrogen." And recommends "The SPDR Kensho Clean Power ETF (NYSEArca: CNRG) is one of the best ETFs for investors looking to tap the hydrogen theme. The SPDR Kensho Clean Power ETF seeks to provide exposure to the clean power industry both in terms of generation and the underlying technology driving it…"

Continuing, Mr. Lydon says "In mainland China, Japan and South Korea, a combination of local and central government works with industry to drive development of fuel cell vehicles and the associated infrastructure," [and] according to IHS Markit. "On the other side of the world, California's 'low-carbon fuel standard' provides a clear mechanism to lower the cost of retail hydrogen and to develop a refueling infrastructure open to all." End quote.

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How to Get Income With Renewable Energy Investments

Mr. Lydon has also written a piece titled How to Get Income With Renewable Energy Investments, again appearing on ETF Trends.

He says that "Finding dividends in the renewable energy space is difficult and many of the ETFs in this arena have low or no yields. [However] the Global X YieldCo Index ETF (NasdaqGM: YLCO) offers investors a refreshed look at the combination of alternative energy investing and income… YieldCos are income-generating assets from the renewable energy space that look to deliver steady income to investors… [The Global X YieldCo Index ETF] yields 2.88%, [and] follows the Indxx YieldCo & Renewable Energy Income Index." End quote.

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3) Little-Known Sustainable Stocks with Potential

Continuing on the subject of renewable energy investment and sustainable stocks is an insightful article by Scott Levine. It's titled, 3 Top Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Right Now and found on the Motley Fool site. Here's what he has to say, quote, "Astute investors who recognize this growing interest in climate change will surely be searching for related investment opportunities, such as those in renewable energy-oriented stocks. Fortunately, they need not look much further than Enphase Energy (NASDAQ: ENPH), iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: ICLN), and Atlantica Yield (NASDAQ: AY)." End quote.

Here's part of what he says about these sustainable stocks.

"Founded in 2006, Enphase Energy has grown considerably over the past 15 years… Enphase now has shipments of more than 23 million microinverters under its belt as well as a presence in 21 countries. But it's not only the company's leading position as a global supplier of solar microinverters… [as] Enphase is in the midst of making its foray into the energy storage market… [and] Enphase has seen its stock soar."

[And] "for more conservative investors who are less willing to take on the risk associated with a single company, the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF is an attractive option… The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF's holdings provide investors with exposure to a wide variety of companies. Besides Enphase Energy and its peer, SolarEdge Technologies, for example, investors can find the wind turbine manufacturer, Vestas Wind Systems, as well as geothermal specialist, Ormat Technologies, among the top 10 holdings… Since the ETF isn't actively managed, it offers investors a reasonable expense ratio of 0.46%.. [and] a trailing-12-month yield of 1.36%." End quote.

Plus his-third pick he says offers "Investors the opportunity to invest in renewable energy while receiving an appealing dividend. Atlantica Yield is a yieldco which has steadily increased its distribution to shareholders over the past three years. [And] currently features a 5.05% forward yield… [And according to the company's website] it aspires to grow this [yield] at a 5% to 6% compound annual growth rate through 2022." End quote.

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Sustainable Stocks that top ESG Funds

My last item appears in the publication Quartz. It has an interesting article by John Detrixhe on what are the top holdings in ESG funds. This might be useful to you in looking at what your holding in your stock portfolio – should you own stocks.

His article is titled Microsoft stock is the biggest winner from environmental and socially responsible investing.

It lists the top ten holdings in ESG funds as, and in order, Microsoft, Alphabet, Disney, Apple, Nvidia, Gilead Sciences, Clorox, V.F. Corporation, Lin Media, and Verisk Analytics.

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Ending Comments

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for ethical and sustainable investors over the past two weeks.

And to get all the links, stock symbols and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And, please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on March 13. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

New coverage of US Vegan Climate ETF and Karner Blue Animal Impact Fund. The recent launch of LGBTQ100 ESG stock index is doing well. Prepare to pounce on exciting infrastructure stocks. Canadian sustainable utility stocks, attractive. 3 great alternative energy ETFs to buy as traditional energy ETFs lag. Renewable energy stocks for 2020. And more

PODCAST: Vegan Funds. Infrastructure, Utility Stocks. And More…

Transcript & Links, Episode 25, February 14, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 25 for February 14, 2020, titled "Vegan Funds. Infrastructure, Utility Stocks. And More…"—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols – and bonus material at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And, Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Now to this episode.

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1) Ethical and Sustainable Investing News

The outstanding success of the Beyond Meat initial public offering at $25 which rose to over $230 and now trades around $115 signifies the huge latent demand for vegan and vegetarian investments for ethical and sustainable investors.

A terrific article related to this was written by Ron Lieber in The New York Times titled, How a Vegan Ends Up With Leather in Her Portfolio. In the article, he reviews two vegan and vegetarian-friendly funds

These are the US Vegan Climate ETF and the Karner Blue Animal Impact Fund.

I've previously covered the US Vegan Climate ETF in my podcasts Amazon vs. eBay, First Vegan Fund, and more… on August 16, 2019, and again after the fund debuted in my podcast First Vegan Fund, Renewable Energy Stocks, and more… of September 13, 2019. So, you can go to those podcasts to review previous research and comments.

US Vegan Climate ETF

Concerning the US Vegan Climate ETF, Mr. Lieber has this to say, that "One issue that inspires deep feelings: animal welfare. It is one of the newest niches that socially responsible investment companies seek to serve, and it offers a useful template for the kinds of questions that all of us need to ask if we want to craft a portfolio that points the same way as our moral compass…

The US Vegan Climate ETF… begins with subtraction: removing companies, and even whole industries, that it considers animal unfriendly. Pharmaceuticals? Poof, because of all the animal testing…

[It] nixes fossil fuel companies, but it still owns stock in automakers that make gas-powered vehicles with leather interiors. Here, the fund's creator, Beyond Investing, saw an opportunity to push the car companies toward skin-free seating, given that Tesla has made that move with some models…

The Vegan ETF features a fee of 0.60 percent, which is a lot for an index fund." End quote.

Karner Blue Animal Impact Fund

And on the Karner Blue Animal Impact Fund, Mr. Lieber says that "Named for the endangered butterfly, [it] takes a different approach. It is an actively managed mutual fund, with fewer than half the number of stocks in the Vegan ETF, including companies not based in the United States.

Another big difference: It employs so-called positive screening, picking best-of-breed companies in as many industries as it can stomach…" End quote.

Then Mr. Lieber quotes Vicki L. Benjamin, president of Karner Blue Capital as saying that 'We are not animal avoidant, We are animal engagement…" Mr. Lieber adds, "That's how Karner Blue ends up with Chipotle in its portfolio: It likes the chain's animal welfare efforts (its continuing food safety questions aside)." End quote.

As to the cost of the fund, Mr. Lieber writes, "Karner Blue funds can cost even more than the First Vegan Fund, though the exact amount depends on how much you invest and whether you're using a financial adviser." End quote. Since it is a mutual fund, it's probably only available in the US.

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2) Ethical and Sustainable Investing News

Now here's an unusual and interesting ESG index that some ethical and sustainable investors might be interested in. Though it does appeal to a specific population segment. It's the LGBTQ100 ESG Index (Ticker: LGBTQ100). An article describing this ESG index appeared on Yahoo! Finance under the title LGBTQ100 ESG Index Closes Above 2,000.00 Three Months Post Launch.

Quote, "Designed to advance equality throughout corporate America, the Index tracks the top 100 companies within the U.S. that rank high on environmental, social and governance (ESG) metrics and support the cause for diversity and equality across the nation. Bobby Blair, CEO of LGBTQ Loyalty Holdings, Inc. said, 'I'm thrilled that our LGBTQ100 ESG Index, which screens for ESG compliance in addition to advancing equality, has outperformed the S&P 500 in its first 90 days." End quote.

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4) Ethical and Sustainable Investing News

On a different note, have you ever considered infrastructure stocks? Some of them might be a fit for most ethical and sustainable investors. Matthew DiLallo writes about them on the Motley Fool site in a post titled 3 Top Infrastructure Stocks to Watch in February.

He says that "Several infrastructure stocks have made big moves over the past year, making them less appealing buys these days… [but] sell-offs can come out of nowhere [and that] is why investors should always keep an updated watchlist… With that in mind, three infrastructure-related stocks to watch this month are Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (NYSE: BIP), TerraForm Power (NASDAQ: TERP), and ONEOK (NYSE: OKE). All three could deliver some market-moving news this February, making them worth watching closely."

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5) Ethical and Sustainable Investing News

Some other stock ideas that ethical and sustainable investors might consider are utility companies with good environmental records. Divya Balji wrote an article titled ESG Rock Stars Sprout From Safe Utility Stocks in Canada that first appeared on Bloomberg and I found on Yahoo! Finance.

Ms. Balji writes "There's a green revolution taking place in a corner of Canada's stock market… Last year, the S&P/TSX Composite Utilities Index was the second-best group of Canadian stocks -- surging 32%..." End quote.

Ms. Balji then specifies the companies she likes, saying that "Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. (INE.TO), a renewable power producer, has soared 26% in 2020 after a 34% rally last year. Just this week, it announced a C$661 million partnership with Hydro-Québec targeting wind and solar projects…

And Boralex Inc. (BLX.TO), an electricity producer with renewable energy power stations, is up 20% this year after a 45% climb in 2019.

(And) Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (AQN.TO), the regulated utility with sustainable energy assets are trading at the highest level since it was listed about 22 years ago."

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6) Ethical and Sustainable Investing News

Continuing on the subject of energy, Todd Shriber over at the InvestorPlace site has posted an article titled 3 Great Alternative Energy ETFs to Buy as Traditional Energy ETFs Lag. His three picks are:

ALPS Clean Energy ETF (CBOE: ACES); iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: ICLN); and VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF (NYSEARCA: SMOG)

ALPS Clean Energy ETF

On ALPS Clean Energy ETF, he writes that it has an "Expense ratio: 0.65% per year. What's compelling about ALPS Clean Energy ETF relative to rival alternative energy ETFs is that it reaches multiple corners of this fast-growing market segment, including wind, solar, storage and efficiency, LED and smart grid technologies, just to name a few." End quote.

iShares Global Clean Energy ETF

Regarding the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF, Mr. Shriber says its "Expense ratio is 0.46%... one of the more seasoned members of the renewable energy ETF landscape [the] iShares Global Clean Energy ETF, which tracks the S&P Global Clean Energy Index, isn't quite as diverse, thematically speaking, as the aforementioned ALPS Clean Energy ETF, but the iShares fund does offer more than adequate penetration into the wind and solar industries, which could be a boon for the fund in 2020." End quote.

VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF

And on the VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF, he says that its "Expense ratio is 0.63%... VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF allocates 12.28% of its weight to Tesla stock… (this ETF) follows the Ardour Global Index, which quoting VanEck, 'is intended to track the overall performance of low carbon energy companies which are those companies primarily engaged in alternative energy which includes power derived principally from biofuels (such as ethanol), wind, solar, hydro and geothermal sources and also includes the various technologies that support the production, use, and storage of these sources." End quote.

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7) Ethical and Sustainable Investing News

So, I hope you're not bored with my energy focus. But it's such an important area! This next article is titled 2 Environmentally Friendly Stocks to Buy as Climate Crisis Intensifies. It also appeared on Yahoo! Finance. Its source is TipRanks and the author isn't mentioned. The first company recommended is Renewable Energy Group Inc. (REGI).

Renewable Energy Group Inc.

Quote, "Renewable Energy Group Inc. is the largest biodiesel manufacturer in the US, with 14 biorefineries and a feedstock processing facility… The company has added over 200% to its share price since 2017… [It has a] strong buy consensus rating. At $35, the average price target suggests possible upside of 33%." End quote.

Sunrun Inc.

The second company is Sunrun Inc. (RUN). The article's author says "Sunrun has done very well over the last few years, with 2019's 38% gain adding up to a cumulative 200% increase since 2017. The company is now the number 1 residential solar installer in the US… Sunrun has a unanimous strong buy consensus rating from the Street." End quote.

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Ending Comments

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for ethical and sustainable investors over the past two weeks.

And to get all the links, stock symbols and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And, please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on February 28. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

New top sustainable companies' rankings: Corporate Knights' 2020 Global 100 and CDP's 179 'A' list! More ESG and sustainable ETFs and stocks for 2020. Best water stocks in the Americas, large and small. The most highly rated funds for Canadians appear also in Corporate Knights and the Interactive Investor site for British investors. And more

PODCAST: Top Sustainable Companies, Water Stocks. And More…

Transcript & Links, Episode 24, January 31, 2020

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 24 for January 31, 2020, titled "Top Sustainable Companies, Water Stocks. And More…"—presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.

Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols – and bonus material at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

And, Google any terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Now to this episode.

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Top Sustainable Companies

I'm going to lead this episode with two great new top sustainable companies' lists. The first one is Corporate Knights' 2020 Global 100 ranking. This is an annual favourite of mine. Their top five sustainable companies are:

Orsted A/S, (ORSTED.CO) in wholesale power, Denmark.

Chr. Hansen Holding A/S, (CHR.CO) engaged in food and other chemical agents, also Denmark.

Neste Oyj, (NESTE.HE) petroleum refineries, Finland.

Cisco Systems Inc., (CSCO.Nasdaq) communications equipment, United States.

Autodesk Inc., (ADSK.Nasdaq) software, United States.

Now you can see the full list by going to the link on this episode's webpage.

Top Sustainable Companies' Ranked

The second compilation of top sustainable companies is CDP's 179 company 'A' list. About this list, CDP says its "Annual A List names the world's most pioneering companies leading on environmental transparency and performance. This year, we recognize more than 170 corporates as the leaders acting to address climate risks and build our future zero-carbon economy - one that works for both people and planet." End quote.

CDP doesn't actually give them a ranking. They just list who they feel are the companies that meet their criteria. For a link to the full list go to this episode's webpage at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

Incidentally, these top sustainable companies' lists only provide rankings according to various sustainability criteria. They don't rate the companies as to whether their stocks are worth buying!

To do that, you can obviously go to the research section of your broker's site, ask an advisor, or also check out financial analysts' opinions on many free online sites. The best ones I've found are YahooFinance, Reuters, MarketBeat, Nasdaq Analyst Stock Recommendations, and TipRanks.

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7 Socially Responsible ETFs to Buy in 2020

My next piece is by Todd Shriber, on the InvestorPlace site, titled 7 Socially Responsible ETFs to Buy in 2020. I'm going to say what his picks are and follow with a quote by him on each company.

"1) VanEck Vectors Green Bond ETF (NYSEARCA: GRNB). Comprised of U.S. dollar-denominated green bonds that are issued to finance environmentally friendly projects, and includes bonds issued by supranational, government, and corporate issuers globally.

2) Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF (BATS: NULG). This socially responsible ETF dispels the notion that virtuous investing can be a drag on returns. Over the past year, the Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF has outpaced the S&P 500 Growth Index by nearly 1,000 basis points.

3) Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF (NYSEARCA: SNPE). The rookie ETF is notable for at least two reasons, albeit superficial. First, it is the first ETF to track the S&P 500 ESG Index. Second, it has amassed $110 million in assets since inception, a very impressive start. At just 0.11% per year, the Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF is one of the most cost-effective funds in the socially responsible category."

Now, my comment. However, be aware that this ETF is rather unbalanced in that it's heavily weighted with tech stocks. For many investors that's fine – but not for all nor for all market conditions. Now, back to quoting Mr. Shriber.

"4) Global X Conscious Companies ETF (NASDAQ: KRMA). It follows the Concinnity Conscious Companies Index, and that Global X says it offers exposure to companies achieving positive outcomes for 5 key stakeholders: Customers, Suppliers, Stock & Debt Holders, Local Communities, and notably, Employees.

5) Inspire Corporate Bond Impact ETF (NYSEARCA: IBD). Inspire offers a broad suite of faith-based ETFs, with [this bond fund] being the first corporate ETF dedicated to Christian values. And according to the issuer it's donating a portion of fees to support Christian ministry projects such as clean water wells, refugee relief efforts, Bible distribution and other worthy causes.

6) Nuveen ESG High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA: NUHY). Applying virtuous filters to high-yield bonds can help investors reduce and avoid trouble spots… [it's also] the first socially responsible ETF in the high-yield category.

7) VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF (NYSEARCA: SMOG). With its memorable ticker and significant Tesla exposure, [this fund] is a broad-based play on the soaring alternative energy industry." End quotes.

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Making the Low Carbon Call With ETFs

Now, if you're looking specifically for more low carbon investments, Tom Lydon offers more picks with his article Making the Low Carbon Call With ETFs at ETF Trends. He recommends iShares MSCI ACWI Low Carbon Target ETF (NYSEArca: CRBN) and SPDR MSCI ACWI Low Carbon Target ETF (NYSEArca: LOWC).

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More Top Sustainable Companies

Now we turn our attention from ESG ETFs to individual ESG stocks. The article is titled, 5 ESG Stocks to Buy as Climate Risk Takes Center Stage by Zacks Equity Research appearing on YahooFinance.

Here are the five stocks by Zacks. Quoting directly from the article:

"1) Applied Materials, Inc. Symbol AMAT provides manufacturing equipment, services, and software to the semiconductor, display and related industries. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 24%.

2) Keysight Technologies, Inc. Symbol KEYS provides electronic design and test solutions to commercial communications, networking, aerospace, defense and government, automotive, energy, semiconductor, electronic, and education industries. This Zacks Rank #1 company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is nearly 10%.

3) NVIDIA Corporation. Symbol NVDA operates as a visual computing company, that offers processors, which include GeForce for PC gaming, GeForce NOW for cloud-based game-streaming service and much more. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the fiscal fourth quarter is more than 100%.

4) The Procter & Gamble Company. Symbol PG provides a range of beauty, grooming, health care, fabric and home care, and baby, feminine and family care products. The company is constantly working toward restricting microfiber release. Every load of washing releases millions of microfibres that are flushed down the drain, and gradually ends up in beaches and oceans where they remain for years and disturb sea creatures' food chain. Procter & Gamble has an expected earnings growth rate of 9.3% for the current year.

And 5) General Mills, Inc. Symbol GIS manufactures and markets branded consumer foods. Among the many sustainability initiatives of the company, its Cheerios brand uses regenerative agriculture and organic farming to source ingredients for products including the legacy cereal brand. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 5.3%." End quotes.

Zacks is proving to be a good source of recommendations!

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Water Stocks in the Americas

Getting increasing attention among ethical and sustainable investors are water stocks. So it's timely that Debra Fiakas wrote a piece titled Water Stocks in the Americas. There she reviews what she believes to be the best water stocks operating in the Americas.

Ms. Fiakas writes about Consolidated Water (CWCO: Nasdaq), American Water Works (AWK: NYSE), and Global Water Resources (GWRS: Nasdaq).

However, she includes a chart with four more companies. Best to go to her article to read her insights into this industry and its key players. The link, again, is on this episode's page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts.

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Best Canadian Funds

Now for my Canadian listeners, my great colleague, Toby Heaps at Corporate Knights, has just published The ultimate guide to responsible investing. Mr. Heaps says that I quote," We ranked over 700 mutual funds and ETFs through a sustainability lens. Here are the top scorers." End quote.

Also, a regular on this podcast, Tim Nash, another insightful analyst, has published The 2019 eco-fund ranking of his top Canadian funds. His article is also on the Corporate Knights site.

Again, for links to these articles go to this episode's podcast page.

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Best UK Funds

For UK ethical and sustainable investors there's the Interactive Investor site!. It's a terrific site for you which, they say, quote, "We have identified more than 140 ethical investment options available on our platform." End quote.

Not only do they have all that information and data, but the site takes you through step-by-step to locate the investment option that best matches your personal values!

Again, the link to the key page on their site is also on this episode's podcast page.

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Ending Comments

Well, these are my top news stories and tips for ethical and sustainable investors over the past two weeks.

And to get all the links, stock symbols and more, or to read the transcript of this podcast and with additional information too, please go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode.

Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or wherever you download or listen to this podcast.

And, please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. That way you can help promote not only this podcast but ethical and sustainable investing globally. So, let's help create a better world with our investments!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for listening.

Talk to you again on February 14. Bye for now.

© 2020 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.