With the growing popularity of sustainable and impact investing, John Streur’s ‘Investing with Purpose’ provides a timely and essential guide for investors looking to align their capital with their values. As the CEO of Calvert Research and Management, Streur draws on his decades of experience to lay out a framework for purpose-driven investing. He makes a compelling case that well-executed ethical investments can deliver competitive financial returns while creating meaningful social impact. The book emphasizes the importance of ESG analysis, outlines a screening process for sustainable stocks, and presents case studies of companies walking the talk on corporate responsibility. Streur also tackles common investor concerns like returns, risk and liquidity. For any investor interested in sustainable finance, ‘Investing with Purpose’ is an indispensable resource.
Integrating mission and money through ESG analysis
A core message of ‘Investing with Purpose’ is that investors do not need to sacrifice returns to align capital with values. Streur argues that rigorous analysis of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors enhances investment outcomes over the long-term. Companies with high ESG standards tend to have superior risk management, greater innovation, higher employee productivity and stronger consumer loyalty. By incorporating ESG analysis into the investment process, purpose-driven investors can gain an informational edge to identify well-managed firms. The book provides detailed insights into material ESG issues across sectors and how to systematically evaluate corporate performance on these metrics.
A step-by-step guide to sustainable stock selection
‘Investing with Purpose’ outlines a clear process for selecting sustainable stocks in public markets. The first step is negative screening to avoid companies involved in activities that conflict with the investor’s values, such as weapons, tobacco or fossil fuels. The next step is positive screening to actively seek out companies that score highly on ESG factors and financial fundamentals. Streur then advises constructing a concentrated portfolio of 20-30 stocks across sectors to ensure diversification. The book provides useful ESG scoring models, valuation techniques and risk management strategies tailored to purpose-driven investors. With helpful examples and checklists, it gives investors a game plan to execute their vision.
Real-world case studies of corporate sustainability leaders
A highlight of ‘Investing with Purpose’ are the detailed case studies of purpose-driven companies across industries. For example, Streur analyzes medical device maker Becton Dickinson’s programs to increase access to healthcare, reduce its environmental footprint and promote workplace diversity. He examines Visa’s governance reforms to rebuild trust after its IPO mishaps. Mastercard’s investments in cybersecurity and sustainable supply chains are also featured as best practices in ESG management. Beyond making the concepts tangible, these cases demonstrate that companies can deliver standout financial results while advancing social and environmental progress.
Addressing common investor doubts and misconceptions
‘Investing with Purpose’ directly confronts typical investor concerns about sustainable investing. On financial returns, Streur marshals extensive data to prove responsible investors do not need to sacrifice performance. On risk, he makes the case that ESG analysis enhances risk-adjusted returns. Regarding liquidity, the listed equities approach avoids this pitfall. The book blends idealism and practicality, demonstrating that purpose-driven investors can achieve competitive market-rate returns and meaningful societal impact.
John Streur’s ‘Investing with Purpose’ provides a holistic framework for aligning capital with conscience without compromising financial objectives. Suitable for novice and experienced investors alike, this essential guide illuminates the path towards purpose-driven prosperity.