Key Impact Points
- Launch of Euronext Sustainable Network: A new platform fostering collaboration among key players in sustainable finance to promote best ESG practices and innovation.
- New ESG Tools and Services: Euronext introduces the ESG Trends Report, Peer Benchmarking tool, and advisory services to support companies in aligning with European sustainability standards.
- Focus on Education and Governance: Euronext Academy launches coaching services for corporate leaders, while the Euronext Foundation expands financial literacy initiatives across Europe.
Overview
Euronext, the leading pan-European market infrastructure, has unveiled a series of strategic ESG initiatives aimed at accelerating sustainable finance during the second edition of Euronext Sustainability Week. These initiatives align with Euronext’s “Fit For 1.5°” commitment and “Growth for Impact 2024” strategy, marking a significant step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by mobilizing capital for green initiatives.
Stéphane Boujnah, CEO and Chairman of Euronext N.V., highlighted the importance of collaboration:
“Achieving sustainability in finance is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration across all market stakeholders.”
Euronext Sustainability Week: A Commitment to Sustainable Finance
Euronext Sustainability Week is designed to foster discussions on sustainable finance, expanding from its original Italian Sustainability Week launched in 2017 to include all Euronext locations across Europe. In 2023, the event attracted over 1,200 investors and corporate participants, showcasing Euronext’s growing influence in promoting sustainable finance.
This year’s edition features 40 external events, including conferences, workshops, and webinars across ten European cities, targeting both corporate and investor audiences to advance the sustainable finance agenda.
Euronext Sustainable Network: Leveraging Collective Expertise
The newly launched Euronext Sustainable Network is set to create a collaborative ecosystem of key players in sustainable finance, including investment firms, banks, and data providers. The network aims to promote best ESG practices and support over 1,900 European issuers and 6,000 international investors associated with Euronext. It will drive innovation by aligning stakeholders’ efforts and educating members on ESG regulations and trends.
Innovative Tools to Promote ESG Transparency
Euronext has introduced a range of ESG tools to help companies improve their reporting and performance. Building on the success of My ESG Profile, Euronext released its first ESG Trends Report in 2024, providing insights into how companies listed on Euronext make progress in their ESG reporting. This report highlights the evolution of ESG regulations and corporate adoption.
Additionally, Euronext has enhanced My ESG Profile with an ESG Peer Benchmarking Report, allowing companies to assess their ESG performance relative to their peers. This feature aims to improve transparency and facilitate better sustainability practices across industries.
Stéphane Boujnah emphasized Euronext’s role in driving sustainable practices:
“Our ESG products and services underscore our dedication to equipping companies with the essential tools to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
Supporting SMEs and Corporate Leaders with ESG Advisory Services
To support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in complying with European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), Euronext has introduced a new ESG advisory service. This service is designed to help SMEs navigate the complexities of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and implement sustainable practices.
Euronext Academy has also launched coaching services for Corporate Sustainability Officers and C-suite executives, providing expert guidance on integrating ESG strategies into their long-term plans. These coaching sessions, led by international practitioners and ESG experts, help leaders adhere to EU regulations and global ESG standards.
Related Article: Latin America and Caribbean Finance Ministers Adopt Regional Vision for Sustainable Finance
Expanding Financial Literacy with the Euronext Foundation
In partnership with NextWise, Euronext is launching the Euronext Trading Game, a European trading simulation competition aimed at university students. The competition offers a hands-on approach to understanding trading strategies, risk management, and sustainable investing using real market data from Euronext’s marketplaces. This initiative aligns with Euronext’s broader commitment to financial literacy across Europe, complementing the ongoing Euronext Blue Challenge, which educates students aged 16 to 18 on sustainable finance.
Enhancing Governance with AI Solutions
Looking ahead, Euronext plans to release an AI-based solution integrated with its premier board management tool, iBabs, in 2025. This tool will automatically record board discussions, providing immediate access to written records and supporting transparency and effective governance practices.
Conclusion
Euronext’s expanded commitment to sustainable finance demonstrates its dedication to driving ESG innovation and transparency across Europe. Through new tools, services, and educational initiatives, Euronext is empowering companies to succeed in an increasingly regulated environment, fostering a future where sustainability and finance go hand in hand.
