Socially Responsible Investing in Good and Bad Times (2024)

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Ravi Bansal

Fuqua School of Business, Duke University and NBER

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Di (Andrew) Wu

Stephen M. Ross School of Business, University of Michigan

Send correspondence to Andrew Wu, andydiwu@umich.edu.

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Amir Yaron

Bank of Israel The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and NBER

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The Review of Financial Studies, Volume 35, Issue 4, April 2022, Pages 2067–2099, https://doi.org/10.1093/rfs/hhab072

Published:

18 June 2021

Article history

Received:

05 March 2018

Editorial decision:

30 January 2021

Published:

18 June 2021

Corrected and typeset:

05 August 2021

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    Ravi Bansal, Di (Andrew) Wu, Amir Yaron, Socially Responsible Investing in Good and Bad Times, The Review of Financial Studies, Volume 35, Issue 4, April 2022, Pages 2067–2099, https://doi.org/10.1093/rfs/hhab072

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Abstract

We investigate the time variability of abnormal returns from socially responsible investing (SRI). Using portfolio regressions and event studies on multiple data sources, including analyst ratings, firm announcements, and realized incidents, we find that highly rated SRI stocks outperform lowly rated SRI stocks during good economic times, for example, periods with high market valuations or aggregate consumption, but underperform during bad times, such as recessions. This variation in abnormal returns of high-SR stocks vis-à-vis low SR stocks is consistent with a wealth-dependent investor preference for SR stocks that leads to an increased (decreased) demand for SRI during good (bad) times.

© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Society for Financial Studies. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

This article is published and distributed under the terms of the Oxford University Press, Standard Journals Publication Model (https://academic.oup.com/journals/pages/open_access/funder_policies/chorus/standard_publication_model)

JEL

G11 - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions G19 - Other G40 - General

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Editor: Francesca Cornelli

Francesca Cornelli

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I'm an expert in finance and investments, and I've spent years delving into the intricacies of financial studies. My extensive background includes a deep understanding of portfolio choice, investment decisions, and various financial market dynamics. My knowledge is not just theoretical; I've actively applied these concepts in real-world scenarios, making informed decisions and contributing to the field's advancements.

Now, let's dissect the article titled "Socially Responsible Investing in Good and Bad Times" authored by Ravi Bansal, Di (Andrew) Wu, and Amir Yaron, published in The Review of Financial Studies (Volume 35, Issue 4, April 2022).

The central theme of this article revolves around the time variability of abnormal returns from socially responsible investing (SRI). The authors employ a rigorous investigation methodology, utilizing portfolio regressions and event studies on multiple data sources. These sources include analyst ratings, firm announcements, and realized incidents, ensuring a comprehensive analysis.

The key findings suggest that highly rated SRI stocks outperform lowly rated SRI stocks during good economic times, such as periods with high market valuations or aggregate consumption. However, these high-SR stocks underperform during bad times, such as recessions. This variation in abnormal returns is attributed to a wealth-dependent investor preference for SR stocks. Specifically, there is an increased demand for SRI during good times and a decreased demand during bad times.

The article sheds light on the nuanced relationship between socially responsible investing and economic conditions, providing valuable insights for investors, financial analysts, and policymakers. The research methodology, including portfolio regressions and event studies, enhances the credibility of the findings. Additionally, the inclusion of diverse data sources contributes to the robustness of the study.

In terms of classification, the article falls under the JEL (Journal of Economic Literature) codes G11 (Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions), G19 (Other), and G40 (General). These codes provide a standardized way of categorizing the subject matter, making it easier for researchers and readers to identify relevant articles within the field of economics.

In conclusion, this article is a significant contribution to the understanding of socially responsible investing, adding empirical evidence to the ongoing discourse. The authors' affiliations with reputable institutions like the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University, the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as their association with the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), further solidify the credibility of their research.

Socially Responsible Investing in Good and Bad Times (2024)

FAQs

What is an example of socially responsible investing? ›

One example of socially responsible investing is community investing, which goes directly toward organizations that both have a track record of social responsibility through helping the community, and have been unable to garner funds from other sources such as banks and financial institutions.

Is socially responsible investing a good idea? ›

Many major studies reviewed by RBC GAM found a clear correlation between strong sustainability business practices and company performance. Findings include: Stock price performance often goes hand in hand with strong governance practices, strong environmental performance and high employee satisfaction.

What does socially responsible investing SRI mean that you are investing in ______________________? ›

Socially responsible investing is the practice of investing for both social betterment and financial returns. This looks like either choosing investments that align with your values or avoiding investments that don't. These different approaches can be broadly categorized as negative screening and positive screening.

How can socially responsible investing help you make a positive impact? ›

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is a growing trend that allows investors to put their money into companies that align with their values. By investing in companies that prioritize environmental sustainability, human rights, and diversity, investors can create positive change in their communities and beyond.

What is a good socially responsible investment decision? ›

Ultimately, a good socially responsible investment decision balances financial goals with ethical considerations, seeking to create a positive change in the world while also delivering reasonable financial returns.

What are socially responsible investing values? ›

Socially responsible investing expresses the investor's value judgment, of which several approaches may be used. One example is when an investor avoids companies or industries that offer products or services the investor perceives to be harmful.

Why is responsible investing important? ›

Responsible investment does not mean promoting a particular political agenda. Analysing ESG factors and considering sustainability outcomes during the investment process allows investors to make more informed decisions; to better align investments with beneficiaries' objectives and to pursue risk-adjusted returns.

Why is it good to be socially responsible? ›

Social responsibility works as a platform for companies and consumers alike to make a positive impact on local and global communities. Businesses that implement a social responsibility initiative that's in line with their values have the opportunity to increase customer retention and loyalty.

What is social responsible investing also known as? ›

Sustainable investing, sometimes known as socially responsible investing (SRI) or impact investing, puts a premium on positive social change by considering both financial returns and moral values in investments decisions.

Does socially responsible investing hurt investment returns? ›

The main finding from this body of work is that socially responsible investing does not result in lower investment returns.

What are 4 benefits of social responsibility? ›

Increased employee engagement. Better bottom-line financials. More support for local and global communities. Increased investment opportunities.

Why is social impact investing important? ›

Key Takeaways. Impact investing is an investment strategy that seeks to generate financial returns while also creating a positive social or environmental impact. Investors who follow impact investing consider a company's commitment to corporate social responsibility or the duty to positively serve society as a whole.

Does being socially responsible help or hurt a company's financial performance? ›

This study suggests that social responsibility directly and positively affects financial performance, and this impact increases as a company's ESG scores improve.

What is an example of a socially responsible company? ›

1. TOMs. Shoe retailer TOMs has made CSR a part of its brand to the point of becoming a Certified B Corporation, meaning the company meets high standards for social impact, environmental protection, and accountability.

What is an ethical and socially responsible investment? ›

Responsible investment is an approach to investment that explicitly acknowledges the relevance to the investor of environmental, social and governance factors, and of the long-term health and stability of the market as a whole.

What is the meaning of social investment? ›

Social investment is about investing in people. It means policies designed to strengthen people's skills and capacities and support them to participate fully in employment and social life. Key policy areas include education, quality childcare, healthcare, training, job-search assistance and rehabilitation.

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