Insights
Adviser Newsletter: December 2023
When Pathfinder KiwiSaver started in 2019 as an ethical option in the KiwiSaver space, the most used word to describe us was 'woke'*. We’d been investing ethically for over nine years at that point, and considered our investment thesis relatively tested, at least tested enough not to be considered woke. In fact, we had already been awake to many of the issues for almost a decade.
Fast forward to 2023 and now one of the front-running words to describe us is ‘authentic’. Kiwis are waking up to the idea that investing has real world impact and as a brand we are cutting through the greenwash. Feedback from members and increased signups is testament to the trust being placed in our brand. Numerous awards over 2023 also verify our authenticity.
But awards aside, we couldn’t have done it without you. It takes time to educate people on the difference their investing can make, and we would like to thank you for your attention, your dialogue and your trust. Independent financial advisers have never been more necessary, or more valued, and we believe that’s only going to be highlighted into the future.
We wish you an enjoyable holiday and festive season and look forward to seeing you in 2024. Please note our team will be on leave from 20 December until 8 January. For any issues, please contact 0800 ETHICAL in the first instance, or if it’s something urgent call Simon on his mobile (number below).
From Simon, Bryony, John and the rest of the Pathfinder team.
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* Definition of Woke - aware of social and political issues. This word is often used in a disapproving way by people who think that some other people are too easily upset about these issues or talk too much about them in a way that does not change anything. We need to stay woke and keep fighting for what's right.
Optimism Prevails: our 2023 Sustainability Report is here!
This year we’re showcasing what walking the talk looks like for an ethical fund manager – from launching a market-first dedicated Green Bond Fund to taking an active role in stewardship. Read all about our non-financial (and financial) impacts over the past year.
Stocktake
Many good, returns
Lodestone Energy have made significant progress since we invested, and we're excited about their potential. They are making a positive impact for Kiwi's in remote communities, expanding renewable energy generation. Their first farm in Kaitaia started generating electricity in November – the country’s largest solar installation to date and the first solar farm in New Zealand to bid into the electricity market. Read more.
Finalist at COP28 for turning ewaste into gold
Mint Innovation, one of our positive impact companies, has been recognised for their remarkable achievements towards industrial decarbonisation at COP28. Read more
Leading the way towards investing in better
Pathfinder wins the Supreme Transforming Aotearoa New Zealand Award, Sustainability Superstar and Communicating for Impact Award at the 2023 Sustainable Business Awards. Learn more
New podcast alert
One person’s good is another person’s no thanks, so how do you know you’re investing in the right thing? Listen to our miniseries with The Curve. First up, the pros and cons of the biggest company in the world: Apple. Listen here
Simon is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with independent financial advisers and corporates across New Zealand. He holds a bachelor’s degree in management, an Executive MBA through Massey University, and is a member of the Institute of Directors. He is people-focused and enjoys both the relationship and technical sides of his role, with past experience ranging across both private and public sectors.
