In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen Henry Fernandez CEO of MSCI
Jan 25, 2023
Henry Fernandez, CEO of MSCI, shares his journey from humble beginnings as an immigrant to leading a major index provider. He discusses the pivotal role indices play in market performance and the ongoing challenges of ESG investing, especially in the current US climate. Henry emphasizes the importance of leadership grounded in values and teamwork, while also highlighting career fulfillment through passion and societal impact. His anecdotes reveal a nuanced perspective on the responsibilities of businesses in a rapidly changing world.
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Upbringing and Emigration
- Henry Fernandez was raised in Nicaragua during social and political turmoil, fostering a desire for change.
- His family, proponents of capitalism, emigrated to the US after a socialist revolution.
Value of Indexing
- Index investing has added value to the investment process, proving optimists right.
- It's difficult to beat the market consistently, making indexing a viable strategy.
ESG Origins
- Nicolai Tangen and Henry Fernandez discuss ESG investing and the backlash in the US.
- Fernandez's interest in ESG began in Oslo, prompted by Storebrand, a Norwegian insurance company.