Sustainability Now

Asia faces unique challenges from climate change as rising temperatures and extreme weather threaten vulnerable communities. The podcast discusses the vital need for adaptation finance to build resilience. It also highlights innovative investment opportunities that can empower the growing middle class to adapt to climate risks. The need for balanced funding between mitigation and adaptation strategies is urgent, particularly in light of increasing natural disasters like floods.

Tariffs and tangled supply chains: This week, we explore how commercial aerospace and defense companies are navigating a new wave of trade restrictions. From Boeing to Lockheed Martin, what do transparency and oversight mean when the stakes — and the sky —are high? Host: Bentley Kaplan, MSCI ESG ResearchGuest: Mike Disabato, MSCI ESG Research

Katie Towey, a hydrometeorological hazard expert at MSCI ESG Research, highlights the physical risks of reshoring U.S. manufacturing. She discusses how water scarcity and extreme heat can impact semiconductor facilities, particularly in California and Arizona. The conversation uncovers the challenges companies face in choosing locations while grappling with climate-driven hazards. Towey also touches on the broader implications of extreme weather on supply chains, revealing the fragility of manufacturing in disaster-prone areas.

Recent U.S. tariffs have rattled global trade, prompting businesses to rethink their supply chains. The significance of traceability emerges as a key factor in managing risks related to sustainability and regulatory compliance. Various industries face unique challenges in ensuring transparency, especially retail and electronics. The impact of tariff pressures may force companies to change suppliers, potentially risking environmental and social standards. Discover how geospatial data can improve supplier assessments and resilience in uncertain times.

Amid a market sell-off, experts discuss the impact of ESG indices. Historical downturns reveal a tendency to ignore sustainability. However, during crises like COVID-19 and the Ukraine invasion, companies that prioritize ESG showed resilience. Positive returns emerged for high ESG-rated firms amidst geopolitical turmoil and market fluctuations. The conversation highlights how effective sustainability risk management correlates with reduced stock volatility, proving that prioritizing sustainability can be a sound investment strategy even in chaotic times.

The podcast dives into the ethical dilemmas surrounding defense investments and their alignment with sustainability. It questions whether the defense industry truly has an ESG problem, especially as Europe ramps up military spending. The discussion highlights the paradox of ESG ratings for defense firms, challenges faced by fund managers with controversial 'sin stocks', and the regulatory complexities of defining various types of weapons. Ultimately, it tackles the fine line between national security and sustainable practices.

Cole Martin from MSCI ESG Research presents a deep dive into the soaring egg prices in the U.S., revealing that avian flu isn't the sole villain. He discusses structural vulnerabilities in the egg industry and investigates allegations of price gouging among producers. The conversation highlights the stark differences in egg pricing between Canada and the U.S. during disease outbreaks and touches on how climate change impacts avian flu dynamics. This engaging discussion not only impacts breakfast tables but also investors' strategies.

In February 2025, the EU Commission proposed the first Omnibus Package of sustainability rules, with the aim of simplifying and reducing EU sustainability reporting requirements. But did it work? Has the outcome been "good" or "bad"? And what are these new rules set to do to the future of sustainable finance in the EU? Listen to this episode of ESG now to find out!NOTE: The first 12:10 of this episode provides a background of what the Omnibus proposal actually proposes. If you just want our takes on the good, the bad, and the future of this proposal, skip that section!Host: Mike Disabato, MSCI ESG ResearchGuest: Simone Ruiz-Vergote, MSCI ESG Research

Banks face growing pressure from regulators to assess the risks climate change poses to their loan portfolios. Some regions, like Europe, are tightening standards, while others, like the U.S., remain hesitant. Our latest research reveals that banks with high exposure to industrials—especially in APAC—could see default risks rise by 50% over the next decade. Will global banks adapt, or are we heading toward a financial blind spot? Find out on this episode of ESG now!Host: Mike Disabato, MSCI ESG ResearchGuests: Anja Ludzuweit and Guilherme de Melo Silva, MSCI ESG Research

Oil and gas are in, renewables are out — at least, that’s what the headlines say. But what’s really happening in energy markets? We take a closer look at shifting U.S. policies, investor reactions, and how global energy trends might shape the future. Host: Bentley Kaplan, MSCI ESG ResearchGuests: Mathew Lee, Chris Cote & Elchin Mammadov, MSCI ESG Research