Indonesia

Bank DBS Indonesia presents Batavia Global ESG Sharia Equity USD

Bank DBS Indonesia has announced the launch of the Batavia ESG Global Sharia Equity USD, a sharia-based offshore equity fund that is aligned with ESG principles.

Bank DBS Indonesia is committed to sustainability practices in business. One of the pillars of sustainability is responsible banking by providing sustainability financing through collaboration and partnerships to build portfolios and integrate environmental management (Environmental), Social, and Governance (ESG). ESG is focused on creating attractive opportunities, optimising potential returns in the long term, and minimising the risk of investment in controversial businesses such as alcohol, nuclear energy, arms, etc., the firm said in a press release.

In view of investors’ high interest in similar investments in recent years, Bank DBS Indonesia presents Batavia ESG Global Sharia Equity USD. The product complements a comprehensive range of investment products to meet customer needs in managing and developing their wealth, says the firm.

The implementation of the ESG principles has brought about positive social change in three distinct areas: Environmental focuses on clean energy management and production as well as good waste processing. Social pays attention to workplace culture, workers' rights, as well as customer and community relations. Meanwhile, Governance focuses on company management and operations, including business ethics and financial accountability. Bank DBS Indonesia supports the implementation of ESG by offering a Sustainable and Responsible Investment (SRI)-theme mutual fund in rupiah since three years ago.

Koh Keng Swee, Executive Director, Wealth Management Talent Rotation, PT Bank DBS Indonesia, said: “Since the beginning of 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has posed a challenge to nearly all sectors, including the economy and banking industry. Nevertheless, there is a growing appetite for investment among Indonesians, particularly Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWI). In view of the fact, Bank DBS Indonesia continues to strive to provide financial solutions that suit their needs, especially given the current investment climate. Today, together with Batavia Prosperindo Aset Manajemen, we introduced the latest investment instrument, Batavia ESG Global Sharia Equity USD, which will be available to customers starting January 27, 2021. Batavia ESG Global Sharia Equity USD underlines Bank DBS Indonesia's commitment to realising its sustainability mission and complementing offshore sharia investment solutions for our customers.”

Lilis Setiadi, President Director, PT Batavia Prosperindo Aset Manajemen, said: “Batavia Global ESG Sharia Equity USD offers a range of benefits to customers, including optimised returns that are consistent with sharia-based investment that is combined with the ESG principles, bringing a positive impact on society and the environment. The fund is managed by BlackRock as Technical Advisor notable for its advanced technology and global resources. The product could be an option for customers to invest in the new normal era and in line with global trends in ESG that is proven to offer optimal long-term returns and more resilient to (economic) turbulence and crisis.”