Ethical Investing We believe that rewarding positive environmental and social change with investment capital can amplify that change. At Prentiss Smith & Company, we call this ethical investing. While the semantics have evolved since we started in 1982–to include terms like socially responsible investing, impact or ESG investing–what has not changed is our belief in ethical investing as a form of activism. For too long, people have separated their social ideals from their economic decisions. The essence of ethical investing is that it emphatically ties together the social goals shared by so many with the daily economic decisions that face us all. At the same time, we pursue the strongest possible returns for clients. We believe institutions with a sustainable bottom line are actually better positioned for long-term financial growth, compared to those placing short-term profit over the well-being of people and planet. Institutions that anticipate increased stakeholder demand for transparency, equity, and environmental awareness, we believe, will capitalize on their foresight. We want you to capitalize on it, too. Our Socially Responsible Investment Process Exclude Bad Corporate Citizens We do not consider investments closely involved with the production, marketing, or distribution of fossil fuels, mining, defense or weapons, retail gun sales, private prisons, tobacco, gambling, or pornography. Seek Change Agents We seek out institutions with exceptional positions on environmental and social issues who we believe have good governance, strong fundamentals and a favorable financial outlook compared to market expectations. Conduct Detailed Research We verify our initial assessment through hours of additional research, in some cases opening direct dialogue before investing. If on balance, we feel that it is a reflection of client values, the investment is approved. Continue Engagement Once we hold an ownership stake, we strive to play an activist role through proxy voting, shareholder resolutions and direct engagement on issues where we believe corporate progress can drive systemic change. SUBSCRIBE TO GET INSIGHTS Issues We Focus On When Making ESG Investment Decisions Our ESG investment research includes a detailed review of an institution’s environmental impact and initiatives, its products and services, its posture toward social and human rights issues, transparency, and governance. This research often includes direct conversations with the institution, which sometimes even provides an early opportunity to push for better policy positions. Human Rights & Well-Being We seek out investments that promote a shared baseline of human rights, fulfillment of basic needs, equal access to opportunity, and a diversity of perspectives. Climate Change & Fossil Fuel Divestment We believe there is an urgent imperative to reduce the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide. As investors, we have a key role to play in this transition. Corporate Responsibility When institutions practice transparency, company leadership is accountable, and all stakeholders are honored, we believe opportunities for success are amplified. Environmental Stewardship Companies that target ambitious reductions in waste, water, or energy use, address air quality or deforestation in their supply chains, or use sustainable sourcing can make appealing investments. Transparency is a key first step. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice We give greater consideration to institutions that promote the advancement of women, LGBTQ people, people of color, immigrants, the disabled, and others who have not received equitable treatment. An Ethical Balance No company or bond issuer is perfect. But we believe it is possible to weigh the evidence and make investments that have a net positive impact on our world. GET OUR INSIGHTS Contact Us: +1-800-223-7851 info@3.220.142.111 950 Western Avenue Brattleboro, VT 05301 Client Login Why Invest with Us? How We Work By the Numbers Frequently Asked Questions Investment Theory Ethical Investing What is Ethical Investing? Our ESG Process Core Ethical Issues About Us People Contact History Reports & Fees Policies & Disclosures News & Analysis Privacy Policy | Disclosures Copyright © Prentiss Smith & Company 2019 Lead homepage photo © Images of Vermont Legal The material contained in this website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation of any particular security, strategy or investment product. This web site is not intended to be used as a general guide to investing, or as a substitute for personalized investment advice, and it makes no implied or express recommendations concerning the manner in which any specific client account should be handled. If you have questions regarding the applicability of any issue discussed on this website to your own situation, you are encouraged to consult with a professional advisor of your choosing. Prentiss Smith & Co is neither a law firm nor a certified public accounting firm, and no portion of this website content should be construed as legal or tax advice. No guarantee is made as to the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of any information, projections or opinions contained in this web site or upon which any such projections or opinions have been based. 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