Florida SBA’s venture adventure

The Florida State Board of Administration’s (SBA) commitment to venture capital over many decades has been a contributor to the fund’s performance. Last year the team had 340 meetings and calls, reviewed 109 funds, carried out due diligence on 26 and invested in three. Successful IPOs and SPACs, plus realisations from investments made in 2013/14, have led to a standout performance.

SEC chair Gensler in favour of mandatory climate disclosure

SEC chair Gary Gensler is in favour of the regulator stepping in to bring greater clarity and consistency to corporate climate disclosure. Speaking at a PRI webinar he said the current level of disclosure doesn’t allow investors to compare corporate climate preparedness, and that much of the data is inconsistent. 

UK funds focus on manager diversity

A group of major UK pension funds have committed to assessing diversity and inclusion as part of manager selection. Fund managers wanting to work with these clients will have to disclose information and demonstrate real devotion on how they are tackling diversity and inclusion within their workforce. 

Finding alpha: Church Commissioners outperform

The £9.2 billion portfolio managed for the Church Commissioners for England has returned 9.7 per cent over 10 years through a focus on sustainability and a willingness to try things early, such as forestry and venture capital. Amanda White spoke to CIO Tom Joy about where the fund looks for alpha and the need for a non-traditional allocation.