Aberdeen Standard Investments (ASI) has launched a new Asian sustainable development equity fund that is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Luxembourg-domiciled Aberdeen Standard SICAV I – Asian Sustainable Development Equity Fund will invest in a portfolio of 30 to 60 high-conviction stocks, focusing on Asian markets that present strong growth potential and where there are significant opportunities to identify and allocate capital to unmet needs highlighted by UN SDGs, the company said in a statement. The UN’s 17 SDGs came into force in 2016, designed to help address some of the world’s biggest environmental and societal challenges, such as poverty, inequality and climate change.

The asset management firm notes that environmental, social and governance (ESG) analysis and company engagement have been integral parts of its investment process. The fund will be managed by ASI’s 50-strong Asia Pacific equities team which has a track record of investing in the region since the 1980s.

Says David Smith, head of corporate governance for Asia Pacific: “While some progress has been made towards achieving the UN SDGs by 2030, people in many Asian countries are still not benefiting from growth and progress and are increasingly vulnerable to economic, social and environmental risks. By investing in companies based or operating in Asia Pacific economies, which are strongly aligned to the UN’s SDGs, this new fund seeks to deliver both attractive return for our clients and a positive societal impact – where it matters most.”

Aberdeen Standard Investments manages US$562.9 billion of assets worldwide with clients in about 80 countries.