Investing in fintech companies that positively impact people and small businesses in their local communities across emerging markets has always been central to VEF’s investment strategy. Konfío (Mexico), Solfácil (Brazil), Rupeek (India) and Mahaana (Pakistan) are all portfolio companies that align with this strategy and the proceeds from our sustainability bonds are fully allocated to these four companies. We remain committed to investing in fintech for financial inclusion, fairness, wellness and the green transition where the opportunity for the future of finance across growth markets is immense.

We recently also published our Sustainability Report for 2024 where we report on the progress of our sustainability strategy and goals and the contribution of our portfolio companies. Key sustainability highlights during 2024 include:

• 72% of portfolio value in impactful companies contributing meaningfully to one or more of the UN SDGs.
• SEK 500 mln remains allocated to impactful portfolio companies under the Sustainability Bond Framework.
• +22 mln consumers and MSMEs served to date by VEF portfolio companies.
• +160 mln loans and USD 10 bln of credit disbursed to date by VEF portfolio companies.
• 100% of portfolio companies committed to our ESG and Responsible Finance Principles.

Helena Caan Mattsson, Head of Sustainability at VEF, comments:

“The report highlight our meaningful contribution to emerging markets through the positive impact of our portfolio on challenges such as financial inclusion, financial inequality and the green transition. Our portfolio companies not only contribute to the well-being of the communities they serve but also present a compelling growth investment case.”

Learn more about our impact investments in our Sustainability Bond Impact and Allocation Report here and explore our sustainability work in our Sustainability Report here, both attached to this press release.