In large parts of the emerging world, financial services for consumers and MSMEs are largely either unavailable, of poor quality and/or discriminately expensive. Since inception, VEF has invested in fintech companies contributing to development of society and small businesses across the emerging world. We are very proud to have taken the step and commitment to invest in what we believe is a theme that is both attractive from a business return perspective but also attractive from a societal impact perspective.

We have issued a Sustainability Bond Impact and Allocation Report (attached and on our website) where you can read more about the impact of our portfolio companies and the final allocation.

VEF issued SEK 500m of Sustainability Bonds under its Sustainability Bond Framework on April 6, 2022. The bond issue was well received by Nordic institutional and retail investors and included large local investors like SEB Investment Management and Atlant Fonder.

Helena Caan Mattsson, Chief Sustainability Officer says:

“One year after the issuance of the bonds we have allocated all funds to some of the best names in our portfolio with great impact on society, showing that we indeed have the ability and willingness to invest in financial inclusion and access to renewable energy. We are proud that our capital is having a positive impact on access to fair and affordable financial services across the emerging world, while staying true to our mandate of delivering a healthy return for our investors.”