PRESS RELEASES

National Bank Investments becomes a signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment

Montreal, March 14, 2019

National Bank Investments Inc. (NBI) proudly announces that it has become a signatory of the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). The PRI is a world leading proponent of responsible investment that supports an international network of signatories in integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into their investment analysis, decision-making practices and ownership policies.

“NBI is the leading bank-affiliated asset management firm in Canada guided by a 100% open architecture structure, which allows us to sub-advise exclusively to other firms on the portfolio management of the funds built for our product shelf. We strongly believe that selecting managers who integrate ESG factors into their investment process leads to better outcomes for our clients,” explains Terry Dimock, Head Portfolio Manager at NBI. “By adopting and implementing the PRI, we will be helping our clients reach their financial goals while simultaneously contributing positively to society.”

NBI’s proprietary portfolio manager research and monitoring methodology, referred to as the OP4+ governance process, oversees the criteria for excellence in portfolio management, including the integration of ESG factors. NBI believes that the consideration of ESG factors in conjunction with traditional financial analysis allows for a better assessment of risks and opportunities, which leads to better investment decisions. Consequently, this is an essential component of sound portfolio management practices and plays an essential role in NBI’s investment process.

“We are delighted to welcome National Bank Investments to the PRI,” said PRI CEO Fiona Reynolds. “Their recognition of the importance of integrating ESG factors as part of an investment strategy sends a strong message that investments achieve more for beneficiaries when they are sustainably-focused.”

Becoming a signatory reinforces NBI’s commitment to design managed solutions that provide superior risk-adjusted returns over the long term, for all investor profiles. It is also in line with National Bank’s ongoing efforts related to its environmental, social and governance factors.

About Principles of Responsible Investment
The PRI is the world’s leading proponent of responsible investment. It works to understand the investment implications of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and to support its international network of investor signatories in incorporating these factors into their investment and ownership decisions. The PRI acts in the long-term interests of its signatories, of the financial markets and economies in which they operate and ultimately of the environment and society. Interested in responsible investing? Visit unpri.org.

About National Bank Investments Inc.
National Bank Investments (“NBI”) is an investment fund management firm committed to manufacturing and distributing mutual funds, investment solutions and services designed to help Canadian investors pursue their financial goals. As at December 31, 2018, the value of assets under management in NBI products amounted at almost $52 billion. Follow NBI’s activities at nbinvestments.ca or via social media such as YouTube and LinkedIn.

Guided by a 100% open architecture structure, NBI is dedicated to providing diverse solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients. NBI consistently strives to be recognized as a key partner by combining innovation and excellence. NBI’s role is not limited to administrative aspects of management; NBI Advisory Services and its registered representatives form a team of specialists who provide information and advice to help advisors build portfolios adapted to their clients’ financial needs.

About National Bank of Canada
With $263 billion in assets as at January 31, 2019, National Bank of Canada, together with its subsidiaries, forms one of Canada's leading integrated financial groups. It has more than 23,000 employees in knowledge-intensive positions and has been recognized numerous times as a top employer and for its commitment to diversity. Its securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA). Follow the Bank’s activities at nbc.ca or via social media such as FacebookLinkedIn and Twitter.


For more information:

Marie-Pierre Jodoin
Senior Manager, Public Affairs and Corporate Social Responsibility
National Bank of Canada