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🌱 Responsible and Ethical Investment: What it means for your KiwiSaver.

  • Writer: Cameron Steele
    Cameron Steele
  • Aug 4
  • 2 min read

Updated: Sep 19


More and more Kiwis are asking the question... “Where is my money invested?”


And rightly so.


KiwiSaver isn’t just about growing your retirement savings; it’s also a powerful way to influence the world around you. That’s where responsible and ethical investment comes in.


Let’s unpack what that means… and how to make sure your KiwiSaver aligns with your values and your goals.


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🌍 What Is Responsible Investment?


In simple terms, responsible investment means taking environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into account when choosing where your money goes.


That might mean avoiding:

  • Weapons manufacturing

  • Fossil fuels

  • Tobacco

  • Gambling

  • Companies involved in human rights abuses


It also means favouring businesses that:

  • Have strong climate policies

  • Treat their workers fairly

  • Have diverse leadership

  • Are transparent and well-governed


It’s investing with your conscience — without compromising on your returns.




💸 Does Ethical Investing Mean Lower Returns?


Nope — and that’s a common myth.


In fact, many responsible funds have delivered competitive or even better returns over the long term. Why? Because companies that look after their people, communities and the planet tend to be more sustainable in the long run.


So yes, you can do good and do well.




🔍 How Do I Know If My KiwiSaver Fund Is Ethical?


The truth is, not all funds are as ethical as they sound. Some use vague language like “sustainable” or “green” without backing it up.


To find out where your money is really going:


  • Look for an RI or ESG rating on your fund

  • Check if your Provider has signed the UNPRI (United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment) charter

  • Check what companies and industries your fund invests in

  • Ask your provider about their exclusion policies (i.e. what they avoid investing in)



Or better yet — get personalised advice from someone who’s done the digging for you.




🧭 You Deserve a KiwiSaver Fund That Matches Your Values


It’s your money. You should feel good about where it’s going — and confident that it’s still growing.


Whether you care most about climate change, social justice, or simply not supporting companies you disagree with, I can help you:


  • Find an ethical KiwiSaver fund that suits your values

  • Understand the trade-offs (if any)

  • Get strong long-term results and peace of mind





✅ Take the Next Step


Here’s how to start making your KiwiSaver work for both you and the world:


Uncover whether your fund reflects your values.


Let’s chat about where your money’s really going.

 
 
 

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