responsible investment policy

9FB Capital’s Commitment to Responsible Investment

At 9FB Capital, we believe in the transformative potential of technology to drive a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future. As responsible stewards of capital, we recognize that maximizing long-term value requires diligent management of material business risks and opportunities. Therefore, we integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives into our operations and investment strategies to fulfill our fiduciary and legal obligations.

Our Responsible Investment Policy (the “Policy”) provides the foundation for how we manage ESG risks and opportunities, ensuring that we create value for all our stakeholders. To align with our goals of maximizing returns, 9FB Capital is committed to various industry-led initiatives that define and operationalize our approach to ESG.

Key Initiatives:

  • Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI): A UN-supported network promoting responsible investment through the integration of ESG factors. 9FB Capital became a signatory in 2020.
  • ESG Data Convergence Initiative (EDCI): An open partnership committed to creating standardized ESG metrics for the private investment industry. 9FB Capital joined EDCI in 2021.

Scope and Limitations

This Policy provides a general framework for identifying and managing ESG risks and opportunities across 9FB Capital’s internal operations and investment strategies. Our approach varies depending on the influence we have over each investment, which may differ depending on the fund structure, investment terms, and governance. The Policy’s specific application will be outlined in the governing documents of each fund and in applicable regulatory disclosures.

Where 9FB Capital has limited influence over the ESG considerations (e.g., minority stakes, limited governance rights), we will only apply the Policy’s elements that are feasible under those circumstances.

Roles and Responsibilities

9FB Capital understands that responsible investment is key to driving long-term value. Accountability for implementing this Policy rests with:

  • Executive and Operating Committees: Oversee the integration of the Policy across our investment strategies.
  • Investment Committees: Ensure ESG considerations are incorporated into our investment processes.
  • Cross-functional ESG Committees: Regular meetings ensure the integration of ESG principles across our platforms, focusing on software and data-driven technology investments.
  • ESG Team: Our dedicated team collaborates with investment teams, portfolio companies, and external partners to drive action on ESG matters, including pre-investment due diligence and ongoing monitoring of ESG performance.

Responsible Business Practices

At 9FB Capital, responsible investment extends beyond our portfolio. We are committed to best practices across the business:

  • Internal Operations: We adhere to a Code of Ethics promoting honesty, integrity, and respect in all business dealings. We also track and offset the greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint of our operations.
  • People: Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program ensures we foster an inclusive corporate culture and attract top talent.
  • Technology: We leverage technology to enhance ESG reporting and measurement, ensuring transparency and efficiency in our operations.

Incorporating ESG into Our Investment Process

9FB Capital actively integrates material ESG factors throughout the investment lifecycle. Our investment professionals leverage ESG frameworks during pre-investment due diligence, engaging with external experts to identify relevant risks and opportunities. Key areas of focus include:

  • Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: We assess how portfolio companies handle these issues, particularly in the technology and software sectors.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: We identify opportunities for innovation that support both environmental and social outcomes.

We aim to continuously monitor these factors post-investment, supporting our portfolio companies as they implement and track their ESG initiatives.

ESG Focus Areas

Our tailored ESG framework is designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities of technology-driven companies, particularly in the software, data, and tech-enabled sectors. Key areas of focus include:

  • Environmental: Climate risk management, energy efficiency, and sustainable product innovation.
  • Social: Diversity, equity and inclusion, employee welfare, and community engagement.
  • Governance: Transparency, data privacy, ethical conduct, and responsible supply chain management.

Private Equity and Permanent Capital Investments

9FB Capital takes a hands-on approach to managing our investments, particularly in majority-owned portfolio companies. Engagement strategies include:

  • Identifying material ESG risks and opportunities during investment diligence.
  • Conducting annual ESG assessments to measure practices and maturity.
  • Providing support for the development of ESG policies and frameworks within portfolio companies.
  • Monitoring ESG progress and facilitating communication of these efforts during exits, IPOs, or recapitalizations.

Private Credit Investments

For substantial private credit investments, our ESG team collaborates with credit platform professionals to identify ESG risks using AI tools and specialized diligence questionnaires.

Transparency and Reporting

In line with our commitment to the PRI, 9FB Capital publicly discloses its responsible investment practices. Our ESG team tracks the progress of ESG engagement across our private equity and credit portfolios, and we report on these efforts as part of our fiduciary responsibility to investors.

This Policy is subject to regular review by 9FB Capital’s senior leadership to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

Disclaimer:

This document is intended to provide general information about 9FB Capital’s ESG strategy and is not an offer to solicit investors. All investment decisions are subject to the relevant fund’s governing documents and regulatory requirements. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

You have successfully subscribed to the newsletter

There was an error while trying to send your request. Please try again.

9FB Capital will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.