Booster has again been recognised for its commitment to ethical investing after being named as a 2026 Responsible Investment Leader by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA).
The recognition reflects Booster's approach to ethical investing which considers environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors alongside financial objectives, so New Zealand investors have more choice about where their money is invested, that supports their values.
RIAA Recognition for Booster’s commitment to Ethical Investing
The RIAA has given Booster Responsible Leader status because it is among the highest-scoring Australian and New Zealand investment managers demonstrating leadership in responsible investment commitment and transparency, ESG integration and screens (restriction of investment in certain industries), stewardship and allocation of capital.
Recognition of Booster’s commitment to ethical investing by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia is a great endorsement of Booster’s work, says Booster Chief Executive Diana Papadopoulos.
“The RIAA sets the standard for ethical investment in Australia and New Zealand by championing responsible investing and a sustainable financial system, so we’re delighted Booster is being recognised again by the RIAA.”
“The RIAA award reflects our early and ongoing work in ethical investment and follows Booster being the first KiwiSaver scheme provider to have its funds RIAA-certified in 2015, and obtaining RIAA Leader status in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
Diana Papadopoulos says RIAA’s endorsement of Booster as a leader in ethical investing means investors “know we are among the best”.
What is Ethical Investing?
Ethical investing is an investment approach that considers other factors besides the rate of returns on investment, such as how the investment stacks up against environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibilities of companies, helping investors align their investments with their personal values.
Booster's Approach to Responsible Investing outlines the framework that guides how investment decisions are made, including the principles that support ethical investing.
That broadly means Booster is committed to looking at the impact its investments have on society and the wider worlds, alongside other financial and business factors.
We also take an active interest in the companies we invest in, through stewardship.
This means we engage with companies to ensure the voices of those we invest on behalf of, are heard. Approach to Responsible investing strategy has a focus on themes such as climate change, board independence, shareholder rights and transparency.
“Ethical investing means people have a real choice about how to grow their wealth that fits with their values, says Diana Papadopoulos.
Find out more about ethical investing and what we do with our stewardship activities.
Why does Ethical Investment matter for KiwiSaver?
KiwiSaver is a long-term commitment of people’s money to help save for their retirement or help buy their first home.
For some people, it may be important to know their money is invested in ways that align with their personal values. To support those who want to invest ethically. Booster offers options for KiwiSaver from conservative funds to growth funds through its Socially Responsible KiwiSaver scheme.
Diana Papadopoulos says Booster’s KiwiSaver Socially Responsible (SR) funds are popular.
“Interest is growing in responsible and ethical investing that balances return and risk with the opportunity to align investments with values around environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals,” says Diana Papadopoulos.
The popularity of Booster’s ethical KiwiSaver funds has led it to apply the same approach to other Booster funds.
“We’ve extended these sustainable investment principles to the entire suite of our new Wealth Series Funds, to meet demand for a similar ethical investment product like our KiwiSaver Socially Responsible (SR) ethical investment funds.
Want to know more about the ways Booster invests?
- View and compare the Booster Socially Responsible (SR) Funds
- Read our Responsible Investment Policy
- Get in touch with our team who can help you make sure your fund choice fits your long-term plans.
- If you’d prefer independent advice, we have a network of over 400 advisers across New Zealand, so can connect you with a financial adviser that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is ethical investing?
Ethical investing is an investment approach which considers how KiwiSaver or another type of investment fund restricts investment into companies that do activities you may disagree with because of the environmental or social harms they may cause, such as controversial weapons, fossil fuels or pornography.
What is RIAA?
The Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) champions responsible investing and a sustainable financial system in Australia and New Zealand. RIAA is dedicated to ensuring capital is aligned with achieving a healthy society, environment and economy.
What is a Responsible Investment Leader?
Responsible Investment Leader recognised by RIAA is an investment manager that demonstrates leadership in responsible investment.
Why does ethical investing matter for KiwiSaver?
Ethical investment is a personal choice. Because KiwiSaver is a long-term commitment of people’s money, it may be important to some people to know their money is being invested in ways that align with their personal values.
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Booster SRI funds have been certified by the RIAA according to the strict operational and disclosure practices required under the Responsible Investment Certification Program. See www.responsiblereturns.com.au for details. The Responsible Investment Certification Program does not constitute financial product advice. Neither the Certification Symbol nor RIAA recommends to any person that any financial product is a suitable investment or that returns are guaranteed. Appropriate professional advice should be sought prior to making an investment decision. RIAA does not hold a Financial Advice Provider licence.
Booster Investment Management Limited is the issuer of the Booster KiwiSaver Scheme. Product Disclosure Statements are available at www.booster.co.nz.