Socially responsible investment was once considered a distinct category of investment theory and practice adhered to by specialised investment professionals and dedicated funds. Now the incorporation of environmental, social and governance factors in fund mandates, asset identification, evaluation, selection, and review is fast becoming established practice.

However, with the proliferation of campaigns and commitments comes a risk of increased complexity and diffusion of effort and impact. There is a need to consider whether aggregation, coordination and, in some cases, integration are a necessary step to build influence, strengthen alliances and translate aspirations into practical, legal, strategic and sustainable action. Value Shifts: How Investors Are Advancing Sustainability in Capital Markets anticipates and responds to this need to take stock of the current state of investor engagement on sustainability. It is an independent account, assessment and profile of investor-led sustainability and responsible investment movements, which serves as a platform to chronicle and explore their recent rise in influence; examine specific types of activity; and consider their current and potential role in effecting real system change.