Category: News

New research series provides a snapshot of the factors shaping investor sentiment and decision-making

TORONTO, June 11, 2026 – The Responsible Investment Association (RIA) today released the inaugural Investor Pulse Check, a new research series designed to capture Canadian investor sentiment and evolving investment priorities.

Conducted as part of the Responsible Investment Research Initiative, the first Investor Pulse Check comes at a time of ongoing economic uncertainty and examines the factors having the greatest impact on investment decisions, investor understanding of responsible investing and the types of information Canadians value from financial advisors.

The findings, based on a survey of 1,001 Canadian investors, reveal that affordability and inflation are currently the factors having the greatest impact on investment decisions, followed by Canada’s economic resilience and global geopolitical uncertainty. Corporate accountability and governance, energy and infrastructure development and climate and environmental risks also remain important considerations for many investors.

“The investment landscape is evolving rapidly, shaped by economic pressures, geopolitical developments and changing investor expectations,” said Patricia Fletcher, CEO of the Responsible Investment Association. “At a time when affordability pressures, economic uncertainty and geopolitical developments continue to influence investor behaviour, understanding how Canadians are navigating these issues is more important than ever. The Investor Pulse Check series was created to provide a more frequent view of investor sentiment between our larger annual studies. The findings reinforce the importance of understanding investor priorities and ensuring that investment discussions remain relevant, responsive and grounded in the realities Canadians are experiencing today.”

The research also found that investors respond positively to terms such as responsible investing, sustainable investing and values-aligned investing when describing investment approaches that consider factors beyond financial performance alone. At the same time, the results suggest there remains considerable variation in how investors interpret the term “responsible investing,” highlighting the ongoing importance of investor education and clear communication.

Additional findings point to growing interest in more personalized discussions with financial advisors. Investors indicated that questions related to personal values, investment preferences and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations are important components of holistic financial planning. Respondents also identified practical resources, including examples of investment options, explanations of risk and return implications and real-world case studies, as valuable tools for supporting informed investment decision-making.

Key Findings

• Affordability and inflation dominate investor decision-making, cited by roughly half of Canadian investors as having the greatest impact on their investment decisions.
• Investors remain highly focused on economic resilience and geopolitical uncertainty, highlighting concerns that extend beyond personal finances and market performance.
• Multiple responsible investment-related terms resonate with investors, including responsible investing, sustainable investing and values-aligned investing.
• Understanding of responsible investing remains fragmented, with investors associating the term with a range of concepts, including ESG factors, values alignment, risk mitigation and impact.
• Investors want more personalized discussions with advisors, including conversations about values, preferences and ESG-related considerations alongside their financial goals.
• Practical guidance matters, with investors seeking examples, case studies and information about risk and return to support investment decisions.

The Investor Pulse Check series complements the Responsible Investment Research Initiative’s flagship studies, including the Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report, Investor Opinion Survey and Advisor RI Insights Study, by providing more frequent perspectives on emerging trends and market developments.

A short video discussion highlighting key findings from the inaugural Investor Pulse Check were also released today.

The Investor Pulse Check and accompanying videos are available at www.ri-research-initiative.ca.

Future Investor Pulse Checks will continue to explore emerging issues influencing investor sentiment, investment preferences and responsible investment in Canada.

The Responsible Investment Association gratefully acknowledges the support of the Responsible Investment Research Initiative partners, Addenda Capital, Desjardins, Mackenzie Investments, National Bank Investments, RBC Global Asset Management and TD Asset Management, whose ongoing commitment helps advance this important research.

Methodology

The inaugural Investor Pulse Check is based on data collected by Ipsos from 1,001 Canadian individual investors between May 1 and May 6, 2026. Investors are defined as individuals who currently own investments such as mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, stocks, bonds or other securities. The poll has a Bayesian credibility interval of ±3.5%.

Media Contact:

Ady Jonsohn
Vice President, Content Development and Delivery
Responsible Investment Association
ady@riacanada.ca

 

About the Responsible Investment Research Initiative

The Responsible Investment Research Initiative, a program of the Responsible Investment Association (RIA), delivers objective, data-driven research spanning the full spectrum of responsible investment in Canada through a suite of complementary studies and reports.

The Initiative and production of its research are generously supported by partners Addenda Capital, Desjardins, Mackenzie Investments, National Bank Investments, RBC Global Asset Management and TD Asset Management.

Learn more at www.ri-research-initiative.ca.

About the Responsible Investment Association

The Responsible Investment Association (RIA) is Canada’s investment industry association with a purpose of entrenching responsible investment in Canada’s financial ecosystem. The RIA’s membership includes asset managers, asset owners, advisors and service providers. Institutional members collectively manage more than $47 trillion in assets globally.

Learn more at www.riacanada.ca.

Dear RIA Members,

As we approach the midpoint of 2026, I’ve been reflecting on the momentum of the year so far. Our industry continues to operate against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension, rapid technological advancement and evolving expectations around responsible investment. The constant pace of change and broader state of the world can at times feel challenging and even overwhelming. Yet amidst all of this, I continue to be encouraged by the resilience of our community, the quality of conversations taking place across the industry and the enduring commitment to long-term thinking and responsible investment principles.

In moments like these, the RIA’s role becomes even more important.

Over the past several months, we have remained focused on delivering meaningful value to members through research, education, advocacy and convening. Earlier this spring, we launched the 2026 Investor Opinion Survey as part of the Responsible Investment Research Initiative. This year marked the tenth edition of the study, a significant milestone for one of Canada’s longest-running barometers of investor sentiment on responsible investment. Over the past decade, the survey has provided valuable insight into how Canadian investors understand, perceive and engage with RI, while helping trace shifts in attitudes and expectations over time.

In the coming weeks, we will also launch the first Investor Pulse Check, a new research initiative designed to provide timely snapshots of investor sentiment in an increasingly fast-moving environment.

At the same time, the 2026 Canadian Responsible Investment Trends survey is now in field. As the cornerstone of institutional RI market research in Canada, the Trends Report plays a critical role in tracking the evolution, maturity and direction of RI practices across the industry. Participation from institutional investors is especially important this year and member contributions will be invaluable.

Research findings and industry insights are only meaningful if they reflect the perspectives and realities of the community they are intended to serve. That is also why we are conducting a survey of advisor members to better understand your needs, priorities and perspectives on the evolving responsible investment landscape. Your input will help guide the RIA’s research, education, advocacy and member services over the coming years. You will receive the survey later this week and I strongly encourage you to complete it. Your feedback will play an important role in shaping our future priorities.

This year has also included a strong cadence of webinars, briefings and member roundtables on issues ranging from sustainability disclosure and policy developments to emerging industry trends and best practices. One recent highlight was last week’s member session with the Canadian Sustainability Standards Board (CSSB), which provided insight into current standard-setting developments and created an important forum for dialogue with the investment community.

In March, we also convened a dynamic hybrid meeting of the Canadian RI Working Group, bringing together a broad cross-section of members and speakers to explore evolving market and policy developments shaping RI.

Our Member Roundtable Series has continued to foster thoughtful peer exchange on timely issues facing the industry. The March discussion, Stewardship Under Pressure: Navigating Proxy Voting and Shareholder Rights in 2026, generated particularly strong engagement among participants. The Series continues June 16th with a discussion focused on AI governance and responsible investment. These sessions are designed to foster candid peer dialogue on complex and rapidly evolving issues, and I look forward to seeing many of you there.

I would also like to remind you that the RIA’s Annual General Meeting will take place virtually on June 18th. I hope many of you will join us as we reflect on the past year and look ahead to the opportunities before us.

Of course, one of the highlights of every year for me is the opportunity to gather with members at the RIA Conference. This year’s event comes at a particularly important moment for our industry. Across markets, we are seeing heightened uncertainty alongside significant long-term opportunity. Fear and short-termism can easily dominate headlines and decision-making in environments like these. Yet responsible investment has always required perspective, resilience and the ability to look beyond immediate cycles toward long-term value creation and risk management.

Periods of uncertainty like this underscore the value of thoughtful dialogue and shared learning, which is precisely what the Conference is designed to foster.

The 2026 RIA Conference will bring together diverse voices from across the investment ecosystem to engage in timely, substantive and candid conversations. From geopolitical risk and sustainability disclosure to artificial intelligence, advisor practice management and impact investing, the program is designed to address the realities facing investment professionals today while reflecting the breadth of perspectives across our membership.

This year’s expanded three-day structure also recognizes the increasingly interconnected nature of the responsible investment ecosystem, with dedicated programming for advisors, institutional investors and impact investment professionals, while maintaining shared themes and opportunities for cross-sector exchange throughout the event.

Most importantly, the Conference is an opportunity to reconnect with one another. Every year I leave inspired by the conversations, insights and relationships that emerge from these gatherings. At a time when external narratives can often feel divisive or uncertain, there is tremendous value in being in the room with peers who are equally committed to advancing thoughtful, resilient and forward-looking investment practices.

Finally, behind the scenes, the RIA continues to advance foundational work to support and enhance the member experience through the phased rollout of new digital platforms, including a new CRM and Learning Management System. While implementation of projects of this scale takes time and careful coordination, these investments will ultimately help strengthen functionality, improve access to learning and events, and better support members, learners and credential holders over the long term.

Thank you for the trust, engagement and collaboration you continue to bring to this community and to the advancement of responsible investment in Canada. I look forward to seeing many of you at the AGM and Conference, and to continuing this important work together throughout the remainder of 2026.

Warm regards,

Patricia Fletcher,
Chief Executive Officer
Responsible Investment Association

Nearly half of investors with responsible investments plan to increase allocations; across all investors, 43% are more likely to invest in Canadian-domiciled companies

TORONTO, April 28, 2026 – Investors with responsible investments show continued commitment, with nearly half expecting to increase their allocations over the next year, as broader investment preferences shift in response to economic, geopolitical and environmental factors, according to the Responsible Investment Association’s 2026 Investor Opinion Survey.

Based on a survey of 1,001 Canadian investors, the findings show that 47% of respondents who currently hold responsible investments expect to increase the proportion of their portfolios allocated to these investments over the next year, while an equal share expect to maintain their allocation. Only 1% expect to decrease and 5% are not sure.

At the same time, 43% of investors say they are more likely than one year ago to invest in Canadian-domiciled companies, compared to 37% for infrastructure-related energy and utilities firms and 25% for defense companies, highlighting a broader shift toward domestic opportunities and economic resilience.

While 67% of investors express interest in responsible investment, unchanged from 2025, this sustained interest is not yet matched by consistent understanding, underscoring the need for clearer information, greater transparency and more accessible communication.

Key Findings

• Allocation intentions remain strong: Among investors who currently hold responsible investments, 47% expect to increase their allocations over the next year, while an equal share expect to maintain them. Only 1% expect to decrease and 5% are unsure.
• Interest remains high: 67% of Canadian investors express interest in responsible investment, consistent with 2025.
• Knowledge gap persists: 71% say they know little or nothing about responsible investment or have never heard of it.
• Adoption holds steady: 28% report owning responsible investments, while 38% are unsure if they do.
• Clarity and trust remain key barriers: Greenwashing and lack of knowledge about responsible investment funds (66%), followed by unclear fund labels (64%), are the top deterrents.
• Shifting investment preferences: In response to economic, geopolitical and environmental factors, 43% of investors say they are more likely than one year ago to invest in Canadian-domiciled companies, compared to 37% for infrastructure-related energy and utilities firms and 25% for defense companies.

Taken together, the findings suggest that while interest in responsible investment remains elevated and conviction among existing investors is strong, evolving market conditions are also shaping broader investment preferences.

Investors continue to approach responsible investment through a practical lens. The majority cite investment opportunities (91%) and risk reduction (88%) as key considerations, alongside personal values and societal impact.

While most investors work with a financial advisor (68%), conversations about responsible investment are not yet a consistent part of the advice process. Nearly three-quarters (73%) say they would like these considerations to be included in the Know Your Client process, yet only 28% report being asked.

“Younger investors continue to lead in both interest and adoption, while also expressing greater sensitivity to issues like greenwashing and product clarity,” says Patricia Fletcher, CEO of the RIA. “This reinforces the importance of clear information, credible disclosures and informed advice in supporting investor confidence.”

The 2026 Investor Opinion Survey was produced as part of the RIA’s Responsible Investment Research Initiative, which delivers data-driven insights on the evolution of responsible investment in Canada.

View the full report here.

*For messages from Responsible Investment Research Initiative partners, view page 4 of the report.

About the RIA Investor Opinion Survey

The Responsible Investment Association publishes the RIA Investor Opinion Survey annually to track individual investors’ perspectives on responsible investment and various environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. The 2026 Survey is based on data collected by Ipsos from 1,001 Canadian individual investors between February 11th and February 16th, 2026. Investors are defined as individuals who currently own investments such as mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, stocks, bonds or other securities. The poll has a Bayesian credibility interval of ±3.5%.

About the Responsible Investment Research Initiative

The Responsible Investment Research Initiative, a program of the Responsible Investment Association (RIA), delivers objective, data-driven insights spanning the full spectrum of responsible investment in Canada through a series of comprehensive reports.

The Initiative and production of the reports are generously supported by partners Addenda Capital, Desjardins, Mackenzie Investments, National Bank Investments, RBC Global Asset Management and TD Asset Management. Learn more at www.ri-research-initiative.ca.

About the Responsible Investment Association (RIA)

The RIA is Canada’s investment industry association with a purpose of entrenching responsible investment (RI) in Canada’s financial ecosystem. The RIA’s membership includes asset managers, asset owners, advisors and service providers. Institutional members collectively manage approximately $47 trillion in assets globally.

Congratulations to Canada’s newest recipients of the RIA’s financial credentials in recognition of expertise in responsible investing. View a full list of RIA credential holders here.

Learn more about the RIA’s training and credentials here.

Karen Abi-Nassif (RIS), FÉRIQUE
Ali Atallah (RIS), Meridian Credit Union
Moribi Dodji Dieumerci Babatounde (RIS)
Jessica Belhumeur (RIS), Access Credit Union
Braeden Cooper (RIS), Sun Life
Martina Crowdis (RIS), Churchbridge Credit Union
Lina Dahmani (RIS)
Maedeh Dallal Sharifi (RIS), Vancity Credit Union
Ade Davids (RIS), Meridian Credit Union
Vincent Fillion (RIS), Desjardins
Robert Gagné (RIS), Desjardins
Dakshita Gora (RIS), Vancity Credit Union
Geoffrey Hardacre (RIPC)
Emily Hu (RIS), Desjardins
Meerab Ishtiyaq (RIS), Kawartha Credit Union
Taha Javaid (RIS)
Renish Keshwani (RIS), Affinity Credit Union
Sangam Kumar (RIS), Synergy Credit Union
Vincent Laforge (RIS), Desjardins
Caroline Lavoie (RIS), Desjardins
Ryan Learn (RIS), Meridian Credit Union
Sarah Lefevre (RIS)
Cole Machej (RIS), Cambrian Credit Union
Victoria McGrath (RIAC)
Morrigan Miller (RIS), Access Credit Union
Wissam Nicholas (RIS), Desjardins
Mihai Papa (RIS), Gestion Laquerre et Varennes Inc.
Rojin Parandian (RIS), Vancity Credit Union
Shelley Porcheron McGill (RIS)
Jaedin Pritchard-Osmond (RIS)
Thomas John Quinn (RIAC)
Nicholas Raposo (RIS), Desjardins
Jordan Rederburg (RIS), Weyburn Credit Union
Adam Renouf (RIS), CU Financial Management
Menglong Shi (RIAC)
Nigel Smith (RIS), Tandia Financial Credit Union/Aviso Wealth
Alisa Spitali (RIS), Island Savings
Jasmin Toh (RIS), Vancity Credit Union
Antoine Valiquette (RIS), Desjardins
Dan Van Oosten (RIS), Meridian Credit Union
Krisha Walker (RIS)
Akram Yarmohammadi (RIS), Meridian Credit Union

Application Deadline: Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, at 5:00pm ET.

The Responsible Investment Association (RIA) invites its Members to submit an application to serve on the RIA Board of Directors. The Board has four (4) seats up for election in 2026. RIA Members will vote via electronic ballot in advance of the Annual General Meeting, which will take place virtually on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 1:00pm ET.

Director Responsibilities

The Board is charged with contributing to the advancement of the purpose of the RIA and with providing overall governance and direction for the Association. Each director is a fiduciary, putting the Association’s interests ahead of their own or their employer’s.

Directors are expected to fulfill the following responsibilities:

A.   Attend all Board meetings. We expect to hold approximately five Board virtual meetings per year, in addition to the Annual General Meeting. We recognize that from time-to-time unavoidable conflicts will arise, but it will be seen as a significant concern if fewer than 75% of meetings are attended.

B.   Attend face-to-face meetings, including planning sessions, the annual conference and board dinner (when possible), and attend virtually when necessary. The Board holds strategy sessions on an as-needed basis where we address issues of major strategic importance to the Association and the responsible investment industry. In addition, the annual conference and contemporaneous board meeting and dinner are excellent opportunities for building board cohesion. It is expected that all directors will attend these sessions.

C.   Actively participate in the work of the organization. Each director must be willing to support the Association by either serving actively on a Board committee or participating in an RIA Working Group. Directors must also remain informed and supportive of the mission, policies, and programs of the RIA.

D.   Act as an ambassador for the RIA. Each director should, whenever possible and appropriate, represent the RIA at industry related events in his/her region or industry and act as a resource to stakeholders interested in learning more about the work of the RIA.

E.   Remain aware of and attempt to avoid any conflicts of interest. Should a conflict of interest arise, it is imperative that it be reported to the Board, Board chair, or the staff of the RIA immediately.

F.   Adhere to RIA policies and procedures applicable to the Board, which may be amended from time to time.

G.   On a best efforts’ basis, we ask each director to help with the following:

• Assist in identifying and recruiting new RIA members.
• Participate in and support RIA events including the national conference, research, and other sponsorship opportunities.
• Suggest possible nominees to the board.
• Where possible, help the Nominating Committee identify and recruit other qualified Board members.

Eligibility

Applicants (individual members) or their employers (corporate members) must have been a member of the RIA for at least one year prior to the Annual General Meeting. The RIA Board of Directors may vote to waive the one-year minimum at its discretion.

Diversity

The RIA supports diversity and values the benefits that diversity can bring to its Board, and we therefore welcome applications from diverse candidates.

The RIA is committed to a merit-based system for Board composition within a diverse and inclusive culture that solicits multiple perspectives and ideas and is free of conscious or unconscious bias and discrimination. Accordingly, the RIA seeks to maintain a Board comprised of directors with an appropriate balance of knowledge, skills, experience, diversity, and other relevant factors, to enable it to discharge effectively its duties and responsibilities.

Evaluation Criteria

The Nomination Committee maintains a Board skills matrix, and there are several areas of experience and influence that are critical to contributing to the RIA’s long-term success.

In addition, the Nominating Committee will consider the following in light of current board composition:

• Gender
• Ethnicity
• RIA Membership category
• Professional designation or skills set

We are currently seeking to fill gaps in the following areas:

• Accounting and Finance
• Experience in operating a small to medium enterprise or non-profit
• Experience working with Advisors/retail channel
• Legal experience in responsible investment
• Western Canada representation
• Indigenous representation

The ability of a candidate to commit sufficient time and attention to the affairs of the RIA, assume a reasonable proportion of the workload of the board, and the absence of material conflicts of interest are key considerations. The RIA’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as represented in the Board Diversity Policy, are also important considerations.

How to Apply

If you wish to apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter describing how you can contribute to the RIA, and two references from current RIA members describing your credentials and commitment to responsible investment. References can be single-page documents consisting of 1 or 2 short paragraphs.

The RIA welcomes bilingual and multilingual applicants. Board and Committee meetings are conducted in English and therefore we request that applications be submitted in English.

These materials may be sent to applications@riacanada.ca and should be addressed to the RIA Nominating Committee. Applications will be reviewed and considered by the RIA’s Governance and Nominating Committee, a subcommittee of the RIA Board of Directors.

Application Deadline: Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, at 5:00pm ET.

Dear RIA Members,

2025 was a year defined by transition, resilience and meaningful progress for responsible investment in Canada. Despite a dynamic operating environment, one element held firm. The RIA continued to serve as a reliable anchor for our community, just as it has for three decades, beginning with our early days as the Social Investment Organization. We were advancing responsible investment long before it became part of the mainstream vernacular, and our commitment to entrenching RI in Canada’s financial ecosystem is as strong as ever.

This year reaffirmed the value of a trusted and enduring voice in the industry. At a time when global narratives continue to evolve and domestic policy signals at times appear fragmented, the RIA has focused on clarity, quality and community. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together.

A key milestone of 2025 was the launch of the Responsible Investment Research Initiative, a long-term commitment to providing objective, data-driven insights that reflect the full spectrum of responsible investment in Canada. With the support of our partners, we published three flagship reports that together offer a comprehensive view of the Canadian RI landscape. The Investor Opinion Survey in April, the Advisor RI Insights Study in October and the Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report in November each uncovered important signals about market sentiment, advisor behaviour and industry practice.

This body of research deepens understanding across the industry and provides members with actionable intelligence. It also highlights the conviction of Canadian investors who continue to integrate sustainability considerations even as expectations evolve. I am deeply grateful to all members who participated in surveys, interviews or strategic consultations to help shape this work.

Convening has always been central to the RIA’s role and 2025 was no exception. In June, members came together in Toronto for the 2025 RIA Conference, where the energy across both the new advisor and institutional streams reflected the maturity and breadth of our community. We also hosted numerous webinars and briefings on topics as diverse as evolving sustainability disclosure frameworks and the new federal budget.

In response to your desire for more intimate exchanges, we launched a new Member Roundtable Series for institutional investors with interactive sessions on DEI, Indigenous Economic Reconciliation, climate and nature and human rights. For retail advisors, the establishment of the Retail Advisor RI Strategy Group marked an important step in ensuring a direct lens into the priorities of and opportunities for this important segment of our membership.

We spent meaningful time in the community, engaging with partner organizations and stakeholders across the country. Each of these interactions reinforced the importance of knowledge sharing and relationship building in advancing our collective goals.

Perhaps one of the most inspiring examples of this was the inaugural Canada Climate Week Xchange in November, where the RIA proudly served as a founding member. The week included nearly 100 events across the country and brought together leaders from finance, industry, civil society and government to advance Canada’s competitiveness in a decarbonizing global economy. We delivered a broad array of sessions, both independently and with partners, including those on sustainability disclosure, impact investment, the launch of the 2025 Canadian RI Trends Report, and several under the umbrella of Climate Engagement Canada. These sessions reflected the breadth of our collaborations and the increasing energy behind this work.

Policy and advocacy remained a major area of focus in 2025. We delivered several important submissions, including responses to the CSA’s proposed modernization of the continuous disclosure regime for investment funds, the Competition Bureau’s Proposed Guidelines Concerning Environmental Claims and CIRO’s proposal on Continuing Education.

One of the most significant policy matters of the year was the CSA’s decision to pause work on a mandatory climate-related disclosure rule and changes to diversity-related disclosure. In response, the RIA submitted a detailed letter outlining members’ concerns and the importance of establishing consistent, high-quality sustainability disclosures. We were subsequently invited to present to the CSA Climate Committee in August, where our perspective was well received and shared broadly within the organization. This work demonstrates the RIA’s role as a bridge between investors and policymakers, convening informed dialogue and ensuring the voice of responsible investors remains present in conversations that shape the future of Canadian markets.

Our collaboration with Circular Economy Canada also advanced this year through the release of a new report, building awareness of how Canadian investors can help catalyze a more resilient and resource-efficient economy.

Behind the scenes, 2025 laid important groundwork to strengthen our digital infrastructure and refine internal systems that will significantly enhance your member experience. Achieving this progress amid a year of considerable operational demands made your continued commitment all the more meaningful. We also advanced curriculum updates and introduced upgrades that will better support credential holders, learners and members. These investments will set the stage for a more seamless and personalized experience in 2026.

As we prepare for a new year, I am filled with optimism. Members can expect more expansive research under the Responsible Investment Research Initiative, deeper engagement opportunities for both institutional and retail audiences, continued policy leadership and new digital tools that will make it easier for you to access value from your membership.

Above all, I am looking forward to spending more time with you, whether through our research and policy work, our roundtables or our many convenings. The RIA has always been powered by people. Every member conversation reminds me why this work matters and renews my resolve to ensure the RIA continues to deliver meaningful value as the national voice for responsible investment.

Thank you for your support throughout this year and for the dedication you bring to advancing responsible investment in Canada. I wish you a joyful and restful holiday season and look forward to all that we will accomplish together in 2026.

Warm regards,

Patricia Fletcher,
Chief Executive Officer
Responsible Investment Association

New RIA Report highlights a resilient market with the conversation shifting from quantity to the quality of RI implementation

TORONTO – November 25, 2025 – Responsible investment (RI) remains a defining feature of Canada’s financial ecosystem, according to the 2025 Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report, released today by the Responsible Investment Association (RIA). Despite heightened global scrutiny and increasingly polarized narratives surrounding ESG, Canadian investors continue to demonstrate strong conviction in responsible investment as a driver of long-term value and risk management.

Produced as part of the RIA’s Responsible Investment Research Initiative, the report shows that ESG integration is used by 96% of respondents across 87% of assets under management (AUM). While growth expectations have moderated from earlier years of accelerated expansion, two-thirds (66%) of respondents still expect RI to grow, underscoring the staying power of responsible investment and its embedded role in investment processes.

“The global conversation around sustainable finance may be shifting, but our data shows that Canadian investors remain firmly committed to responsible investment.” says Patricia Fletcher, Chief Executive Officer of the Responsible Investment Association. “Investors are no longer asking whether sustainability belongs in financial analysis. The focus is now on how RI is implemented with integrity and impact.

2025 Key Findings:

• Near-Universal ESG Integration: ESG integration is used by 96% of respondents, covering 87% of AUM and reinforcing RI’s central role in Canadian investment practice.
• High Levels of Reporting Confidence: 69% of respondents express confidence in the overall quality of ESG reporting, while 91% are confident in their own organization’s reporting; calls for greater standardization and independent assurance remain strong.
• Climate Risk as a Leading Driver: Risks associated with a changing climate are now the top driver of RI growth, highlighting the financial materiality of climate considerations.
• Negative Media Narratives as a Barrier: 46% of respondents cite negative media coverage from other jurisdictions as the leading deterrent to RI growth, surpassing greenwashing as a top concern.
• Stewardship and Collaboration Remain Strong: 76% of respondents remain active in collaborative engagement initiatives.
• Steady Growth Expectations: 66% expect RI to continue growing, 31% expect RI levels to remain stable and almost none expect contraction.
• Commitment to RI: 75% say that RI remains a priority within their portfolio management processes, 24% say it is a higher priority

The findings underscore that Canadian investors view sustainability as essential to sound investment frameworks and decision-making, despite external narratives or trends.

Founded in 1991 as the Social Investment Organization (SIO), the Responsible Investment Association and its members have played a central role in the development of Canada’s RI landscape for more than three decades. Through research, advocacy and convening, the RIA supports practitioners across the industry and reinforces Canada’s leadership in sustainable finance.

View the full report [here].

For messages from Responsible Investment Research Initiative partners, see page 4 of the Report.

About the Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report

The Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report, published by the Responsible Investment Association (RIA) as part of the Responsible Investment Research Initiative, is a tool for monitoring the evolution of responsible investment (RI) practices in Canada. This 2025 report draws on responses gathered from a survey of Canadian institutional asset managers and asset owners, which took place between May 7th and July 9th, 2025. The previous survey was conducted in 2024.

About the Responsible Investment Research Initiative

The Responsible Investment Research Initiative, a program of the Responsible Investment Association, delivers objective, data-driven insights into responsible investment trends in Canada through three annual reports:

1. Investor Opinion Survey
2. Advisor RI Insights Study
3. Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report

The Initiative is generously supported by partners Addenda Capital, Desjardins, Mackenzie Investments, National Bank Investments, RBC Investor Services, and TD Asset Management. Learn more at www.ri-research-initiative.ca.

About the RIA

The Responsible Investment Association (RIA) is Canada’s industry association for responsible investment, dedicated to embedding responsible investment across the country’s financial ecosystem. The RIA’s membership includes asset managers, asset owners, advisors, and service providers who collectively manage more than $45 trillion in assets globally. Learn more at www.riacanada.ca.

Media Contact

Ady Jonsohn
Vice President, Content Development and Delivery
Responsible Investment Association
ady@riacanada.ca

Congratulations to Canada’s newest recipients of the RIA’s financial credentials in recognition of expertise in responsible investing. View a full list of RIA credential holders here.

Learn more about the RIA’s training and credentials here.

Abdelatif Arezdi (RIS)
Aidan Arsenio-Corlis (RIS)
Sophie Bano (RIS)
Gissella Del Rosario Bermudez Salazar (RIS)
Bryce Borden (RIPC)
Nav Brar (RIS)
Suzanne Chalhoub (RIS)
Paul Davidson (RIS)
Dallis Dubnicoff (RIS)
Sylvie Ducharme (RIS)
Elysha Ducherer (RIS)
Mathieu Dufort (RIS)
Nathan Felicetti (RIS)
Lakshya Guglani (RIS)
Andrew Hanmer (RIS)
Hayden Hood (RIS)
Grégory Luzincourt (RIPC)
Samarth Sunil Nadig (RIS)
Harmanjot Nanrhe (RIS)
John Otono (RIS)
David Andres Perez Giraldo (RIS)
Chantal Rodrigue (RIS)
Carol Russell (RIS)

Despite moderating RI adoption, committed advisors remain steady, growth expectations positive and nearly half of respondents support the incorporation of RI in Know Your Client forms

TORONTO – October 7, 2025 – Responsible investment (RI) adoption among Canadian financial advisors has tapered since 2023, yet committed users remain stable and opportunities are emerging to close service gaps and align advisor practices with strong client demand, according to a new study released today by the Responsible Investment Association (RIA).

The 2025 RIA Advisor RI Insights Study, based on a national survey of 300 Canadian retail investment advisors, shows that although RI adoption has declined since 2023, overall growth expectations remain positive. The study also points to a persistent “RI service gap,” where clients who are interested in RI are not getting the services they want. Nearly half of advisors, however, support adding RI questions to the Know Your Client (KYC) process – an important step toward addressing the gap.

“While adoption has steadied, investor demand for RI remains strong and advisors remain open to closing the service gap,” says Patricia Fletcher, CEO of the RIA. “Mobilizing wholesalers and equipping advisors with tools and training, we can empower advisors to align portfolios with their clients’ values.”

This study is published as part of the Responsible Investment Research Initiative, a program of the RIA that delivers objective, data-driven insights spanning the full spectrum of responsible investment in Canada through three comprehensive reports.

Key findings from the study include:

• RI Adoption Moderating: 64% of advisors report using responsible investment in 2025, down from 73% in 2023, reflecting fewer new entrants to the field.
• Committed Advisors Steady: Advisors who use RI remain consistent, with an average of 13% of assets under management (AUM) allocated to RI, unchanged from prior years.
• Positive Growth Outlook: 75% of advisors anticipate RI growth in the next two years, though expectations have tempered compared to 2023.
• Persistent Service Gap: Clients remain more likely than advisors to initiate RI conversations, highlighting the need for advisors to take a more proactive role.
• KYC as an Opportunity: Nearly half (46%) of advisors support adding RI questions to Know Your Client (KYC) forms, which could help close the service gap.
• Wholesalers as Catalysts: Wholesalers remain the leading source of RI information and education for both users and non-users, underscoring their pivotal role in advisor adoption.

View the full report here.

For messages from Responsible Investment Research Initiative partners, see page 4 of the report.

About the Advisor RI Insights Study

The Responsible Investment Association publishes the Advisor RI Insights Study to capture evolving trends in Canadian retail advisors’ usage and perceptions of responsible investment. The 2025 study is based on a survey of 300 advisors conducted by Environics Research between July 2–9, 2025.

About the Responsible Investment Research Initiative

The Responsible Investment Research Initiative, a program of the Responsible Investment Association (RIA), delivers objective, data-driven insights spanning the full spectrum of responsible investment in Canada through three comprehensive research reports: 1) the Investor Opinion Survey, 2) the Advisor RI Insights Study, and 3) the Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report.

The Initiative and production of the reports are generously supported by partners Addenda Capital, Desjardins, Mackenzie Investments, National Bank Investments, RBC Global Asset Management and TD Asset Management. Learn more at www.ri-research-initiative.ca.

About the Responsible Investment Association (RIA)

The RIA is Canada’s investment industry association with a purpose of entrenching responsible investment (RI) in Canada’s financial ecosystem. With a history dating back to 1991, the RIA supports members who are committed to the advancement of RI in Canada, including the incorporation of ESG factors into investment decision making.

The RIA convenes members across the full spectrum of the RI industry, from advisors and asset managers to asset owners and service providers, fostering community, providing education and engaging at the highest levels of policy and practice.

The RIA’s membership collectively manages over $45 trillion in assets globally. Learn more at www.riacanada.ca.

 

Media Contact:

Ady Jonsohn
Vice President, Content Development and Delivery
Responsible Investment Association (RIA)
+1 416-461-6042

Congratulations to Canada’s newest recipients of the RIA’s financial credentials in recognition of expertise in responsible investing. View a full list of RIA credential holders here.

Learn more about the RIA’s training and credentials here.

Sumiya Akter (RIS), Vancity
Samuel Dickey (RIS), Desjardins
Ritish Gupta (RIS), Cambrian Credit Union
Omar Nassim Haddad (RIS), Desjardins
Alexandre Lacas (RIS), Desjardins Caisses des Patriotes
Zijun Lan (RIS), Desjardins
Ernest Mpaata (RIS), Cambrian Credit Union
Suzann RAI (RIS), Cambrian Credit Union