The IFRS Foundation has taken a significant step in promoting sustainability reporting by launching a comprehensive guide for companies. This guide is designed to help businesses voluntarily adopt the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) Sustainability Reporting Standards, ensuring they can meet the growing investor demand for transparent and comparable sustainability information.

The “Sustainability in Action” report by Capgemini and Sweep highlights the critical role of data in driving sustainability efforts across various industries. It emphasizes the need for robust data management to meet regulatory demands and achieve sustainability goals.

The Capgemini Research Institute’s latest report highlights significant strides in sustainability, focusing on circular economy practices, sustainable design, and biodiversity. Despite geopolitical challenges, companies are making notable progress in integrating sustainability into their core operations.

COP16 is set to drive significant and lasting changes in the financial sector by prioritizing nature and biodiversity investments. The conference aims to engage the private sector in making permanent shifts towards sustainable finance.

The European Commission (EC) has released a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to aid in the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). These FAQs aim to clarify various aspects of the CSRD and the first set of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs), ensuring stakeholders can comply with regulatory requirements effectively.

In a recent survey by PwC, 4,700 CEOs shared their insights on how climate action can drive business value. Despite the challenges, many CEOs are finding that addressing climate-related opportunities and risks can lead to better financial performance.

The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has recently published a consultation document aimed at helping companies improve their reporting on climate-related risks and other uncertainties. This initiative responds to growing investor demand for clearer and more consistent climate-related information in financial statements.

According to PwC’s Global CSRD Survey 2024, Dutch companies are leading in readiness and confidence for implementing the new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). An impressive 79% of Dutch businesses expect to comply with the CSRD on time, significantly surpassing the global average of 63%. This optimism is fueled by progress made in CSRD implementation, even as challenges related to data quality, value chain complexity, and human resources persist

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a Public Statement urging companies to prepare for the new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) requirements. The CSRD expands sustainability reporting obligations for over 50,000 companies, emphasizing governance arrangements, materiality assessments, and data collection systems. ESMA highlights the importance of readiness to meet detailed reporting standards and conduct double materiality assessments.

In the ever-evolving landscape of Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are gaining prominence. Deloitte’s 2024 M&A Trends Survey reveals that successful dealmakers embrace uncertainty, prioritize value creation, and bridge gaps between private equity and corporate approaches. By understanding and leveraging ESG considerations, companies can navigate the changing M&A landscape effectively.

Research indicates that clearer and stricter domestic green policies could redirect up to £100 billion in global investments to the UK. However, recent government actions, including weakening key net zero commitments, have led many investors to consider moving their funds to more supportive markets like the US, EU, and China. While 83% of financial service organizations still see the UK as a top market, two-thirds are contemplating or have already shifted investments elsewhere. UKSIF calls for mandatory climate risk disclosures and other regulatory enhancements to reestablish the UK's leadership in sustainable finance and attract the necessary private capital for achieving net zero goals.

The European Parliament's recent approval of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) signifies a significant step towards formal adoption by the European Union, aiming to establish a legal framework for corporate responsibility in supply chains. The directive, also known as CS3D, mandates due diligence obligations on companies operating within the EU or with significant business ties there, encompassing environmental and human rights concerns. Despite its initial proposal undergoing substantial dilution during intense negotiations, the final version reflects compromises to accommodate varying interests. Notably, the directive's scope extends beyond direct corporate actions to encompass subsidiaries and supply chain partners, potentially holding both EU-based and non-EU companies liable for sustainability breaches.