Episode 27
Georg Kell
Cyclical Versus Enduring Trends

This month on the Future in Sound podcast we speak to world renowned thought leader on corporate responsibility and sustainability, Georg Kell. Chairman of Arabesque Group, a technology company that uses AI and big data to assess sustainability performance relevant for investment analysis and decision making, Georg also advises business executives worldwide on sustainability and transformation issues. He was also the founding Director of the United Nations Global Compact, the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative. Drawing on his extensive experience, and almost three decades at the United Nations, Georg discusses the origins and lasting impact of the UN Global Compact, the importance of understanding both cyclical and enduring trends in shaping investment decisions, and the pivotal role of technology, particularly AI, in driving impactful change within businesses and investment strategies.

Embrace Bold Commitments

Georg stresses the power of making courageous commitments towards sustainability. While achieving perfection may not always be feasible, committing to impactful change can drive significant progress within businesses and investment strategies.

Identify Cyclical Versus Enduring Trends

It's crucial for leaders to discern between short-term market fluctuations and long-term, irreversible shifts. By understanding both cyclical patterns influenced by politics and enduring trends like technological advancements and environmental challenges, business leaders can make more informed decisions for lasting impact.

Leverage Advanced Technology

Technology, particularly AI will have a transformative role in enhancing ESG analytics and risk assessment. By harnessing the power of these advanced analytics tools, businesses can more effectively analyse sustainability data and align their investment strategies with the evolving landscape of sustainable finance.