A paradigm shift is underway that is radically changing how investment risk is understood and analyzed. It is imperative that, within that shift, inequality and the social issues that contribute to it are seen and valued as systemic risks. Criterion is working on a globally recognized investment methodology that does just that.
The Goal: Investors assign value in their investments today through a methodology that recognizes a future where social change organizations have achieved social justice and gender equality.
Investing based on Environmental Social Governance (ESG) indicators has gained unprecedented traction, yet the “S” in ESG remains ambiguous, thus difficult for investors to measure and impact.
A methodology for valuing the future of equality will define and analyze social issues as they relate to investments. Such a methodology will make it possible for investors to place bets on a more just and more equitable future, while making it risky to not solve the challenges of today that would keep us from achieving that future.
There is a general assumption that the inequities and injustices facing us today are intractable. This is part of the problem and cedes too much power to those defending the status quo. We need to envision a future that truly does work for all and design investment strategies that will help us achieve it. Criterion’s methodology will analyze a future in which the arc of history truly does bend toward justice.
Investors’ goals are reflected in a portfolio that is composed of a diversified set of asset classes. In order to build their portfolio, asset holders invest in financial products.
Finance has its own business model. A set of processes define how finance works and those processes have costs. Those processes are paid for by a set of revenue sources based on the functional role(s) played.
Intermediaries are institutions with a particular legal form that use instruments or vehicles to move capital. The instrument is defined by the terms written out in documents.
Our work depends on an ever-expanding community of team members, advisors, donors, and other partners who help us demonstrate our theory of change and ultimately achieve our mission. Learn more about how you can become more engaged in our work.
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