In an IPO process ESG plays an increasing important role. This is certainly the case from a communications’ perspective as we have explored in this paper. However, during an IPO there are various parties involved – lawyers, bankers, investors, the issuer itself and after the IPO rating agencies come in and take a closer look at the company’s ESG strategy.
In our comprehensive video series, we talked to experts form the various sides involved in an IPO to understand how they see the relevance of ESG for a successful listing.
The corporate view
TeamViewer went public around three years ago and a lot has changed since then with regards to ESG. But with a business model already contributing to sustainability efforts, as TeamViewer is enabling companies to limit their carbon footprint, they always had ESG at the core of their company. Now, TeamViewer also has initiated a dedicated sustainability program called “c-a-r-e” that emphasizes the connection between business model, product promises and corporate culture and builds on TeamViewer’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals framework of the United Nations.
Alexander Gührer, CCO & Director Corporate Development at TeamViewer
The banker's view
ESG is central in all investor dialogues as Environment, Social and Governance are becoming increasingly and equally important. Learn more about his advice for IPO candidates and how companies can convince a banker of their ESG strategy.
Thorsten Pauli, Head of equity capital markets DACH, Bank of America Business
The investor's view
ESG becomes increasingly relevant when making investment decisions. And this is not only to reduce sustainability risks, but also, because investors want to finance the transition to a more sustainable future.
Antje Stobbe, Head of Stewardship at Allianz Global Investors
The legal view
As ESG is becoming a value driver during the IPO process, the number of legal and regulatory aspects is growing. ESG is already legally obligated for companies that pursue a listing, but what requirements are expected after the IPO?
Stephan Pachinger and Sabrina Kulenkamp, Partners at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
The communicator’s view
Investors increasingly demand for measurable ESG factors, the number of rules and regulation increases, and IPO candidates need to communicate their commitment clearly. The challenge: How can companies implement ESG into IPO communications in a convincing way?
The rating agency view
From a rating agency’s perspective, Viola Lutz, Head of ISS ESG Climate Solutions, provided insights on how they work and what is important for companies when dealing with rating agencies.
CONTACT
Simon Steiner
Finsbury Glover Hering