Deciphering Impact Investing: Aligning Profit with Purpose
Impact investing has surged in popularity as investors seek not only financial returns but also measurable social or environmental benefits. Unlike traditional philanthropy, which emphasizes grants without expecting repayment, impact investing channels capital into enterprises that generate both profit and positive change. This dual focus demands rigorous evaluation of social outcomes alongside financial performance. Understanding the nuances of impact investing helps align capital with values and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth. Defining Impact Investing Impact investing refers to deploying capital into companies, organizations or funds that aim to address societal challenges—such as affordable housing, clean energy or healthcare access—while delivering market-rate or near-market financial returns. This approach differs from environmental, social and governance (ESG) integration, which screens for responsible practices but does not explicitly measure outcomes. Impact inves...