Newly released FaithInvest report challenges the FCI 'performance penalty myth'

FaithInvest has released a new report: Faith-Consistent Investing: Challenging the Performance Penalty Myth.

This paper examines the significant dilemma faced by faith organisations: while they recognise the moral imperative to align their investments with their beliefs, many hesitate to fully embrace faith-consistent investing (FCI) due to concerns about sacrificing financial returns.

This perceived trade-off between values and performance has created a significant disconnect between institutional missions and investment practices across the faith community. This paper discusses how the alignment of financial investments with religious values can produce competitive returns while promoting positive societal and environmental outcomes.

Drawing on the perspectives of investment professionals at FaithInvest with extensive experience in faith-based and asset management organisations, the paper challenges the common misconception that investing according to faith principles, or values principles more broadly, necessarily results in diminished financial performance. 

Instead, it argues that FCI – when thoughtfully implemented – can lead to improved investment outcomes. As Dave Zellner, Executive Chair of FaithInvest and former Chief Investment Officer at Wespath Benefits and Investments asserts in the report:

‘By taking a holistic, long-term view that considers systemic risks and opportunities, FCI can not only align with investors' values but also potentially enhance long-term financial performance.

You can download the report by clicking below. We hope you enjoy the report and find it helpful for your faith-consistent investing journey!

Download Report