Episode 122: Climate and Energy Transition in Emerging Markets with Matt Christ, PM at Ninety One

In today’s episode, host Stewart Foley welcomes Matt Christ, Managing Principal and Head of the Transition Debt Strategy at Ninety One, to discuss climate and energy transition in emerging markets. Matt explores how Ninety One’s approach is driving real-world decarbonization by actively engaging with heavy-emitting sectors, including power, industry, and transportation, instead of simply divesting from these high-emission assets. He also delves into Ninety One’s unique use of both public and private credit to create impact and enhance returns, while addressing concerns around greenwashing and transition washing with rigorous, science-based carbon impact assessments.

Matt also shares insights on how geopolitical tensions and the demand for energy security are spurring opportunities in renewable energy sources, including solar and green hydrogen, particularly in markets like India. He wraps up with his thoughts on the importance of climate investing today, even with imperfect data, encouraging investors to prioritize near-term progress over waiting for perfect metrics.