Ana is working with Professor Jonathan Michie on a three-year research project in Kellogg’s Centre for Mutual & Co-owned Business. The project is researching the potential of Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) and other forms of state capital to direct investments towards cooperative models, employee-owned businesses, and social enterprises, which tend to be aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and objectives for achieving net zero emissions.
Central to this is an exploration of the ‘Environmental & Social’ aspects within the broader Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework. Relevant SDGs include Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16).
The project is researching the potential for a shift in global investment strategies to champion a long-term, patient capital investment approach. Such a strategy promises not only financial sustainability for future generations but also contributes significantly to an equitable and environmentally sustainable future. This research calls for a global political effort centred around informed decision-making and education, positioning SWFs as pivotal players in the drive towards sustainable development and climate action.
In October 2023 Ana has received the ICON Award presented by the US Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute (SWFI) for her research on SWFs/State Capital impact investment and work on sustainability in Environmental, Social and Governance, and Sustainable Development Goals (S in ESG/SDGs).