The Responsible Investment Association’s 2025 RI Trends Report highlights how investor demand for ESG and impact now ranks among the top drivers of responsible investment (RI) growth.
Nearly all respondents to this year’s survey (96%) report integrating ESG factors across their investment practices, with many applying it to their entire assets under management. The increased focus on non-standard assets and alternatives puts the onus on asset managers, wealth advisors and custodians to reinvent how they work with and advise their clients.
Investor demand is the second-highest driver for responsible investment growth (43%), with 29% saying that younger investors are pushing for more responsible investment choices. The next generation of investors is increasingly prioritizing sustainable and impactful investment choices. What’s more, this shift is being accelerated by the wealth transfer to younger generations, which will continue to drive the industry toward greater consistency in reporting and stronger alignment with long-term values.
The bottom line is that ESG and impact investing are no longer optional; they are core components of modern portfolios. And while they may not be growing as quickly as in years past, with expectations of RI growth to moderate over the next few years, they continue to be integral to modern investment practices.
Explore the report and connect with us to continue the conversation.
“This report provides a valuable perspective on how investor demand, evolving expectations and demographic shifts are continuing to shape the future of responsible investing. Our role is to provide the data and insights that help asset managers and other investment professionals interpret these shifts and respond with confidence.”
Christine Knott
Head, Data, Digital & Client Solutions
RBC Investor Services