TORONTO, January 26, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

Incorporates ESG issues into portfolio management and investment processes 

AGF Investments Inc. (AGF) today announced it has become a signatory to the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) in recognition of the increasing relevance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues within the investment process.

The PRI Initiative is a global network of investors working together to put the six principles for responsible investment into practice. Its goal is to understand the implications of sustainability for investors and support signatories to incorporate these issues into both their investment decision-making and ownership practices. In implementing the principles, signatories contribute to the development of a more sustainable global financial system.

"As one of the pioneers in the development of sustainable investing, we are pleased to join this international network and integrate ESG issues into our investment analysis and stewardship practices across the firm," said Kevin McCreadie, President and Chief Investment Officer, AGF Investments Inc. "This reinforces our commitment to responsible investing and offers our clients a more sustainable approach."

When applying the PRI's six principles of responsible investment, all the AGF strategies consider ESG factors in their portfolio management and investment decision-making processes to inform asset allocation, stock selection, portfolio construction, shareholder engagement and voting.

"We are delighted to welcome AGF as a signatory to the PRI," said Fiona Reynolds, PRI managing director. "Their long-standing commitment to responsible investing, combined with a wealth of experience in looking at sustainability issues, will benefit our other members across North America."

To learn more about Responsible Investment at AGF, visit: AGF.com/ResponsibleInvestment

About AGF Management Limited  

AGF Management Limited is one of Canada's premier independent investment management firms with offices across Canada and subsidiaries around the world. AGF's products include a diversified family of mutual funds, mutual fund wrap programs and pooled funds. AGF also manages assets on behalf of institutional investors including pension plans, foundations and endowments as well as for private clients. With approximately $33 billion in total assets under management, AGF serves more than one million investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

Media Contact: Pamela Marchant, Vice-President, Marketing & Communications, +1-416-815-6205, pamela.marchant@agf.com

SOURCE AGF