This report is part of the latest Baker Tilly International study: Global dealmakers series 2021.
The tide is turning for investments considered purely on financial terms, with new research from Baker Tilly and Acuris confirming the rising importance of ESG to dealmakers.
When it comes to the ability of a business to live up to its values, there’s nothing like a crisis to sharpen the mind.
It explains why the treatment of employees, behaviour within the community — even outward demonstrations of support for public health and science — have become pressure points for business over the past year.
Between the pandemic, lockdowns and furloughs, the urgent focus on climate change, and a mood of social upheaval and protest around the globe, businesses have been expected to live up to the PR spin of being good corporate citizens.
"Companies should expect a swift and damaging response by consumers if they act in a way that does not reflect appropriate social values. Poor corporate behavior, even a single misstep, can prompt a wave of negative social media reaction that leads to loss of reputation and — frequently — a more tangible impact on the bottom line."
