Introduction

Gender lens investing has traditionally focused on use-of-proceeds instruments such as social and sustainability bonds that earmark a portion of proceeds for gender-focused initiatives. These predominantly corporate-issued instruments, though still a small share of the overall market, have grown steadily in recent years - from roughly USD 5 billion outstanding in 2020 to nearly USD 15 billion by the end of 2023. They play a critical role in catalyzing awareness, innovation, and market credibility, with built-in accountability and transparency mechanisms that remain central to advancing gender-lens investing.

Author

Luda SVYSTUNOVA
Senior ESG Analyst, Social Themes Lead, Amundi
Deena Burjorjee
CEO and Founder, Access Alliance Inc.
Lynee-Bradley
Senior Consultant
Esther Law
Portfolio Manager Emerging Market Debt, Amundi
Natasha SMIRNOVA
Investment Specialist, Emerging Markets, Amundi