Credit-rating agencies are most likely classified as “nontraditional" ESG data and research providers.
1. Traditional vs. Nontraditional Providers: Traditional ESG data and research providers typically focus exclusively on ESG factors, offering detailed analyses and ratings based on environmental, social, and governance criteria. Examples include MSCI, Sustainalytics, and ISS ESG.
2. Role of Credit-Rating Agencies: Credit-rating agencies like Moody's, S&P, and Fitch primarily provide credit ratings based on financial risk and creditworthiness. However, they have increasingly incorporated ESG factors into their credit rating processes, offering insights into how ESG issues might impact credit risk.
3. Nontraditional ESG Providers: Credit-rating agencies are considered nontraditional ESG data providers because their primary focus remains on credit risk, but they are integrating ESG factors into their existing frameworks rather than providing standalone ESG ratings.
References from CFA ESG Investing:
Integration of ESG Factors: The CFA Institute discusses the evolving role of credit-rating agencies in incorporating ESG factors into their credit assessments, positioning them as nontraditional ESG data and research providers.
Market Adaptation: Understanding the differentiation between traditional and nontraditional ESG data providers helps investors navigate the landscape of ESG information sources.
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