Free ESG-Investing Exam Braindumps (page: 21)

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low risk exposure to this factor in the short run

  1. With reference to data security and customer privacy issues a technology company in the research and development stage with no commercially marketed products is most likely to have:
  2. medium risk exposure to this factor in the short run.
  3. high risk exposure to this factor in the short run.

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

With reference to data security and customer privacy issues, a technology company in the research and development stage with no commercially marketed products is most likely to have low risk exposure to this factor in the short run.

Limited Customer Data: Since the company is still in the R&D stage and has no commercially marketed products, it is less likely to handle significant amounts of customer data, reducing the immediate risk of data security and privacy issues.

Focus on Development: The primary focus during the R&D stage is on product development and innovation rather than on managing and protecting customer data. This stage involves less exposure to operational risks associated with data breaches or privacy violations.

Short-term Horizon: In the short run, the company's activities are centered on creating and testing new technologies.
While data security and privacy will become critical as the company moves towards commercialization, the immediate risk exposure is relatively low.


Reference:

MSCI ESG Ratings Methodology (2022) - Discusses the varying risk exposures to data security and privacy issues based on a company's stage of development.

ESG-Ratings-Methodology-Exec-Summary (2022) - Highlights the lower risk exposure of companies in early development stages regarding customer data security and privacy



Which of the following statements regarding ESG screening is most accurate?

  1. There is limited availability of sustainability ratings for collective funds
  2. ESG screening does not consider stewardship and engagement activities
  3. Only collective funds with a high level of ESG integration have a high sustainability rating

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

The most accurate statement regarding ESG screening is that there is limited availability of sustainability ratings for collective funds.
While individual companies often have detailed ESG ratings, collective funds, such as mutual funds and ETFs, have fewer sustainability ratings available.

ESG Data Challenges: The assessment of collective funds requires aggregating ESG data from all underlying holdings. This process can be complex and is less standardized compared to evaluating individual companies.

Limited Coverage: Many ESG rating agencies focus primarily on providing ratings for individual securities rather than collective funds. As a result, the availability of comprehensive ESG ratings for collective funds is limited.

Investor Demand: Although there is growing demand for ESG information on collective funds, the market is still developing. Rating agencies are gradually expanding their coverage, but it remains less extensive compared to individual securities.


Reference:

MSCI ESG Ratings Methodology (2022) - Highlights the challenges and limitations in providing ESG ratings for collective funds compared to individual securities.

ESG-Ratings-Methodology-Exec-Summary (2022) - Discusses the current state of ESG ratings availability for collective funds and the evolving market demand.



The role of auditors is to assess the financial reports prepared by management and to provide assurance that:

  1. the numbers are correct
  2. there is no fraud within the business.
  3. the reports fairly represent the performance and position of the business

Answer(s): C

Explanation:

The role of auditors is to assess the financial reports prepared by management and to provide assurance that the reports fairly represent the performance and position of the business. Auditors do not guarantee that the numbers are correct or that there is no fraud; rather, they provide an opinion on the overall fairness and accuracy of the financial statements.

Audit Opinion: Auditors provide an independent opinion on whether the financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework.

Reasonable Assurance: Auditors aim to obtain reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. This involves evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies and the reasonableness of significant estimates made by management.

Stakeholder Confidence: By providing assurance on the fairness of financial reports, auditors enhance the confidence of stakeholders, including investors, creditors, and regulators, in the financial information provided by the company.


Reference:

MSCI ESG Ratings Methodology (2022) - Discusses the role of auditors in providing assurance on financial statements and enhancing stakeholder trust.

ESG-Ratings-Methodology-Exec-Summary (2022) - Highlights the importance of auditors in ensuring the fair representation of a company's financial performance and position.



Regarding ESG issues, which of the following sets the tone for the investment value chain?

  1. Asset owners
  2. Asset managers
  3. Investment consultants

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

Regarding ESG issues, asset owners set the tone for the investment value chain. Asset owners, such as pension funds, endowments, and insurance companies, have significant influence over the incorporation of ESG factors in investment strategies due to their large capital allocations and long- term investment horizons.

Investment Mandates: Asset owners often set ESG-related mandates and guidelines for asset managers, influencing how ESG factors are integrated into investment decisions. Their requirements shape the strategies and practices of the entire investment value chain.

Demand for ESG Integration: By prioritizing ESG considerations, asset owners drive demand for sustainable investment products and services. This, in turn, encourages asset managers and investment consultants to develop and offer ESG-integrated solutions.

Leadership Role: Asset owners play a leadership role in promoting sustainable investing practices.

Their commitment to ESG issues can lead to broader adoption and standardization of ESG integration across the investment industry.


Reference:

MSCI ESG Ratings Methodology (2022) - Highlights the critical role of asset owners in setting ESG priorities and influencing the investment value chain.

ESG-Ratings-Methodology-Exec-Summary (2022) - Discusses the impact of asset owners' ESG mandates on the practices of asset managers and the broader investment ecosystem






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