Global Financing Needs for the Blue Economy Increase Amid Growing Interest
The Blue Economy & Finance Forum highlights the rising potential for diversified investments in marine preservation and sustainable coastal activities.
An estimated annual investment of €170 billion is required globally to support the financing of the Blue Economy, a term that encompasses funds allocated to projects aimed at preserving seas and oceans while promoting sustainable and responsible activities.
These activities include marine biotechnology, maritime transport, and coastal tourism.
The topic will be at the forefront of discussions during the Blue Economy & Finance Forum (BEFF) scheduled to commence on Saturday in Monaco.
This event will facilitate exchanges among international decision-makers and project proponents committed to advancing the Blue Economy.
Traditionally reliant on institutions for funding, opportunities for personal contributions to the Blue Economy are increasingly accessible.
Mathieu Ferragut, the General Director of CFM Indosuez Wealth Management, noted an uptick in interest from clients over the past five years.
CFM Indosuez, in partnership with its parent company Indosuez and the investment bank Crédit Agricole, is advocating for greater engagement in the Blue Economy among local institutions.
Ferragut emphasized that there is a heightened awareness among clients in Monaco due to its proximity to the sea and the Sovereign's commitments to marine initiatives.
Despite the Blue Economy representing a small percentage of sustainable development themes in France, Ferragut indicated that it resonates strongly within the Monegasque ecosystem.
The bank has pursued partnerships with local organizations, such as the Monaco Scientific Centre and the Oceanographic Institute, to identify and support local stakeholders in their initiatives.
Investment tendencies reveal a divide among potential investors; approximately 30% of clients are not responsive to Blue Economy opportunities, while 10% exhibit a strong commitment to integrating sustainability into their financial management.
The remaining 60% show interest but lack familiarity with the relevant themes or the means to engage.
CFM Indosuez is actively developing investment solutions that allow clients to invest in financial products while allocating a portion of the generated returns to support Blue Economy stakeholders.
This includes the establishment of mutual funds that directly invest in companies related to the Blue Economy.
The firm is also gauging investor appetite for both direct and indirect support of these initiatives.
Investment in the Blue Economy appears to be becoming more democratized, with accessible options for various client segments regardless of wealth level.
Ferragut pointed out that younger generations are increasingly aware of the need to act, which is reflected in their investment methodologies.
He underscored the essential role of positioning the Blue Economy more prominently in sustainable finance discussions, balancing virtue with profitability, although assessing whether the Blue Economy will prove more virtuous than the traditional economy remains complex.