Abstract Tech

The Legacy of Jane Goodall and the Role of Stewardship in Investing

Shelton Capital Management
Shelton Capital Management Contributor

By Dr. Bruce Kahn
Senior Portfolio Manager, Shelton Sustainable Equity Fund (NEXTX)
 

Jane Goodall taught the world how to observe more deeply and act more thoughtfully.  Her recent passing prompted many quick reactions, but I wanted to take a moment to reflect on her life’s work, which will extend far beyond headlines and her role in reshaping the field of primatology. Her legacy has touched millions, and I was lucky enough to call her a friend. She uncovered a broader understanding of how human choices, like investment decisions, impact the natural world. For those of us working at the intersection of sustainability, research, and long-term decision-making, it continues to guide our thinking.

Before managing investment portfolios at  Shelton Capital Management, lecturing at Columbia University or writing thematic research at Deutsche Asset Management, I studied ecological systems and worked in conservation biology. It was during this time that I was first introduced to Jane’s research and later had the chance to meet her through environmental conferences and fieldwork discussions. Her ability to help people connect daily choices to real-world impact left a lasting impression on me— a perspective that mirrors how sustainable investing links today’s capital decisions to tomorrow’s outcomes.

With 99% of Gen Z and 97% of Millennials prioritizing sustainable investments (according to Morgan Stanley), the trend toward values-driven investing is undeniable. As U.S. News recently noted, sustainable investments aren't dead. They're on sale and positioned to deliver long-term value as markets mature and capital flows stabilize.

Understanding how companies operate within environmental, social and governance systems may create a win-win for both investors and society. Just like Goodall’s commitment to action, early investments are about planting seeds that grow and reflect your values—harvesting the rewards of the long-play in sustainable investing.

Jane Goodall once said, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” That statement resonates far beyond the world of wildlife. It is a reminder that our decisions, financial and otherwise, have influence. Over time, they build a legacy.

 


Disclosures

The views and opinions expressed are those of the author as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Shelton Capital Management does not provide legal or tax advice. The Shelton Sustainable Equity Fund is distributed by RFS Partners, a member of FINRA and affiliate of Shelton Capital Management.

Important Fund Information

Investors should consider a fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the fund. To obtain a prospectus, CLICK HERE or call (800) 955-9988. A prospectus should be read carefully before investing.

It is possible to lose money by investing in a fund. Past performance does not guarantee future results and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted.  

Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against loss.

Distributed by RFS Partners, a member of FINRA and affiliate of Shelton Capital Management INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED, BANK GUARANTEED AND MAY LOSE VALUE.

The portfolio’s environmental focus may limit investment options available to the Fund and may result in lower returns than returns of funds not subject to such investment considerations. There are no assurances that the Fund will achieve its objective and or strategy. Investing in securities of small and medium sized companies, even indirectly, may involve greater volatility than investment in larger and more established companies.

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