Latin America Poised to Benefit from Sustainability Investments Rise
Pilar Frank-O’Leary is a global advisor who creates policy-engagement and business strategies for US-based entities — both foundations and corporations with operations in Latin America and other markets. As President and CEO of PFO Advisory Group for the last 8 years Pilar O’Leary has followed developments regarding international business and investments in Latin America. The region is among the emerging markets expected to benefit from the growing interest in sustainable investments, especially those from Europe and the United States.
O’Leary says sustainability, tech, infrastructure and climate change have become key points of concern in recent years, with new policy initiatives and regulations in place in countries all over the world. In addition to government-led efforts, the number of environment, social, and governance (ESG) funds contributing capital to climate and other green investments experienced a sharp rise over the past year. Financial research conducted by Morningstar found that investments in global sustainability exceeded $178 billion in 2021’s first quarter, compared to last year’s $38 billion. Europe and the United States were responsible for 90 percent of these investments.
According to Foreign Policy, Latin America’s booming renewable energy market makes it a prime target for sustainability investments. The region boasts the world’s highest share of renewable-energy generation and offers promising investment opportunities in revolutionary technologies such as hydrogen. Chile is already undertaking ventures in green hydrogen and has more than 20 pilot projects in the works. Moreover, Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina contain over 75 percent of the earth’s lithium reserves. This mineral is in high demand by investors and global markets for energy transition, including the manufacture of hybrid and electric vehicles.
O’Leary says there is a lot of need and opportunity in Latin America coming out of the Covid-19 pandemic. As an interconnected society in the Americas much remains to be done that benefits both the US and Latin America. The key is to find trusted advisors who can help navigate the landscape. For more information about Pilar Frank O’Leary and PFO Advisory Group visit www.pfoadvisorygroup.com.
