What is U Ethical?
U Ethical is Australia’s original ethical fund manager, proudly standing as a not-for-profit powerhouse in the investment advising industry. Since 1985, it has been committed to ethical only investing, blending a clear vision with a bold mission: to give back to investors, the environment, communities, and future generations. This isn’t just about managing funds; it’s about compounding good. The better U Ethical performs in investing, the more positive impact it creates. With a focus on responsible, sustainable, and ESG-driven investment strategies, U Ethical has grown into an award-winning leader managing $1.4 billion in funds for over 3,000 clients.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
U Ethical’s approach isn’t just talk — the numbers speak volumes:
- Over $1.4 billion in funds under management
- Serving more than 3,000 clients who align their capital with their values
- $68 million contributed since 1995 to community initiatives and environmental projects
- B Corporation certified since 2018, with an outstanding B Impact score of 131.0 (way above the 80-point certification threshold)
- Active stewardship through advocacy, engagement, and divestment to hold companies accountable
Investment Approach That Stands Out
U Ethical takes a disciplined, long-term view on investing, understanding that financial markets are cyclical but driven by solid fundamentals. They turn short-term market inefficiencies into opportunities without compromising their ethical standards. By excluding companies that don’t meet strict ethical criteria and integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, they aim to reduce risk and outperform conventional benchmarks. It’s a strategy that balances competitive returns with a commitment to sustainability, social justice, and a fossil fuel free future. Stewardship is key — active advocacy and principled stances ensure investments align with values.
Clients Who Care Deeply
The clients of U Ethical are a diverse group, but they share a common thread: a strong commitment to social and environmental justice. Many are connected to the Uniting Church, which has a broad reach in community services across Australia. This connection amplifies the impact of U Ethical’s community contributions, which support initiatives like mental health programs, meals for those in need, social justice advocacy, and efforts to combat domestic violence. It’s investing with heart — aligning capital with causes that matter to people and society.
Award-Winning Recognition
U Ethical’s dedication to balancing profit and purpose has earned it prestigious recognition. Certified as a B Corporation since 2018, it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Scoring 131.0 on the B Impact assessment — well above the median score of 50.9 for ordinary businesses — U Ethical proves that ethical investing can be both impactful and financially sound. This certification reflects their governance, community engagement, environmental stewardship, and customer focus.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being — supporting mental health and community services
- SDG 5: Gender Equality — addressing domestic violence and social justice
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities — empowering vulnerable communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — fossil fuel free investment strategies
- SDG 13: Climate Action — integrating environmental factors and climate-conscious investing
- SDG 15: Life on Land — supporting projects that protect the planet and biodiversity
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions — promoting social justice and ethical governance
Governance and Reconciliation Commitment
U Ethical operates as an autonomous social enterprise of the Uniting Church, governed by an independent board that sets high standards for transparency and effectiveness. The board includes six to nine directors, supported by committees focused on audit, risk, investment, and people. An ethical advisory panel of independent experts guides thought leadership on environmental and social justice issues. Regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, U Ethical holds an Australian Financial Services Licence. Beyond governance, the fund is deeply committed to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, actively implementing its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan to foster better outcomes and thoughtful investing that respects Indigenous communities.
