Schroders has launched a listed global equity impact fund in response to what it calls growing demand from clients for public equity-focused impact strategies.

The Schroder International Selection Fund (Schroder ISF) Global Equity Impact is the latest addition to Schroders’ impact-driven fund range.

It builds on the expertise of impact specialist BlueOrchard, part of the Schroders Group, the firm said. Schroders' impact investment framework was built in collaboration with BlueOrchard last year.

The fund will target companies whose products, services and operations are focused on “solving societal and environmental challenges” likely to be faced by individuals and industries in the coming decades.

The fund draws on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and will invest in companies across all sectors addressing key themes such as health and wellness, financial inclusion, sustainable infrastructure, and responsible consumption and production.

The Luxembourg-domiciled fund will have the dual outcome of generating a positive impact on society and long-term returns for investors.

The Schroder ISF Global Equity Impact is a collaboration between Schroders’ US Small and Mid-Cap team and European Equity specialist team and will be jointly managed by Joanna Wald and Paul Griffin.

Schroders is a global investment management firm with £726.1bn in assets under management. It was established in 1804 and the founding family remain a core shareholder, holding approximately 44% of Schroders’ shares.