We use a combination of exclusive and inclusive filters, primarily in the equity portion of the portfolio, which allow us to avoid controversial categories and simultaneously seek out companies more proactively managing ESG issues. And given our use of individual stocks, it can offer greater tax efficiency and opportunities for customization than off-the-shelf mutual funds and ETFs.
Socially Responsible Personal Strategies include the benefits of our Personal Strategy® approach, including optimal asset class mixes that aim to maximize return and reduce risk, our Smart Weighting™ methodology within U.S. equities, tax management and disciplined rebalancing.
The incorporation of ESG metrics primarily applies to the U.S. and International Equity asset classes within the portfolio.1