Isabelle Delas, Chief Executive Officer, LuxFLAG;
The 6th edition of the LuxFLAG Sustainable Investment Week 2024 (LSIW24) is scheduled for two afternoons on 22-23 October 2024, at the Centre Culturel Schéiss, Luxembourg-Val-Ste-Croix.
LuxFLAG is the Luxembourg Finance Labelling Agency; it aims to promote the raising of capital for the Responsible Investment sector by awarding a recognisable label to eligible investment vehicles, amongst others. The labels’ objective is to reassure investors that the applicant invests in the Responsible Investment sector.
LSIW24 addresses for sustainable finance initiatives, featuring associate members and committed to promoting and showcasing tangible contributions to sustainable finance. The event aims to enrich the discourse within Luxembourg’s sustainable investment community and beyond.
In advance of this year's event, Chronicle.lu reached out to LuxFLAG and talked with its CEO, Isabelle Delas.
Chronicle.lu: Reflecting on last year's 5th event (LSIW23), how did this go in respect of being the first edition post-COVID to be held 100% in-person?
Isabelle Delas: Last year’s LSIW23 marked an exciting return to a fully in-person format after the pandemic, and it was a resounding success. There was a tangible sense of enthusiasm and engagement from participants, who valued the opportunity to reconnect and network face-to-face. The energy in the sessions and networking areas was a clear indication of the appetite for in-person events, especially in the sustainable finance space, where discussions benefit from direct interaction and collaboration. The event's return to this format enabled us to foster deeper dialogue and valuable exchanges that are simply not possible in virtual settings.
Chronicle.lu: How are you able to build on previous editions? Is the format the exact same, or do you use a core model and evolve/adapt each year?
Isabelle Delas: We follow a core model that emphasizes expert panel discussions, interactive sessions, and networking, but we adapt and evolve each year based on participant feedback and emerging trends in sustainable finance. This year's LSIW24, for instance, new topics that reflect the latest developments and challenges, ensuring the event remains relevant and impactful. We also integrate learnings from previous editions to refine our approach, whether it’s enhancing session formats, introducing new content, or improving the overall attendee experience. For example, this year we have condensed the event from three afternoons to two, based on feedback and considering everyone’s busy schedules and the numerous events taking place in October.
Chronicle.lu: For someone relatively new to Luxembourg and interested in LuxFLAG and its activities, why should they consider attending LSIW24? What can they expect to take away?
Isabelle Delas: For newcomers to Luxembourg and the sustainable finance community, LSIW24 offers a unique platform to understand the latest sustainability developments and connect with leaders in that field. Attendees can expect to gain insights from financial industry experts, discover innovative approaches to sustainable investments and learn about practical strategies to integrate Impact and/or ESG characteristics into business practices. The event provides networking opportunities to meet key players from across the financial sector, including investors, asset managers, and policymakers, making it an ideal place to build relationships and stay informed on the latest trends shaping sustainable finance. Additionally, it's a great opportunity to meet the LuxFLAG team and learn more about our three activity pillars, as well as the benefits of obtaining a label or becoming an Associate Member through an initial exchange.
Chronicle.lu: Do you have any new LuxFLAG Associate Members participating this year for the first time?
Isabelle Delas: Yes, we are excited to welcome Kneip and Eurizon. While Kneip has been a long-standing member since 2018, this is their first time appearing on the LSIW agenda. Eurizon, on the other hand, recently joined the LuxFLAG Associate Membership program in Q3 2023 and is participating in LSIW24 for the first time. The involvement of both companies brings fresh perspectives and broadens the range of expertise shared at the event, enhancing discussions with new ideas and approaches that are crucial as the sustainable finance landscape continues to evolve. Additionally, we are pleased to feature a guest speech from the recently created Luxembourg Impact Investing Association (LIIA), a group of young professionals dedicated to promoting impact investing, who will introduce their purpose, aims and ongoing initiatives.
Chronicle.lu: What are some of the main/broad topics related to sustainable finance to be addressed this year that could be considered to be most relevant today?
Isabelle Delas: This year's LSIW24 agenda tackles some of the most critical and timely topics in sustainable finance. Key themes include Net Zero and Climate Action, the Paris Agreement and global alignment, and the evolving regulatory landscape of Sustainable Finance and ESG. We will also hear more about the Social and Governance dimensions of sustainability, economic implications and risks, and innovations in the sector. Each session aims to equip participants with actionable insights and practical strategies to navigate these complex issues.
Chronicle.lu: Looking ahead, what do you hope attendees will do / achieve following LSIW24 and be able to bring to next year's LSIW25?
Isabelle Delas: Following LSIW24, we hope that attendees will take the insights and connections they gain and apply them within their organizations to drive meaningful progress in sustainable finance. Whether it is by implementing new strategies, fostering partnerships, or influencing policy, we aim for the event to be a catalyst for tangible actions that advance the sustainable finance’s journey. As we look forward to LSIW25, we anticipate welcoming back participants who have not only put these ideas into practice but are also ready to share their experiences and lessons learned, further enriching the discussions.
For details on the LuxFLAG Sustainable Investment Week 2024 (LSIW24), see https://luxflag.org/lsiw24-registration-is-now-open/
