LuxFLAG CEO Discusses Return of In-Person Sustainable Investment Week

The fifth edition of the LuxFLAG Sustainable Investment Week (#LSIW23) will take place at the Centre Culturel Schéiss (142 Val Sainte-Croix) in Luxembourg-Belair from Tuesday 17 to Thursday 19 October 2023.

#LSIW23 comprises a series of stand-alone sessions, each delving into diverse facets of sustainable finance. Admission is free but registration is mandatory.

Chronicle.lu had the opportunity to learn more about this upcoming edition in an interview with Isabelle Delas, CEO of LuxFLAG.

Chronicle.lu: LSIW is now in its fifth edition and this marks the first edition post-COVID-19 to be held 100% in-person. What led to the decision to revert to a physical (rather than hybrid) event?

Isabelle Delas: Whilst the fourth edition was still hybrid, this year's LSIW23 is indeed the first edition post-COVID-19 that is being held 100% in-person. As the world gradually recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, LuxFLAG as the event organiser of LSIW certainly considered the current state of the pandemic, vaccination rates and public health guidelines. As all these conditions allowed holding a physical event, we have seen the opportunity to bring back the full experience of LSIW, given the nature of the event traditionally thrived on fostering meaningful connections, networking and collaboration among attendees. Furthermore, we could see a strong desire among participants to return to an in-person format after feedback received from the past editions. 

Chronicle.lu: Are there any other big changes attendees can expect this edition? Any newly participating LuxFLAG Associate Members, for example?

Isabelle Delas: In this year's edition, attendees can anticipate several changes. The foremost alteration lies in the event's format, which has been restructured to span three consecutive afternoons, each dedicated to distinct thematic categories. We are privileged to host distinguished guest speakers in this year's edition. Pierre Gramegna, the Managing Director of the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and CEO of the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), as well as the former Minister of Finance of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, will inaugurate the event. In a fitting finale, we are honoured to welcome Claude Marx, Director General of the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Notably, this edition also boasts the presence of UN PRI [Principles for Responsible Investment] as a guest speaker. Sofía del Valle Trivelli, Engagement Lead, Social Transformation at World Benchmarking Alliance, will share her expertise on "Human Rights in Responsible Investment" on behalf of the UN PRI.

As a key component of LSIW, the individual sessions presented by our valued Associate Members are sure to captivate the audience. This year, we are pleased to introduce two new presenting partners among our Associate Members, CMS de Backer, who has been a LuxFLAG Associate Member since Q3 2022, and Cardif Lux Vie, who became a member in Q2 2023.

Chronicle.lu: What are some of the main topics related to sustainable finance to be addressed this year? We understand that it is primarily up to LuxFLAG Associate Members to choose the topics but which broader topics seem to be most relevant today?

Isabelle Delas: #LSIW23 is indeed featured by our LuxFLAG Associate Members who showcase their commitment and concrete actions in sustainable finance by sharing their insights with the sustainable investment community in and outside of Luxembourg. On the inaugural day, and partly extending into day three due to overwhelming demand, our programme encompasses topics related to sustainable finance, including but not limited to environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations, environmental concerns, climate finance, sustainable finance practices, etc. Day two is principally focused on discussions centred around data, artificial intelligence (AI) [and] insurance within the context of sustainable finance. Additionally, day three delves into the regulatory aspects of sustainable finance as well as into the topic of human rights considerations.

Chronicle.lu: Luxembourg recently published its third and final report on its inaugural sustainable sovereign bond - has the sector seen an increased interest in such bonds (or green bonds more generally)?

Isabelle Delas: In recent years, sustainable finance has indeed seen an increased appetite for such bonds, as well as green bonds. In a nutshell, this sector has experienced a noticeable surge in interest as governments, investors and regulatory bodies align their efforts with sustainability goals. This increased focus on sustainability is expected to continue shaping the bond market, making sustainable sovereign bonds and green bonds increasingly relevant and attractive options for issuers and investors alike.

Chronicle.lu: What do you hope attendees will gain/learn from #LSIW23?

Isabelle Delas: #LSIW23 is a testament to our dedication in driving sustainable finance forward and creating a platform for dialogue, collaboration and innovation. Our foremost objective is not only to inspire attendees but also to provide them with enriching and enlightening experience that equips them with valuable knowledge and perspectives by showcasing innovative approaches in the field of sustainable finance and providing practical guidance on how to integrate sustainability into their investment decisions, manage risk and maximise opportunities for positive impact. Through engaging presentations, case studies and discussions, we hope to ignite creativity and motivate attendees to explore unconventional avenues when tackling sustainability challenges.

Furthermore, we shouldn't forget to mention one of the most significant benefits of attending #LSIW23: the opportunity to network and connect with fellow professionals, experts and thought leaders. This opportunity extends not only throughout the event but also culminates during the networking cocktail, generously sponsored by PwC Luxembourg on Day 3 of #LSIW23. This celebratory occasion underscores our shared commitment to shaping a resilient world, providing a space to unwind, engage in meaningful conversations and reflect upon the wealth of insights gathered throughout the event.