FIA EPTA welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Consultation Paper developed by the ESG Data and Ratings Working Group (DRWG). In addition, FIA EPTA members welcome the actions and responsibilities taken by the UK Government, HMT and the FCA who established the DRWG in 2022. FIA EPTA members believe that regulation of ESG rating providers is important and needed to build trust in ESG data and products and help (end)investors make meaningful investment decisions.
FIA EPTA members agree with the six principles as set out by the DRWG in the consultation paper and believe this is a good place to start with creating more transparency in the ESG rating market. That being said, FIA EPTA members believe the Code of Conduct should only be developed for the short term and should not intervene or delay the development of a regulatory framework for ESG ratings and data product providers.
