Since the first Green Bond was issued by the World Bank in 2008, the market has grown rapidly. Today it also encompasses Social and Sustainability Bonds.

Swedbank is an active participant and leading bank in the Nordic capital markets. As such we are dedicated to support the continued development and growth of the Green, Social and Sustainability Bond markets. We provide advice, expertise and support for both issuers and investors.

Similar to conventional bonds, Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds are debt instruments issued to raise capital. However, in contrast to conventional bonds, the capital raised is used to fund assets and projects that have a positive environmental and/or social impact.

In order for bonds to be classified as Green, Social, and/or Sustainability bonds, the intended investments must meet certain criteria. These criteria are set out in the Green Bond Principles, Social Bond Principles and Sustainability Bond Guidelines, established by the International Capital Market Association. These Principles are the leading global guidelines for issuance of Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds.

For issuers such as corporates, banks and municipalities, Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds provide the opportunity to raise funds while adding value by attracting new investors and diversifying the investor base. Issuance of these types of bonds creates more transparent communication, leading to an improved perception of the issuer in the sustainability area. Becoming an issuer of Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds is a strategic decision and involves a long-term commitment by the issuer.

Swedbank’s Sustainable Capital Markets team combines expertise in the credit and capital markets with in-depth knowledge of sustainability. We are fully committed to offering you guidance and support throughout the entire process of setting up a framework, receiving a second opinion, the following bond issuance and the reporting. Swedbank cooperates with a number of external parties, including second opinion providers for Green, Social and Sustainability Bond Frameworks as well as ESG rating agencies.

If you would like more information about Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds, please contact us.