At Ifamax, our investment approach is built around evidence-based factors that have historically supported long-term returns. We do not try to second-guess markets or chase short-term trends.
Instead, investments are part of a wider financial plan. They matter, but they are not the starting point.
Alongside this evidence-based approach, we apply ESG oversight. We believe companies that manage environmental, social and governance risks well are more likely to be resilient, adaptable and better positioned to deliver sustainable long-term outcomes for investors.
Importantly, our ESG approach is not exclusionary by default. It is designed to assess quality, behaviour and governance, not to apply blanket bans.
What Is ESG and Why Does It Matter?
ESG is a framework used to assess how companies operate beyond pure financial metrics:
Environmental – How a company manages environmental impact, emissions, energy use and resources
Social – How it treats employees, customers, suppliers and wider communities
Governance – How the business is run, including leadership, accountability, transparency and ethics
For investors, ESG is not about ideology. It is a practical risk and opportunity lens that helps to:
Identify governance failures, environmental liabilities or reputational risks earlier
Support long-term growth by favouring resilient, well-managed businesses
Reduce the likelihood of avoidable shocks and regulatory surprises
Align investments with personal values, where appropriate
Is ESG the Same as Sustainable or Ethical Investing?
No, and this is where confusion often arises.
Our approach uses ESG as an overlay, not as a strict sustainability screen.
In plain language, that means:
Companies are assessed and scored on ESG factors
Funds may still invest in sectors such as fossil fuels, where companies demonstrate strong governance, safety, transition planning and engagement
The focus is on good practice, improvement and accountability, not simple exclusion
Some funds we use may apply exclusions, but Ifamax does not operate a blanket exclusionary strategy.
We believe that engagement and transition support can often deliver stronger long-term outcomes than avoidance alone.
How Ifamax Builds ESG Into Your Portfolio
Our Investment Committee incorporates ESG oversight across the majority of client portfolios.
Where ESG-labelled funds are not available or appropriate, we use non-ESG strategies that still align with our standards of responsible investment and governance.
Our process includes:
Fund Selection
We favour fund managers who actively engage with companies to improve ESG standards, rather than simply screening them out.Ongoing Monitoring
ESG ratings, governance reports and engagement outcomes are reviewed as part of our ongoing oversight.Anti-Greenwashing Controls
Where funds claim to engage or improve outcomes, we seek supporting evidence. This is reflected within our FCA-required anti-greenwashing framework.Flexible Portfolio Design
ESG is integrated alongside risk profiling, tax planning, cash-flow modelling, and long-term objectives, rather than treated in isolation.
Why Not Adopt a Fully Sustainable or Exclusion-Based Approach?
We recognise that some industries cause harm to society and the environment.
However, we also recognise that the world is in transition.
Some investors prefer to focus exclusively on “new” or fully sustainable businesses. Others believe that engaging with existing industries and influencing change from within can be both more realistic and more effective.
We believe that a responsible transition, supported by strong governance and accountability, often delivers better outcomes for clients over the long term.
Can I Invest in a Purely Sustainable or Exclusion-Based Portfolio?
Yes, where this is important to you.
If you have specific exclusions or sustainability objectives, we will discuss these as part of your financial planning and tailor your portfolio accordingly.
The Benefits of ESG-Aware Investing with Ifamax
Competitive long-term returns – Many studies show ESG-aware companies can match or outperform peers over time
Lower volatility potential – Better governance and risk management can support more stable outcomes
Improved risk awareness – ESG helps identify non-financial risks before they become financial ones
Values alignment – Your investments can reflect what matters to you, without compromising planning discipline
Why Choose Ifamax?
ESG integrated within long-term financial planning, not bolted on
A measured, evidence-based approach, not marketing-led claims
Fully aligned with FCA anti-greenwashing expectations
Portfolios built around your goals, risk profile and values
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ESG investing mean avoiding fossil fuels?
No. Our ESG approach is not exclusionary by default. Some portfolios may include fossil fuel companies where governance, safety and transition plans are strong.
Is ESG investing more risky or lower-returning?
Not necessarily. Many studies suggest that companies with strong ESG practices are more resilient and competitive over the long term.
Can ESG preferences be personalised?
Yes. Where exclusions or sustainability goals matter to you, you can incorporate them into your portfolio design.
Is ESG investing regulated?
Yes. We follow FCA guidance, including anti-greenwashing rules, to ensure ESG claims are fair, clear and not misleading.
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