IOSCO releases statement on ESG-related disclosures

The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) has emphasised that environmental, social and governmental (ESG) matters "though sometimes characterized as non-financial, may have a material short-term and long-term impact on the business operations of the issuers as well as on risks and returns for investors and their investment and voting decisions." IOSCO recently released a statement that provided a summary and a reminder, rather than suggested changes in the nature and structures of ESG disclosures. ISOCO noted that disclosures of ESG information in markets has increased in recent years. Investors want enhanced reliability and comparability of ESG information and disclosures. Issuers are responding by increasing ESG information "either on a voluntary basis or as a result of compulsory requirements at a local level. This trend has resulted in an increase in the overall level of disclosure of ESG information in some industries. However, IOSCO also observes that disc