High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) priorities have shifted, creating demand for increased transparency and reliable ESG data. Wealth managers can reignite HNW client commitment — in mind, heart and pocket — with innovative data strategies.

Understanding the Shift in ESG Wealth Management 

ESG-related investments are facing increasing scrutiny by (HNWIs) who want to not only preserve their wealth but ensure their investments have a positive impact and strong financial return. HNWIs desire traceable ESG scores, a harmonized tracking methodology and more ESG investment education to circumvent the risks associated with greenwashing.

Capgemini’s World Wealth Report found that while global HNWI wealth declined for the first time in a decade, emotional and financial commitment to ESG in wealth management remains strong. Younger investors are driving this shift – 47 % of HNWIs under 40 say sustainability influences their investment decisions. 

  • Today’s high-net-worth investors feel corporate ESG reporting lacks transparency, well-defined standards and proven impact data
  • Wealth managers must become more knowledgeable about sustainable investments and solutions and help build trust and transparency around an organization’s ESG scores.
  • Reliable data and standardized ESG scoring harnessed by the power of technology such as artificial intelligence and machine learning can benefit both wealth managers and their HNWI clients.

The Challenge: Restoring Trust in ESG Investing

HNWIs cite a lack of transparency, inconsistent corporate reporting, and unclear impact data as barriers to ESG participation. Wealth managers have a unique opportunity to lead – by combining advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to create reliable ESG data insights. 

This technology-driven transparency can help clients confidently assess ESG performance and make well-informed investment decisions. 

The Wealth Manager’s Dilemma – and Opportunity 

  • 40% of relationship managers need more data to understand ESG impact.
  • 52% of wealth management firms collect and analyse ESG data.
  • 61% have integrated ESG factors into their portfolios. 

These figures show strong intent but also room for improvement. Firms must move beyond compliance to proactive, data-led ESG engagement.

Leveraging Technology for ESG Transformation

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionising ESG wealth management by: 

  • Automating ESG data collection and analysis
  • Providing consistent and verifiable ESG scores 
  • Reducing bias and identifying greenwashing risks

Leading institutions such as HSBC and Citigroup have already partnered with AI-driven ESG data providers, demonstrating how technology can bridge the trust gap and inspire investor confidence.   

Read on to learn more about the HNWI’s perspective on ESG investing globally, how wealth management firms can address HNWI concerns by accessing reliable data to reduce risk — plus the role that technology and data experts will play to solidify ESG investing.

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Capgemini: Partnering for ESG in Wealth Management 

Capgemini supports banks and wealth management firms worldwide in creating ESG-aligned investment strategies. 

Our capabilities include: 

  • Sustainability Data Hub (SDH) – a centralised ESG data ecosystem enabling accurate reporting and decision-making. 
  • ESG Lens – an AI/NLP-powered tool that analyses third-party ESG data for reliability and detects anomalies. 
  • Carbon Reporting & Net-Zero Strategy – tools to measure and manage emissions across portfolios and achieve compliance with the CSRD. 
  • Business for Planet Modelling – digital-twin strategy simulations for assessing sustainability impact and risk mitigation. 

Through these solutions, Capgemini helps firms strengthen transparency, mitigate risk, and unlock value through sustainable investing.