“We automate arduous, manual and seemingly impossible ESG work for investors - saving them time and money so they can focus on investing”

The intricacies of handling ESG data, marked by inconsistency, lack of standardization, and frequent gaps, are met with a comprehensive solution provided by GaiaLens. Their ESG Analytics Platform is designed not only to automate manual tasks but also to deliver real-time analysis and transparent reporting. Beyond simplifying data complexities, GaiaLens aids investors in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability regulations, ensuring compliance with frameworks such as the EU's Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR).

GaiaLens is a trailblazer in revolutionizing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing through its cutting-edge ESG Analytics Platform. In response to the multifaceted challenges faced by investors in the realm of ESG, GaiaLens employs a quantitative approach, leveraging the latest technologies to develop bespoke tools tailored to clients' needs.

At the core of GaiaLens is an ESG Analytics Platform that comprises a suite of tools, including portfolio reporting, investment screening, and in-depth research capabilities. Functioning as an automated ESG analyst team, the platform offers support throughout the ESG investment lifecycle, saving investors significant time and resources. “We automate arduous, manual and seemingly impossible ESG work for investors - saving them time and money so they can focus on investing,” explains Gordon Tveito-Duncan, CEO, GaiaLens.

GaiaLens specializes in the compilation and analysis of structured and unstructured data sets, providing real-time scores across the E, S, and G pillars for more than 20,000 companies. This coverage extends to both equity and debt securities, with additional environmental data on over 2 million private companies. The platform's customizable ESG scoring system, utilizing a hybrid approach of time series and machine learning, sets it apart in the realm of ESG analytics.

In addition to conventional ESG scoring, GaiaLens integrates advanced features, including news processing and proprietary ESG factors. The platform actively tracks news, social media, and NGO sources in real time, employing an LLM-based model for daily scandal/controversy detection. Proprietary data points, such as the Beneish M Score, further enhance the depth and uniqueness of the platform's ESG analytics. “We have a very ambitious product roadmap which aligns with our vision. This includes enhancing our offering for Asset Managers and further developing our solution for Asset Owners,” outlines Tveito-Duncan.

An instance that highlights the company’s value proposition is when the team assisted a global business in building an ESG solution for its financial clients (asset managers, wealth managers, banks). Due to the client’s stellar reputation, the client endeavored to build a best-in-class ESG solution, but unfortunately this proved prohibitively resource intensive – it took too long and high cost.

GaiaLens is uniquely placed to build bespoke sustainability technology solutions. The company used its comprehensive sustainability analytics platform as a launchpad to build custom-made ESG solutions. GaiaLens built the client a white labelled ESG solution, leveraging the existing sustainability analytics platform and carried out a pilot and gathered user feedback to ensure that the product was aligned to what their users wanted. “We tailored the solution to exactly what our client and their users wanted. Importantly, we offered consulting services in addition to the development work to ensure that the project was a success. The client could not believe how quickly we were able to build this product for them to such a high standard and within budget,” explains Tveito-Duncan.

Beyond providing a comprehensive sustainability analytics platform, GaiaLens is adept at developing bespoke ESG solutions. Drawing on its expertise in ESG Data, AI & Advanced Analytics, and Software Development, the company tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of its clients. This unique combination positions GaiaLens as a provider of not just standardized solutions but as a partner capable of crafting tailored approaches to diverse ESG challenges.

GaiaLens operates with a mission to "Make financial markets more sustainable" and envisions becoming the best-in-class investor-focused sustainability analytics platform. Geographical expansion into Singapore and Australia is part of the company's strategic plan, with a focus on gaining traction in these regions. The ambitious product roadmap includes enhancing offerings for Asset Managers, developing solutions for Asset Owners, and collaborating with partners like AlphaBlock on climate-focused indices.

Strategically, GaiaLens actively seeks key alliances and aims to be the backbone of the ESG data ecosystem. Collaborating with specialist ESG partners, the company aims to contribute significantly to the development and advancement of sustainable investing practices. In essence, GaiaLens is not merely a provider of ESG solutions but a catalyst for change, empowering investors with quantitative tools, real-time insights, and bespoke solutions. Through its innovative ESG Analytics Platform, GaiaLens is ushering in a more sustainable and informed approach to investing in today's dynamic financial landscape.