How We Invest

How We Invest

TIAA-CREF Endorses U.N. Principles For Responsible Investment (PRI)

Joins other investment managers in promoting a responsible approach to global investing

TIAA-CREF proudly endorses the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), a global project in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative and the U.N. Global Compact. The endorsement was made in a letter to the PRI Secretariat (PDF) from TIAA-CREF President and CEO Roger W. Ferguson, Jr.

The PRI provide a framework for integrating environmental, social and governance issues into investment decision-making and ownership practices, with the goal of enhancing long-term returns for investors.

As a signatory to the PRI, TIAA-CREF joins a growing list of investment managers, asset owners and professional service partners around the world who have made a public commitment to adhere to, and promote, responsible investing.

The values and priorities embodied by the PRI are closely aligned with those of TIAA-CREF. We have a long record of leadership in socially responsible investing and in promoting sound corporate governance, consistent with our nonprofit heritage and unwavering mission to serve those who serve the greater good. Endorsing the PRI affirms our values as an organization and underscores our fiduciary duty to provide a safe and secure retirement for the individuals who have entrusted their savings to us.

We look forward to working with other PRI signatories to promote a responsible approach to global investing that includes consideration of environmental, social and governance issues while enhancing long-term return potential. Such an approach is an integral part of how TIAA-CREF strives to meet the financial needs of the 3.6 million individuals and more than 15,000 institutions we serve.

The Principles For Responsible Investment (PRI)

TIAA-CREF joins other signatories to the PRI in adopting these common principles:

1. We will incorporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes.
2. We will be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our ownership policies and practices.
3. We will seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest.
4. We will promote acceptance and implementation of the Principles within the investment industry.
5. We will work together to enhance our effectiveness in implementing the Principles.
6. We will each report on our activities and progress towards implementing the Principles.

Links:

Learn more about socially responsible investing and corporate governance at TIAA-CREF:

Overview of Socially Responsible Investing

How We Invest

2008 Socially Responsible Investing Update (PDF)

Statement by TIAA-CREF Announcing Escalated Effort to Oppose Genocide in Darfur

Overview of Corporate Governance

A Responsible Investor: TIAA-CREF's Commitment to Sound Corporate Governance (PDF)