UK-based Aberdeen Asset Managers has launched its Responsible World Equity fund, a new sub-fund of Aberdeen Global, its Luxembourg-domiciled SICAV, in response, it says, to increasing demand for socially responsible investments. Pre-marketing raised seed capital investment totalling $60 million. The fund, which is the third in the group’s range to incorporate SRI strategies, will be managed by Aberdeen’s global equity team, led by Stephen Docherty. The 11-strong team manages over $1 billion in SRI segregated mandates and pooled funds. The fund will seek long-term return by investing primarily in an internationally diversified portfolio of equities with an SRI overlay which takes into consideration the environmental, social and governance policies of potential investments. Michel Alofs, head of business development, Europe ex UK, at Aberdeen, said: "We see strong demand for top performing SRI and engagements funds in Europe. Not only are pension funds warm to the subject, but we have seen strong interest from private banks and family offices." Mr Docherty said: “Investor interest in SRI is growing rapidly, particularly in products that incorporate both negative and positive screens. SRI screening strategies provide socially aware investors with the opportunity to have their investments reflect an ethical bias by avoiding investing in companies deemed inappropriate from an ethical perspective. Equally, through active engagement with selected companies, SRI investors have a greater voice in the wider business community and can help influence companies to be better corporate citizens. Furthermore, early fears that SRI strategies would impact performance have now been laid to rest given the proven track record of SRI funds over the long term.”