University of Helsinki's financial investments have since year 2019 returned more than two percentage points more than their benchmark index and peer group - and their carbon footprint has decreased to approximately half. The science-based strategy has kept its promise, measured by both returns and sustainability.
University of Helsinki's year 2025 financial investment report evaluates the success of the activities in five dimensions: selection of benchmark index, return compared to benchmark index, return compared to peer group, negative environmental impact, and positive externalities.
The analysis finds that the benchmark index is sufficiently representative, the annual return has exceeded both the benchmark index and the peer group average by circa two percentage points per annum, the carbon footprint and water consumption have been approximately half of their reference points, and that venture investments bring significant potential for positive externalities.
"When we renewed our financial investment activities seven years ago, we were guided by a simple idea: We trust science. Over the years, this trust has only been reinforced. The activities reflect our values and the results have been satisfactory, to say the least", Chief Financial Officer Marjo Berglund concludes.
University of Helsinki's financial investment activities are built firmly on science: The corner stones are broad diversification, low costs, a consequent risk level, and the mitigation of climate change. At least 90 percent of the assets are diversified globally in listed stocks and bonds. Furthermore, at most 10 percent of the assets are focused to spinout and startup companies founded around the University of Helsinki.
