Argo Investments has outlined its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) oversight, including the submission of annual Modern Slavery Statements and the establishment of measurable gender diversity objectives.
Material actions and disclosures
The Company’s Environment, Social and Governance Investment Statement is available on its website, detailing its approach to ESG risks and opportunities. Argo submits its Modern Slavery Statement to the Australian Border Force annually in accordance with the requirements of the Modern Slavery Act 2018.
The Company’s Board retains ultimate responsibility for the oversight of ESG risks, including climate-related risks and opportunities, ensuring these are integrated within the Company’s broader risk management framework. The investment team’s analysis and engagement on ESG and climate issues form a key part of this oversight.
Argo’s Whistleblower Policy allows stakeholders to confidentially submit for investigation any serious complaint against the Company or its representatives and provides protections for employees who do so. The Board will be informed of any material concern raised under the Policy or that calls into question the culture of the Company.
The Company’s Statement of Core Values and the Code of Conduct set out the requirements for dealing with each other, shareholders, and the community with respect, integrity, and transparency. The Company’s objective for gender diversity is currently set at achieving a minimum of one-third representation of each gender at each level of the organisation.
The Audit & Risk Committee assists the Board in fulfilling its statutory and fiduciary obligations by providing independent and objective recommendations and assurance on the effectiveness of governance, operational risk management, financial reporting, internal control processes, and the external audit.
Argo’s Anti-bribery and Corruption Policy prohibits bribes or other improper payments or benefits to public officials and involvement in private bribery such as kickbacks or secret commissions. It also provides guidance around the acceptance of gifts and hospitality.
The Company’s Statement of Core Values and the Code of Conduct set out the requirements for dealing with each other, shareholders, and the community with respect, integrity, and transparency. The Company’s objective for gender diversity is currently set at achieving a minimum of one-third representation of each gender at each level of the organisation.
The Company’s Diversity and Inclusion Policy sets measurable objectives annually for achieving gender diversity in the composition of its Board, senior executives, and workforce generally. Management is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining programs and initiatives to help achieve those objectives.
Each year the Board reviews Argo’s progress towards achieving its gender diversity objectives and the adequacy of its programs and initiatives.
The Company’s evaluation of Board performance takes place every year, involving the Chairman reviewing the performance of the Board as a whole with the aid of a board performance evaluation questionnaire completed by all Directors.
Argo’s evaluation identified that the Board has performed well during the year and is operating effectively.
Argo’s commitment to ESG oversight and compliance is detailed in its Corporate Governance Statement, available on the Company’s website.