Credit Suisse has partnered with J.P. Morgan Asset Management to launch the Credit Suisse JPMorgan Sustainable Nutrition Fund (the ‘Nutrition Fund’), which invests in companies that address the links between nutrition, health, biodiversity and climate. The fund launched this week with Assets under Management of over USD 250 million and will have a particular focus on companies making food systems less carbon intensive.

The Nutrition Fund, which targets the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger) and 13 (Climate Action), is an Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) high-conviction global equity portfolio composed of 40-60 stocks and is available to investors on a daily basis at no investment minimum.

The fund addresses the topic of nutrition with a focus on small and mid-cap innovators across the value chain – from growing, processing to consuming food. Vertical farming, plant-based proteins and food testing are some of the many activities that the fund will be investing in through three subthemes: sustainable agriculture, efficient food processes, and sustainable & healthy diets.

“Credit Suisse and J.P. Morgan Asset Management are committed to delivering both financial and purpose-driven outcomes, whilst building lasting portfolio value. This is what makes this fund so interesting as it effectively combines the need to address the climate challenges associated with the nutrition industry while seeking attractive returns on investment”, said Lydie Hudson, CEO of Sustainability Research and Investment Products, at Credit Suisse.

Michael Strobaek, Global Chief Investment Officer at Credit Suisse, commented: “I am proud to see this important fund launch with assets under management of over USD 250 million. This illustrates the trust our clients put in us and our partners and also shows the importance of nutrition as a thematic investment topic.”

Jennifer Wu, Global Head of Sustainable Investing at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, echoed this assessment: “As we transition towards a more sustainable global economy, a focus on sustainable nutrition should sit at the heart of this transition. This new strategy seeks to make a positive contribution to a healthier future, investing in companies which are seeking to address current inefficiencies in the food value chain by making food systems less carbon intensive and ultimately enabling healthier diets.”

Claude Kurzo, CEO Switzerland J.P. Morgan Asset Management, commented: “We are excited about partnering with Credit Suisse. Both companies are bringing together their best sustainability and investment knowledge and skills for this unique investment strategy that will be exclusively available to Credit Suisse clients.”

Earlier this year, Credit Suisse and J.P. Morgan Asset Management agreed to partner in the area of sustainable nutrition. The partnership brings together two leading financial institutions that are committing research and resources to tackle one of the world’s biggest health and environmental issues impacting our future.