Singapore investors prioritize nature outcomes over returns: report

44% of Singaporean investors cite environmental outcomes as their leading reason for increasing exposure to nature investments.

Even as global ESG frameworks come under political fire, Singapore’s institutional investors are holding their course as most plan to increase their nature-related investments, according to Pollination.

Whilst financial return is the top motivator globally (43%), 44% of Singaporean investors cite environmental outcomes as their leading reason for increasing exposure to nature investments.

That said, the risks are rising too. The report highlighted a sharp increase in perceived nature-related risks, with 53% of Singapore investors flagging sectors like chemicals, materials, and manufacturing as areas of concern—up significantly from 2023.

In response, firms are reinforcing their internal capabilities. Over half (52%) are planning to hire dedicated nature investment specialists, indicating a steady build-up of in-house expertise.

One caveat: investor demand as a motivating force dipped slightly in Singapore, bucking the trend seen in larger Western markets, where client and investor pressure is accelerating nature finance activity.