Rob Bikel Highlights the Value of Sustainable Investing

As sustainable investing continues to gain traction, Rob Bikel (MBA ‘11, DBA ‘22), faculty member and director of the Socially, Environmentally, and Ethically Responsible (SEER) Program at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, offers insights into how this investment approach can benefit both investors and society. With growing concerns about environmental and social issues, Bikel emphasizes that sustainable investing presents a "win-win" opportunity by aligning financial returns with positive social and environmental outcomes.

“Sustainable investing is about more than just profits,” said Bikel. “It allows investors to align their financial goals with their values by promoting companies that create meaningful change.” He explained that this type of investing spans various strategies, including negative screening, which filters out companies with poor environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.

Bikel also highlighted that sustainable investing isn’t just about avoiding companies—it’s a tool to influence corporate behavior. “Investors are holding companies accountable to higher standards, whether through diversity in leadership, environmental initiatives, or ethical governance practices,” he said. For example, he noted that an oil company could mitigate future risks by exceeding safety regulations, which preserves both reputation and shareholder value.

As environmental and social concerns become increasingly mainstream, the appetite for sustainable investment options is expected to grow. Bikel's insights reflect Pepperdine Graziadio's commitment to fostering responsible business practices and preparing future leaders to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable finance.

To learn more about the SEER program at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School and its focus on ethical leadership, visit Pepperdine Graziadio's website. 

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