As global wealth reaches new heights, philanthropists are facing increasing pressure to give more in their lifetime, and in a transparent way. While many have engaged actively in charitable giving, to what extent are they focusing on reducing fractures in society, as opposed to isolated projects and initiatives? This report, written by The Economist Intelligence Unit and drawing from experts across three continents, looks at how the current pandemic provides an opportunity to create a new social contract between philanthropists and civil society stakeholders.

Impact investing and sustainable finance have reached a potentially transformational moment. As the world gets to grips with the wide-ranging effects of the ongoing pandemic, there is a vital role to play for the growing number of experienced investors seeking to invest constructively and with purpose. In this report we explore the current state of sustainable finance and look at how this asset class, which ranges from green and social bonds to microfinance and impact funds will become increasingly relevant for experienced investors' strategies in the post-Covid environment.