Non-Paper No 5/2025: Sovereign Wealth and Pension Funds & Investment Screening

Written by Simon Sharghi-Erdmosa, Programme Associate at the CELIS Institute and MA Student at Sciences Po Paris.

During CFIS Investment Screening and Economic Security 2024 (CFIS 24), the panel discussion titled “Sovereign Wealth and Pension Funds & Investment Screening” gathered experts to explore the evolving roles of sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) and pension funds (PFs) within the global investment landscape. This non-paper synthesizes key insights from the discussion, highlighting the geopolitical challenges, regulatory shifts, and strategic considerations influencing these funds.

The confidential nature of the discussion, held under Chatham House Rules, allowed for candid exchanges among industry experts, policymakers, and institutional investors. These insights offer a nuanced understanding of the trends shaping sovereign and pension fund investments.

With assets under management exceeding $11 trillion, SWFs and PFs play a pivotal role in global economic stability and market resilience. In recent years, they have evolved from traditional investment strategies to more sophisticated approaches, including direct investments, strategic partnerships, and sustainability-focused portfolios. Their growing influence positions them as key actors in shaping market trends, regulatory policies, and investment practices amid geopolitical tensions, evolving regulations, and rising sustainability expectations.