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Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds articles include: “4 ETFs targeting clean water, wind energy, the smart grid — and one that has them all”; “Best renewable energy to watch out for in 2022”; “3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Watch As Wind Power Expands”; and “2 Renewables Stocks That Could Have You Seeing Green”. Seven more! Podcast: Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds Transcript & Links, Episode 82, May 6, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 82 published on May 6, 2022, titled “Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Also, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds So let’s begin with this article titled 4 ETFs targeting clean water, wind energy, the smart grid — and one that has them all by Rachel Koning Beals. It appeared on marketwatch.com. Here are some quotes from Ms. Koning Beals on each of her four recommendations. “For some investment advisers and stock-pickers, so-called green investing is far from just a feel-good move… One such investment adviser is Daniel Milan of Cornerstone Financial Services in Southfield, Michigan… 1) Is First Trust Water ETF (FIW) The fund holds 36 of the largest U.S.-listed water companies, ranked by market cap and weighted equally within five tiers. Milan says… ‘Our water thesis is short-term, intermediate-term and long-term…’ In the U.S. alone, fixing the water infrastructure — including ridding groundwater of what are usually known as ‘forever chemicals’ — featured only behind transportation as the largest recipients of funding in last year’s $1.2 trillion infrastructure law… Milan said. ‘I’m from Michigan. Flint lived its water crisis and we all lived it to some extent… I don’t think that crisis water scenario is unique.’ 2) First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund (GRID) …  is a concentrated fund targeting global equities determined to be in the smart grid and electrical energy infrastructure sector, Milan says… The sector may include business in electric grid, electric meters and devices, networks, energy storage and management, and enabling software. 3) First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (FAN) Most wind ETFs are too small to pass Milan’s sniff test… The best, meaning larger, option may be First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF. It saves roughly 60% of its weighting for pure plays in the wind industry, including turbine manufacturers and operators, and allocates the remaining 40% to diversified sector, says Milan. This mix might frustrate some investors who envision a pure play. In fact, they may find more desirable wind opportunities in a broader clean-energy ETF. 4) First Trust NASDAQ Clean Energy Sector ETF (QCLN) … holds a broad portfolio of U.S.-listed firms in the clean energy industry. Eligible companies must be manufacturers, developers, distributors or installers of one of the following sub-sectors: advanced materials (that enable clean-energy or reduce the need for petroleum products), energy intelligence (smart grid), energy storage and conversion (hybrid batteries) or renewable electricity generation (solar, wind, geothermal, etc.)… Milan acknowledges recent volatility in this ETF and other macro-level sector funds as broader market consensus has favored names with high cash flow and strong balance sheets over high-growth companies.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds It seems that the media is again filled with analysts reviewing renewable energy-related stocks and funds. So, most of the following articles refer to that space. This next article is titled Best renewable energy to watch out for in 2022 by Alex Artenie. It’s on medium.datadriveninvestor.com site. Here are some quotes from Mr. Artenie on each of his picks. “1) NextEra Energy (NEE) While not a household name, this company is the world’s largest wind and solar energy producer. It has production facilities in Florida and sells power through purchasing power agreements (PPAs) to other utility companies and also directly to consumers. You should watch NextEra Energy closely as it has yielded about 700 percent in returns in the last decade. The company has enjoyed above-average growth, increasing its dividend yearly for more than a quarter of a century. 2) Brookfield Renewable (BEP) Brookfield is one of the global leaders in hydroelectric power production. Hydropower makes up more than 62 percent of its energy portfolio in 2021. However, the company is also into wind energy, solar energy, and energy storage businesses. Steady cash flow comes from long-term energy contracts with PPAs, which buy most of its energy. Brookfield stock has generated an annual return of 20 percent for its investors since it began operating. Dividend payments have grown at a 6 percent compound annual growth rate starting from 2012. The company is projecting more growth based on its extensive renewable energy projects billed to come online soon. 3) Clearway Energy (CWEN) Clearway is a big-time player in the American renewable energy market. In addition to extensive wind and solar energy portfolios, the company operates highly efficient power plants running on natural gas. It also sells its energy to PPAs, ensuring a constant revenue stream. Since its inception, investors in Clearway stocks have reaped annual returns that total almost 10 percent. The firm is controlled by Global Infrastructure Partners, a private equity company. Clearway is gunning for between 5 and 8 percent annual dividend growth in the nearest future.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds My next renewable/alternative energy article is titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Watch As Wind Power Expands by Aparajita Dutta. Found on zacks.com. Here are some of Ms. Dutta’s comments on her stock picks. “1) TotalEnergies (TTE - Free Report) Based in France, TotalEnergies is among the top five publicly traded global integrated oil and gas companies based on production volumes, proved reserves and market capitalization. Earlier this month, TotalEnergies and ENEOS Corporation announced a collaboration to jointly conduct a feasibility study to assess the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in ENEOS Negishi Refinery in Yokohama City, Japan. The proposed unit, with a capacity of 300,000 tons per year of SAF, once operational will allow TotalEnergies to offer a sustainable supply chain of SAF in Japan around 2025. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for TotalEnergies’ 2022 earnings has improved 31.8% in the past 60 days and implies an improvement of 58.7% from 2021’s reported earnings figure. The company delivered an average earnings surprise of 18.88% in the last four quarters…  TotalEnergies currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2) Evergy (EVRG - Free Report) Based in Kansas City, MO, this company provides clean, safe and reliable energy to 1.6 million customers in Kansas and Missouri… Its 2021 adjusted earnings per share were $3.54, reflecting a 14% year-over-year increase and a 7% increase over the $3.30 mid-point of the company’s original 2021 adjusted EPS guidance range. This indicates the company’s operational strength. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Evergy’s 2022 earnings has improved 0.6% in the past 60 days. The company delivered an average earnings surprise of 87.44% in the last four quarters. It boasts a long-term earnings growth rate of 6.1%. Evergy currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 3) Brookfield Renewables (BEP - Free Report). (Yes again!) Based in New York, Brookfield Renewables operates renewable power assets in the United States, Brazil and Colombia. In April 2022, Brookfield formed a strategic partnership with SSE Renewables for participation in the 1.4GW Hollandse Kust (west) offshore wind farm zone tenders, which are currently underway in the Netherlands… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Brookfield Renewables’ 2022 earnings has improved in the past 60 days while that for sales implies an improvement of 11.6% over 2021’s reported sales figure. Brookfield Renewables currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds The last article I’m reviewing today is titled 2 Renewables Stocks That Could Have You Seeing Green. It’s by someone I feature in almost every podcast, Matthew DiLallo, on fool.com. Here’s s some of what Mr. DiLallo has to say about these two stocks. “1) Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure (AY) … focuses on owning environmentally sustainable infrastructure assets like renewable energy generating facilities, water desalination plants, electric transmission lines, and cleaner-burning natural gas power plants. These assets generate relatively predictable cash flow backed by long-term contracts and government-regulated rate structures. That gives Atlantica the funds to pay an attractive 5.7%-yielding dividend… Atlantica is targeting to invest at least $300 million per year in renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects. This investment rate should grow its cash available for distribution by 5% to 8% per year. That will enable the company to continue growing its high-yielding dividend… investors should also benefit from a steadily rising stock p

Great Cleantech Stocks and Faith-Based Funds covers articles: “3 Cleantech Stocks to Buy for a Greener Portfolio” and “Sunrun: 3 Trades For Investors Seeking Solar Energy Exposure” both by Tezcan Gecgil; “Religious investors who want to buy into companies that uphold their beliefs have these options” by Russ Wiles; and links to nine other articles PODCAST: Great Cleantech Stocks and Faith-Based Funds Transcript & Links, Episode 81, April 22, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Hope everyone is thinking how their investments are impacting the climate on this Earth Day! Anyhow, welcome to my podcast episode 81 published on April 22, 2022, titled “Great Cleantech Stocks and Faith-Based Funds” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, that I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Great Cleantech Stocks Despite the recent turmoil in renewable energy stocks, many analysts remain positive about them over the next few years. In this light, Tezcan Gecgil on investorplace.com has this article titled 3 Cleantech Stocks to Buy for a Greener Portfolio as well as the article following this. Here’s some of what Ms. Gecgil had to say on each stock in this article. “1) Ameresco (NYSE:AMRC) It is a leading clean technology integrator offering energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. The company works with government and private enterprises, serving customers ranging from airports and industrial installations to hospitals and schools. Ameresco released fourth-quarter results on Feb. 28. Revenue increased 32% year-over-year (YOY) to almost $416 million. Adjusted net income came in at $26.7 million, or 50 cents per diluted share, up from $23 million in the prior-year quarter. Cash and equivalents ended the period at $87 million. The group’s energy assets generated more than half of the profits in 2021. Analysts suggest the entry into utility-scale battery storage solutions represents a significant long-term growth opportunity. In addition, the integrator boasts a solid backlog worth more than $5 billion. Ameresco stock is down 32% year-to-date (YTD). Shares are trading at 30 times forward earnings and 2.5 times trailing sales. Meanwhile, the 12-month median price forecast for Ameresco stock stands at $85. 2) ON Semiconductor (NASDAQ:ON) It provides power and analog semiconductors as well as intelligent sensors for cleantech industries. The chipmaker generates two-thirds of its revenue from automotive and industrial end markets, primarily from electric vehicles (EVs). ON Semiconductor announced Q4 results on Feb. 7. The company posted record quarterly revenue of $1.85 billion, up 27% YOY. Adjusted net income stood at $478 million, or $1.09 per diluted share, up from $147 million a year ago. Cash and equivalents ended the period at $1.38 billion. Overall, gross margin improved from 33% in 2020 to 40% in 2021. Free cash flow soared 167% YOY to $1.38 billion. Meanwhile, management has signed agreements that will see committed revenue growth of more than $2.6 billion through 2024. Like many other tech names, ON stock is down more than 22% YTD. As a result, shares are trading at 12.9 times forward earnings and 3.5 times trailing sales — an appealing valuation level. At present, the 12-month median price forecast for ON stock is at $75. 3) Plug Power (NASDAQ:PLUG) The group is regarded as an innovator in modern hydrogen and fuel cell technology. It develops hydrogen fuel cell systems that replace conventional batteries in vehicles as well as equipment powered by electricity. Plug Power issued robust Q4 results on March 1, generating a record quarterly revenue of $162 million. Net loss narrowed to $193 million, or a loss of 33 cents per diluted share, up from a loss of $484 million a year ago. Cash and equivalents ended the period at $3.13 billion. Hydrogen fuel cell technology is gaining traction worldwide. As a result, Plug Power has forged various partnerships to bolster growth. Those names include SK Group in South Korea, Renault (OTCMKTS:RNLSY) and Lhyfe. The agreements range from the promotion of hydrogen fuel cell EVs to building green hydrogen plants in Europe. Meanwhile, in 2022, management projects full-year revenue to increase 80% YOY to exceed $900 million. Despite stable growth in operations, PLUG stock has lost nearly 12% YTD. Shares are trading at 28.6 times trailing sales. Finally, the 12-month median price forecast for PLUG stock stands at $38.” End quotes. Incidentally, Plug Power just did a major deal to supply Walmart with 20 tonnes of liquid green hydrogen every day. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Great Cleantech Stocks Now, here’s Tezcan Gecgil’s second article, though this time appearing on Investing.com. It’s titled Sunrun: 3 Trades For Investors Seeking Solar Energy Exposure. Here are some quotes from her on Sunrun. “Shares of the leading solar products installer Sunrun (NASDAQ:RUN) are down close to 18% so far this year and 47.5% in the past 52 weeks. By comparison, the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:TAN) has lost 2.7% since January and 16.1% over the past year… Despite the decline in share price, Sunrun is among the top residential solar panel providers in the US. In October 2020, it acquired competitor Vivint Solar. Thus, the company has seen volume growth in panel installations, especially in new homes, as well as in battery installations. Recent metrics Investors have also been excited about Sunrun’s upcoming partnership with Ford (NYSE:F) on home energy storage solutions. Ford’s F-150® Lightning™ truck will be used to ‘power homes and help accelerate the adoption of zero-carbon solar energy… Sunrun [will be] the preferred installer for F-150 Lightning home charging solutions in select service areas…’ Sunrun issued Q4 and FY21 results on Feb. 17, reporting a quarterly loss of 19 cents, which was wider than expected. Supply issues meant the alternative energy group delivered fewer battery systems than forecast previously. Nonetheless, Sunrun added close to 30,000 new customers during the quarter, and the total number of customers went over 660,000. As a result, the annual recurring revenue was $851 million… Sunrun shares have an ‘outperform’ rating among the 19 analysts polled via Investing.com and the 12-month average target price stands at $49.53, implying an increase of more than 71% from current levels.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Faith-Based Funds Many ethical and sustainable investors might want their religious or spiritual values reflected in their investments. This is a new article that can help them in this. It’s titled Religious investors who want to buy into companies that uphold their beliefs have these options. It’s by Russ Wiles on azcentral.com. Here’s some of what he writes. “Faith-based investing is getting easier to do with the advent of more religious mutual and exchange-traded funds… The funds are still comparatively few in number, with relatively small assets under management… While Christian funds predominate among the religious offerings, Islamic funds also have gained a following, such as the Amana mutual funds managed by Saturna Capital. The Amana funds steer clear of businesses engaged in liquor, pornography, gambling and banking. They also avoid bonds and other conventional fixed-income securities, favoring dividend-pay stocks for income. For example, large holdings in the Amana Income Fund include dividend payers Eli Lilly, Microsoft, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Rockwell Automation and Pfizer. Another Islam-focused portfolio, the Azzad Ethical Fund, excludes those types of corporations as well as tobacco producers, weapons manufacturers, some insurance companies and corporations suspected of being connected to human-rights abuses. Different areas of emphasis Even under the same general religious banner, faith-based funds differ somewhat in their investment emphasis, especially when screening out companies. The Ave Maria fund family, for example, favors corporations that follow, or at least don't violate, anti-abortion Catholic values. The fund group said it avoids investments in several key areas — corporations engaged in or supporting abortion including Planned Parenthood, pornography, embryonic stem-cell research and companies with policies deemed to undermine the sacrament of marriage. Incidentally, advisers to the Ave Maria funds range from Detroit Archbishop Allen Vigneron to economist/Fox News anchor Larry Kudlow to Lou Holtz, the Notre Dame football coaching legend. By contrast, the new FIS Biblically Responsible Risk Managed Fund, based in Scottsdale, enunciates a longer list. This fund won't invest in corporations believed to be involved in abortion, contraception, embryonic stem-cell research/human cloning, human-rights violations, pornography,

Buy These ESG Stocks, Say Analysts Articles covered: “Which Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Now? 3 Top Picks” by Tezcan Gecgil; “My 3 Best Stock Split Growth Stocks to Buy Now and Hold Forever” by Danny Vena; “iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF: Key Themes” by Michael A. Gayed. Companies reviewed include: Blink Charging, Brookfield Renewable Partners, Clearway Energy, and Nvidia PODCAST: Buy These ESG Stocks, Say Analysts Transcript & Links, Episode 80, April 8, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 80 published on April 8, 2022, titled “Buy These ESG Stocks, Say Analysts” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, that I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Buy These ESG Stocks, Say Analysts Now, the first article I want to talk about is titled Which Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Now? 3 Top Picks by Tezcan Gecgil, an InvestorPlace Contributor. Here are some quotes by Mr. Gecgill on each of the three companies... “1) Blink Charging (NASDAQ:BLNK) Blink Charging operates electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment and networked EV charging services. It offers over 30,000 charging ports in more than a dozen countries. Blink Charging released fourth-quarter 2021 results on March 10. Revenue increased 224% year-over-year (YOY) to a record $7.95 million. Net loss widened to $19 million, or 45 cents per share, compared to $7.9 million in the prior-year quarter. Cash and equivalents ended the period at $175 million. Management attributes its impressive top-line growth to increasing brand recognition for its EV charging technology. Blink sold 3,733 charging stations during the quarter, representing a 253% YOY increase. In addition, services revenue increased 471% YOY. Management continues to grow its charger network with new partners and overseas expansion as well. As with most long-term growth stories, Blink is a volatile stock. It’s down almost 40% over the past year. Shares are trading at 54.7 times trailing sales. The 12-month median price forecast for Blink stock is $29.50. 2) Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE:BEP) … operates one of the world’s largest pure-play renewable power platforms. Its portfolio consists of hydroelectric, wind and solar energy, plus storage facilities. Brookfield released Q4 2021 results on Feb. 4. Revenue increased 15% YOY to $1.1 billion. Funds from operations (FFO) increased 6.5% YOY to $214 million, generating a record FFO per unit of 33 cents. Cash and equivalents ended the period at $764 million. The company ended 2021 with an operational capacity of 21 gigawatts. In addition, it has an enormous development pipeline of 62 gigawatts. Hydroelectric power accounts for more than half of its revenue. Meanwhile, solar and wind power are expected see further growth in the coming years. Brookfield Renewable Partners stock currently offers a generous 3.1% dividend yield. Management targets sustained 12% to 15% returns annually, as well as a yearly distribution growth of 5% to 9%. This renewable energy stock is up nearly 14% so far in 2022. Shares are trading at 2.7 times trailing sales. Meanwhile, the 12-month median price forecast for (this) stock stands at $68. 3) Clearway Energy (NYSE:CWEN) … operates renewable and conventional energy assets. The group generates revenue from sales to local utilities under long-term, fixed-price agreements. Clearway released Q4 2021 results on Feb. 28. Net loss came in at $56 million, down from $73 million a year ago. Cash and equivalents ended the period at $654 million. The alternative energy name has the opportunity to develop 19.1 gigawatts of renewable energy projects through 2025. Clearway invested $820 million to expand its portfolio last year. Meanwhile, management is selling the thermal business for $1.9 billion, resulting in cash proceeds of $1.3 billion. Clearway stock currently generates an attractive 3.8% dividend yield, perfect for investors looking for passive income. Management targets annual dividend growth of 5% to 8% through 2026. The alternative energy stock has returned 27% over the past year. Shares are trading at 38.3 times forward earnings and 3.4 times trailing sales. Finally, the 12-month median price forecast for Clearway stock is at $39.50.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Buy These ESG Stocks, Say Analysts The next article by Danny Vena is titled My 3 Best Stock Split Growth Stocks to Buy Now and Hold Forever. It’s found on fool.com. Here are Mr. Venna’s picks and edited comments on each one. “1) Nvidia (NVDA) After a 14-year hiatus and more than 2,000% stock price gains, Nvidia surprised investors on July 19, 2021, with a four-for-one stock split. Since then, even in the face of the recent market correction, shares of the semiconductor giant have still gained 49% since the split. What's driving those gains? Demand for the company's graphics processing units (GPUs) used by gamers continues to increase, as Nvidia now controls 83% of the discrete desktop GPU market. Beyond gaming, Nvidia chips are the processor of choice in cloud computing and data center operations, which are accelerating as a result of the digital transformation. At its GTC Conference held just last week, the company added CPUs to its arsenal in a further push into data center servers. Its strategy is bearing fruit. In the fourth quarter, Nvidia reported record revenue in three of its four major operating segments, resulting in revenue that grew 53% year over year. This was driven by gaming revenue that climbed 37%, data center revenue that surged 71%, and professional visualization revenue that soared 109%.  The company is also well positioned to power the metaverse and the continuing quest toward self-driving cars with its state-of-the-art processors. Furthermore, Nvidia's record revenue of $26.9 billion last year pales in comparison to the company's total addressable market (TAM), which is expected to top out at a staggering $250 billion by 2023.  2) Alphabet (GOOGL) It's been nearly eight years since Alphabet last split its shares, but the company broke that streak in early February when it revealed plans for a historic 20-for-1 stock split, scheduled to take place in July. Since its last split on March 27, 2014, Alphabet shares gained a whopping 410%. Google's search dominance has helped fuel those gains, with roughly 92% of the worldwide search engine market. This has helped cement the company's market leadership in digital advertising, collecting an estimated 29% of worldwide digital ad spending. Then there's Google Cloud, the third-largest provider of cloud services, with an estimated 9% of the market and growing more quickly than its top competitors.  Alphabet's triple threat has fueled impressive financial results. Q4 revenue climbed 32% year over year, while operating margins marched higher, pushing net income up 38%. That's impressive growth for the fourth-largest company in the world, with a market cap of $1.87 trillion. Its growth is far from over, fueled by strong secular trends. Digital ad spending is expected to climb to $873 billion by 2024, while estimates for the global cloud computing market clock in at $482 billion. Alphabet's revenue of $257 billion last year still leaves plenty of room for future upside and additional market share gains. 3) Amazon (AMZN) From little acorns grow mighty oaks, and from humble online bookstores, mighty e-commerce titans evolve. At least, that was the case with Amazon. And in terms of stock splits, the online retailer has gone the longest since its last pared its shares in the dot-com era, circa 1999. Since then, however, shares have skyrocketed 5,490%, leading to current plans for a 20-for-1 stock split. Amazon is the undisputed leader in e-commerce. While estimates vary, the company controlled roughly 40% of online sales in the U.S. last year, with an industry-leading 8% of global digital retail in 2020.  Furthermore, Amazon dominates the area of cloud computing, a space it pioneered. During Q4 2021, Amazon Web Services (AWS) boasted a 33% share of the cloud infrastructure services market, controlling more than No. 2 Microsoft (MSFT) and No. 3 Google Cloud combined. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that Amazon has quickly become a force in the digital advertising market. While the company only began to break out its results in Q4, Amazon's ads generated more than $31 billion in 2021, up 63%, and giving it the third-largest share of global digital ad spending, behind Alphabet and Meta Platforms (FB).  This trifecta of businesses drove solid results for Amazon last year, with net sales that climbed 22% while net income climbed 57%.  Yet, there are worlds left to conquer. Global e-commerce alone is worth $5.55 trillion, while cloud computing and digital advertising represent $482 billion and $873 billion, respectively. When viewed in the context of Amazon's net sales of $470 billion last year, there's a lon

The World’s Most Ethical Companies. Articles covered:  “The 10 most innovative companies in corporate social responsibility of 2022”; “5 Must-See Picks Just Added to RBC's ESG Darlings List”; “3 Top Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Buy in March”; and more! Stocks covered include Sweetgreen, Lululemon, SolarEdge Technologies Inc., Johnson Controls PLC, Enphase Energy Inc., and more PODCAST: The Most Ethical Companies and Best Renewables Transcript & Links, Episode 79, March 25, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 79 published on March 25, 2022, titled “The Most Ethical Companies and Best Renewables” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and often bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. The opinions given are purely those of the article’s author or authors or sponsoring entity. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. The Most Ethical Companies and Best Renewables Hey, I’m always happy to report on this list, The World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere. Here’s some of their commentary about the list. Quote. “The World’s Most Ethical Companies historically outperform their peers and competitors financially, demonstrating a tangible ROI for doing the right thing. The connection between good ethical practices and financial performance, called the Ethics Premium, has been tracked for 16 years… In 2022, 136 organizations are recognized for their unwavering commitment to business integrity.  The honorees span 22 countries and 45 industries.” End quote. Among the top companies are Apple, IBERDROLA, Accenture, ADM, and Aptiv. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. The Most Ethical Companies and Best Renewables Next. Following on the theme of great ethical companies is an article titled The 10 most innovative companies in corporate social responsibility of 2022. It’s by Morgan Clendaniel. It appeared on fastcompany.com. However, only 3 of the 10 companies are public. Here are the public companies with brief quotes from Mr. Clendaniel on each one. “1) SWEETGREEN (SG) The fast-casual salad chain Sweetgreen set an aggressive goal to be carbon-neutral by 2027, assessing its entire supply chain to look for places to cut emissions. That information has allowed it to label some of its menu offerings as having the lowest emissions to produce, letting customers make climate-friendly choices when they order—all of which have seen increased popularity. 2) LULULEMON (LULU) On top of initiatives to help recycle and reuse its clothing, Lululemon, the athletic apparel company, has taken big steps to re-create the process of making them entirely. Last May, it debuted its Earth Dye collection, relying on plant waste from beets and oranges rather than synthetic dyes. It’s partnered with companies to experiment with using lab-grown polyester made out of carbon emissions and to incorporate lab-grown leather—Lululemon is a founding member of the Mylo Consortium devoted to using mycelium, a mushroom’s root structure, as a viable material alternative—into its fashions. In July 2021, the company made yoga accessories such as a mat and bags incorporating Mylo. Lululemon also invested in the bioengineering company Genomatica to find new ways to create plant-based fabrics such as a plant-based nylon. 3) ZOETIS (ZTS) COVID-19 hasn’t just infected millions of humans; it’s also been found in household pets, livestock, and wild animals. While scientists raced to find a vaccine to protect humans from the virus, animal health company Zoetis was working on a similar process, resulting in an animal vaccine, first used on the great apes at the San Diego Zoo in January 2021. Last summer, the company donated more than 11,000 doses of its animal vaccine to help protect 100 mammalian species living in over 80 zoos, conservatories, and sanctuaries. The company delivered its strongest year in its history in 2021, growing annual revenue 15%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. The Most Ethical Companies and Best Renewables This next article is by RBC analyst Paul Ausick and is titled 5 Must-See Picks Just Added to RBC's ESG Darlings List. The article is found on 247wallstreet.com. Here are Mr. Ausick’s picks followed by some quotes of his. “1) SolarEdge Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: SEDG) … is one of two solar electronic components makers that RBC added to its ESG Darlings list. The company makes and sells direct current inverter systems and other solar-related products, including electricity storage systems. Its current market cap is around $16.6 billion, and its share price has increased by a third since February 23. The stock is owned by 21% of ESG funds, the most of any of the newly added Darlings. SolarEdge’s relative return compared to the S&P 500 index for the year to date as of March 15 is 25%. Since the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the relative return is 35%. 2) Johnson Controls PLC (NYSE: JCI) Building products and systems maker Johnson Controls International has a market cap of $45.46 billion. The company is headquartered in Ireland but was founded in Milwaukee in 1885 by the inventor of the electric room thermostat. Johnson Control stock is owned by 16% of ESG funds, according to RBC’s report. The stock’s relative return for the year to date was negative 11.9%. Since the start of Putin’s war, the relative return has been sliced to negative 2.4%. 3) Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE: EL) Cosmetics icon Estée Lauder has a market cap of $97.7 billion and is included in the portfolios of 15% of dedicated ESG funds. As with the other funds on this list, the stock trades down for the year to date, although the share price has improved since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. For the year to date, Estée Lauder’s relative return is negative 17.6%. Since the invasion, the relative return is negative 9.8%. 4) Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH) The other solar-related stock added to the ESG Darlings is Enphase. The company’s principal product is a microinverter that converts solar energy from direct to alternating current at the individual module level, and couples that with technology to monitor and control solar-generated power. Enphase’s market cap is $24.22 billion. The stock is included in the assets of 15% of sustainable equity funds but not traditional actively managed funds. Its year-to-date relative return is 2.4%, and its return since the invasion of Ukraine is 31.3%. 5) Ansys Inc. (NASDAQ: ANSS) Engineering simulation software provider Ansys has a market cap of $27.01 billion, and the stock posted an all-time high in early November of last year. The company’s simulation tools in a variety of fields include aerospace, automotive, construction and consumer products. The stock is also included in 15% of RBC’s ESG Darlings. Its relative rate of return for the year to date is negative 13.2%, but since the invasion of Ukraine, the relative rate of return is 1.7%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. The Most Ethical Companies and Best Renewables My next article is titled 3 Top Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Buy in March by Keithen Drury on fool.com. AI stocks are often bought by ethical and sustainable investors. Here are some quotes from Mr. Drury on each one. “1) Nvidia Corporation (NVDA) As one of the leading technology companies, Nvidia's 2022 fiscal year (ending Jan. 30, 2022) results were strong. Revenue grew 61% to $26.9 billion over last year, but quarterly revenue growth slowed to 53% year over year. Its AI sales are wrapped into its data center division, which grew faster than overall revenue at a 71% year-over-year pace. In its fourth-quarter presentation, Nvidia highlighted its data center growth was led by strong demand for AI products. Nvidia's AI technology is being used by many firms, including Meta Platforms, which recently announced it was building its AI research SuperCluster with Nvidia's products. A broad approach to AI investing can be taken by purchasing Nvidia's stock. 2) CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (CRWD) Changing to a more application-based investment, CrowdStrike provides cybersecurity solutions with its cloud-based offering. Through its Falcon platform, customers are protected by software that sees more than 1 trillion events per day. CrowdStrike then uses AI to learn from these attacks and continuously evolves the program, so when a customer in France sees an attack, a different company is protected from a similar threat in the U.S… Some of the most important companies in the world utilize CrowdStrike, with 15 of the top 20 banks and 65 of the Fortune 100 companies deploying CrowdStrike's software… With customers growing 65% year over year to 16,325 and annual recurring revenue up 65% to $1.7 billion, CrowdStrike's business is executing on all levels. The company represents a great way to invest in the application of AI, and the cybersecurity industry has never been more relevant. 3) C3.ai, Inc. (AI) C3.ai's tools allow data scientists to deploy prebuilt and configurable AI applications to support a business in many ways, such as supply chain management, energy efficiency, and customer engagement. The company's tools are recognized as some of the best available. Omdia ranked C3.ai top on its list of machine-learning development platforms. It was also found to increase developer productivity by 26 times, by cutting the amount of code required by nearly 99% on Amazon Web Services (AWS) when deploying AI solutions. C3.ai is a young company founded in 2009 and only has 218 customers as a result. Still, this is up 82% year over year and

Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds articles covered: “5 'Blue Economy' Stocks and Funds”; “These 2 Renewable Energy Stocks Are Too Cheap to Ignore”; “Technical Analyst Sees Lots of Upside Potential in This Alternative Energy Stock”; “Why Enphase Energy Stock Soared in February”; “Why Digital Realty Trust is a leading Socially Responsible Dividend (DLR) stock” PODCAST: Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds Transcript & Links, Episode 78, March 11, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. I do hope that you are ok and managing to stay calm, healthy, and focused on what positive contribution you can make to help alleviate the terrible distress in these deeply troublesome times. Investing in ethical and sustainable companies has never been more important than it is now! Anyhow, welcome to podcast episode 78 published on March 11, 2022, titled “Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds Now the first article I want to review concerns the water industry — an industry receiving great attention from ethical and sustainable investors. The article’s title is 5 'Blue Economy' Stocks and Funds. It’s written by Nellie S. Huang and published by Kiplinger. Ms. Huang writes, quote… “The blue economy represents all of the dollars spent to improve the economic growth, health and livelihood of ocean and coastal zone ecosystems… ‘You can’t have a healthy planet without a healthy ocean,’ says Louise Heaps, the head of sustainable blue economy at the global nonprofit WWF, in London… (The article continues)…We recommend two funds that focus on water sustainability. We also found the stocks of three companies doing interesting things that will help us use water more efficiently or that go some way toward stemming water pollution. (The funds and stocks are…) 1) Fidelity Water Sustainability Fund (FLOWX) (Is) a new, actively managed fund, focuses on firms working on solving the world's water crisis… Industrial machinery is the fund's top industry weighting at a quarter of assets. It's followed by water utilities (17%) and electronic equipment and instruments (15%), as well as 11% of assets each in building products and industrial conglomerates. Roper Technologies (ROP) and American Water Works (AWK) are top holdings. (The fund) has returned 7.9% over the past 12 months. 2) Invesco Water Resources ETF (PHO) Invesco has three water-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs), but we favor Invesco Water Resources ETF… because it tracks a Nasdaq index that includes companies creating products designed to conserve and purify water. Invesco Water Resources ETF is similar to Fidelity Water Sustainability Fund in that its largest asset concentrations are in machinery (27%) and water utilities (20%). However, it also has a substantial 16% invested in life sciences tools and services. Waters Corp. (WAT) and American Water Works (AWK) top the portfolio. The fund has gained 9.4% over the past 12 months. 3) Tetra Tech (TTEK) Is an engineering and consulting firm has big roles in many sustainable areas, including water management. For instance, the company helped a Kentucky sewer system authority save $200 million from 2006 to date by building a high-tech, real-time system to monitor and manage sewer system overflow during periods of heavy rain… Stifel analyst Noelle Dilts recommends the blue economy stock. ‘We believe the company is well positioned to benefit from strong secular drivers in water and environmental services, with 85% [or more] of revenues tied to these markets,’ she says. Analysts expect the company… to deliver annual earnings growth of 9% in 2022 and 8% in 2023. 4) Danimer Scientific (DNMR) The ocean is home to five plastic islands of floating trash; one is roughly twice the size of Texas. Danimer Scientific could help reduce that. It is developing a kind of plastic that is 100% biodegradable and compostable… Danimer Scientific… had its initial public offering in December 2020. The company has a $409 million market value, no profits and just $53 million in revenue over the past 12 months… Jeffries analyst Laurence Alexander rates the stock a Buy, saying that 2022 should be a ‘validation year,’ when leading brands adopt its plastic. It already has a number of well-known customers, including PepsiCo (PEP) and Walmart (WMT). 5) Deere (DE) Excessive use of fertilizer can run off into waterways, harming plants, animals and habitats, not to mention water quality. ‘If we could just reduce the use of fertilizer, that would have the biggest positive impact on water,’ says Putnam's Collins. Deere's ‘See & Spray Select’ technology, installed on a fertilizer sprayer, uses camera technology to identify color differentiation in the field so that only weeds get sprayed with herbicides. The system reduces herbicide use by 77%, on average… Deere has its share of eco-bugaboos, but it’s a leader in precision agriculture – technology that helps increase crop yields and minimize the use of fertilizers, two key environmental pluses… Credit Suisse's Jamie Cook rates the stock Outperform.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds Now back to familiar territory with this article titled These 2 Renewable Energy Stocks Are Too Cheap to Ignore. By Neha Chamaria and Rekha Khandelwal on fool.com. Here are some quotes from the authors on their picks. “1) Neha Chamaria recommends Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP) (The) stock is finally showing some signs of life after languishing in 2021, but there's tremendous upside potential left in the stock at current prices… Brookfield Renewable generated record funds from operations (FFO) in its third quarter, but the market paid no heed. I strongly believed it deserved better and even picked Brookfield Renewable as the only stock I'd buy in 2022 -- if I had to pick one… Brookfield Renewable's total pipeline is… almost three times the size of its existing operational capacity, and it is this pipeline that should set Brookfield Renewable on the next growth path. For now, the company expects to grow funds from operations per unit by 10% or more through 2026… That should translate into regular annual-dividend increases which could be as high as 9% each year. Now combine that with Brookfield Renewable's dividend yield of 3.4% and the potential gains from reinvesting those dividends, and you could well be on your way to making a fortune if you add this renewable dividend growth stock to your portfolio.  2) Rekha Khandelwal likes NextEra Energy Partners (NYSE: NEP) The recent correction in renewable energy stocks due to concerns relating to overvaluation and rising interest rates has contributed to the fall in NextEra Energy Partners' stock. However, the company's fundamentals remain rock-solid… NextEra Energy Partners has certain key advantages over its competitors. To begin with, it is backed by a top utility, NextEra Energy (NEE). (It) has a huge and diversified portfolio of renewable energy assets, and it's been in the renewables business for more than 30 years… NextEra Energy's investment-grade balance sheet helps it raise funds at comparatively lower costs than its smaller peers. NextEra Energy Partners announced a distribution of $0.71 for the fourth quarter, which represents a sequential increase of 3.3%. On an annualized basis, the Q4 distribution grew 15% year over year. NextEra Energy Partners expects a 12% to 15% per-year growth in its distributions through 2024. All in all, this is one renewable energy (stock) that you would surely want to buy right away.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds Continuing on the theme of renewable energy is this article titled Technical Analyst Sees Lots of Upside Potential in This Alternative Energy Stock. Found on investorideas.com. Source: Clive Maund. Here are some quotes. “Things are going well for solar stock UGE International Ltd. (UGE:TSX.V; UGEIF:OTCQB), which looks like a buy here after what is believed to be prolonged base building since it hit bottom last June after a reactive phase… There is plenty of upside potential from here, as made clear by the position of the MACD indicator.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. Top Water, Energy, Stocks and Funds Now to one of the favorite companies by analysts featured in these podcasts. It’s covered in this article titled Why Enphase Energy Stock Soared in February. It’s by Howard Smith and again found on fool.com. Here are some quotes from Mr. Smith. “The stock of solar system technology company Enphase Energy (NASDAQ: ENPH) had a strong month in February. Two separate catalysts were really responsible for the gains, resulting in an overall jump of 18.7% for the month, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. First, the company reported its fourth-quarter and full-year 2021 results on Feb. 8, prompting a big single-day pop in the stock. The second catalyst wasn't company-specific. Many solar

Topping ESG rankings (stocks): “Report--Meet the top 200 companies investing in a clean energy future”; “Barron’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies”; “Top 5 ESG Stocks To Radar Now”; “10 Real Estate Companies That Are Both Greener and More Profitable”; “For Greenification in Munis, Try SMI”; and “This ETF is designed to help fight heart disease”; plus PODCAST: The Stocks Topping ESG Rankings. And More… Transcript & Links, Episode 77, February 25, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 77 published on February 25, 2022, titled “The Stocks Topping ESG Rankings. And More…” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Now a point about current volatile market conditions. You should know that in such markets studies show that companies highly rated for their ESG and sustainability scores usually show superior returns compared to the overall markets. Just a thought in these troubled times where we all wish for the troubles around Ukraine to get resolved peacefully and without much loss of life. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. The Stocks Topping ESG Rankings. And More… Let’s begin looking at As You Sow and Corporate Knights’ Report: Meet the top 200 companies investing in a clean energy future. By TOBY A.A. HEAPS, ANDY BEHAR, MICHAEL YOW, AND MATTHEW MALINSKY. Here are some quotes. “The Clean200 are the largest 200 public companies ranked by green energy revenues… Geographically… the United States dominated the 2022 list, with 52 companies on the Clean200, while Canada had the second largest share with 18, closely followed by China, which 16 Clean200 companies are headquartered in. On average, 58% of revenues earned by Clean200 companies are classified as clean, which is up from 39% in 2021 and significantly above the 20% average clean revenue for their MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI) peers… $10,000 invested in the Clean200 on July 1, 2016, would have grown to $20,709 by January 31, 2022, versus $20,315 for the MSCI ACWI broad market benchmark and $13,167 for the MSCI ACWI/Energy benchmark for fossil fuel companies.” End quotes. The top five Clean 200 companies are Apple inc., Alphabet Inc., Intel Corp, TSMC, and Iberdrola. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. The Stocks Topping ESG Rankings. And More… Another good ranking is the just-released 2022 edition of Barron’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies. Writing about them is Lauren Foster. Ms. Foster writes, quote… “In the fifth annual Barron’s ranking of America’s Most Sustainable Companies, shares of the 100 companies on our list returned 34.4%, on average, in 2021, besting the S&P 500 index’s 28.7%... 41 of the 100 companies on last year’s list beat the market in 2021.” End quotes. Barron’s top five are NVIDIA, ON Semiconductor, Crocs, Inc., Applied Materials, and Jones Lang LaSalle. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. The Stocks Topping ESG Rankings. And More… Now Mavis Babcock at topnewsguide.com has penned this article titled Top 5 ESG Stocks To Radar Now. Here are their names followed by some brief quotes on each one. “1) Viking Energy Group (OTCMKTS:VKIN) is perfect for any speculative investor searching for ESG investments.  The diversified green company has made three recent acquisitions; a carbon capture system that produces sellable commodities from carbon emissions, a medical waste treatment device called the ‘OZONE’, and a Green Renewable Diesel Production Facility in Reno that it is extremely close to closing on. 2) Mattel Inc. (NASDAQ:MAT) … the stock has gained 15% so far this year… Mattel is now projecting its 2021 net sales of $5.4 billion to grow 8% to 10% in the current year. Adjusted EPS is seen at $1.42 to $1.48. The toymaker also lifted its 2023 net sales growth forecast to high-single-digit from a previous outlook of mid-single-digit growth… Hasbro forecast growth of ‘low-single digit’ in both annual revenue and operating profit this year. 3) American Financial Group Inc. (NYSE:AFG) … the stock has jumped 58% over the past year… (and) delivered fourth-quarter 2021 core net operating earnings per share of $4.12, which outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 38.3%. The bottom line doubled on a year-over-year basis. 4) CNH Industrial N.V. (NYSE:CNHI) … The stock is trading above 34% from its 52-week low and 4% away from its 52-week high. CNH Industrial came out with quarterly earnings of $0.25 per share, beating the Consensus Estimate of $0.21 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.30 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 19.05%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this truck, tractor and bus maker would post earnings of $0.22 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.36, delivering a surprise of 63.64%. 5) Ternium S.A. (NASDAQ:TX) Is another stock in the ESG sector which has been showing consistent rise. The stock has moved up 8% over the past one quarter… Benefits of higher steel prices and healthy shipments are likely to reflect on its fourth-quarter results.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Considering green real estate REITS? Well, here’s a list also published in Barron’s titled 10 Real Estate Companies That Are Both Greener and More Profitable. It’s by Evie Liu. 2022 Rank* 2021 Rank Company Ticker REIT Industry Weighted Score 2021 Return Market Capitalization (bil)** Dividend Yield** 1 1 Kilroy Realty KRC Office 74 19.3 $7.1 3.3% 2 2 Host Hotels & Resorts HST Hotel 73 18.9 11.8 0.0 3 8 Boston Properties BXP Office 72 26.0 17.3 3.5 4 NR Ventas VTR Healthcare 71 7.9 20.4 3.5 5 3 Alexandria Real Estate Equities ARE Office 70 27.6 28.4 2.4 6 NR AvalonBay Communities AVB Apartment 70 61.4 33.1 2.7 7 5 Kimco Realty KIM Retail 69 68.8 14.4 2.9 8 NR Equity Residential EQR Apartment 69 56.7 32.5 2.8 9 4 Equinix EQIX Data Center 69 20.0 61.5 1.7 10 10 Brixmor Property BRX Retail 68 60.2 7.2 3.5 *Rank based on non-rounded weighted average; **Market cap and dividend yield as of 12/31/2021; NR=not on the 2021 ranking; N/A= not available Sources: Calvert Research & Management. ------------------------------------------------------------- For Greenification in Munis, Try SMI Many US ethical and sustainable investors like municipal bonds. If this, is you, review this article titled For Greenification in Munis, Try SMI. It’s by TOM LYDON and published on etftrends.com. Here are some quotes from Mr. Lydon. “The vast fixed income market is fertile ground for green fund innovation.... Consider the case of the VanEck HIP Sustainable Muni ETF (SMI), which debuted last September as the first exchange traded fund dedicated to green municipal bonds. The actively managed VanEck HIP Sustainable Muni ETF is managed by HIP Investments — a pioneer in the green municipal bond space… ‘HIP Ratings incorporate research that shows which variables are key to improving outcomes. Then, HIP tracks data and metrics related to evidence-based targets and goal,’ said HIP Investors founder and CEO Paul Herman in a recent note. (This ETF)… which sports a 30-day SEC yield of 1.27%, holds just 44 municipal bonds. That’s the result of a high bar for entry created by HIP Investor’s stringent investment criteria and the newness of green municipal bonds. None of the ETF’s holdings exceed a weight of 4.77%. ‘HIP Investor’s methodology, which precedes the term ‘ESG’ by several years, uses five pillars based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. These five pillars — Health, Wealth, Earth, Equality, and Trust – can be mapped to ESG as well,’ adds Herman. Additionally, the HIP’s methodology features a dual-pronged approach that focuses on sustainability and education… ‘In the VanEck HIP Sustainable Muni ETF (SMI), HIP Ratings also track the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) framework, as well as a Climate Threat Resilience score,’ notes Herman. California and New York municipal bonds combine for 60.6% of the ETF’s weight. (This ETF) has an effective duration of 5.77 years, and 84% of its holdings carry investment-grade ratings.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- This ETF is designed to help fight heart disease while making you money. Here’s how Now here’s another specialist ETF that might be of interest to numerous ethical and sustainable investors. The article’s titled This ETF is designed to help fight heart disease while making you money. Here’s how. It’s by Josh Meyers and found on cnbc.com. Here are some quotes from Mr. Meyers’ article. “’The IQ Healthy Hearts ETF (HART)… is designed to help investors do well while doing good,’ New York Life Investments’ Wendy Wong told CNBC’s 'ETF Edge' on Monday. HART’s current portfolio includes companies such as UnitedHealth Group (UNH), Apple (AAPL), Novartis (NVS) and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ). The ETF, powered by Index IQ, sees a portion of fees go toward supporting the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease… ‘The American Heart Association uses [the funds] to support its Social Impact Fund,’ s

Beat Inflation With These ESG Stocks, Analyst. Article titles covered include these: “Beat inflation with 3 stocks that bet against oil in favor of EVs and the renewable-power grid”; “Top 3 Energy Stocks for 2022 and Beyond”; “3 Best Corporate Governance Stocks to Buy Right Now”; and “1 Fund to Invest in a Sustainable Future” PODCAST: Beat Inflation With These ESG Stocks, Analyst Transcript & Links, Episode 76, February 11, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 76 published on February 11, 2022, titled “Beat Inflation With These ESG Stocks, Analyst” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Beat Inflation With These ESG Stocks, Analyst Now we’re hearing a lot about inflation. Take note of this article titled Beat inflation with 3 stocks that bet against oil in favor of EVs and the renewable-power grid. It’s by Rachel Koning Beals and found on MarketWatch.com. Here are some quotes. “Ivana Delevska, founder and chief investment officer at SPEAR, which runs the actively managed SPEAR Alpha ETF (SPRX), already guides the fund toward disruptive industrial-technology stocks… Now, she has her sights on what looks to be an inflation-tolerant trio of companies that can counter energy-price volatility. 1) Livent Corp. (LTHM) It is ‘very advantageously positioned as a lithium manufacturer, which is expected to remain a key bottleneck component in the production of EVs…’ (It’s) shares are down nearly 8% so far in 2022, after a 13% gain in the past year. 2) ChargePoint Holdings (CHPT) Delevska called it a diversified play on the theme because the company offers hardware and software to fleet, residential and commercial customers. Among other factors, charging support got a boost in the bipartisan infrastructure legislation passed last year, but the most robust government request for funding to back EVs and their charging network has been hung up in a stalled Build Back Better bill. 3) Eaton Corp. (ETN) The power-management company, which helps wind-turbine operators, for instance, convert power into electricity and transport it to the grid… Shares are down 12% in the year to date, cutting into a nearly 25% one-year gain.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Beat Inflation With These ESG Stocks? Returning to familiar territory is an article by a regularly featured analyst Matthew DiLallo of The Motley Fool. Found on Nasdaq.com it’s titled Top 3 Energy Stocks for 2022 and Beyond. Here are some quotes from Mr. DiLallo. “1) Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEPC) (NYSE: BEP) It owns hydroelectric, wind, solar, and energy storage facilities across North and South America, Europe, and Asia… Brookfield sells to utilities and large corporate customers under long-term, fixed-rate power purchase agreements (PPA)… Brookfield distributes most of its cash flow to investors through a dividend that currently yields 3.7%... In addition, Brookfield sees up to 9% of additional cash flow per share growth as it continues making value-enhancing acquisitions. 2) Enbridge (NYSE: ENB) Enbridge is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America… Currently, fossil fuels supply the bulk of Enbridge's income. However, the company has been slowly pivoting toward cleaner energy sources like natural gas and renewables over the years… Its legacy assets are generating cash that Enbridge is using to pay an attractive dividend – it currently yields 6.3% -- and reinvest into cleaner energy infrastructure projects… Meanwhile, it's investing in emerging clean energy projects like hydrogen and carbon capture and storage. 3) NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) It operates one of the cleanest electric utilities in the country, Florida Power & Light, and a leading energy production and infrastructure business, NextEra Energy Resources. Overall, it's one of the world's largest energy producers from the wind and sun. It's also a leader in battery storage… That should drive continued growth in NextEra's 2%-yielding dividend. This year, it sees around 10% dividend growth, with future increases likely to track earnings growth.” End Quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Beat Inflation With These ESG Stocks? Governance is the ‘G’ in ESG. That’s what this article is concerned with. It’s titled 3 Best Corporate Governance Stocks to Buy Right Now. It’s by Melissa Brock and seen on MarketBest.com. Here are some quotes from Ms. Brock on her picks. “1) Alcoa Corp. (NYSE: AA) Alcoa Corp… produces bauxite, alumina and aluminum products through bauxite mining operations which processes bauxite into alumina as well as smelting and casting operations to produce primary aluminum. Alcoa expects all directors, officers and other employees to conduct business in compliance with a strict code of conduct and the company surveys compliance on an annual basis. The company carefully outlines the role of its board of directors and director responsibilities, including the core responsibilities to exercise business judgment and act in the best interests of the company and its stockholders… In 2021 overall, the company posted the highest annual net income of $429 million and earnings per share of $2.26 and generated revenue of $12.2 billion, an increase of 31% from 2020. 2) Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM) Newmont Corp… is a gold producer in North America, South America, Nevada, Australia and Africa.  Newmont Corp's code of conduct publicly lays out the high standards of conduct expected of employees, officers and directors, as well as partners, vendors and contractors. Newmont is a founding member of the Partnering Against Corruption Initiative and adheres to a strict business integrity policy and standards designed to prevent corruption… The company has an independently operated, 24-hour hotline, called the Integrity Helpline, in which any stakeholder can report unsafe and unethical behavior…  Newmont ended Q3 with $4.6 billion of consolidated cash and $7.6 billion of liquidity… Over the last four quarters, Newmont has steadily reinvested in operations while returning more than $2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks. 3) CBRE Group Inc. (NYSE: CBRE) CBRE Group, Inc… provides commercial real estate and investment services through its advisory services, global workplace solutions and real estate investments segments, including property leasing, capital markets, property management, project management services and valuation services, contractually-based outsourcing services and global investment management services… (It’s) Standards of Business Conduct was completely revised in 2021 so its workforce of more than 100,000 employees could read and understand it. The document emphasizes its RISE values: respect, integrity, service and excellence. Personnel and board members must both act ethically and adhere to standards of business conduct… Capital markets activity and global property sales revenue exceeded posted United States increases, with revenue up 116%. International markets also saw strong increases versus last year’s third quarter, paced by Australia and the United Kingdom.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. Beat Inflation With These ESG Funds? Now I’m excited by this fund featured in this article titled A New ESG Fund Launches Today. Why Its Top Holdings Are GM and Occidental. It’s by Evie Liu and was on Barrons.com. Quote. “The path to cutting carbon emissions to zero has to go through the largest emitters, Engine No. 1, the investment firm behind the successful shareholder campaign to reshape oil giant Exxon Mobil, believes. That’s why the firm launched an exchange-traded fund to invest in legacy companies that will drive and benefit from the energy transition.  The Transform Climate ETF (ticker: NETZ)… focuses on firms in some of the largest carbon-emitting industries—such as transportation, energy, and agriculture—that have shown commitment to credible decarbonization plans. It will also look for firms whose products and services help enable the transition to a low-carbon economy… ‘We believe there is no way to decarbonize the planet without these companies transforming, and there is no time to lose,’ says Engine No. 1 founder Chris James… The fund’s top three holdings at launch are General Motors ( GM ), Deere ( DE ), and Occidental Petroleum ( OXY ), names you don’t see often in green funds… The Transform Climate fund is Engine No. 1’s second ETF and first actively managed thematic fund. It charges an annual expense ratio of 0.75%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 5. Beat Inflation With This ESG Fund? Want just one ESG fund to invest in? You might want to review this article titled 1 Fund to Invest in a Sustainable Future. It’s by Frederic Slade and found on fool.com. Quote. “The iShares USA ESG Select ETF has a Morningstar score of 5 and an MSCI score of AAA, while a competitor, the Calvert Equity Fund-A (NASDAQMUTFUND: CSIEX) has scores of 5 and AA,

ESG Dividend Stocks. Global 100 Companies. Plus… includes these companies…QUALCOMM, NextEra Energy, Texas Instruments, Cabot Corporation, Kimco Realty, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company, Amgen, Moelis & Company, Artisan Partners Asset Management, Novavax, Vir Biotechnology, SSE, Greencoat UK Wind, and funds iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF, Invesco ESG Nasdaq-100 ETF, and Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF PODCAST: ESG Dividend Stocks. Global 100 Companies. Plus… Transcript & Links, Episode 75, January 28, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 75 published on January 28, 2022, titled “ESG Dividend Stocks. Global 100 Companies. Plus…” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. ESG Dividend Stocks. Global 100 Companies. Plus… I’m beginning with this fine piece of annual research by Canada’s Corporate Knights. It’s their highly respected Global 100 Sustainability list. See the listings here. I’m going to quote from a companion article for an overview of this research. It’s by Mike Scott, titled, Global 100 companies prove sustainability is good for business. Here are some quotes… “Again this year, the Corporate Knights Global 100 most sustainable corporations are progressing faster than their peers. Members of the MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI), a global equity index, derive just 30% of their earnings from products or services aligned with the Corporate Knights Clean Taxonomy, while 47% of the Global 100 do so (up from 41% last year). Crucially, Global 100 companies are also investing more aggressively in clean technologies and services, with 48% of their capital expenditures, R&D and acquisitions going to clean investments, versus 34% for ACWI… This is reflected in their performance. Since the market bottomed in the spring of 2020, the Global 100 has made gains of 22% against the ACWI, reflecting investors’ focus on a green recovery… Compared to the average ACWI firm, Global 100 members generate more than four times the output per tonne of carbon emitted and almost eight times more output per unit of energy consumed… More Measures Showing Global 100 Outperformance! The ratio of CEO pay to that of the average worker is also lower in Global 100 firms, at 111:1, while at other companies, the pay gap has grown from 124:1 to 140:1, extending the gulf between executives and workers. And while 87% of Global 100 companies link executive compensation to meeting sustainability targets, up from 80% last year, the proportion of companies in the benchmark index may have more than doubled, but that is from just 14% last year to 34% this year… A number of high-profile names were excluded from the Global 100 because of specific red-flagged activities, such as weapons production (including Airbus, Rolls-Royce Holdings and Boeing) and climate policy blocking (Ford Motor Company, Daimler AG, Chevron and Air France).” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. ESG Dividend Stocks. Global 100 Companies. Plus… Many ethical and sustainable investors are seeking income from their investments. So, here’s a source for you, titled 10 ESG Dividend Stocks to Buy. It’s by Fatima Farooq and found on Yahoo!Finance. Concerning the quoted ESG scores, the article says, quote, the “S&P Global's ESG Score Tracker rates companies on a scale of 0-100, with 100 being the best performance. Any ESG score above 50 means the company's ESG rating is above average, and when the score crosses 70, the company's ESG performance is considered to be on a positive rise relative to other companies.” So here are the ten stocks followed by brief author comments on each one. “10. QUALCOMM, Incorporated (NASDAQ:QCOM) Dividend Yield: 1.5% ESG Score: 56 (Is) an information technology company, develops and commercializes foundational technologies for the global wireless industry. The company has been raising its dividend for 11 years, and with an ESG score above 50, it is among the best stock picks for those seeking ESG dividend stocks to buy. 9. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE) Dividend Yield: 1.8% ESG Score: 86 NextEra Energy, Inc. is a utilities company that generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric power to retail and wholesale customers in North America. The company has one of the highest ESG scores on our list. 8. Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS) Dividend Yield: 2.1% ESG Score: 50 Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. is a financial institution providing financial products and services worldwide. The company has an ESG score of 50 according to S&P Global's ESG Score Tracker. 7. Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) Dividend Yield: 2.4% ESG Score: 53 Texas Instruments Incorporated is an information technology company that specializes in manufacturing and selling semiconductors to electronics designers and manufacturers across the globe. The company's ESG score according to S&P Global is 53, making it one of the top ESG dividend stocks to buy. It operates through its Analog and Embedded Processing segments. 6. Cabot Corporation (NYSE:CBT) Dividend Yield: 2.4% ESG Score: 68 Cabot Corporation is a specialty chemicals and performance materials company. It offers reinforcing carbons for use in tires, alongside products such as hoses, belts, and molded goods. The company's ESG score of over 60 makes it a noteworthy option for those seeking ESG dividend stocks to buy. 5. Kimco Realty Corp (NYSE:KIM) Dividend Yield: 2.72% ESG Score: 65 Kimco Realty (is) a real estate investment trust, is based in Jericho, New York, and is among the largest publicly traded owner and operators of open-air, grocery-anchored shopping centers in the US. The company has a dividend payout ratio of 49.9%, and with an ESG score of over 60, it is among the most noteworthy ESG dividend stocks to buy. 4. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) Dividend Yield: 3.2% ESG Score: 87 Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company is an information technology company that offers solutions for capturing, analyzing, and acting upon data. Its ESG score is among the highest on our list, standing at 87. 3. Amgen, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMGN) Dividend Yield: 3.3% ESG Score: 60 Amgen, Inc. is a biotech company. It works to discover, develop, manufacture, and deliver human therapeutics across the globe. The company’s ESG score according to S&P Global is 60, making it one of the most renowned ESG dividend stocks to buy. 2. Moelis & Company (NYSE:MC) Dividend Yield: 4.0% ESG Score: 67 Moelis & Company is a financial corporation operating in the US, Europe, and internationally. It offers advisory services in mergers and acquisitions, recapitalization and restructurings, capital markets transactions, and other matters related to corporate finance. It has a payout ratio of 43.5%, making it one of the popular ESG dividend stocks to buy. 1. Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc. (NYSE:APAM) Dividend Yield: 9.3% ESG Score: 67 Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc is an asset management and custody banks corporation. It provides services to pension and profit-sharing plans, trusts, endowments, foundations, charitable organizations, government entities, private funds, and non-US funds, among others. It has an ESG score of 67 according to Investors Business Daily, making it one of the higher-ranked dividend ESG stocks to buy.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Popular ESG Indexes and How to Invest in Them Now want to invest in a top-line ESG index fund? This article is for you. It’s titled 3 Popular ESG Indexes and How to Invest in Them by Prableen Bajpai. Seen on Nasdaq.com. Quote “1. MSCI USA Extended ESG Focus Index The MSCI USA Extended ESG Focus Index launched in March 2018 and is based on MSCI USA Index, which includes securities across the U.S. equity markets. The index is tracked by iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU), which is one of the largest ESG funds… (gives) exposure to large- and mid-cap U.S. stocks with favorable ESG practices. The fund has $25.48 billion as assets under management and an expense ratio of 0.15%. 2. Nasdaq-100 ESG Index The Nasdaq-100 ESG Index, launched on June 21, 2021, is designed to measure the performance of companies included in the Nasdaq-100 Index that meet all ESG measures Investors can get exposure to the Nasdaq-100 ESG Index by investing in the Invesco ESG Nasdaq-100 ETF (QQMG), which was launched in November 2021. 3. S&P 500 ESG Index The S&P 500 ESG Index is a broad-based, market-cap weighted index that is designed to measure the performance of securities meeting sustainability criteria, while maintaining similar overall industry group weights as the S&P 500. The index is followed by Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF (SNPE). The ETF was launched in June 2019, and currently has $881 million (in) assets under management and an expense ratio of 0.10%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order 1. Title Barron’s Top-Performing Sustainable Investment Fund of 2021 by Lauren Foster. Quote “The No. 1 and No. 2 spots on our list are the $1.3 billion HCM Tactical Growth (HCMGX) and the $1.3 billion HCM Divi

This podcast has 19 articles with dozens of terrific reviews! Companies include Enphase Energy, First Solar, Netflix, Canadian Solar, ChargePoint Holdings, Brookfield Renewable Corporation, NextEra Energy Partners LP. Funds include iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF, SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF, Fidelity Select Biotechnology Portfolio, and VegTech Plant-based Innovation & Climate ETF PODCAST: Best ESG Stocks and Funds for 2022 Transcript & Links, Episode 74, January 14, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. I hope you had a good time over the holidays -- despite the virus concerns -- and are now ready to prosper in the year ahead. So, welcome to podcast episode 74 published on January 14, 2022, titled “Best ESG Stocks and Funds for 2022” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- Now it seems the New Year has spurned many new articles recommending ethical and sustainable stocks and funds. So, I’m going to do something different in this podcast. For each of the 19 articles -- yes 19 articles -- I’m going to give the title, name of the author or authors, the site in which it appeared, and the stocks or funds recommended in that article. Articles will be appropriately grouped, though not in any order. I might seem a little repetitive, but I believe you’ll find it terrifically informative with great investment ideas. Incidentally, do go to this episode’s podcast page for links to all the articles, stocks, and funds. So, let’s begin! Starting with those articles that don’t fit any defined category. ------------------------------------------------------------- A) ‘General’ in nature. 1. Title The Just 100 List by JUST Capital. Found on cnbc.com. Quote “Research nonprofit JUST Capital’s annual analysis of corporate performance is a comprehensive ranking of companies on ESG issues critical to stakeholders, from their workers and shareholders to customers, communities and the environment. These are the 100 top-performing companies across all industries for 2022, evaluated across a wide range of metrics, including efforts to combat climate change; diversity, equity and inclusion; worker wellness and local job creation; and customer privacy.” End quote. 2. Title Three funds for investing in the transition to a sustainable economy by Melissa Scaramellini. Appeared on whatinvestment.co.uk. Funds reviewed and recommended are Legal and General Future World ESG Developed Index Fund, BMO Responsible Global Equity Fund, and Regnan Global Equity Impact Solutions Fund. These are UK or European funds. 3. Title 2 Stocks to Buy When the Next Market Crash Comes. By Rich Duprey. Seen on Nasdaq.com. Stocks featured are Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) and Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX). 4. Title VegTech plant-based innovation & climate ETF launches on NYSE (EATV). By Olivia Nelson on foodingredientsfirst.com. Quote “’We are excited to be what we believe is the first pure-play ETF that invests in companies innovating with plants and producing animal-free products,’” says VegTech Invest CEO and CMO Elysabeth Alfano.” End quote. 5. Title Top 10 most-popular investment trusts: December 2021 by Kyle Caldwell on ii.co.uk. These are UK funds. 6. Title Start ESG Investing in 2022 With These 5 ETFs by Catherine Brock on fool.com. ETFs recommended are Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSEMKT: XLF), Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (NYSEMKT: ESGV), iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF (NYSEMKT: DSI), iShares Global Clean Energy ETF  (NASDAQ: ICLN), and SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF (NYSEMKT: SPYX). 7. Title Wahed Debuts First Shariah-Compliant and ESG-Aware ETF on Nasdaq. Press release was seen on businesswire.com. Quote “The Wahed Dow Jones Islamic World ETF (Ticker: UMMA)… seeks long-term capital appreciation and looks to provide investors access to international, ex-U.S. investments that seek to better align with their values.” End quote. 8. Title Investment Themes to Play Heading Into 2022: 4 Fund Picks by Zacks Equity Research. Their fund picks are Fidelity Select Biotechnology Portfolio (FBIOX), Calvert Equity Fund Class A (CSIEX), New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX), and Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor (PARNX). 9. Title Invest With Your Conscience: 7 Socially Responsible Investment Funds by Sarah Lozanova. Found on earth911.com. Her fund picks are Parnassus Endeavor Investor (PARWX), Parnassus Mid-Cap (PARMX), SPDR SSGA Gender Diversity Index (SHE), Vanguard FTSE Social Index Fund Investor Shares (VFTSX), Invesco ESG NASDAQ 100 ETF (QQMG), ESG NASDAQ Next Gen 100 ETF (QQJG), and Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV). The article has a good comparison chart of these funds too. ------------------------------------------------------------- B) Under Alternative Energy 1. Title 5 Best Solar Energy Companies of 2022 by unknown sponsor on dmagazine.com. Companies reviewed and recommended are quote “SunPower – Overall Best Solar Energy System; Vivint Solar – Premium Services For Residential Solar Energy Systems; Sunpro Solar – Most Affordable Solar Power Systems; Tesla – Most Efficient Solar Panel On The Market; and Sunrun – Best For Customized Solar Energy Systems.” End quote. 2. Title My Top Renewable Energy Stock to Buy Right Now by Reuben Gregg Brewer. Appeared on fool.com. His stock pick is Enbridge (NYSE: ENB). 3. Title 3 Alternative Energy Mutual Funds for 2022 by Stephanie Thompson on dailyinvestorhub.com. The three picks are Guinness Atkinson Alternative Energy Fund (GAAEX), New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX), and Shelton Green Alpha Fund (NEXTX). 4. Title 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Insufficient H2 Investment by Aparajita Dutta. Found on zacks.com. Her picks are Evergy (EVRG - Free Report), Chesapeake Energy (CHK - Free Report), and Ameresco (AMRC - Free Report). 5. Title 5 Clean-Energy Stocks to Watch Amid US Renewables Revolution. Again, by Aparajita Dutta and on zacks.com. Her choices, in addition to those above, are Enphase Energy (ENPH), and First Solar (FSLR). 6. Title 3 Top Renewable Energy Stocks for 2022. Found on Nasdaq.com. Authors Travis Hoium likes SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR), Howard Smith picks Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure (NASDAQ: AY), and Daniel Foelber chooses ChargePoint Holdings (NYSE: CHPT). 7. Title Think Lucid and Rivian Are Overvalued? Buy These Alternative Energy Growth Stocks Instead. It’s by Travis Hoium, Howard Smith, and Daniel Foelber. Quote “Three of our Fool.com contributors think First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR), Enphase Energy (NASDAQ: ENPH), and Brookfield Renewable Corporation (NYSE: BEPC) are well positioned heading into 2022.” End quote. 8. Title 3 Renewable Stocks Set to Continue Their Winning Streak in 2022 again by Aparajita Dutta. Her choices are Evergy (EVRG), Ameresco (AMRC), and Texas Pacific Land (TPL). 9. Title Top Alternative Energy Stocks for Q1 2022 by Stephanie Thompson. Stocks include Daqo New Energy Corp. (DQ), Renewable Energy Group Inc. (REGI), SunPower Corp. (SPWR), Advent Technologies Holdings Inc. (ADN), Canadian Solar Inc. (CSIQ), Ameresco Inc. (AMRC), NextEra Energy Partners LP (NEP), and NextEra Energy Inc. (NEE). ------------------------------------------------------------- C) Under Infrastructure 1. Title 2 Under-the-Radar Infrastructure Stocks to Buy in 2022 and Beyond by Brett Schafer on fool.com. The two stocks are Autodesk (NASDAQ: ADSK) and American Tower (NYSE: AMT). ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, there we are for this podcast titled “Best ESG Stocks and Funds for 2022.” 19 articles full of great ethical and sustainable investing ideas. To get all their links, stock symbols, or to read the transcript of this podcast -- and more -- go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode. Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let’s promote a better post COVID world through ethical and sustainable investing! Contact me if you have any questions. Stay well and healthy—and conscious about the ethical and sustainable values of your investments! Thank you for listening. Talk to you next on January 28. Bye for now. © 2022 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul.

Happy New Year everyone! I'm taking some time off and will begin  podcasting again on Friday, January 14. May you have a wonderful healthy, happy, prosperous, and fulfilling 2022!

Cleantech Stocks, Carbon ETF to Buy Now. Covering Brookfield Renewable, Vestas Wind Systems, Amyris Inc., Plug Power, ChargePoint, Tesla, NextEra Energy, Enphase Energy, Ford Motor Company, KraneShares Global Carbon ETF, California Carbon Allowance ETF, and Series B Carbon ETF. Carbon ETFs represent a potentially profitable and exciting new investment category for ethical and sustainable investors PODCAST: Cleantech Stocks, Carbon ETF to Buy Now Transcript & Links, Episode 73, December 17, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 73 published on December 17, titled “Cleantech Stocks, Carbon ETF to Buy Now.” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Cleantech Stocks, Carbon ETF to Buy Now So, let’s begin this podcast with this great article titled Cleantech Stocks to Buy Now with Global Climate Change Coming into Focus by Pete Johnson, It appeared on the investmentu.com site. I’ll first mention the company, then follow with brief comments by Mr. Johnson on that stock. “No. 8 Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEP) Industry: Renewable Energy Market Cap: 9.3B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 11% Brookfield Renewable is an excellent play if you’re looking to invest in cleantech stocks but don’t know where to start… It has holdings in… Wind Energy Solar Energy Hydroelectric Power Storage Facilities What’s more, the company pays a generous dividend, currently yielding 3.59% annually. No. 7 Vestas Wind Systems (OTC: VWDRY) Industry: Wind Turbines Market Cap: 31.1B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 16% (EUR) The Denmark-based turbine supplier is a leader in the wind power market… the wind power market is expecting to grow 11.3% annually over the next few years. No. 6 Amyris Inc. (Nasdaq: AMRS) Industry: Renewable Chemicals Market Cap: 1.75B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 40% The company makes clean health and beauty consumer products… The biotech leader is changing the way we approach consumer needs. That said, Amyris will be one of the top cleantech stocks to watch going forward. No. 5 Plug Power (Nasdaq: PLUG) Industry: Hydrogen Fuel Cells Market Cap: 19.2B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 35% Plug Power is the leader in hydrogen technology… Plug Power’s fuel cells are used to power trucks, improve material handling and stationary power. Despite a loss in the 4th quarter, Plug has achieved double-digit year-over-year (YOY) revenue growth in 7 of its last 8 quarters… Partnerships with premium brands like Amazon, BWW and Walmart show it’s the real deal. No. 4 ChargePoint (NYSE: CHPT) Industry: EV Charging Stations Market Cap: 7B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 60% As the world’s largest EV charging network, ChargePoint is looking to capitalize on the growing EV demand. Even more, the company offers an open network. This means anyone can use it. No. 3 Tesla (Nasdaq: TSLA) Industry: Electric Vehicles Market Cap: 1T 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 57% Despite competition starting to gain traction, Tesla is still crushing its targets and breaking records along the way… it shows demand for EVs heating up and particularly for Tesla vehicles… No. 2 NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) Industry: Utility Market Cap: 173.8B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: (-37%) NextEra Energy is the largest utility company… it’s also the world’s largest producer of wind and solar… NextEra makes an attractive dividend stock… its 25 straight years of increased payouts make it a dividend aristocrat… NextEra is one of the top cleantech stocks over the next ten years. No. 1 Enphase Energy (Nasdaq: ENPH) Industry: Semiconductors (Solar Energy) Market Cap: 29B 1-Yr Revenue Growth: 97% Rounding out the best cleantech stocks is the microinverter supplier, Enphase… Enphase units combine solar, battery and software to power residential homes. At the same time, they are making it easy for users to sell back the energy they are not using. The smart technology is driving the Enphase stock to new heights, now up over 2,000% in the past two years… With 48% compound revenue growth in the past 20 quarters, look for Enphase to continue its dominant run.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Cleantech Stocks, Carbon ETF to Buy Now Now, this next article titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks To Keep An Eye On Next Year was found on a site covering the oil industry, oilprice.com. It’s written by Alex Kimani. Here are some of his comments. Quote. “#1. Plug Power Inc. (Yes, again!) (NASDAQ: PLUG)        Industry: Alternative Energy        Market Cap: $21.1B Plug Power has managed to remain in Wall Street's good books--and for good reason. First off, the company raised its revenue guidance for 2022 given acquisitions and commercial traction to $900 Million–$925 Million… Citigroup analyst P.J. Juvekar maintains his Buy rating and $35 price target after visiting the company's facilities and coming away impressed with the company's plans to expand its capabilities to make hydrogen gas while also lowering costs… Morgan Stanley analyst Stephen Byrd has maintained an Overweight rating and $43 price target on Plug. Raymond James analyst Joseph Spak has reiterated his Outperform rating while raising the price target to $48 from $40, saying Plug is transforming into a one-stop, turnkey hydrogen solution whose rich valuation is justified, given the significant growth potential. Plug Power and South Korea conglomerate corporation SK Group have announced they have formed a joint venture to build a gigafactory with mass capacity for hydrogen fuel cells and electrolyzer systems in South Korea by 2024… Plug Power has also struck a green hydrogen deal with Airbus (OTCPK: EADSF, OTCPK: EADSY) in a landmark study to decarbonize air travel. #2. Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F)        Industry: Automotive        Market Cap: $79.2B As a member of the 'Big 3' Detroit automakers, Ford Motor Co is a controversial pick on a list dedicated to clean energy plays. But Ford's EV exploits are worth looking into because the company has set out one of the most comprehensive EV roadmaps by a legacy automaker. Indeed, Ford's impressive 123% YTD gain is largely due to the company's EV upside.  Morgan Stanley forecast Ford's EV unit sales will reach 1.24M units by FY30 to represent 34% of volume. Ford has already overtaken General Motors (NYSE: GM) in EV sales in the United States. Further, Ford has already taken 200K reservations for its hotly anticipated F-150 Lightning pickup truck, and plans to start converting reservations to full orders in January 2022, thus beating General Motors' Chevy Silverado to the market by a full year. The F-150 Lightning pickup truck is an all-electric version of Ford's best-selling passenger vehicle in the market, the F-150. Morgan Stanley values Ford's EV/AV and Mobility businesses at nearly $12 per share, which at the moment is roughly 100% of its lowly price target of $12. Meanwhile, Credit Suisse is more positive on the Detroit automaker with a price target of $20… Ford CEO James Farley… has talked up the auto maker's 12% stake in EV truck and van maker Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN), noting that the firm's well-received IPO ‘gives us lots of optionality’ about what to do with its investment. #3. Enphase Energy Inc. (Yes again!) (NASDAQ: ENPH)        Industry: Renewable Energy        Market Cap: $30.4B Enphase Energy Inc. is a Fremont, California-based company that designs and manufactures software-driven home energy solutions used in solar generation, home energy storage and web-based monitoring and control. Enphase is among the leading solar and alternative energy names that have been surging following the passage of the Build Back Better bill in the U.S. House… Last month, Wells Fargo initiated coverage on Enphase with an Outperform rating. Wells pointed to two key competitive advantages that should support growth visibility: regulation NEC 2017, which creates barriers to entry in the U.S. market; and product innovation and software technology, which provide customers with an intelligent home energy management system.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Cleantech Stocks, Carbon ETF to Buy Now Now a new investment class for ethical and sustainable investors: carbon credits. This article is fascinating! It’s titled KRBN ETF Is Crushing the Market – Buy It Now. By Michael A. Robinson. Here is some of what Mr. Robinson has to say. Quote. “Every company that emits carbon into the atmosphere has to buy credits to do so from companies that remove carbon from the atmosphere. There's one fund that is taking incredible advantage of this system, and they're starting to see huge gains. That fund is the KraneShares Global Carbon ETF (NYSEArca: KRBN), and I'm excited to introduce you to it… The cu

Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More. Includes SunPower, Enphase Energy, Lucid Group, First Solar, Inc., mCloud Technologies, Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A, Calvert Equity Fund Class A, Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor, and New Alternatives Fund Class A. The reviews are by top analysts at Zacks, fool.com, others PODCAST: Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More. Transcript & Links, Episode 72, December 3, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 72 published on December 3, titled “Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More I’m beginning this podcast with three great analysts who I feature regularly. They are Travis Hoium, Howard Smith, And Daniel Foelber and they’ve posted an article titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks We're Thankful for in 2021. It appears on fool.com. Here are their picks followed by brief quotes on them. “1) Travis Hoium likes SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR) The last few years have been a wild ride for SunPower. The company sold off its utility-scale solar business, spun off its solar panel manufacturing business, and is in the process of finding a buyer or other alternative for its commercial solar business. What's left is the residential solar installation business that's become one of the most valuable parts of the solar energy market. And… it's treated investors very well.  I'm thankful that SunPower found a path to success on the market and can now focus on becoming a growth stock. The company has built the infrastructure to sell, design, install, and finance residential solar projects at scale, which is what the market is rewarding today. And it made a great deal in selling its inverter business to Enphase Energy for stock that ultimately saved the company.  2) Howard Smith recommends Enphase Energy (NASDAQ: ENPH) I first heard of Enphase Energy seven years ago… and I wish I had bought Enphase stock more than 2,000% ago… Enphase recently released the eighth-generation microinverter system. The IQ8 is an all-in-one system that the company says is ‘capable of forming a microgrid during a power outage using only sunlight, providing backup power even without a battery…’ Enphase recently launched its battery storage system in Belgium and has also just expanded into Brazil and Italy… Enphase just announced plans to acquire ClipperCreek, an electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions company… The move into the EV sector also gives Enphase a path ‘to enable bi-directional charging capability for vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid applications.’  3) Daniel Foelber picks Lucid Group (NASDAQ: LCID) From its pre-merger stint with Churchill Capital IV, to its merger in July, to reaching deliveries in late October, Lucid has given investors a wild, volatile, and quite often stressful experience in 2021. But so far this year, Lucid is the best-performing automaker in the world -- giving investors who have stayed the course a fourfold return.  In just a year, Lucid has transformed itself from an unproven company to a company with some of the best technology in the entire electric vehicle (EV) industry. The short-term outlook looks impressive. Its balance sheet is rich with cash, its manufacturing plant has enough capacity to meet 2022 demand, reservations are now over 17,000, and it is on track to build 20 sales and service centers throughout the U.S. and Canada before year-end.  The medium-term outlook looks excellent as well. In 2022, the company expects to be producing four versions of the Lucid Air sedan at price points ranging from $77,400 to $169,000. It's also further growing its manufacturing capacity to 50,000 units by 2022 so it can handle production of the Air and Gravity SUV in 2023… Over the last three months, share prices of Lucid have dipped as low as $16.12 per share and as high as $57.44 a share… despite the volatility, long-term investors hope that Lucid's growth story is maybe only in the first or second inning.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More Continuing on the energy theme is this article titled Bet Big on These 2 Alternative Energy Stocks by Emma Duncan. It appeared on schaefferresearch.com. SunPower is again recommended. Here are some of her comments. “While the list of electric vehicle stocks is ever growing, alternative energy stocks have been around a little longer and thus can be seen as slightly more stable at the moment. For example, two note-worthy names worth exploring are First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) and SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ: SPWR)… What’s more, both of these alternative energy disruptors showed up on a list of stocks that are now flashing a historic bull signal… SunPower Corporation SunPower stock has added 20% in 2021, with its recent round of lower highs finding a leg of support at both the 360-day moving average and the round $20 level. Meanwhile, First Solar stock has added just over 9% this calendar year, and has seen a trendline of support near $103 in the last few weeks. SunPower stock has pulled back to its 40-day moving average, after spending a significant period of time above it. According to data from Schaeffer's Senior Quantitative Analyst Rocky White, a notable seven similar signals have occurred during the past three years. The security saw a positive one-month return 71% of the time, averaging a 6.4% gain. Last seen at $30.45, a similar move would put SunPower above $32 -- just below its six-month highs. First Solar, Inc. For First Solar stock, the equity recently pulled back to its 80-day moving average, after spending a significant period of time above it. Per White, five similar signals have occurred during the past three years. First Solar enjoyed a positive one-month return in 80% of those cases, averaging an impressive 9.8% gain. From its current perch of $106.65, a similar move would put the security back above the $117 level, within a chip-shot of its 10-year peak… Both stocks also look ripe for a fresh round of bullish attention too. Of the 14 and 11 analysts following First Solar and Sunpower, respectively, seven and 10 carry tepid ‘hold’ or worse recommendations. In simpler terms, this leaves ample room for upgrades, should these trendlines prove to be historical springboards. Short interest has been building on SunPower stock, too… At the equity’s average pace of daily trading, it would take shorts the better part of a week to buy back their bearish bets. First Solar and SunPower options also look affordable from an options standpoint… options players are pricing in relatively low volatility expectations at the moment.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More Now, this is interesting. Kate Birch pens an article titled Deloitte: Top 10 fastest-growing tech companies in Canada. However, only one is a public company and it, fortunately, has ESG credentials. Its name is mCloud Technologies. Here’s what she says about it. Quote. “Not only is Nasdaq-listed mCloud Technologies (NASDAQ: MCLD) ranked 10th in Canada (57th America-wide) on the latest Fast 500 list (and) having experienced growth of 3,003%, but it has further been named number two on Deloitte’s Clean Technology Fast 50 in Canada. Founded in Calgary in 2010, mCloud has become a leading provider of AI-powered asset management and ESG solutions. Focused on unlocking the untapped potential of energy intensive assets with AI and analytics, curving energy waste and maximising energy production, mCloud has a global presence and offices worldwide, boasting more than 100 blue-chip customers and over 62,000 assets connected in thousands of locations worldwide.” End quote. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. Best 2021 Renewable Energy Stocks. And More And finally, Zacks Equity Research has produced this research titled 4 Funds to Buy as Sustainable Investing Hits Record High. Here are the US funds they like followed by some of their research comments. Quote. “We handpicked four sustainable investment-based mutual funds. All these funds carry a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy). In addition, the minimum initial investment for these funds is within $5,000… 1) Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A JATAX Aims for long-term capital growth. The fund invests the majority of net assets in securities of companies benefiting from advances or improvements in technology. This Sector-Tech product has a history of positive total returns for more than 10 years. Specifically, (this fund’s) returns are 34.9% and 30.3% over the past three and five-year periods, respectively. To see how this fund performed compared to its category… please click here. Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank of 1 and an annual expense ratio of 0.99% compared with the category average of 1.05%. 2) Calvert Equity Fund Class A

Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26 include Tesla, NIO, Li Auto, TPI Composites, Schneider National, Knight-Swift Transportation, FREYR, Fisker, Alstom, NARI Technology, SINOPEC Engineering Group, Covestro, Rexel, Ørsted, Siemens Energy, FirstEnergy, Sunrun, PAVE infrastructure ETF, Parker-Hannifin, Xylem, Jacobs Engineering, Martin Marietta, Cleveland-Cliffs, Xcel Energy, United Rentals, VOTE ETF, Plug Power Inc., Brookfield Renewable Partners PODCAST: Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26 Transcript & Links, Episode 71, November 19, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 71 published on November 19, titled “Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26 (1) Several of today’s articles relate in some way to COP26. Here’s the first titled, Following COP26? Look at These 3 Sustainable Investing Strategies and 40 Stock Picks. It’s by Jack Denton writing in Barron’s. Now please excuse my improper pronunciations of company names in these quotes from this article. Quote. “Interested in the renewables sector? Morgan Stanley says… Look at China Jushi (600176.China), Jiangsu Zhongtian Technologies (600522.China), Luoyang Glass (1108.H.K.), Engie (ENGI.France), Ørsted (ORSTED.Denmark), Siemens Energy (ENR.Germany), FirstEnergy (FE), and Sunrun (RUN). For energy storage… Ganfeng Lithium (1772.H.K.), Panasonic (6752.Japan), Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt (603799.China), and QuantumScape (QS) are worth checking out. Across hydrogen… Morgan Stanley identifies Beijing SinoHytec (688339.China), China Petroleum & Chemical (0386.H.K.), Johnson Matthey (JMAT.U.K.), NEL (NEL.Norway), Air Products (APD), Enbridge (ENB), and New Fortress Energy (NFE) among the potential winners. Attractive bets in sustainable alternative fuels… include major oil companies Exxon Mobil (XOM) and Chevron (CVX), as well as HollyFrontier (HFC) and Marathon Petroleum (MPC). The developing field of carbon capture, utilization, and storage offers picks including: Bayer (BAYN.Germany), ConocoPhillips (COP), NextDecade (NEXT), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY). Opportunities in electric transportation and green mobility still abound… Familiar electric-vehicle stocks such as Tesla (TSLA), NIO (NIO), and Li Auto (LI) make Morgan Stanley’s list, as do TPI Composites (TPIC), Schneider National (SNDR), Knight-Swift Transportation (KNX), FREYR (FREY), Fisker (FSR), and Alstom (ALO.France). Renovation and energy efficiency also offer options… NARI Technology (600406.China), SINOPEC Engineering Group (2386.H.K.), Covestro (1COV.Germany), and Rexel (RXL.France) are among the potential plays. Morgan Stanley’s view is that there are also many stocks facing headwinds… from the trend of decarbonization, including sectors such as energy; power and utilities; cement; chemicals; coal; metals and mining; industrials; automobiles; airlines; and shipping.  In particular, it is bearish on stocks including Consolidated Edison (ED), Continental Resources (CLR), XCel Energy (XEL), Ford Motor (F), BMW (BMW.Germany), Nissan (7201.Japan), American Airlines (AAL), Deutsche Lufthansa (LHA.Germany), and Air France-KLM (AF.France), among others.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26 (2) Now, turning to infrastructure. Another favorite of ethical and sustainable investors, there’s this article titled Infrastructure stocks on watch after bill passes Congress. Four under-the-hood ways to play it by Keris Lahiff. It appeared on cnbc.com. Here are some quotes. “‘’I think that the (PAVE infrastructure ETF) is a great way to gain exposure…’ Ari Wald, head of technical analysis at Oppenheimer, says it has more room to run…Wald told CNBC’s ‘Trading Nation’ on Monday. ‘We’re bullish on that industry because it is indeed reclaiming its leadership… It has also outperformed the S&P 500 this year, climbing more than 35%...’ Wald highlights diversified motion and control parts manufacturer Parker-Hannifin as one stock at the top of his watch list… Shares have jumped this month, rising by 11%. The broad-based S&P 500, by comparison, is up just 1%. Nancy Tengler, chief investment officer at Laffer Tengler Investments… Prefers to play the group through individual stocks rather than the PAVE ETF. She picked out three names she believes have upside potential. ‘Xylem is a beneficiary of the $55 billion water spend that’s been allocated in the bill,’ she said in the same interview. ‘This is significant spending for water. The state appropriation bills are somewhere in the $2 [billion] to $2.5 billion range annually. This is $55 billion over five years.’ ‘Then, for the highways portion of the bill, we like Jacobs Engineering. So think about the $40 billion that’s being spent for bridges, that’s going to benefit engineering and construction companies, and then Martin Marietta, which is obviously just the asphalt for the road,’ said Tengler. Xylem, Jacobs and Martin Marietta Materials… this year all are up by at least 30%, while the S&P 500 has climbed 25%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26 (3) Now for my second article on infrastructure. It’s titled, 3 Stocks That Could Win Big Under Biden's Infrastructure Bill by Matthew DiLallo, Neha Chamaria, and Reuben Gregg Brewer. Here are quotes from the authors on their picks. “1. Reuben Gregg Brewer chooses Cleveland-Cliffs (NYSE: CLF) Over the past couple of years Cleveland-Cliffs has turned itself from a steel industry supplier into an integrated steelmaker that also sells key competitors iron ore pellets and other steelmaking inputs… Cleveland-Cliffs could also be benefiting from increased demand for its steelmaking ingredients… It is, thus, heavily leveraged to the elevated steel demand likely to come from increased infrastructure spending… Cleveland-Cliffs' stock is the best-performing North American steel mill over the past year. However, thanks to the mergers used to create it, the steelmaker also has the most leverage, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.3 times, twice as high as the next competitor. 2. Matt DiLallo likes Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) The infrastructure package includes significant funding for the energy transition to cleaner alternatives… That aligns perfectly with Xcel Energy's investment plan. The utility has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and is investing billions of dollars to achieve that bold goal.   In addition to investing heavily in renewable energy, Xcel Energy is spending billions of dollars on upgrading its transmission system. It's also building EV infrastructure, including installing charging stations in major transportation corridors and underserved communities… The company said it could invest up to $4 billion over the coming decade on hydrogen-related projects to blend that emissions-free fuel into its natural gas system… The company could tap into government-funded programs from the infrastructure bill to support its spending plans. That could enable it to achieve its decarbonization efforts while creating significant value for shareholders by growing its earnings and dividend.    3. Neha Chamaria recommends United Rentals (NYSE: URI) As federal spending on infrastructure picks up, so should demand for heavy machinery like the ones United Rentals rents out. In fact, the company is already witnessing higher demand even before federal spending kicks off… Growth of 22% in its third-quarter rental revenue encouraged United Rentals to upgrade its outlook… United Rentals looks well positioned to win as infrastructure spending in the U.S. gathers steam.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Great Stock and Fund Picks Post COP26 (4) Now, this is a new style ESG ETF, Article’s title is VOTE: ESG Activism in an ETF. It’s by Neena Mishra of Zacks. Quote. “In this episode of ETF Spotlight, I speak with Yasmin Dahya Bilger, head of ETFs at Engine No. 1, about activist investing through an ETF. The activist investment firm had sent shock waves through Corporate America in May when it targeted Exxon Mobil XOM and successfully placed three candidates on the board of directors. The Engine No. 1 Transform 500 ETF VOTE, which started trading in June, intends to encourage transformational changes in companies through shareholder activism. The fund invests in 500 of the largest US public companies and comes with an expense ratio of just 0.05%. VOTE is an excellent alternative to standard S&P

Low-Cost ESG Stocks to Buy. More… Stocks include Ternium S.A., Kimco Realty Corporation, ArcelorMittal, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., Owens Corning, Steel Dynamics, Inc., eBay Inc., Hologic, Inc., Flex Ltd., and Mohawk Industries, Inc. Funds: Fidelity Select Utilities Portfolio, New Alternatives Fund Class A, Calvert Global Energy Solutions Fund Class A, and Fidelity Select Automotive Portfolio PODCAST: Low-Cost ESG Stocks to Buy. More… Transcript & Links, Episode 70, November 5, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 70 published on November 5, titled “Low-Cost ESG Stocks to Buy. More…” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Cheap ESG Stocks To Invest In Many ESG stocks are trading at high price-earnings or PE ratios so it’s refreshing to see this article, titled 10 Cheap ESG Stocks To Invest In. It’s by Usman Kabir and was on yahoo.com. Here are some quotes. “The ESG companies were identified based on the initiatives they have taken to become more responsible environmentally, socially, and in terms of their governance. Those that have a PE Ratio of less than 20 feature heavily on the list. The hedge (fund) sentiment around each stock was gauged using the data of 873 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey… Insider Monkey’s research was able to identify in advance a select group of hedge fund holdings that outperformed the S&P 500 ETFs by more than 86 percentage points since March 2017… 10. Ternium S.A. (NYSE: TX) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 15. PE Ratio: 3.84 In August, Ternium S.A. announced that it had entered into an agreement with Vale, a Brazilian mining company, to jointly focus on the development of technologies that will reduce carbon emissions during the manufacture of steel products... Citi analyst Alexander Hacking recently reiterated a Buy rating on Ternium S.A. stock and raised the price target to $60 from $50… 9. Kimco Realty Corporation (NYSE: KIM) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 20. PE Ratio: 24.89 In August, Truist analyst Ki Bin Kim had maintained a Buy rating on Kimco Realty Corporation stock and raised the price target to $25 from $23… Kimco Realty Corporation has a stellar dividend record… 8. ArcelorMittal (NYSE: MT) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 22. PE Ratio: 5.62 The company is one of the largest steel firms in the world… It has set a goal of reducing carbon emissions internally by 25% in line with international standards in this regard… In June, the company revealed that it had entered into an agreement with Canadian authorities to spend $1.4 billion on decarbonization tech at the Ontario plant of the firm. 7. Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: ABG) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 26. PE Ratio: 7.91 Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. operates as an automotive retailer… One of the biggest stakeholders in the firm is Impactive Capital, an ESG-focused hedge fund… On September 30, investment advisory Craig-Hallum maintained a Buy rating on Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. stock and raised the price target to $250 from $230… 6. Owens Corning (NYSE: OC) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 34. PE Ratio: 9.90 Owens Corning makes and sells a range of building products in the composites, insulation, and roofing domains… It has an impressive dividend history… The company has topped the 100 Best Corporate Citizens List three years in a row… RBC Capital analyst Mike Dahl recently raised the price target on the stock to $97 from $94. 5. Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ: STLD) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 26. PE Ratio: 6.00 The increase in demand for steel in the post-pandemic economy, as well as an increase in pricing because of supply chain pressures, has benefited Steel Dynamics, Inc… The company was recently named on a list of 100 Best ESG Companies of 2021 by Investor’s Business Daily. 4. eBay Inc. (NASDAQ: EBAY) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 39. PE Ratio: 4.20    eBay Inc. has remarkably stayed relevant in the ecommerce world… The very business model of the firm is based on ESG beliefs as it prefers to sell second-hand and used items… KeyBanc analyst Edward Yruma recently maintained an Overweight rating on eBay Inc… stock and raised the price target to $90 from $80. 3. Hologic, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOLX) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 41. PE Ratio: 9.39    Evercore ISI analyst Vijay Kumar upgraded Hologic, Inc. stock to Outperform from In Line with a price target of $78 in July… In the ESG bracket, the company sets annual goals to improve women leadership in healthcare, reduce carbon emissions, and improve health access for underserved communities…  In late July, the firm had reported earnings for the third quarter, posting earnings per share of $1.33, beating predictions by $0.21. The revenue over the period was $1.1 billion, up 42% year-on-year. 2. Flex Ltd. (NASDAQ: FLEX) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 43. PE Ratio: 8.57    The company offers electronic manufacturing services to original equipment manufacturers. It is headquartered in Singapore… In 2020, the firm achieved 92% growth in sustainable energy use year-on-year and even used ESG standards to screen all new global suppliers it conducted business with…  In May, investment advisory Citi reiterated a Buy rating on Flex Ltd. stock and raised the price target to $25 from $22… 1. Mohawk Industries, Inc. (NYSE: MHK) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 44. PE Ratio: 3.55    Mohawk Industries, Inc. makes and sells flooring products. As part of an ESG initiative, the company also offers sustainable carpeting and flooring options. The company also aims to offset energy used to make products by installing solar units in remote communities.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Hold the meat: Burger King, Chipotle, Starbucks top fast-food rankings on World Vegan Day 2021 With investors showing great interest in vegetarian meat substitutes, this article is timely… It might give you some new investing ideas. It’s titled Hold the meat: Burger King, Chipotle, Starbucks top fast-food rankings on World Vegan Day 2021 by Steve Kiggins. It appeared on the USA Today site. Here are some quotes. “Only seven chains were designated as ‘Menu Movers,’ the report card’s top ranking: Burger King (QSR), Chipotle (CMG), Starbucks (SBUX ), KFC (YUM), Panera Bread (PNRA), Pizza Hut (YUM) and Taco Bell (YUM). Thirty-nine of the country’s top 50 fast-food restaurants received the lowest ranking as ‘Dining Dawdlers’ – including McDonald’s, Subway and Chick-fil-A. The 'Moving the Menu' report was produced by World Animal Protection, which advocates eating less meat as part of its mission to ‘change animals’ lives for the better.’ Cameron Harsh, programs director for the nonprofit animal welfare organization, described the 24-page report as a guide to help ‘individual consumers align with the restaurants that share their values…’ ‘What the ‘Menu Movers’ in this report have done is not just added plant-based alternatives to their menus and called it good, they’ve actually talked publicly … about the benefits of these products,’ Harsh told USA TODAY… The World Animal Protection list of ‘Dining Dawdlers’ also includes Arby’s, Dairy Queen, Domino’s, Dunkin,’ Panda Express and Wendy’s. The message for those straggling chains, Harsh said, is to recognize the plant-based movement as an ‘important and necessary direction’ for the sustainability of the planet – and for their bottom line.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Mutual Funds to Rally on Cleantech Boom Now found on Yahoo.com is this fine article titled 4 Mutual Funds to Rally on Cleantech Boom and written by the highly reputable Zacks Equity Research team. Here are some quotes. “These funds flaunt a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy)… We expect these funds to outperform peers in the future… 1) Fidelity Select Utilities Portfolio (FSUTX) … aims for capital appreciation. This non-diversified fund invests most assets in common stocks of companies, primarily engaged in the utilities industry and generating most of their revenues from utility operations… (The) Fidelity Select Utilities Portfolio has returned 7.6% and 10.1% in the past three and five-year period, respectively… (It) has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 and an annual expense ratio of 0.76%, below the category average of 0.94%. This fund has significant investment in alternative energy companies. 2) New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX) … aims for long-term capital appreciation, with income being the secondary objective. The fund invests in common stocks of YieldCos, American Depository Receipts, real estate investment trusts and publicly-traded master limited partnerships. New Alternatives Fund Class A has three and five-year return of 26.3% and 17.5%, respectively… (It) has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #2 and an annual expense ratio of 0.96% versus the category average of 1.29%. Additionally, the fund has significant investment in alternative energy companies. 3) Calvert Global Energy Solutions Fund Class A (CGAEX) … aims to track the performance of the Calvert Global Energy Research Index. The fund invests a majority of

Best Solar Energy Stocks PLUS Much More includes. Shoals Technologies Group, Inc., Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P., Clearway Energy, Inc. Sunnova Energy International Inc., First Solar, Inc., SolarEdge Technologies, Inc., Enphase Energy, Inc., Sunrun Inc., NextEra Energy, Inc., Tesla, Inc., Fidelity Select Technology Portfolio, New Alternatives Fund Class A, and Rize Environmental Impact 100 UCITS ETF PODCAST: Best Solar Energy Stocks PLUS Much More Transcript & Links, Episode 69, October 22, 2021 Best Solar Energy Stocks PLUS Much More… Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 69 published on October 22, titled “Best Solar Energy Stocks PLUS Much More…” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. The recommendations are by the article’s authors. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. If any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Best Solar Energy Stocks PLUS Much More So, I’m going to start with this article titled 10 Best Solar Energy Stocks to Buy Today by TRISH NOVICIO in Hedge Funds, News. Here are some quotes from Ms. Novicio. “Insider Monkey’s research was able to identify in advance a select group of hedge fund holdings that outperformed the S&P 500 ETFs by more than 86 percentage points since March 2017… 10. Shoals Technologies Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SHLS) Hedge Fund Holders: 12 The Tennessee-based solar company sells junction and splice boxes, inline fuses, cables, and wireless monitoring systems. (It’s) electrical balance of system (EBOS) products are used in building solar energy projects… On July 21, JPMorgan analyst Mark Strouse kept an Overweight rating on Shoals Technologies Group, Inc. and increased his price target for the stock to $46 from $42… 9. Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (NYSE: BEP) Hedge Fund Holders: 20 The company supplies electricity internationally through renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy. On September 22, Raymond James analyst Frederic Bastien upgraded Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. to Outperform from Market Perform and increased his price target for the stock to $44 from $41. 8. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CWEN) Hedge Fund Holders: 21 The New Jersey-based energy company is one of the biggest renewable energy providers in the US with over 4,700 net MW of installed wind and solar generation projects. On August 26, UBS analyst William Grippin initiated a Buy rating on Clearway Energy, Inc. with a price target of $36 per share. Shares of Clearway Energy, Inc. jumped 2.08% on September 22 as the solar company announced its second agreement with Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE: TM) North America to supply power to its manufacturing facility in Mississippi. 7. Sunnova Energy International Inc. (NYSE: NOVA) Hedge Fund Holders: 25 The Houston-based solar power company sells residential solar energy systems and storage solutions. On August 31, Wolfe Research analyst Steve Fleishman initiated an Outperform rating on Sunnova Energy International Inc. with a price target of $50 per share. 6. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) Hedge Fund Holders: 31 The Arizona-based solar energy firm sells photovoltaic (PV) solar panel solutions. On August 2, the stock gained 2.8% after Susquehanna upgraded First Solar, Inc. to Positive from Neutral and raised its price target to $120 from $89… On September 21, Morgan Stanley analyst Stephen Byrd kept an Underweight rating on First Solar, Inc. and increased his price target for the stock to $61 from $57. 5. SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: SEDG) Hedge Fund Holders: 37 The Israeli-based solar energy company develops and sells residential solar systems which include power optimizers, inverters, storage, and a monitoring platform.  On August 31, Wolfe Research analyst Steve Fleishman initiated an Outperform rating on SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. 4. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH) Hedge Fund Holders: 44 The company manufactures and sells microinverters and energy storage for residential and enterprise solar panel systems.  On September 21, KeyBanc analyst Sophie Karp initiated an Overweight rating on Enphase Energy, Inc. with a price target of $179 per share… 3. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ: RUN) Hedge Fund Holders: 45 The company manufactures and sells residential solar energy systems in the US… On September 9, Needham analyst Vik Bagri initiated a Buy rating on Sunrun Inc. with a price target of $75 per share. 2. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) Hedge Fund Holders: 59 The company distributes electricity in North America from solar, wind, and nuclear energy. The company also operates coal and natural gas facilities. On July 13, Credit Suisse analysts initiated coverage of NextEra Energy, Inc. with an Outperform rating with a price target of $85 per share.  1. Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) Hedge Fund Holders: 60 The company delivered 201,204 electric vehicles in the second quarter of 2021, up 121% year over year. Additionally, Tesla, Inc. also offers solar panels and energy storage… In the Q2 2021 investor letter of Worm Capital LLC, the fund mentioned Tesla, Inc… Here is (in part) what the fund said: ‘Tesla alone is a vertically integrated hardware and software business developing state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques that will revolutionize the auto industry (i.e. its Giga Presses, 4680 cells, etc.)… We anticipate it will eventually be the largest company in the world.’” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Funds to Buy In Line With Thematic Trends in Q4 My next article is another fine piece of research from Zacks Equity Research. It’s titled 4 Funds to Buy In Line With Thematic Trends in Q4 and appeared on Nasdaq.com. They mostly align with sustainable investing—though not specifically. Here are their comments on these funds. Quote “We have selected four funds that carry a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 (Strong Buy)… 1) Fidelity Select Technology Portfolio (FSPTX) Aims for capital appreciation. It invests primarily in equity securities, especially common stocks of companies engaged in offering, using, or developing products, processes, or services that will provide or benefit significantly from technological advances and improvements… This non-diversified has returned 30.7% and 31.8% in the past three and five years, respectively… [This fund] has an annual expense ratio of 0.69% versus the category average of 1.05%. 2) New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX) … seeks long-term capital growth with income as its secondary objective. It primarily invests in common stocks of companies and even in other equity securities such as real estate investment trusts and American Depository Receipts. (The) New Alternatives Fund Class A has three and five-year returns of 29.3% and 19.6%, respectively… (The fund) has an annual expense ratio of 0.96% compared to the category average of 1.26%. 3) Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor (PARNX) … aims for capital appreciation. The fund invests a majority of assets in mid-sized growth companies. (The) Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor has returned 17.7% and 15.7% for the three and five-year periods, respectively… (This fund) has an annual expense ratio of 0.83%, which is below the category average of 1.09%. 4) Fidelity Select Software & IT Services Portfolio (FSCSX) … aims for capital appreciation. The non-diversified fund invests most assets in common stocks of companies engaged in research, design, production or distribution of products or processes related to software or information-based services. (The) Fidelity Select Software & IT Services Portfolio has returned 27.3% and 28.3% over the past three and five-year period, respectively… (This fund) has an annual expense ratio of 0.70% versus the category average of 1.05%.” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- Five top impact ETFs The next article is from the UK and on the etfstream.com site. It’s titled Five top impact ETFs and is by Jamie Gordon. I’ll mention the names of the ETFs followed by brief quotes from Mr. Gordon on each ETF. Quote. “1. Rize Environmental Impact 100 UCITS ETF (LIFE)  Came to market in July as a one-stop shop for exposure to several segments of sustainable industry.  Carrying a total expense ratio (TER) of 0.55%, (this ETF) tracks the Foxberry SMS Environmental Impact 100 index of 100 companies and provides exposure to 100 companies involved in clean water, energy efficiency, circular economy solutions, renewable energy equipment, pollution control, electric vehicles, nature-based solutions, climate resilience, hydrogen and alternative fuels… It touches on each of the objectives set out in the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities.  2. iClima Global Decarbonisation Enablers UCITS ETF (CLMA)    With a fee of 0.65% and tracking the iClima Global Decarbonisation Enablers index of 162 stocks, (this fund) offers 2%-capped exposure to companies involved in renewable energy, green transportation, water and waste improvements, decarbonisation enabling solutions and sustainable products. What keeps it from the top spot on our list is the inclusion of holdings such as the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG.L) and Uber Technologies (UBER), whose connection to impact are more tenuo

ESG Funds, Stocks, to Buy Now. Reviewed include iShares Global Clean Energy ETF, Thornburg Better World International Fund, Natixis Sustainable Future 2030 Fund, iShares ESG MSCI EAFE ETF, Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF, iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF,1919 Socially Responsive Balanced Fund, Vestas Wind Systems, Orsted, First Solar, Enphase Energy, SolarEdge Technologies and SunPower PODCAST: ESG Funds, Stocks, to Buy Now Transcript & Links, Episode 68, October 8, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 68 published on October 8, titled “ESG Funds, Stocks, to Buy Now” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. ESG Funds, Stocks, to Buy Now I’m going to start with this article titled 7 ESG Funds to Buy Now. It’s by Paulina Likos and Jeff Reeves and reviewed by Susannah Snider. It’s found in the money section of the U.S. News & World Report site. Here are some of their comments on each ETF recommendation. Quote. “1) iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ticker: ICLN) The fund offers investors exposure to companies that produce energy from solar, wind and other renewable resources and global clean energy stocks. With more than $5.8 billion of net assets, this fund is a liquid and established way for investors to play top names in the space… With just about 40% allocation to U.S. securities, (the fund) takes a global sector view with investments in Canada, China, Denmark, Italy, Spain and other countries. It carries an expense ratio of 0.42%. One-year return as of Sept. 30: 18%. 2) Thornburg Better World International Fund (TBWIX) (This fund) seeks high-quality, fairly valued companies that could or already make a positive impact in the world… Some of Thornburg Better World International Fund’s top holdings include the largest online recruitment platform in China, Kanzhun Ltd. (BZ)… tech giant Tencent Holdings Ltd. (XFRA: NNND), (and) Tokyo-based Renesas Electronics Corp. (OTCM: RNECY), a Japanese semiconductor manufacturer, is another top allocation in the fund… It holds net assets of more than $345 million (and) one-year return: 37.7%. 3) Natixis Sustainable Future 2030 Fund (NSFFX) This sustainable target-date fund is part of a family of Natixis funds that rebalance over time to dial down risk as an investor nears retirement. The fund holds both active and passive investments. This single-fund solution invests across different asset classes for a diversified strategy that balances risk and reward. ESG considerations play an integral role in the selection process. The fund is on the smaller end… with just over $11 million of total assets. Among the fund’s top holdings are the Mirova Global Green Bond Fund (MGGYX) for fixed income, iShares ESG Aware MSCI ETF (ESGD), and individual securities like Nvidia Corp. (NVDA) and Facebook Inc. (FB). One-year return: 22.8%. 4) iShares ESG MSCI EAFE ETF (ESGD) Another solid option for international investors looking for socially responsible ETFs is this iShares fund that’s focused on EAFE markets, or Europe, Australasia and the Far East… Investors in (this fund) get exposure to large- and midcap ESG companies in the target region…There’s a diverse lineup of companies across geographies and sectors, including Switzerland’s Nestle (NSRGY), French consumer giant LVMH (MC.PA) and Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. (TM) at the top of the list. With $6.7 billion in assets under management, more than 450 holdings and an affordable expense ratio of 0.2%, this global ESG fund is the go-to option for those looking for exposure outside the U.S. One-year return: 26.2%. 5) Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) At more than $5 billion in total assets under management, this socially responsible ETF from Vanguard holds more than 1,500 stocks… Now, you may wonder how that many stocks — including some of the usual blue-chip brands like JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) and Unitedhealth Group Inc. (UNH) — can have such a positive impact on the world. The answer is that this is just an ‘exclusionary’ fund, meaning it cuts out the worst, based on rankings for ESG criteria, and presumes the rest are aboveboard. One-year return: 30.9%. 6) iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF (SUSA) With more than 190 holdings, investors are not getting a simplistic fund… you might be surprised to find some names such as… Home Depot Inc. (HD) and… American Express Co. (AXP) make an appearance in (its) portfolio… One-year return: 32%. 7) 1919 Socially Responsive Balanced Fund (SSIAX) (The fund) invests 70% of its assets in U.S. equities and 30% in investment-grade debt. Some of the fund’s top holdings include Microsoft Corp. (MSFT), Apple Inc. (AAPL), Alphabet Inc. (GOOG, GOOGL), and Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN). The fund has captured growth opportunities as the U.S. economy continues to recover from the coronavirus pandemic… One-year return: 18%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. ESG Funds, Stocks, to Buy Now Now to articles that pick the best investments in renewable energy. The first article is titled Best Wind Energy Stocks and ETFs to Buy. It’s by Matt Whittaker and appeared on wtopnews.com. Here are some quotes from the article. Quote. “On US Government Policies ‘The Biden administration has set a goal to have 30,000 megawatts of offshore energy installed by 2030. While there is debate within the industry about whether it will hit that goal, the attempt could prove lucrative for companies involved. Capital expenditures in the U.S. offshore wind supply chain alone could total $200 billion through 2035, according to a recent report from the research provider Lium. Wind Turbine Makers Of the 9 gigawatts – or 9,000 megawatts – of known turbine awards off the East Coast, 48% have gone to Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy SA (GCTAY), 35% to General Electric Co. (GE) and 17% to Vestas Wind Systems (VWDRY), Lium says… They stand to ‘collect a large chunk’ of the $40 billion to $50 billion spent for offshore wind turbines through 2035, according to the report… Of course, those sales wouldn't happen without the companies developing the offshore wind farms in the first place. The world's largest offshore wind developer is Danish power company Orsted (DNNGY)… Other key developers to watch are Avangrid Inc. (AGR), Eversource Energy (ES), Equinor ASA (EQNR), Dominion Energy Inc. (D), Royal Dutch Shell Plc (RDS.A), and Aker Offshore Wind (AKOWF). Keep in mind that some developers, such as Avangrid, as well as the turbine makers, also have exposure to the domestic onshore wind industry. Other stocks with U.S. onshore wind exposure include NextEra Energy Inc. (NEE) and Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A, BRK.B)… Oil & Gas Company Offshore Expertise To Be Tapped Industry watchers expect offshore wind will use expertise from the offshore oil and gas industry. Joseph Triepke, partner with Lium, points to firms including oil and gas equipment company Nov Inc. (NOV), offshore platform and marine vessel manufacturer Gulf Island Fabrication Inc. (GIFI) and offshore vessel companies Seacor Marine (SMHI) and Tidewater Inc. (TDW). Wind ETFs Investors who want more immediate diversification than building a portfolio from individual stocks can turn to exchange-traded funds including the First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (FAN) and the Global X Wind Energy ETF (WNDY)… … the winds of fortune could be at this industry's back for some time.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. ESG Funds, Stocks, to Buy Now Now here’s a new article with only solar power picks. It’s titled Renewable Energy Stocks: Is Now a Good Time to Buy? It’s by Travis Hoium and on fool.com. Here are some quotes from him including his stock picks. “Today, we're entering a more mature phase for the industry in which companies are establishing technology advantages and scale that helps create a competitive moat. The result is steadily rising profitability, which you can see… from First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR), Enphase Energy (NASDAQ: ENPH), SolarEdge Technologies (NASDAQ: SEDG), and SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR)… Financiers are the companies that build or buy renewable energy projects, usually with long-term contracts to sell electricity to a utility. They generate very stable cash flows and often come with a dividend. Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP) and NextEra Energy Partners (NYSE: NEP) are both leaders in this space and have exposure to wind and solar energy projects… I focus on the solar industry in part because there are very few wind-focused companies publicly traded in the U.S. But in solar energy there are some leaders with clear differentiation, like First Solar in solar panel manufacturing, SunPower in deploying residential and commercial solar, and Enphase Energy in module-level power electronics… On the speculative side, I see a huge opportunity in hydrogen. Bloom Energy (NYSE: BE) is an industry leader in solid-oxide fuel cells; it's also built a nearly $1 billion business in backup power with new markets like electrolysis and marine power on the horizon…” End q

Top Water, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Investments. Include First Trust Water ETF, Global Water Fund A Shares, Invesco Water Resources ETF, Invesco S&P Global Water Index ETF, Fidelity Water Sustainability Fund, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Dexus Property Group, Unilever, Diageo, Stockland, Abbott Laboratories, Stanley Black & Decker, US VEGAN ETF, American Water Works, Pool Corp., Generac PODCAST: Top Water, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Investments Transcript & Links, Episode 67, September 24, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 67 published on September 24, titled “Top Water, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Investments” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources.  Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top Water, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Investments With fires, drought conditions increasing around the globe, water investing is gaining prominence. This recent article titled Water Investing: 5 Funds You Should Tap by Coryanne Hicks at Kiplinger offers insight into some leading water ETFs. Here are some quotes from her. “’Billions of people around the world will be unable to access safely managed household drinking water, sanitation and hygiene services in 2030 unless the rate of progress quadruples, according to the World Health Organization and UNICEF” 1) Courtesy of First Trust First Trust Water ETF (FIW) Assets under management: $1.3 billion Dividend yield: 0.4% Expenses: 0.54%, or $54 annually for every $10,000 invested The First Trust Water ETF tracks the ISE Clean Edge Water Index, which holds companies in the potable water and wastewater industry with worldwide market capitalizations of at least $100 million…  MSCI’s ESG Fund Ratings rates First Trust Water ETF at AA – the second-best rating, and within the system’s so-called Leader tier. Learn more about FIW at the First Trust provider site. 2) Courtesy of Calvert Funds Calvert Global Water Fund A Shares (CFWAX) Assets under management: $590.7 million Dividend yield: 0.6% Expenses: 1.24% The Calvert Global Water Fund A Shares is a water investing mutual fund that seeks to track the Calvert Global Water Research Index, CALH2O, a proprietary index comprised of ‘companies that manage water use in a sustainable manner and are actively engaged in expanding access to water, improving water quality, promoting the efficient use of water, or providing solutions that address other global water challenges…’ Note that (this fund) also receives MSCI's AA rating. In addition to a 1.24% expense ratio, investors also pay a 4.75% front-end sales load unless their brokerage waives or lessens the load. (Fidelity and Schwab are examples of brokerages that will waive the load on [this fund].)Learn more about CFWAX at the Calvert provider site. 3) Courtesy of Invesco Invesco Water Resources ETF (PHO) Assets under management: $2.1 billion Dividend yield: 0.3% Expenses: 0.60% Invesco’s flagship water-themed fund, Invesco Water Resources ETF, was launched in 2005. (This fund) tracks the Nasdaq OMX US Water Index, which invests in companies that purify and conserve water for home, business and industrial users… ‘The Nasdaq OMX US Water Index was the best performing Nasdaq index in July 2021, up 6.0%,’ (says) Rene Reyna, head of thematic and specialty product strategy at Invesco… Invesco also offers a global version of this fund, the Invesco Global Water ETF (PIO). The Invesco Water Resources ETF earns five stars and a bronze badge from Morningstar… It also earns MSCI's highest ESG rating: AAA. Learn more about PHO at the Invesco provider site. Again, 4) Courtesy of Invesco Invesco S&P Global Water Index ETF (CGW) Assets under management: $1.2 billion Dividend yield: 1.1% Expenses: 0.57% The Invesco S&P Global Water Index ETF could be considered a more traditional way of investing in water (than the previous Invesco water funds…)  This ETF tracks the S&P Global Water Index, which focuses on the 50 largest companies in water-related businesses across the globe. (This fund) targets two distinct segments – water equipment and materials, and water utilities and infrastructure – allocating 25 stocks to each… (The fund) also earns five stars and a silver badge from Morningstar, as well as an AAA ESG rating from MSCI. Learn more about CGW at the Invesco provider site. 5) Courtesy of Fidelity Fidelity Water Sustainability Fund (FLOWX) Assets under management: $99.4 million Dividend yield: 0.1% Expenses: 1.00% Launched in April 2020, the Fidelity Water Sustainability Fund invests at least 80% of its assets in water sustainability companies, such as those involved in water resources, treatment or distribution. These can include the companies found in the S&P Global Water Index, but the managers also reserve the right to choose other companies they feel meet the fund’s criteria… Of the five water investing options in this article, the Fidelity Water Sustainability Fund deserves the most scrutiny before jumping in given its short track record. MSCI's ESG Fund Ratings rates the product at AA.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top Water, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Investments Looking for companies with strong SRI characteristics and good dividends. This article can help you. It’s titled SRI: which companies have both a positive sustainable impact and a strong dividend? It’s by George Sweeney (DipFA). Note, the writer mentions ESG scores but doesn’t indicate where they are from or their methodology. Here are some quotes from the article. This article was on fool.com. Quotes. “According to DailyFX, there are some stocks out there that are socially responsible and reward investors with a decent dividend – a win-win.  Here are some of the top businesses ticking both those boxes. 1) Coca-Cola HBC AG (CCH) Although Coke is questionable from a health perspective, the company has a massive environmental, social and governance (ESG) score of 92. It also pays a respectable 2.19% dividend yield… 2) Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) It has an ESG score of 91 and pays a tidy dividend yield of 2.92%... 3) Dexus Property Group (DXS) This is a less well-known brand because it’s based in Australia, so you’ll find it on the ASX 200. But the company is making waves down under with an ESG score of 89 and a super dividend yield of 5.18%... The company focuses on property and real estate. In 2020, it managed to successfully reduce its office emissions by 50.1%... Some other notable stocks that didn’t take the top spots but still had strong ESG scores and dividend yields are: Unilever (ULVR) (ESG 89, 3.51%) Diageo (DGE) (ESG 87, 2.12%) Stockland (SGP) (ESG 86, 4.73%) Abbott Laboratories (ABT) (ESG 86, 1.46%) Stanley Black & Decker (SWK) (ESG 86, 1.34%)” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top Water, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Investments Now back to great ESG funds with this article titled 4 ESG Funds Investments to Beat Rising Environmental Issues. By Zacks Equity Research. Here are some quotes on each fund. “1) New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX - Free Report) Aims for long-term capital growth with income as its secondary objective. It primarily invests in common stocks of companies and even in other equity securities, such as real-estate investment trusts and American Depository Receipts. (This fund) has… three and five-year returns of 29.1% and 18.9%, respectively… The New Alternatives Fund Class A has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 and an annual expense ratio of 0.96% compared to the category average of 1.26%. 2) Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor (PARNX - Free Report) Aims for capital appreciation. The fund invests majority of assets in mid-sized growth companies. (This fund) has returned 18.7% and 16.4% for the three and five-year periods, respectively… (The) Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor carries a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 and has an annual expense ratio of 0.83%, which is below the category average of 1.09%. 3) Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A (JATAX - Free Report) Aims for long-term growth of capital. The fund invests majority of net assets in securities of companies benefiting from advances or improvements in technology. The fund’s returns are 30.2% and 30.5% over the past three and five-year period, respectively… (This fund) carries a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 and has an annual expense ratio of 0.99% versus the category average of 1.05%. 4) Calvert Equity Fund Class A (CSIEX - Free Report) Aims for growth of capital through investment in stocks believed to offer opportunities for potential capital appreciation. The fund invests majority of assets in common stocks of companies that rank among the top 1,000 U.S.-listed companies. (The fund) has… three and five-year returns of 24.3% and 21.2%, respectively… (It) has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #2 and an annual expense ratio of 0.94% compared to the category average of 0.99%.” End quotes. -------------------------

ESG Funds That Highlight Labor. And MORE… Includes the following funds and stocks. Global X Conscious Companies ETF, IQ Candriam ESG US Equity ETF, Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF, Humankind U.S. Stock ETF, Microsoft Corporation, EMCOR Group, Inc., West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc., Deere & Company, Texas Instruments Incorporated, Nucor, NextEra Energy, Cummins PODCAST: ESG Funds That Highlight Labor. And MORE… Transcript & Links, Episode 66, September 10, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 65 published on September 10, titled “ESG Funds That Highlight Labor. And MORE…” — presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s online site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else covered in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. ESG Funds That Highlight Labor. And MORE… I’m starting with an article titled Investors care more about fair wages for workers than environmental issues, ESG survey shows. It’s by Debbie Carlson and appeared on MarketWatch. The article is in two parts. The first part describes an investors’ survey. The second part lists four funds that ‘highlight labor.’ Here are some quotes. “Funds that highlight labor… 1) Global X Conscious Companies ETF (KRMA) Is the largest of the four funds, with $500 million in assets and an annual expense ratio of 0.43%. It’s an equal-weighted index that uses ESG metrics to measure how well a company treats all stakeholders. 2) IQ Candriam ESG US Equity ETF (IQSU) Is a market-cap weighted fund with $484 million in assets and a 0.09% expense ratio. The fund’s ESG selection criteria scores companies based on how it treats its customers and employees, a firm’s environmental initiatives and how well suppliers adhere to fair labor standards, among other issues… Tesla TSLA is in the top five (holdings). However… MSCI’s ESG ratings considers Tesla a laggard on labor issues. 3) Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF (JUST) Is a tier-weighted index of companies in the Russell 1000, building the index based on an annual survey of business behavior priorities. Companies that treat their workers well, including on worker pay and well-being, get the highest weight… It has $264 million in assets and a 0.20% expense ratio. 4) Humankind U.S. Stock ETF (HKND) Screens companies on four ‘humankind values,’ the value a firm creates for investors, consumers, employees and society overall. The index methodology adjusts on the basis of the individual firm’s supply-chain relationships… It launched in February and has $95 million in assets… It has an expense ratio of 0.11%.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Sustainability Trends Boost ESG Investing: 5 Green Picks The next article is titled Sustainability Trends Boost ESG Investing: 5 Green Picks. It’s by Zacks analyst Sreoshi Bera. Here are some quotes. Quote. “All the stocks sport a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 1) Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) This tech giant has been carbon neutral globally since 2012 and commits to being carbon-negative by 2030. It is investing $50 million in AI for Earth to accelerate innovation by putting AI in the hands of those working to directly address sustainability challenges. The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 8% compared with the Zacks Computer - Software industry’s projected earnings growth of 2.4%. 2) EMCOR Group, Inc. (EME) The company engages in water system conservation and retrofits, lighting retrofits, solar & wind programs and more… Its expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 9.4% against the Zacks Building Products - Heavy Construction industry’s projected earnings decline of 1.3%. 3) West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (WST) Designs and produces containment and delivery systems for injectable drugs and healthcare products. The company has received MSCI’s highest ESG Fund rating of AAA… The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 68.1% compared with the Zacks Medical - Dental Supplies industry’s projected earnings growth of 24.2%. 4) Deere & Company (DE) Manufactures and distributes various equipment. The company launched a Smart Industrial Operating Model last year and recycled 28 million pounds of material through remanufacturing. The company sources 32% of its electricity from renewables and has recycled 78% of its wastes. The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is more than 100% compared with the Zacks Manufacturing - Farm Equipment industry’s projected earnings growth of 31.7%. 5) Texas Instruments Incorporated (TXN) Designs, manufactures and sells semiconductors to electronics designers and manufacturers… The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 31.7% compared with the Zacks Semiconductor - General industry’s projected earnings growth of 22%.” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Infrastructure Stocks to Buy Right Now Many ethical and sustainable investors like infrastructure. Here’s a recent article titled 3 Infrastructure Stocks to Buy Right Now. It’s by Howard Smith and was on fool.com. Here are some quotes. “Looking for solid companies that may get a further boost if the federal infrastructure plan passes… look at these leaders… 1) Nucor (NYSE: NUE) Steelmaker Nucor recently reported its second-quarter 2021 results, letting investors know the company had already surpassed its annual record for net income in just the first half of the year… Nucor's products are used in most every industry… The business is thriving due to several factors… The U.S. economy rebounded from the pandemic… customer inventories had been depleted… and maybe most importantly, steel prices have skyrocketed… And Nucor… plan(s) to return at least 40% of net income to shareholders. 2) NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) Is the largest electric utility in the U.S. as measured by retail electricity sales, and it also owns NextEra Energy Resources, a clean energy business that is the world's largest generator of renewable energy from wind and solar… Since 2005, the company has grown earnings per share at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 9% and increased dividends per share at an annual rate of almost 10%.  NextEra Energy… is also pursuing alternative energy projects using green hydrogen… NextEra has given investors guidance that estimates 6% to 8% annual growth in adjusted earnings per share from its 2021 base level through 2023… (and) approximately 10% annual growth in dividends per share through at least 2022. 3) Cummins (NYSE: CMI) Another company gradually moving into the green hydrogen space is global power giant Cummins. And while hydrogen technology continues to become a larger part of the company's business, its mobility power solutions are a prime area to benefit in the near term from infrastructure spending… Spending on rail, public transit, ports and waterways, or roads directly affects Cummins' business… Management believes 2021 revenue will grow between 20% and 24% versus 2020.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Stocks These ESG Gurus Agree On Now, this is an interesting article. It’s titled 3 Stocks These ESG Gurus Agree On. It appeared on forbes.com. Contributor is GuruFocus. “The two guru's firms are known for their commitments to being socially responsible. (One is former US) Vice President Al Gore (Trades, Portfolio), leader of Generation Investment Management, and (two is) Jerome Dodson (Trades, Portfolio) (of) Parnassus Investments… These stocks are their common holdings as of the second quarter. 1) Synopsys Inc. (SNPS, Financial) While Gore established a new 1.2 million-share stake in Synopsys during the quarter, Dodson’s firm left its position unchanged at 155,573 shares. The Mountain View, California-based company, which focuses on technology for chip design, verification, IP integration, software security and quality testing, has a $51.2 billion market cap… The GuruFocus Value for Synopsys indicates it is significantly overvalued… Synopsys’ financial strength and profitability were both rated 8 out of 10 by GuruFocus… 2) Illumina Inc. (ILMN, Financial) Parnassus Investments left its holding of Illumina unchanged in the second quarter with 88,399 shares. Gore reduced his 1.09 million-share position by 18.68%. Headquartered in San Diego, the medical diagnostics and research company, which focuses on analyzing genetic variations and biological functions, has a market cap of $73.49 billion… The GF Value Line shows Illumina is modestly overvalued currently. GuruFocus rated Illumina’s financial strength 6 out of 10… The company’s profitability scored a 9 out of 10 rating. 3) Guidewire Software Inc. (GWRE, Financial) Gore upped his Guidewire Software position by 49.27% in the second quarter, while Dodson’s firm established a 150,889-share holding. The San Mateo, California-based software company, which offers a platform for property and casualty insurance carriers, has a $9.78 billion market cap…The GF Value shows Guidewire is modestly overvalued currently… Guidewire’s financial strength was rated 5 out of 10 by

Great Renewable Energy and EV Stocks. Stocks covered include Sumitomo Metal Mining, Wuxi Lead Intelligent Equipment, Aptiv plc., Infineon, Brookfield Renewable Partners, Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure, and NextEra Energy. Excerpts from: “The investment opportunity offered by electric vehicles,” “3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Investment Concerns”, “3 High-Yield Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Right Now” PODCAST: Great Renewable Energy and EV Stocks Transcript & Links, Episode 65, August 27, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 65 published on August 27, titled “Great Renewable Energy and EV Stocks.”  Presented by Investing for the Soul, investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page. It's located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Also, I receive no compensation from anyone or entity covered in these podcasts. Incidentally, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Great Renewable Energy and EV Stocks I’m beginning with something a little different. The article is titled The investment opportunity offered by electric vehicles by Juliet Schooling-Latter. It’s a UK perspective that appeared on whatinvestment.co.uk. Here are some quotes from the article and comments on the companies covered. Quote. “Very much a global trend, a recent report indicated the number of EVs will grow from 11m on the road now to 145m in 2030.1 This, in turn, will boost various segments of the market. Here are four stocks… from Elite-rated fund managers looking to tap into this drive. 1) Sumitomo Metal Mining. Stock pick at Baillie Gifford Japan Trust Sumitomo Metal Mining is a top-10 holding in the Baillie Gifford Japan Trust. Manager Andy Brown says the firm has exposure to nickel and copper extraction, both integral to the EV industry in terms of the cars themselves and the batteries used to power them. He says: ‘They have a materials business, and this is where they make a component called lithium nickel oxide. This feeds into the cathodes of electric batteries and major customers for this business are Tesla and Toyota. We believe it has fantastic growth prospects.’ 2) Wuxi Lead Intelligent Equipment. Stock pick at Ninety One Global Environment Wuxi Lead Intelligent Equipment predominantly designs, manufactures and sells battery production equipment and services to leading EV battery manufacturers in China. The firm is a holding in the Ninety One Global Environmental Fund. Manager Deirdre Cooper says: ‘Sustainable decarbonisation will require a rapid transition towards a greener, lower-carbon transport system. Wuxi is directly exposed to one of the largest EV markets in the world and, as such, is at the forefront of decarbonisation. ‘It is also expanding sales internationally, with new customers such as Northvolt.’ 3) Aptiv plc. Stock pick at Rathbone Global Sustainability fund Did you know there are more than 8,000 connection points inside a typical EV? If any go wrong it can range from a minor to major inconvenience. Aptiv provides fuse connectors that ensure the battery will disconnect if a spike in current reaches a potentially dangerous level, thus eliminating a potentially catastrophic event.2 The firm is a holding in the Rathbone Global Sustainability Fund. Manager David Harrison says: ‘We’ve held Aptiv in the fund since we launched. It is kind of the nerve centre of an electric vehicle. ‘We think it’s well-placed for the long run and has a management team that is very forward-thinking.’ 4) Infineon. Stock pick at Liontrust Sustainable Future Global Growth fund This German manufacturer is playing a key role in providing the chips for auto safety systems as semiconductor content in cars and other forms of transport continues to grow. Liontrust Sustainable Future Global Growth manager Peter Michaelis says: ‘Infineon is the market leader in the chips that power the semiconductors within electric vehicles. ‘The company completed its acquisition of Cypress Semiconductor Corporation in April 2020, which it said is a landmark step in its strategic development towards offering ‘the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio for linking the real with the digital world and shaping digitalisation’.’’ End quotes. 1Source: Clean Technica – report from International Energy Agency 2Source: aptiv.com ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Great Renewable Energy and EV Stocks Now turning our attention back to alternative energy stocks is this article titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Investment Concerns by Aparajita Dutta. Found on Yahoo! Finance. Quote. “Wind energy, the largest source of renewable electricity generation in the United States, continues to make noticeable progress. The amount of new wind capacity installed in 2020 was more than three times the amount installed in 2010. This makes us optimistic on alternative energy stocks’ growth prospects. Also, increasing scope of the electric vehicle market is expected to boost the prospects of U.S. renewable stocks. However, the United States is lagging its Asian and European counterparts in terms of investments in hydrogen market, despite this market’s ample growth opportunities. The forerunners in the U.S. alternative energy industry are TotalEnergies SE (TTE), Equinor ASA (EQNR) and Chesapeake Energy (CHK).” End quote. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Great Renewable Energy and EV Stocks In a similar vein is this article by three analysts who appear regularly in this podcast. The article is titled 3 High-Yield Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Right Now and is by Travis Hoium, Howard Smith, and Daniel Foelber Here are some quotes from the article. Each analyst comments on the company they’re recommending. “The theme with all of these companies is that they're big, diverse renewable energy asset owners with long-term contracts to sell electricity to utilities or other end customers and that fuels their dividends. As long as the renewable energy industry continues to grow and there are assets to buy at attractive yields, these are great dividend stocks to buy and hold… they're our best high-yield renewable energy stocks today… 1) Travis Hoium recommends Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP) The best long-term business in renewable energy has proven to be asset ownership. Renewable energy projects usually come with 10-25 year contracts to sell electricity to utilities, businesses, or homeowners. That allows owners to finance them with debt and equity, and in this case, in the form of dividend-paying stocks.  Brookfield Renewable Partners is one of the industry's biggest renewable energy asset owners with 21,000 megawatts of projects around the world. The company aims to generate annualized returns of 12% to 15% through organic growth in distributions of 5% to 9% and some price appreciation in the stock… In the last year and a half, dividends paid are down partly because of a split of Brookfield Renewable Partners and Brookfield Renewable Corporation (NASDAQ: BEPC) stock and a 3-for-2 stock split. Without those events, dividends per share would be steadily higher, continuing a decade-long trend.  As steady as dividend growth has been from a company like Brookfield Renewable Partners, there are also risks for renewable energy projects that shouldn't go overlooked. Right now, hydro assets are underperforming expectations because of drought conditions around the world, especially in Brazil… On the flip side, less rain and more sun could mean solar projects outperform expectations long term, so there's value in being a diverse and large asset owner.  I think the stability and know-how of Brookfield Renewable Partners makes it a great long-term dividend stock.  2) Howard Smith picks Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure (NASDAQ: AY) More and more companies in a wide range of industries are signing power purchase agreements with renewable energy generators to power their facilities and ensure products can be made and sold sustainably. Companies like Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure that own or invest in that power generation are benefiting and growing from this movement. And those benefits are being shared with investors in the form of a high-yielding dividend.  Atlantica… aims to pay shareholders 80% of generated cash. And it has been consistent growing those dividend payments in the past. Its quarterly dividend has increased by 65% in the past four years. That growth should continue as cash available for distribution increased by 12.9% in the first half of 2021.  Atlantica's business is spread among North America, South America, and the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region… Almost 75% of Atlantica's revenue came from its renewables sector in 2020. And 2021 is starting out strong. The company's continued investments in renewable energy assets have driven its megawatts in operation to grow 30% in the first half of 2021 compared to 2020's first half.  The stock looks inexpensive from a price-to-free cash flow perspective, compared to peers with similar strategies.  With a dividend yielding over 4.3%, now looks to be a good time to buy Atlantica. 3) Daniel Foelber likes NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) NextEra Energy just had an impressive quarter. Its portfolio consists of natural gas, solar, wind, and other assets, giving it diverse revenue streams that allow it to weather the ebbs and flows of the energy market. Its established presence as Florida's leading utility -- through Florida Power & Light and Gulf Power -- provides the bulk of its revenue and net income. A strong foundation from this profitable business paired with access to inexpensive debt has allowed Nex

Great ESG Stocks, Funds, for August. Funds and companies reviewed include Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A, New Alternatives Fund Class A, Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund – Investor, Calvert Equity Fund Class A, TPI Composites, Phillips 66, Brookfield Infrastructure, NextEra Energy Partners, and Brookfield Renewable. Analysts from Zacks, fool.com, other institutions PODCAST: Great ESG Stocks, Funds, for August Transcript & Links, Episode 64, August 13, 2021 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 64 published on August 13, titled “Great ESG Stocks, Funds, for August” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode’s podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in this podcast. Furthermore, if you’re concerned about the ESG and sustainability ratings of any stock or fund included in this podcast, check your broker’s site for such information. If your broker doesn’t have this information, signup for free with Morningstar and you can gain access to company and fund ESG-sustainability ratings. Please note, I receive no compensation from Morningstar or anyone else in these podcasts. Also, if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Great ESG Stocks, Funds, for August I’m going to start with an article titled 4 Funds to Pick as Sustainable Investment Hits $35.3 Trillion. It’s by Zacks Equity Research. The article on this podcasts’ webpage has links to detailed reports on each of these funds. Now, here are some quotes from the article. “All these funds carry a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy). In addition, the minimum initial investment for these funds is within $5,000… 1) Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A (JATAX) Aims for long-term growth of capital. The fund invests majority of net assets in securities of companies benefiting from advances or improvements in technology. This Sector-Tech product has a history of positive total returns for more than 10 years.  Specifically, the fund’s returns are 30.2% and 32.2% over the past three and five-year periods, respectively… (The) Janus Henderson Global Technology and Innovation Fund Class A has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank of 1 and an annual expense ratio of 0.99% compared with the category average of 1.05%. Get Your Free (JATAX): Fund Analysis Report 2) New Alternatives Fund Class A (NALFX) Aims for long-term capital growth with income as its secondary objective. It primarily invests in common stocks of companies and even in other equity securities, such as real-estate investment trusts and American Depository Receipts. This Zacks sector – Other product has a history of positive total returns for more than 10 years. Specifically, (the) New Alternatives Fund Class A has a three and five-year returns of 28.7% and 19.8%, respectively… (The fund) has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 and an annual expense ratio of 0.96% compared to the category average of 1.26%. Get Your Free (NALFX): Fund Analysis Report 3) Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor (PARNX) Aims for capital appreciation. The fund invests majority of assets in mid-sized growth companies. This Zacks Sector – Large Cap Value has a history of positive total returns for more than 10 years. Specifically, (the) Parnassus Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor has returned 18.5% and 16.8% for the three and five-year periods, respectively… (The fund) has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 and an annual expense ratio of 0.83%, which is below the category average of 1.09%. Get Your Free (PARNX): Fund Analysis Report 4) Calvert Equity Fund Class A (CSIEX) Aims for growth of capital through investment in stocks believed to offer opportunities for potential capital appreciation. The fund invests majority of assets in common stocks of companies that rank among the top 1,000 U.S.-listed companies. This Zacks Large Cap Growth product has a history of positive total returns for more than 10 years. Specifically, (the) Calvert Equity Fund Class A has a three and five-year returns of 23.7% and 20.8%, respectively… (The fund) has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #2 and an annual expense ratio of 0.94% compared to the category average of 0.99%. Get Your Free (CSIEX): Fund Analysis Report” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Great ESG Stocks, Funds, for August Now back to a favourite sector, renewable energy. Here’s an article by Jason Hall, a regular on this podcast. It’s titled 3 Top Energy Stocks to Buy in August and appeared on fool.com. Now some quotes. “1) TPI Composites (NASDAQ: TPIC) Over the past few years, TPI Composites has spent a lot of money building out capacity. The company, which primarily manufactures wind turbine blades for leading wind energy companies, was predicting that this new capacity would start paying off this year.  However, that's not looking likely to be the case, after management trimmed its full-year guidance in late July. As a result, TPI shares are down more than 50% from the high reached in January, and management is now cautioning that sales could be flat through 2022 as well… In the interim, the company generates solid operating cash flow, so it should have little trouble continuing to fund its business during the current soft period in the cycle… Shares are still more expensive than almost any time in the company's history prior to late 2020… It's a turnaround play with plenty of growth prospects on the other side. 2) Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) The past year has been pretty brutal for Phillips 66. The company makes most of its money refining and selling refined products like gasoline and diesel, and last year's collapse cost it $4 billion in losses… What about the low-carbon future? Phillips 66 is making serious inroads there, too, having already converted one refinery to produce renewable diesel, and now doing the same with its Rodeo refinery in Northern California. Moreover, the company's significant natural gas pipeline and storage facility, along with its huge petrochemical manufacturing operations, are already set up to handle renewable natural gas. As more supply of this product, which is captured from human and agricultural waste, becomes available, Phillips 66's existing infrastructure will play an important role in the transition away from fossil fuels.  Investors who buy now can capture a heady 4.7% dividend yield that's likely to move higher… That high yield will make it a lot easier to hold the stock while the company transitions away from oil and to more and more renewables over time.  3) Brookfield Infrastructure (NYSE: BIP) (NYSE: BIPC) While this isn't a pure play on energy, Brookfield Infrastructure makes the cut as a top stock with growing energy exposure that investors should buy now… Brookfield Infrastructure is a diversified business, giving investors exposure to telecommunications, transportation, and utilities infrastructure assets on multiple continents. The nature of its business also results in steady cash flows, making its 3%-plus dividend yield very secure.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Great ESG Stocks, Funds, for August Another fool.com favourite analyst of ours is Neha Chamaria. Her recent article is titled Got $10,000? 3 Renewable-Energy Stocks to Buy For the Long Term. Here are her picks followed by quotes from her on each one. “1) NextEra Energy Partners (NYSE: NEP) Calls itself a growth-oriented limited partnership, and rightly so. The company has grown its revenue and cash flow steadily over the years. NextEra Energy Partners owns and operates a large portfolio of wind and solar assets and sells power to third parties under long-term contracts… Two big factors make NextEra Energy Partners such a compelling stock. First is the backing of its parent, NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE), which is already the world's largest producer of wind and solar energy… Second is NextEra Energy Partners' focus on generating cash flows from assets and passing them on to shareholders as dividends… it is targeting 12%-15% average annual growth in dividends through 2024 backed by cash-flow growth. Following its recently announced strong second-quarter numbers and a big acquisition, this 3.4%-yielding clean energy is appealing. 2) Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEP) (NYSE: BEPC) Is another company that could make a killing in renewable energy. It's similar to NextEra Energy Partners as it's also backed by Brookfield Asset Management, but Brookfield Renewable doesn't necessarily rely on acquisitions from parent to grow its cash flows. Also, it has a humongous 21 GW capacity in operation and another 27 GW under development. The key difference -- one that could also help you diversify your portfolio -- is that while NextEra Energy Partners focuses on solar, wind, and natural gas, Brookfield Renewable is primarily a hydropower play and has only recently started to expand its solar portfolio… Between 2010 and 2020, the company grew funds from operations (FFO) at a compound annual growth rate of around 10%. Through 2025, inflation escalation, margin growth, and its pipeline development alone could boost Brookfield Renewable's FFO by 6%-11%. And if management can find meaningful acquisition opportunities like it has in the past, it could boost FFO by another 9%. That's incredible growth potential, and enough to power up Brookfield Renewable's dividends. For now, management is targeting 5%-9% growth in annual dividend in the long term. Dividend growth is, in fact, one big reason the story for both NextEra Energy Partners and Brookfield Renewable has played out so well so far. 3) TPI Composites (NASDAQ: TPIC) (Yes another recommendation!) TPI is t