SRI
What is SRI?
SRI stands for Socially Responsible Investing. It is not a new concept. There have been many funds put together based on this idea. SRI is the antithesis to what is known as SIN investing. Sin investing involves firms and establishments that rely upon vice and other morally questionable revenue sources. Such entities that make money from gambling, alcohol, tobacco and conflict are clear examples of “sin” investments.
What we consider to be socially responsible, is any firm or establishment that has a service or product that would benefit the overall human condition. These are companies that serve only to improve quality of life, end dependence, and assist in mutual understanding while making an honest buck. We try to be very careful in our research before we label a particular organization as SRI compliant. A medical research firm or a pharmaceutical company may seem like it fits this mold, but upon further investigation, you may find allegations of suppressing cures and opting for treatment to make more money. This shameful practice would drop a company from any SRI model that we hold to.
Keep in mind, that our SRI priciples are just that. They are our opinions and do not reflect the endorsement of the entity concerned or the investment vehicle itself, anyone or anything else for that matter. Also, we will never list a company as a “sin” investment. This site is not one of being a moral judge. We will only call by name those entities that we consider “socially responsible,” if recommended for investment.
For any investment vehicle of any kind to be recommended for purchase, it must fit the SRI model and also pass the Warren Buffett test. See the Oracle page for information on this test.
