Boston Common Asset Management

Boston Common Asset Management operates as an investment manager with a distinct focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integrated investing. Founded in 2003 by Geeta Aiyer, the firm was established on the principle that equity ownership is a powerful vehicle for generating positive impact by giving investors a voice with corporate management. Aiyer, an early innovator in sustainable investing, has a background that includes an MBA from Harvard Business School, positions at US Trust Company and Walden Asset Management, and founding a prior company, East India Spice. Her journey reflects a long-standing commitment to combining finance with social and environmental justice.

The firm's business model is centered on providing discretionary investment management services and constructing portfolios that aim for competitive financial returns while simultaneously challenging companies to advance social equity and environmental renewal. Revenue is generated from asset-based fees, calculated as a percentage of assets under management. Boston Common serves a diverse client base, including endowments, foundations, pension funds, high-net-worth individuals, and other institutional clients. As a majority women- and employee-owned firm, it maintains operational independence, a core tenet that was preserved even after selling a minority equity stake to Affiliated Managers Group (AMG) in 2021 to enhance financial stability and distribution.

Boston Common’s core service is managing active, long-only equity portfolios across U.S., international, and global strategies. The firm’s investment process is distinguished by its in-house ESG research, which is integrated at every stage, from defining the investable universe to stock selection and portfolio construction. A key pillar of its strategy is active shareholder engagement. The firm uses its position as a shareholder to advocate for improved corporate policies and practices through sustained dialogue, filing shareholder proposals, and participating in annual meetings. Investment strategies include U.S. Large Cap Value, International Equity, Global Impact, and Emerging Markets, available through separate accounts, commingled funds, and mutual funds.

Keywords: ESG investing, impact investing, shareholder engagement, sustainable finance, asset management, socially responsible investing, Geeta Aiyer, corporate governance, environmental investing, social equity investing, global equity manager, shareholder advocacy, investment management, sustainable portfolios, active management, financial returns, social change, women-led business, employee-owned, Affiliated Managers Group