Fund Characteristics and Performances of Socially Responsible Mutual Funds: Do ESG Ratings Play a Role?

Abstract

This paper examines the risk-adjusted performance and differential fund flows for socially responsible mutual funds (SRMF). The results show that SRMF rated high on ESG, perform better than lower rated ESG funds during the period of economic crisis. The findings also show that low ESG rated SRMF had higher differential cash-flows than high rated ESG funds except for the period of economic down turn. The findings are of interest to financial advisors, investors, mutual fund managers, and researchers on how SRMF performance responds to periods of economic downturn and expansion.