Sustainability rules are not a block on EU defence financing, but reputational fears are

March 17, 2025--To mobilise private capital for weapons, the European Commission should clarify the status of defence investing in its sustainable finance framework
The European Commission's ReArm Europe plan, published on 5 March, aims to trigger €800 billion in defence investments over four years. European Union money would be limited to €150 billion in the form of loans and the plan hinges on increasing military spending by national governments and "mobilising private capital" 1

But without clarification on the acceptability of and need for defence investment within the EU sustainable finance framework, the private sector is unlikely to meet these expectations.

Regulatory constraints are flexible

The EU's sustainable finance rules do not place overarching restrictions on defence investment, but there are restrictions on financing companies involved in the production of 'controversial weapons'-which are defined as "those referred to in international treaties and conventions, United Nations principles and, where applicable, national legislation" (Regulation (EU) 2020/1818).

Columbia Threadneedle Investments expanding US active ETF range to Europe

May 19, 2025--A 'natural expansion' for the firm
Columbia Threadneedle Investments is set to expand its active ETF offering to the European market as it looks to branch out from its existing US range.