2021 HSBC Navigator: The Voice of Business

Canadian businesses need to address the challenges of today – without losing focus on the future.

Have Canadian companies become climate skeptics? When it comes to their views on the effectiveness of global climate pacts, they most certainly are. So, what does this mean for widespread adoption and implementation of sustainable business practices when less than a quarter of organizations are concerned with environmental threats?

While Canadian policy makers view climate change as a major threat, Canadian businesses may not be on the same page, according to our latest survey. In fact, only 16% of Canadian organizations believe sustainability risks pose a threat to potential growth.

I think a lot of Canadians would be surprised to learn that 11% of businesses in this country believe global climate pacts and accords will have zero effect on making meaningful impacts in the fight against climate change,” says Angie Hall, Head of Sustainable Finance, HSBC Bank Canada. “That’s almost twice as high as their international peers. But while short-term challenges may be leading to increased skepticism, it's important for business leaders to remember that inaction today will ultimately be costlier tomorrow. Customers, regulators, employees, investors - all are demanding more action from companies on sustainability, and are beginning to vote on those efforts with their wallets and policies. Companies that recognize the need to prioritize sustainability-linked efforts stand to reap the benefits in the long run.

Alan Turner | Head of Commercial Banking, HSBC Bank Canada

While those polled appear skeptical in the short-term, demand for products like HSBC's sustainable banking portfolio has been steadily rising in Canada over the past year - a clear sign that those with a long-term view of success recognize the importance of sustainability as a part of the business strategy. HSBC Bank Canada is uniquely positioned to assist organizations in implementing and achieving their sustainability goals and as a member of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance, we are committed to aligning our lending and investment portfolios with net-zero emissions by 2050 through ambitious science-based programs in conjunction with our international partners in this important framework.

UP NEXT: As the pandemic persists, are Canadian business leaders souring on their commitment to sustainability?

Highlights

Nearly three quarters of Canadian businesses expect some form of flexible working arrangement to become standard.

(HSBC Navigator: Building back better)

CUSMA will reshape, not reinvent – but certain industries will be impacted more than others.

(CUSMA is now in effect and here's what Canadian businesses should know)

Changing immigration policy in the United States may lead to an influx of top tech talent in Canada, benefiting all Canadian businesses.

(How the Brain Gain can benefit every Canadian company)

How Should Businesses Navigate The Future

Short-term challenges vs long-term opportunity: How should Canadian companies navigate the tricky path forward?

The Future of Work

Nearly three quarters of Canadian businesses expect some form of flexible work arrangement to become standard. Are you one of them?

The Future of Work … is Resilient

Visit our website to learn which significant barriers Canadian businesses need to overcome over the next six months on their way to economic recovery.

The Future of Work … is Innovative

Discover how a fast-growing tech sector, coupled with restrictive U.S. immigration policies, is drawing much of the world’s most tech-savvy talent to Canada.

The Future of Work … is Sustainable

Many Canadian businesses know that there is a need to reassess their operations to build a firmer sustainable strategy. Learn more about sustainability today!

The Future of Work … is Borderless

Visit our website to learn what a new CUSMA deal means to Canadian companies and how it will impact different industries across the board.

The Future of Work … is Liquid

Liquidity is the lifeline of every business. Companies that will thrive tomorrow are making cash flow management a priority today. Visit our site to learn more.

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