City Hive's Bev Shah: What firms are telling us about values and commitments

Most investment firms want to demonstrate to staff and stakeholders they take topics relating to culture and inclusion seriously.

However, this is also something they find challenging with honest, open conversations few and far between. 

The benefits of a diverse, open culture that is strong, transparent and flexible, have been well-versed over the recent decade, and City Hive research shows firms are responding to stimuli from both employees and clients.

There has been increasing consensus that diversity of thought and representation can enable better investment analysis, better decision making and improve client outcomes. 

Understandably, the search for better data on practice and progress is now being sought, not least as material change in diversity in leadership and certain team roles and equity of compensation is happening at a glacial pace.

This means there are still disappointing outcomes for individuals and a sense the industry is failing to attract and retain the talents that will keep it innovative and future-proof in a changing world and changing markets.