To address the large and complex challenges of climate change and the transition to a more sustainable economy, NYSE and Intrinsic Exchange Group (IEG) are pioneering a new asset class based on nature and the benefits that nature provides (termed ecosystem services). NACs will capture the intrinsic and productive value of nature and provide a store of value based on the vital assets that underpin our entire economy and make life on earth possible. Examples of natural assets that could benefit from the NAC structure include natural landscapes such as forests, wetlands and coral reefs, as well as working lands such as farms.
To convert natural assets into financial capital, IEG has developed an accounting framework to measure ecological performance. Natural assets produce an estimated $125 trillion annually in global ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity and clean water.
The NAC is a transformational solution whereby natural ecosystems are not simply a potential resource to extract, but an investible productive asset which provides financial capital to responsible stewards of ecological resources. As a publicly traded equity, NACs will enable investors to allocate capital efficiently to meet their sustainability objectives.
A company’s management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues is often seen as integral to its long-term success. To help issuers navigate the evolving ESG landscape, the NYSE provides resources and platforms for dialogue between issuers and investors to help create more sustainable companies that deliver long-term benefits for all stakeholders.
In today's world, businesses need even more flexibility and transparency to meet evolving customer, talent and market demands. Going public is a powerfully effective solution to meet those needs but companies no longer need to view an IPO as their only path to public.