RBC debuts $500 million bond to support Indigenous communities and businesses
RBC Capital Markets managing director and global head of sustainable finance Sarah Thompson said the bond aims to promote inclusive economic growth, create positive social change and advance reconciliation.
“Investor demand demonstrates the potential to scale this type of financing structure over time, enabling sustainable finance to help advance economic reconciliation,” she said.
The issuance falls under RBC’s Sustainable Bond Framework. Financial advisors whose clients hold ESG-screened portfolios may find the framework’s eligible categories relevant: affordable housing, essential services, basic infrastructure, and socioeconomic advancement.
The framework aligns with the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles, Social Bond Principles and Sustainability Bond Guidelines. It has also received a second-party opinion from S&P Global Ratings.
Indigenous financing gains momentum
The bond comes as Canadian financial institutions explore ways to help Indigenous communities secure financing and participate in major projects, including through equity ownership and specialized advisory services.
