#42 - Human Flourishing through ‘Investing that Makes the World Rejoice’ (feat. Robin John, Co-Founder and CEO, Eventide)

Citing Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory,” Robin John, CEO of Eventide Asset Management, traces his inspiring, Christ-driven journey in building an investment firm that “makes the world rejoice” by allocating capital to promote “human flourishing.” In this one-of-a-kind episode of Investing In Integrity, Robin John explains how Eventide’s investment philosophy goes beyond, “avoiding the worst examples” of exploitation, to actively “keep moving towards companies promoting human flourishing and the global common good.” “If a company's killing a person through their product and service, to us, they don't belong in our portfolio,” Robin explains, citing how focusing only on ESG criteria – without considering the specific effects of the actual product or service – isn’t necessarily sufficient to make values-based investment decisions. Additionally, Robin unpacks his philosophy in leading a faith-inspired investment firm which includes “a huge amount of diversity – people from Hindu backgrounds, Jewish backgrounds, and atheists.” Reflecting on the importance of integrity, Robin says that, “if I have to sacrifice growth in order to maintain a strong culture at Eventide, I would: culture is number one.” For anyone interested in learning from one of the most values-based, purpose-driven leaders in finance, this is sure to be an unforgettable episode. 00:00 - Intro/Career 05:15 - Founding of Eventide 10:36 - Faith & Values 18:28 - Navigating Pushbacks 26:48 - Religious Inclusion 29:56 - Leadership & Culture 37:31 - Rapid Fire