Divergence of ESG Ratings: Foreign Regulatory Trends

Abstract

Studies show that correlations of ESG ratings provided by various rating agencies are fairly weak. The challenge related to disparities in ESG ratings often referred to as “divergence” of ESG ratings is widely discussed in academic and professional community. This divergence may lead to investment decisions made based on misleading information and thus, distort the re-orientation of capital flows into sustainable business. For this reason, there is a growing legislative and regulatory focus on ESG related issues, including the activities of ESG rating providers. The purpose of this article is to conduct a preliminary assessment of the approaches of foreign regulators in addressing the issue of divergence of ESG ratings through an in-depth exploration of this phenomenon and its sources. A careful study of the underlying factors of ESG rating disparities allows us to consider the identified foreign regulatory trends in the context of their focus on eliminating these factors. The methodology of the article is based on the review of the available academic literature and empirical research, study of ESG rating methodologies and analysis of adopted or proposed foreign regulatory requirements. A number of regulatory trends has been identified, which together shape the premise for the development of the regulatory framework of ESG ratings in the future. These trends include a strong focus on corporate ESG reporting and increasing transparency of ESG rating methodologies. However, elimination of the main sources of divergence are not among the tasks of the foreign regulators.