Social impact made visible - Microfinance projects 2025
Microfinance is becoming increasingly important as an asset class
In recent years, microfinance has developed into a serious alternative within institutional portfolios. In a market environment characterised by uncertainty, many investors particularly value its stable returns and low correlation with traditional capital market movements and asset classes. Even in challenging investment years such as 2008 or 2022, microfinance was able to deliver a positive return contribution to the portfolio. (Please note, however, that losses on the capital invested may also occur.) Microfinance investments offer direct access to the real economy in emerging and developing countries, thereby facilitating a combination of financial return and measurable social impact. In our view, it is precisely this link that is crucial: capital is not merely invested but is specifically deployed to generate economic development.
I-AM Vision Microfinance Market commentary
New Investments in the Caucasus and Asia
During the month of June 2026, I-AM Vision Microfinance placed investments in Georgia, Romania and Kazakhstan. The investment in Kazakhstan has the intention to foster a positive impact on the UN Sustainable Development Goals 5 for Gender Equality as the MFI directs more than half of its loan portfolio to female clients and their microbusinesses as well as small businesses.
GreenStars Market commentary
Between AI Optimism, Rate Concerns and Geopolitical Easing
In June, the market environment remained marked by contrasts: Equities initially benefited from AI optimism and solid corporate news but were weighed down toward the end of the month by profit-taking in the technology sector and discussions surrounding valuations. Within the IT sector, there was a clear divergence: Semiconductors performed well, while software and parts of the “Magnificent-7” lagged behind.
I-AM Global Macro Market commentary
Oil shock overcome – Europe’s stock markets take off, gold loses its shine
June brought the long-awaited turnaround: with the signing of the framework agreement between Washington and Tehran on 18 June, the Iran conflict came to a provisional end. The oil price reacted promptly – WTI fell by just under 20 per cent over the course of the month, which noticeably dampened inflation expectations and, above all, provided relief for Europe’s energy-intensive economy.
Further information on funds, investments and financial markets can be found in the press section and blog of Erste Asset Management.
Legal Disclaimer
This marketing document is provided for non-binding information purposes only and does not represent any offering or invitation to purchase or sell units in an investment fund, and nor should it be deemed an invitation to submit an offer for conclusion of any contract on investment services or collateral performance. This document cannot replace the advice of your personal investment advisor. Any unauthorized use hereof, in particular its reproduction, processing, transmission or publication is forbidden. The author hereof as well as any enterprises affiliated with them exclude herewith all and any liability in full for the correctness, completeness or actuality of the information contained and opinions stated herein. All performance figures indicated are gross performance figures.
Please note: Fund-based investments are subject to general economic risks as well as fluctuations in value which may result in losses – and even the total loss of the capital invested. Express reference is made to the detailed risk notices provided in the prospectus. Unit classes denominated in foreign currencies entail an additional currency risk.
Their performance may rise or fall due to currency fluctuations.