Most female clients want their investment decisions to take into account environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, even if this limits their investment options.

Quilter Cheviot surveyed about 2,000 of its female clients and found that 53% agreed that ESG factors should be taken into account.

Four in 10 people had a neutral view of ESG factors, and 7% disagreed.

The main reason to think about ESG factors was to make a positive impact and generate financial returns at the same time.

People also often want to help the world's need for sustainable development and make the world a better place for future generations.

Quilter Cheviot head of responsible investing, Gemma Woodward, said: “From speaking to our female clients, it is clear that considering ESG factors as part of the investment process is becoming the norm.

“We are reaching a point where investors expect it to be done as standard, as it is simply good practice and prudent management of money.

"A large number of them don't have an opinion on the matter, but the fact that so few don't want ESG factors to be taken into account shows what kinds of conversations female investors want to have with their advisors and investment managers."

However, more than a third want to ensure their investments consider ESG factors as a way of mitigating risk and maximising returns.

Woodward added: “What is really pleasing to see too is that a good number of female investors understand that considering ESG factors is about risk mitigation and not necessarily investing sustainably.

“We have seen the terminology around this area be used quite lazily by the industry, and this has led to confusion and misunderstandings when it comes to investment performance and expectations.

“However, it is clear that we are seeing some cut through on what ESG is, and we now need to build on this, particularly in light of upcoming regulations.”

Furthermore, over half of the respondents feel that men's and women’s attitudes toward investing differ.

Almost 60% said they do by either a moderate amount or a great deal. Yet, 15% believe they do not differ at all.

Woodward said: “The data has also made it clear that many female investors have set out with some very noble intentions and want their money to help deliver positive change for the world and future generations.

“While financial returns will more often than not remain the primary objective of a client, it is imperative that secondary objectives are known and understood as investors want to do more with their money.”

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Source: Money Marketing