At the starting week of March, Auquan attended PEI’s Responsible Investment Forum (RIF) New York 2025 to exchange insights on private debt. The event gave a dynamic platform to discuss how AI and data-driven insights reshape sustainability strategies in private credit.
Our CEO, Chandini Jain, was a part of the key panel at the event: How sustainability continues to evolve in private debt. In this conversation, she was joined by :
- Adam Davies, Vice President, Private Credit, Malk Partners
- Brittany Agostino, Principal, ESG – US Credit Lead, Ares Management
- Jeffrey Cohen, Managing Director, Head of ESG & Sustainability, Oak Hill Advisors
- Claire Hedley, Head of ESG, 17Capital
- Greer Howard-Tabah, Vice President, Oaktree Capital
The rapidly changing political environment in the United States was front of mind throughout the event, as the panel exchanged insights into ways they’re navigating these changes.
Here are the key takeaways from the conversation between Chandini and industry experts covered in the event:
How are lenders and sponsors engaging in sustainability?
Lenders and sponsors are embedding ESG into decision-making, with AI playing a key role in risk assessment and data-backed commitments.
- ESG integration is now a priority across the investment lifecycle.
- AI-driven analytics enhance risk assessment and decision-making.
- Sponsors are adopting measurable, data-backed ESG commitments.
Tools for decarbonization & climate risk
Managing climate risk is challenging, but AI tools transform how private credit investors track and assess ESG performance.
- AI-driven assessments provide real-time insights into carbon footprints.
- Machine learning models track decarbonization and forecast ESG trends.
- Automated analysis helps detect greenwashing and highlight real impact.
Sustainability-Linked Loans (SLLs): Driving real impact
SLLs incentivize borrowers to meet ESG targets but must be meaningful and measurable.
- Sector-specific KPIs ensure ESG goals are relevant and achievable.
- AI streamlines tracking to ensure compliance and accountability.
- Transparent, data-backed reporting prevents greenwashing.
The panel discussion at RIF NY 2025 clarified that AI is necessary for sustainable investing. Private credit firms and investors who embrace AI-powered ESG analytics will gain a competitive edge, deeper insights, and the ability to drive real impact in private markets.
While you’re here…
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