Banking expert: There is an appetite for social investment funds

Social investment funds are becoming increasingly popular, as people are no longer looking solely at financial returns, it has been argued.

Huw Davies, head of personal banking at Triodos, states: "There is definitely an increasing desire to do more with people's money. I think customers are no longer just looking for interest rates."

And social investment funds could be the answer to this, as the wealth management expert observes individuals are increasingly aware of ethical use of personal finances, as evidenced by the popularity of fair-trade products and green electricity.

Mr Davies observes: "Definitely there is an appetite," suggesting increasing information on the subject will raise the popularity of social investment funds, as more awareness would lead many to give the option "serious consideration".

Last week, the Co-operative Financial Services reported ethical banking rose 31 per cent over a 12-month period, with the amount deposited in credit unions and ethical stocks appreciating by 19 per cent between 2008 and 2009.  ADNFCR-2318-ID-800227590-ADNFCR