SEC Newgate has released its 2025 Impact Monitor, the fifth annual global study which surveyed 20,213 respondents across 20 markets, including Australia, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the UAE.
The Impact Monitor (previously known as 'ESG Monitor') is a global research study that looks at how environmental, social, and governance issues influence perceptions of businesses and governments. Key findings below:
Impacts defined locally
This edition highlighted a growing shift towards localised reputation assessment, as communities increasingly evaluate organisations through local lenses. Against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, the study noted a rising global preference for businesses to manufacture, hire, and source materials locally, even if this leads to higher consumer costs. These localised contributions were found to be closely linked to improved perceptions of organisations.
The study further revealed a gap between what the public expects from organisations and how they think those organisations are performing in traditional ESG and geopolitical matters. However, these perceived performance ratings have edged upwards, suggesting that many organisations are listening more closely to community concerns, responding more effectively to expectations, and communicating their impact with greater clarity and credibility.
Environmental and social expectations
On environmental impact, the study found that communities expect businesses to play an active role in addressing climate change, particularly in reducing carbon emissions and accelerating the transition to sustainable energy systems. However, enthusiasm softens when these measures could potentially raise consumer costs, underscoring the tension organisations face between delivering meaningful impact and maintaining affordability.
When it comes to social issues, communities want organisations to speak out and clearly communicate their values - even when these positions may not align with governments or stakeholder groups. The strongest support was found in closing the gender pay gap, improving accessibility to maximise workplace participation, and implementing policies that foster inclusive work cultures.
Governance accountability and cross-market optimism
In terms of governance, the study revealed that transparency remains a critical gap. 38 per cent of respondents globally believe that large businesses are sufficiently open and transparent, making this the lowest-rated aspect of governance in this edition and signalling a need for better communication and accountability.
The study also found wide variations in terms of national optimism. Compared to the global average of 48 per cent, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Singapore, and India recorded the highest confidence levels, with at least eight in 10 respondents believing their country is heading in the right direction.
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