memo activity

Overview

Risks and opportunities related to ESG matters may have an unfavorable, favorable, or neutral effect on financial statements. These matters directly and indirectly impact financial statements, such as through increased compensation expenses for raising women and minorities’ pay or through a reduction in sales due to publicity of a negative environmental event. Businesses will rely on accountants to help with the analysis and measurement.

Directions

Choose one of the ethically responsible companies and review that company’s most recent 10-Q and 10-K financial statements. You may also review the company’s website for any additional ESG data. Prepare a memo to the investment advisor summarizing the results, risks, and rewards of their ESG programs.

Ethically Responsible Companies

Microsoft

Caterpillar

• GoodRx
• Sherwin-Williams
• Marriott
• Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:
• Summarize the primary ESG initiative(s) of the chosen company.

Explain how these programs may directly or indirectly impact financial statements.

Discuss measurable program results that might not be reflected in the financial statements.

1. Provide evidence for ESG program impact based on the financial statements. Consider the following in your response:

Outline any related changes in cost of goods sold, sales, legal fees, etc.

1. Discuss whether the ESG programs have already had a financial impact on the company. Consider the following in your response:

Identify whether the company has outlined any changes resulting from their ESG program.

1. Explain whether any footnotes discuss ESG programs.