The Global Risks Report 2025 from the World Economic Forum leaves no room for doubt: the planet is in systemic crisis. Armed conflicts, rampant disinformation, ecosystem collapse, biodiversity loss, governance failure… The alarms are sounding on all fronts.
And in the face of this scenario, a tough question must be asked: where are the companies? Where are the investors who claim to bet on a better future?
ESG —short for Environmental, Social and Governance— has been both profitable and politically correct. But reports, rankings and sustainability promises are no longer enough. The moment demands more: real impact, deep transformation, and ethical courage. It’s not about being “less bad” anymore. It’s about being actively good. Either we become part of the solution, or we continue fueling the problem.
A world in crisis needs brave companies
The report is clear: the global system is on the brink of collapse. Political fragmentation, institutional distrust, increasingly frequent climate disasters, and lack of international cooperation all point toward a future of long-lasting instability—unless urgent action is taken.
Who has the power to act quickly, at scale, and with long-term vision? Companies. Investors. Capital. No excuses. No time to waste.
From ESG to companies with real impact
It’s time to move beyond greenwashing and purpose-washing. Companies must not only minimize harm—they must generate collective value. Meeting minimum standards isn’t enough. They must embrace their transformative potential. It’s no longer enough to “do business in the world.” They must be for the world.
That means:
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Investing in regenerative, not extractive, solutions.
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Walking away from industries that perpetuate inequality, pollution, and disinformation.
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Building corporate cultures that reward purpose, not just profit.
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Turning the entire value chain into a chain of positive impact.
Responsible investment is no longer optional
Every euro, every dollar invested is a vote for the world we want. Impact investing must stop being a boutique niche or a decorative add-on. It needs to become the new mainstream.
Large funds, banks, and asset managers must stop passively financing obsolete models and start actively supporting initiatives that regenerate social fabric, protect the environment, and promote economic justice. Investing today without considering social and environmental impact is simply irresponsible.
This decade is decisive—and we’re all accountable
As the WEF report puts it: “From conflict to climate change, we face interconnected crises that demand coordinated and collective action.” But that action can’t come from governments alone. Companies have the power—and the moral duty—to lead the transition toward a new economic paradigm.
The question is no longer if we should act. It’s how, when (now), and with what courage. History will not forgive those who, having the power to change course, chose to keep profiting off a dying planet and fractured societies.