Decent work and economic growth SDG 8.2 - Innovate and upgrade for economic productivity 

Why: Investment in research and development is important to secure the long-term competitiveness of our portfolio companies. Investor engages in companies that are leaders in their industries. We continuously focus on their performance, their technology position and research and development strategy to develop new innovative products to support overall economic growth. 

What we do: The future success of our companies depends on their capacity to drive change and to invest for the long-term in new solutions that are more resource efficient and that meet the needs of their customers. We monitor the companies’ investments in research and development (R&D). In 2023, R&D expenses in our companies totaled SEK 207bn. 

One example: Decent work and economic growth

SEB is one of the largest microfinance fund managers in Europe. They manage six microfinance funds with a total value of around SEK 9bn, reaching more than 25 million entrepreneurs in 59 countries. Access to financial products enables growth of small to medium enterprises and fosters job creation and economic development. Access to financial services can curb income inequality, increasing economic opportunities and well-being over time.