Vanguard Unveils ESG ETFs That Exclude Controversial Assets

Vanguard Group Inc. is expanding its offering of passive ESG funds in Europe, betting its approach of excluding controversial industries will appeal to investors confused by other more complex products touting environmental, social and governance metrics.

The $7.5 trillion investing giant will offer two exchange traded funds tied to indexes that track large corporates and small to medium-sized businesses in both Europe and the US. The additions bring to 11 the number of index-tracking funds offered in the EU and the UK that screen out things like weapons manufacturers, oil and gas producers, as well as firms that violate human ...