This Week in ESG and Impact Investing

The impact of regional bank troubles on Black people will likely be multifaceted, since this is a group with a higher proportion of underbanked and unbanked individuals. Some potential consequences include: Reduced access to banking services: If regional banks close or consolidate, it may lead to a reduction in the number of bank branches in communities with a high proportion of Black residents. This could make it more difficult for people in these communities to access banking services, leading to a higher reliance on alternative financial services, such as check-cashing outlets and payday lenders, which often have higher fees. Credit availability: As regional banks face financial troubles, they may become more risk-averse, tightening their lending standards. This could make it harder for Black individuals and businesses to obtain credit, potentially exacerbating the existing racial wealth gap. Impact on local businesses: Many small and local businesses, including those owned by Black...