• With increased regulatory scrutiny from governmental bodies like the U.S. SEC, there is a need for a clear unifying ethical framework to guide all stakeholders in the investment space. Just as medical professionals uphold the Hippocratic Oath and legal professionals swear to ethical conduct, the Investment Manifesto serves as a unifying code of conduct for founders, investors, advisors, and all members of our ecosystem. Moreover, it also aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #8.

The 12 Principles of the Investment Manifesto v0.8

As a member of the investment ecosystem, including (but not limited to):

  • support systems (family, significant others and friends),

  • founders and CEOs, employees and team members,

  • angel investors, venture capitalists, private equity professionals,

  • limited partners of all types,

  • professional service providers,

  • and all other internal and external consultants, advisors and mentors,

I hereby solemnly pledge to uphold the following 12 principles and through this pledge, I aim to cultivate a fair, ethical, and thriving environment for all involved:

  1. Integrity: I pledge to act with honesty and strong moral principles, in all interactions.

  2. Respect: I pledge to treat all individuals with dignity and consideration, acknowledging the value each and everyone brings to the collective table.

  3. Meritocracy: I pledge to promote justice and impartiality, in order to cultivate a meritocratic environment.

  4. Communication: I pledge to maintain open and clear communications as often as is deemed naturally reasonable, in order to share relevant information with stakeholders in a timely manner.

  5. Accountability: I pledge to accept full responsibility for my decisions and actions, in order to learn from my mistakes.

  6. Choices: I pledge to make investment choices that are financially sound but also socially responsible.

  7. Empowerment: I pledge to support founders and their support systems, providing guidance, resources, and encouragement to help them succeed.

  8. Diversity: I pledge to embrace diversity in all its forms because a variety of perspectives strengthens the whole.

  9. Continuous learning: I pledge to dedicate myself to ongoing development, because I recognize that change is the only constant.

  10. Legal/compliance: I pledge to strictly adhere to any and all laws and regulations.

  11. Community: I pledge to foster a collaborative spirit in order to help build an innovative investment community.

  12. Courage: I pledge to embody courage and stand by these principles, even when faced with challenges, or pressured to look the other way.

By embracing these 12 principles, I aim to do my part and cultivate an investment environment where integrity, respect, and excellence are the norms. I believe that adhering to these principles not only leads to better outcomes for all parties but also contributes positively to society at large.

References

  1. Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance - "SEC Adopts Substantive Requirements for Advisers to Private Funds". Source: https://corpgov.law.harvard.edu/2023/09/24/sec-adopts-substantive-requirements-for-advisers-to-private-funds/

  2. Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance - "Significant Rule Changes for Private Fund Advisers". Source: https://corpgov.law.harvard.edu/2023/09/10/significant-rule-changes-for-private-fund-advisers/

  3. United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs - Sustainable Development Goal #8 - "Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all". Source: https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal8

  4. United States Securities and Exchange Commission - "Private Fund Adviser Reforms: Final Rules". Source: https://www.sec.gov/files/ia-6383-fact-sheet.pdf

  5. United States Securities and Exchange Commission - "Amendments to the Accredited Investor Definition". Source: https://www.sec.gov/rules/final/2020/33-10824.pdf

Raison d'être

The Investment Manifesto exists simply to communicate the importance and need for ethical behaviour in the investment community. In a time of rapid change and increasing regulatory scrutiny by bodies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), there's a pressing need for a clear ethical framework that guides all stakeholders. These 12 principles aim to serve as that initial framework, uniting founders, investors, advisors, and all members of the ecosystem under shared principles of integrity, respect, and responsibility.By embracing this raison d'être, we collectively agree to aim to foster a fairer, more transparent, and thriving investment environment. Our commitment not only aligns with evolving regulatory expectations but also underscores our dedication to positive societal impact and sustainable success.

Contribute to the Investment Manifesto

The goal is to build a community dedicated to cultivating integrity, transparency, and ethical practices within the investment ecosystem.Your skills and perspectives can make a meaningful impact on the Investment Manifesto. Whether you're passionate about contributing by translating to other languages, or have ideas to enhance the manifesto itself, your contributions are more than welcome.If you're interested in contributing, please fill out the contact form. Thank you for considering a contribution to the Investment Manifesto.

Feel free to post the following pledge on your socials

  • Proud to stand among forward-thinking professionals in the investment community by endorsing the Investment Manifesto. The medical field upholds the Hippocratic Oath, and it's about time for us to commit to higher standards too. Let's shape the future of investing. #InvestmentManifesto https://investmentmanifesto.com

Become a Supporter Now

  • Earliest possible "Support Date": Supporters will have their support dates displayed on our Supporters page, highlighting commitment from "the early days".

  • Forward thinking professionals: By publicly supporting the Investment Manifesto, you become part of a community of forward thinking professionals committed to positive change in the investment space.

  • Inspire others: Your endorsement communicates your professionalism and can motivate colleagues, friends, and others in your network to follow suit.

  • United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs: Sustainable Development Goal #8

3 Easy Steps To Become a Supporter

  1. Write a post on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), expressing your support.

  2. Include: #InvestmentManifesto https://investmentmanifesto.com

  3. Fill out the contact form below and include a link to your post.

Submit your pledge support details

By publicly supporting the Investment Manifesto, you become part of a community of forward thinking professionals committed to positive change in the investment space. Your support can inspire others to join the movement.