India has introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework for social, sustainability, and sustainability-linked bonds (SLBs), aiming to boost transparency and accountability in ESG debt markets. The new rules, issued by SEBI, mark a significant step in aligning India’s financial instruments with global ESG standards.

The KPMG US survey reveals that almost half of large companies still use spreadsheets for ESG data management despite an increased focus on ESG reporting. The survey of 550 executives shows that 90% plan to boost ESG investments in areas like dedicated personnel, specialized software, and training. However, there's a significant gap between perceived ESG reporting capabilities and actual readiness, with 47% relying on spreadsheets. Companies express a commitment to improvement, including the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning for data analysis. This article emphasizes the need for a broader sustainability strategy and strategic investments to effectively communicate sustainability values to the business.