I’ve saved up some amount of cash, but family is poor and hasn’t had useful advice. I feel like the stock market hasn’t been great for society, but surely there are some causes who would use the capital for good (and give it back when I need it later)? I have a half remembered portfolio from a previous union with a big war chest, but it doesn’t feel actionable.
I’m in North America + UK; but answers globally I think are interesting.
“No,” and “yes,” and “maybe.”
No: Public companies have to maximize profits for their investors–everything else be dammed. That means your investments are not really able to go to a “good cause” if trading publicly.
Yes: Private companies may allow investing in the company if you work for them. If you have a job with one that’s socially conscious you can invest directly in that. Private companies do not need to maximize profits.
Maybe: You could look into microloan platforms. I haven’t checked the efficacy of any in particular, and you won’t make much, but there are some causes that’ll be directly impactful.