Ana Holdings is set to issue a social bond worth $44 million, supported by SMBC Nikko Securities, in May 2019.
The bond is set to back the company’s values through a financial method designed to incentivise social development.
This marks the second time that ANA Holdings has issued bonds reinforced by the company's commitment to its corporate social responsibility.
In October 2018, the company became the first airline in the world to issue green bonds worth approximately $88 million to build its training center based in Ota-ku, Tokyo.
“Our social bond represents more than just an excellent investment opportunity,” said Ichiro Fukuzawa, CFO of ANA Holdings. “They offer investors a chance to have a meaningful impact on the world around them while still turning a profit. ANA Holdings is always looking for new ways to embody its corporate values, so it should come as little surprise that we place just as much of an emphasis on financing as we do on innovation in airline services.”
Funds raised through the social bond will be used to simplify air travel while increasing accessibility and sustainability. This includes efforts to update ANA’s website to meet global W3C accessibility guidelines as well as improvements to domestic airports. Airports will be upgraded to boost efficiency and improve accessibility for passengers with disabilities as part of efforts to meet the goals outlined by SDG 11.
The social bonds will be also used for similar changes which will be made to ANA office areas to help the company contribute to the achievement of SDG 10.