In a notable development for the gaming industry, Las Vegas Sands Corp. and its subsidiary Sands China are once again acknowledged for their commitment to sustainable practices by securing placement in the esteemed Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. This marks the eighth consecutive year that Las Vegas Sands, renowned for its significant market presence, has been included in the DJSI North America Index, and the fourth year in the DJSI World Index. Its Macau arm, Sands China, of which it recently heightened its stake, enjoys a second-year positioning in both the DJSI World and DJSI Asia Pacific indices.
This year, Las Vegas Sands and Sands China distinguished themselves as the sole representatives in the Casino and Gaming category on the DJSI World, while Sands remains the only company in its category on the DJSI North America. Sands China joins another entity in representing the category in the DJSI Asia Pacific, reflecting a significant acknowledgment by the indices’ governing bodies.
Historically, gaming companies have found limited representation in sustainability indices. However, this trend is on the cusp of change as the industry amplifies its dedication to sustainable energy applications and other environmental commitments. As identified by S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment, the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index curates the leading North American organizations excelling in sustainable business operations.
Amidst critics’ scrutiny, ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investing maintains traction, particularly with younger investors who subscribe to value-driven investment choices. Las Vegas Sands and Sands China’s appearances within these notable indexes underscore the evolution of both investment perspectives and the gaming industry itself. It fosters the argument that, in today’s changing market, there is increasing merit to incorporating casino stocks within ESG and sustainability-indexed funds.
Sands takes pride in its strides towards enhancing operational transparency to meet rising expectations for public disclosure as per the latest Corporate Sustainability Assessment criteria. This strategy aligns with its commitment to assertive ESG engagement and its ambition to amplify its sustainable impact across the board.
Under the aegis of its corporate responsibility initiatives, namely People, Communities, and Planet, Sands has underscored its intent to channel $200 million towards workforce development by 2025. This investment could not only elevate the lives of its employees but also potentially enhance the company’s standing as a leader in corporate social responsibility.
Moreover, Las Vegas Sands is resolute in its environmental objectives, aiming for a substantial 17.5% cut in carbon emissions by 2025. Despite the atypical decrease in carbon emissions in 2022, which reflected the ongoing pandemic and reduced property visitation, Sands has already reported a laudable 50% emissions reduction from its 2018 baseline. If the company achieves this ambition, it could be a harbinger to including its stock in an even broader array of sustainability indices.
As Sands garners recognition for its progressive environmental stance and elevates its ESG profile, we transition towards an increasingly digitized world where the thrill of gaming can be experienced virtually. At West Island Blog, we understand the allure of casino excitement coupled with the convenience of online access. That’s why, as part of our commitment to providing comprehensive coverage of entertainment, we list the top online casinos for this month, curating a selection that resonates with the discerning tastes of Canadian online casino enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking the elegance of roulette or the rapid-fire fun of slots, our selection promises a safe and vibrant online experience from the comfort of your home.