HR2988 mandates that ERISA fiduciaries base 401(k) investment decisions solely on pecuniary factors, functionally eliminating ESG considerations from the $12+ trillion defined contribution market. This introduces near-term regulatory risk for ESG-focused asset managers and data providers, though the bill remains at an early legislative stage (reported to committee, rule assigned).
→ Reduced subscription demand for ESG ratings and index licenses from the defined contribution segment, a meaningful growth driver for MSCI's ESG and Climate business.