Climate Change Mutual Funds
Creators of mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are always looking for new fund ideas that will attract investors. I have an idea for climate change funds. Suppose that two funds were to hold assets likely to be affected by climate change, such as ocean-front properties. The “scientists’ fund” would short such properties on the theory that they will go down in value as ocean levels rise. The “deniers’ fund” would buy such real estate on the theory that it will be fine and is likely underpriced on fears of rising oceans. No doubt there are many other types of financial assets whose value would be affected by climate change. So, instead of sitting in a bar and arguing about whether climate change is real, people would be able to get some real skin in the game by risking their own money.