.jpg)
The first DJBIC results reveal widening ESG gaps across Asia, with Taiwan expanding its lead while Thailand retains the region’s broadest sectoral representation. (Photo: iStock)
Since its launch in 1999 as the world’s first global sustainability benchmark, the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) have become one of the most widely referenced ESG indices in institutional investment. The 2026 results, published under the new name Dow Jones Best-in-Class (DJBIC) Indices, took effect on May 1.
RECCESSARY examines what the latest results reveal about Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia across the World, Emerging Markets, and Asia Pacific index tiers.
Unlock the full article to explore three key takeaways:
- Taiwan expanded its World index presence to 38 companies, up from 34 in the December 2024 review, driven by semiconductors and technology hardware, where Taiwan’s global supply chain position and long-standing ESG engagement continue to provide a structural advantage over other Asian markets.
- DJBIC introduced stricter media and stakeholder analysis requirements, including a new severe controversy tier that can trigger zero scores across entire question groups if companies fail to respond, alongside a mechanism that carries unresolved incidents across multiple years.
- For companies outside the index, the consequences are becoming increasingly commercial. Financial institutions included in the index are embedding sustainability criteria into lending and investment decisions, meaning ESG gaps can now affect financing costs and access to capital, not just corporate reputation.
