Our oceans are in trouble and if nature fails, supply chains can break and economies can suffer. Banks and investors are now realising that a dying ocean can lead to financial risks.
A new "blue" economy
Money has the power to change how industries act. In recent years, we have seen the rise of "the blue economy": the use of ocean resources for economic growth needs to be balanced with the health of the ocean. New financial instruments such as blue loans and bonds have emerged to fund marine sustainability projects.
However, too little funding is reaching the sustainable seafood sector. Among other issues, banks and investors lack the kind of data they need to assess the risks involved and to offer rewards.
The power of certification
This is where the ASC (for farmed seafood) and the MSC (for wild seafood) come in. Our certification programs provide the kind of benchmarks investors need. Certification offers:
• Scientific standards: These provide a consistent "scorecard" supported by robust data.
• Independent checks: Third-party experts assess and audit fisheries, farms and supply chain businesses.
• Long-term tracking: Progress is monitored over many years, emerging issues are addressed and continuous improvement is expected.
All of which can reduce risk.
What we are doing
The ASC and the MSC are working together to connect responsible seafood producers with responsible finance. We want certification to be a "green light" to help money flow towards businesses that protect the ocean.
Interest is growing. Deutsche Bank’s Summary Framework on Environmental and Social Due Diligence expects marine aquaculture clients to hold ASC certification by 2025. This shows increasing confidence among mainstream financial institutions.
We are also engaging with other major financial institutions as well as environmental NGOs and standard setters.
Supporting financial institutions
The prototype MSC Fishery Financial Model was launched at the Sustainable Seafood Summit in Tokyo on 22 October 2026. The model argues that sustainably managed fisheries have lower risk, benefit from more reliable market access, and can support higher catches over time.
MSC certification is a key due-diligence tool in this shift. The model suggests a well-managed, MSC certified fishery supports a more resilient long-term economic model, being roughly twice as valuable as an otherwise identical, not well-managed fishery.
Fishery Financial Model
Looking ahead
By engaging with investors, banks, and finance policymakers, we are helping to build understanding of the real-world impact of certification.
The resilience of the seafood sector is directly linked to the resilience of our ocean. In recognition of this we expect to see more financial products linked to ASC and MSC certification, as well as integration of certification into financial modelling that drives access to capital and terms of finance.
Our team
Head of Capital Markets
Manager, Capital Markets