Why the B Corp Certification Matters

In Advisor Perspectives, The Humphreys Group President Diane Bourdo, CFP® discusses why her wealth management firm decided to become a B Corp, and why other financial advisory firms should also consider getting the B Corp certification. Advisor Perspectives is the leading interactive publisher for Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), wealth managers, and financial advisors.

The B corp certification, which started in 2006, recognizes for-profit companies that use business as a force for good. B corp companies use the power of business to solve our most pressing global challenges, such as wealth inequality, climate change, and social unrest. B corp companies are working to reduce inequality, lower levels of poverty, make the environment healthier, strengthen communities, and create more high-quality jobs with dignity and purpose. There are over 3,500 certified B corporations in 150 industries and 74 countries.

“By becoming a B corp, you are putting your flag in the ground for what you believe in and are committed to doing in a public, transparent, measurable way,” Bourdo writes. “You’re showing your clients, employees, and community that you care about them and are committed to serving them.”

B corps are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on all stakeholders. Becoming a certified B corporation is an extremely rigorous process. B Lab, the governing body of the B corp certification, reviews all business functions — ranging from the merits of the product offering, employee benefits and broader HR policies, and financial management, to the company’s involvement in the community, corporate governance, and environmental impact.

“Becoming a B corp formalizes what we already do and our commitment to it – and it inspires and motivates us to do better,” Bourdo writes. As a wealth management firm that’s a B corp, we want to do our part in changing the narrative about ‘profit at all costs’ in the financial services industry. I want to add our voices to the growing belief that making money and doing good can happen at the same time.”

Diane Bourdo, CFP®
Diane Bourdo, CFP®

Diane Bourdo is the President of The Humphreys Group. Diane has dedicated her life’s work to helping women make smart financial decisions. For nearly 30 years, she has developed investment management and financial planning strategies that allow her clients to create lives that reflect their values. Diane was named an InvestmentNews 2020 Women to Watch and has been recognized in Forbes, SF Chronicle, NY Times and more for her work and writing.

Diane Bourdo, CFP®
Diane Bourdo, CFP®

Diane Bourdo is the President of The Humphreys Group. Diane has dedicated her life’s work to helping women make smart financial decisions. For nearly 30 years, she has developed investment management and financial planning strategies that allow her clients to create lives that reflect their values. Diane was named an InvestmentNews 2020 Women to Watch and has been recognized in Forbes, SF Chronicle, NY Times and more for her work and writing.

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