As we approach the December FCI Interest Group Forum focusing on Al–Mizan, (the recently released landmark publication aimed at inspiring Muslims worldwide to take action on climate change and the environment), it’s clear that Islamic financial products, once seen as niche, are increasingly outperforming traditional investments and gaining mainstream traction.
Islamic finance, now a $3.9 trillion industry present in over 80 countries, offers a compelling example of faith-consistent investing (FCI) that not only aligns with ethical principles but delivers strong financial returns.
Islamic ETFs: A proven record of outperformance
A standout example of Islamic finance’s competitiveness is the Wahed FTSE USA Shariah ETF (HLAL), which has delivered an annualised return of 14.59% over the past five years. In comparison, the S&P 500 achieved a return of 12.65% over the same period.
This consistent outperformance demonstrates that Shariah-compliant investments are not just adhering to faith-based restrictions but are excelling in terms of market performance.
Islamic finance mandates specific ethical screens, such as excluding companies involved in industries like alcohol, gambling, and tobacco, and avoiding firms with high levels of debt. While some might view these restrictions as limiting investment options, the success of Islamic ETFs has proven otherwise.
By focusing on sectors such as technology, healthcare, and renewable energy, which have historically outperformed, Shariah-compliant funds are not only competitive but also offer lower exposure to volatile, highly leveraged businesses.
Wahed’s ETF isn’t the only one to outperform – Shariah-compliant indexes globally have been delivering outsized returns. A report by S&P Global underscores the reasons behind the S&P 500 Shariah Index consistently outperforming the benchmark.
This success largely stems from Islamic finance's strict exclusion of heavily indebted companies, particularly beneficial during periods of rising interest rates. High leverage increases financial risks as borrowing costs climb, making such companies more vulnerable.
Islamic finance’s emphasis on long-term sustainability, lower debt exposure, and ethical investing fosters more resilient, risk-averse portfolios. These factors help protect Shariah-compliant investments from volatility in uncertain market conditions, demonstrating that aligning with faith principles can contribute to both ethical and financial success.
Implications for faith-consistent investors
The outperformance of Islamic finance products, particularly in sectors that generate positive impact, presents a powerful case for faith-consistent investing as a whole.
For faith-consistent investors, Islamic finance offers an inspiring example of how aligning investments with beliefs, teachings, and values need not come at the expense of competitive returns. In fact, it reinforces the argument that ethical and faith-based considerations can contribute to more resilient, risk-averse portfolios.
December 5 FCI Forum
Looking ahead to our December IG Forum, this discussion of Islamic finance’s success provides a valuable opportunity to explore how faith-consistent investors can leverage these strategies to enhance their own portfolios. Islamic ETFs and Shariah-compliant financial products show that ethical investing can lead to robust performance, making them an attractive option for a wide array of investors.
We invite you to join us at the December 5 FCI Forum, where we will delve into the impact of Al-Mizan and explore practical applications of its teachings.
The forum will provide a unique opportunity to engage with other faith-based asset owners and exchange insights on how faith-consistent investing can evolve, combining ethical principles with modern financial strategies. It aims to foster a forward-looking discussion on the future of faith-based investing and its role in creating sustainable, faith-driven portfolios.
To register for the December 5 FCI Forum, click below.
Notes
Al-Mizan: A Covenant for the Earth presents an Islamic outlook on the environment and aims to strengthen action on crises such as climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
Read our story on its launch
More information from: www.almizan.earth
Shariah-compliant – The term is used in Islamic finance to denote that a financial product, service or activity complies with the principles of Shariah (Islamic Law).