The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved the Green Impact Exchange (GIX), marking a key milestone for sustainable investing.
Set to launch in early 2026, GIX will reportedly be the first U.S. national securities exchange dedicated to the $35 trillion global green economy.
This latest approval positions GIX as a platform to connect sustainability-focused investors with companies committed to robust environmental goals, while combating greenwashing and enhancing transparency.
Founded in 2022 by former NYSE executives, including CEO Daniel Labovitz and President Charles Dolan, GIX will operate as a dual-listing venue, allowing companies listed on exchanges like NYSE or Nasdaq to also trade on GIX without relinquishing their primary listing.
To qualify, companies must adhere to GIX’s Green Governance Standards, which mandate a binding commitment to set, implement, measure, and achieve sustainability goals.
These standards emphasize sustainability, stakeholder engagement, transparent reporting, alignment of business strategies with environmental objectives.
Companies failing to meet these criteria risk delisting, ensuring accountability.
As first reported by Bloomberg, GIX’s approach addresses the shortcomings of traditional ESG frameworks, which often lack enforceable standards and enable greenwashing.
Shiva Rajgopal, a Columbia Business School professor and GIX advisor:
“Accountability for sustainability promises is key. GIX will provide better transparency and accountability, connecting sustainable investors with credible companies.”
The exchange’s listing criteria focus on governance over incremental metrics, requiring companies to embed “green thinking” into their core operations through board-level commitments, clear sustainability strategies, and verifiable metrics.
The SEC’s approval follows GIX’s Form 1 application filing in May 2024 and extensive engagement with over 700 companies, with 150 expressing interest in dual-listing.
Dolan said:
“Climate risk is business risk. GIX will harness public markets to drive environmental benefits and economic growth.”
GIX will also implement a Return to Green program, dedicating a portion of its gross revenue to support frontline sustainability organizations, reinforcing its mission as a public-benefit corporation.
Powered by advanced technology from exchange operator MEMX and integrated into the National Market System, GIX will ensure competitive liquidity and best execution for trades.
As sustainable investing gains momentum, GIX’s launch appears to signal a transformative step toward a greener, more accountable financial future.