We have updated our social bond framework and it is fully aligned with the 2025 ICMA Social Bond Principles

We play a vital role in financing social housing in the Netherlands. Since 2017 we use the proceeds from our social bonds to provide affordable, sustainable loans to social housing associations. This enables them to invest in the construction of new social housing, the renovation and sustainability of existing homes, and the improvement of neighbourhood livability.

In line with our Articles, we only finance the portion of social housing associations’ debt that falls under the guarantee provided by the Social Housing Guarantee Fund (WSW). This concerns the financing of Services of General Economic Interest (SGEI) activities. This ensures that all our lending to housing associations helps create added value for society.

The framework focuses on supporting key target groups for social housing in the Netherlands, including low-income households, individuals with urgent housing needs, and priority groups as defined by municipalities. These include people with limited financial means, those facing emergency situations such as eviction or domestic violence, and locally designated groups such as key workers, people with disabilities, or status holders. By aligning with national housing policies, the framework ensures that financing is directed toward those most in need of affordable and secure housing.

The Social Bond Framework (July 2025) aligns with the 2025 ICMA Social Bond Principles and 2025 Harmonised Impact Reporting Framework for Social Bonds. The bond proceeds contribute to SDG 1 No Poverty and SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, and the green co-benefits contribute to SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy.

Sustainalytics has provided a Second Party Opinion on the framework, validating its alignment with the 2025 ICMA Social Bond Principles. Sustainalytics assessed the overall Sustainability Contribution of the framework as “Strong”, based on the Sustainability Contribution of the Framework’s single use of proceeds category. ‘Overall, investments under this category will strongly contribute to improving access to affordable housing for the low-income households and vulnerable population in the Netherlands’ (Morningstar Sustainalytics, 2025).

We would like to thank SEB for their role as the sole Sustainability Advisor on the update.

Morningstar Sustainalytics’ SPOs, whether in whole or in part shall not be construed as part of any offering, and shall not be considered as an offer or advertisement to buy a security, solicitation of votes or proxies, investment advice, expert opinion or negative assurance letter as defined by the applicable legislation.