ESG Disclosure and Green Investment in the EU

The EU has introduced an extensive ESG disclosure regime aimed at redirecting private capital to support the transition to a sustainable economy. Yet, it remains unclear whether these disclosure obligations lead to measurable shifts in the allocation and cost of capital to green firms or investments. This review aims to address this gap by developing a conceptual framework that identifies the mechanisms through which both voluntary and mandatory disclosures may influence the allocation and cost of private capital, and by systematically mapping the emerging empirical evidence against these channels. It draws on 99 publications from three academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, EconLit) and EU institutions, published between 2010 and 2025. The review shows that the evidence base remains emerging and fragmented, but generally points to a positive association between ESG disclosure or performance and access to finance and more favourable funding conditions. At the same time, capital markets seem to anticipate regulatory compliance costs and risks, which can increase uncertainty, and in some settings, adversely affect firms with potential implications for market functioning and capital allocation and pricing. The review further highlights implications for academics and regulators. For academics, it identifies several gaps and limitations suggests avenues for future research. For regulators, it provides cautious support for disclosure regulation, while underscoring the need for credible, usable and proportionate requirements.

Keywords: Regulation; Disclosure; Environmental; social and governance (ESG); capital allocation; cost of capital; Review
JEL codes G11; G12; G14; G38; M14; M48

Working paper no. 867