Abstract

The paper aims at analyzing the performance of Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) studies over a period from 2001 to 2021 and provides directions for future studies. The study utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework for literature synthesis. Five SRI research areas arose through the analysis: SRI antecedents, execution, trend, motivations, and strategies. Leadership plays a pivotal role in ensuring a balance between profitability and SRI hence the paper also highlights the importance of transformational leadership in ensuring the right balance. These domains generated a moderate trajectory regarding (SRI) studies and effective performance worldwide. Additionally, a positive correlation was shown between the performance of SRI funds and the requirement for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Nonetheless, gaps like lack of attention to methodological, geographical, and operational issues in the analyzed studies were also established thereby informing recommendations for future studies.