And the Ortner Prize goes to

The young man from Indonesia was motivated to address this topic by the strong media response: “Inspired by the significant influence media has on public perception, I proposed a machine learning pipeline that assessed companies companies’ environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance based on news articles.” In doing so, the graduate identified differences depending on the industry: for example, the range of topics covered in reporting on technology companies is quite different from that in the pharmaceutical industry. “The study also revealed a need for greater media focus on companies’ environmental efforts, particularly to enhance public awareness of their sustainability initiatives,” Izzat concludes.

Hard work pays off

Izzat spent six months working closely with his supervisor, Dr Karoline Bax, a research associate at the Chair of Finance held by Professor Sebastian Müller, to complete the work. Both sides are enthusiastic about the collaboration: “I was particularly impressed by his ability to get deeply into the new topic of text analysis. In doing so, he repeatedly contributed valuable, innovative ideas that raised the work to an excellent level,” says Bax. Izzat adds: “I was incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Karoline Bax as my supervisor, who was always there to guide me through challenges and offer helpful advice when I faced any roadblocks.”

It is no wonder that the result is outstanding. His supervisor and Izzat are more than proud: “It motivates me to keep pushing in AI and sustainable finance space,” says the award winner. Moreover, he already has plans for the prize money: “My partner and I will accompany my parents on their first little trip through Germany. We want to make sure that it is an unforgettable time. We are thinking of sightseeing, good food and a little celebration! As for the rest, I’ll be putting it into a socially responsible investment ETF.” All that remains is to say: congratulations and have fun!