Missouri offers terror-free investments

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Missouri has announced a new investment opportunity that ensures portfolios will exclude companies with ties to countries that support terrorism.

Offered through a state college 527 savings plan, Missouri State Treasurer Sarah Steelman unveiled the investment product in response to a growing market for terror-free investment options.

UMB Investment Advisers will manage the international equity investment vehicle for Missouri college savings participants and other interested investors. In a recent national poll conducted by Luntz more than 85 percent of respondents said they want to invest in terror-free options.

"I'm excited to announce that every person in this country can now make sure their investments are terror-free," said Steelman, in a statement. "The strength of our country has always been in giving the power to the people and today I am thrilled to make such an important way available to everyone who wants to save for their children's future. Moreover, I am especially proud that one of Missouri’s leading companies -- UMB -- has stepped to the forefront in providing 'terror-free' options to Missourians and all Americans.”

Missouri has partnered with the Washington-based Conflict Securities Advisory Group in an effort to identify and screen publicly traded companies that have direct ties to alleged terrorist states.

“We are proud to offer the choice to invest in a socially responsible manner that also supports the beliefs of American citizens,” said Peter deSilva, president and chief operating officer of UMB Financial Corp. "Just as many investors choose to place their investments in environmentally supportive funds, this presents yet another way we are able to meet the unique needs of investors and allow choices in how their dollars are invested.”