Restrict weapons in the US? BlackRock, the largest investment company in the world with assets of nearly $ 6.000 trillion, takes care of it. Following the February 14 massacre in Parkland, Florida, the American giant announced that it will re-examine its shareholdings in both arms manufacturing companies and the networks of stores that sell them, offering savers funds that do not invest in this sector. BlackRock is the largest shareholder of two of the largest US arms manufacturers, Sturm Ruger and American Outdoor Brand, owner of Smith & Wesson, and the second largest shareholder of Vista Outdoor; it is therefore seriously capable of influencing the market. The company will offer customers the option not to invest in companies that produce or sell weapons to the public and at the same time press on the companies themselves to know how we are working to ensure the safe and responsible use of their products. BlackRock in a three-page letter warned that the massacre in Florida, which killed 17 people including many very young people, recalled "the terrible burden that comes from gun violence in America". "We believe this event requires response and action from a wide range of actors in both the public and private sectors." The letter is a response to the concerns expressed by thousands of savers, with the explanation that from now on BlackRock will offer the possibility to choose investments and to exclude arms manufacturers.
