An international platform for Catholic finance
Research, executive education and institutional engagement for those who steward resources entrusted to the Church and to mission-driven organisations.
Why the Institute exists
The Catholic Finance Institute (CFI) was established to address a growing need: bridging the gap between academic excellence in finance, responsible investment practices and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
CFI serves as an international platform where research, executive education and institutional engagement come together to promote innovative approaches to finance, governance and sustainable leadership.
Inspired by the principles of Laudato Si' and Mensuram Bonam, the Institute develops practical frameworks, executive programmes and applied research that help religious institutions, foundations, universities and financial professionals navigate an increasingly complex financial environment.
To promote excellence in Catholic finance through research, education, governance and international collaboration.
To become the global point of reference for Catholic finance and responsible asset stewardship.
What we stand for
Stewardship
Patrimony held in trust, for the mission and for future generations.
Prudence
Decisions grounded in evidence, proportion and long horizons.
Transparency
Documented processes, explicit assumptions, verifiable reporting.
Responsibility
Fiduciary duty exercised with accountability to the institution.
Human Dignity
The person at the centre of every economic choice.
Research
Independent, rigorous inquiry as the basis of sound practice.
Institutions and professionals who steward long-term capital
An independent research and education institute
The Institute does not manage assets, does not provide regulated investment advice and does not solicit public savings. CFI helps institutions design their own governance models and ethical guidelines; operational implementation remains the responsibility of asset managers and authorised financial intermediaries.
This separation is what allows our research and our frameworks to remain independent.
Five areas of institutional expertise
Asset Management
Strategic management of financial and real assets designed to preserve capital, support institutional objectives and ensure long-term sustainability across generations.
Treasury Management
Oversight of liquidity, cash flows and financial resources to support operational needs while maintaining financial stability and prudent resource allocation.
Investment Governance
Robust investment oversight frameworks, including asset allocation, risk management, portfolio monitoring and fiduciary decision-making processes.
Financial Technology
Data, analytics, reporting systems and digital infrastructure that enhance transparency, operational efficiency and evidence-based decisions.
Artificial Intelligence
AI in finance, governance and administration, focused on decision support, risk management, research and ethical oversight.
A unique centre of gravity
Castel Gandolfo is a place where history, pontifical diplomacy and innovation in care for creation — through realities such as Borgo Laudato Si' — meet. Our presence here allows us to offer partners a reserved setting for high-level meetings, investment committees and international networking, away from the noise of the large financial centres, and close to Rome.
Scientific direction and faculty
Dr. Dario Sgrulletti, PhD
Research Fellow · Adjunct Professor · CFA Society Italy
Selected per programme
Faculty is selected for each programme according to learning objectives and participant profile: academics, practitioners, governance and stewardship specialists.
In formation
The Advisory Board is currently being established. Institutions interested in contributing may contact the Institute.
The setting and the professional ecosystem
The heritage of Castel Gandolfo frames the Institute's executive sessions and cultural experiences; our professional ecosystem connects academia, the investment profession and financial information.
Borgo Laudato Si'
A centre of higher formation dedicated to integral ecology and sustainability, translating the principles of Laudato Si' into circular-economy and regenerative environmental management within the Pontifical Villas.
Palazzo Apostolico
A historic seat of universal significance and a setting for high-level dialogue and cultural heritage.
San Tommaso da Villanova
A baroque landmark at the heart of community life, where architectural heritage meets faith and social engagement.
CFA Society Italy
Promoting the highest standards of ethics, education and professional excellence in the investment profession.
Bloomberg
Financial information, market data and news that inform research and teaching.
Universities
Public and private universities and business schools for executive education and applied research.
Venues and organisations are named for reference; their mention does not imply an institutional affiliation unless expressly stated.