Capital investments and investment activities in achieving sustainable development goals: current challenges, financial instruments, incentives

Methods. The results were obtained by applying methods such as theoretical analysis and generalization – to study capital investments and investment activities as factors of sustainable development. System analysis – to identify challenges affecting the investment ecosystem and outline the range of financial instruments. Substantiation – to prove the need for transformation of investment policy and harmonization of the regulatory environment. Results. The article examines capital investments and investment activities as key factors in ensuring the implementation of sustainable development goals. It is emphasized that achieving a balance between economic growth, social responsibility and environmental balance requires a significant transformation of investment policy and financial incentive mechanisms. It is determined that in modern conditions the investment ecosystem is formed under the influence of several challenges, including global economic instability, aggravation of climate risks, high inflation and a shortage of long-term financial resources. The paper reveals the trends in the development of sustainable financing and outlines a range of financial instruments that contribute to the implementation of investment projects in accordance with the priorities of sustainable development. Such instruments include green bonds, socially oriented investment funds, climate credits, as well as public-private partnership mechanisms that allow combining public and private resources for the implementation of large-scale infrastructure and environmental initiatives. It is concluded that the key vector of further development is the integration of sustainable development principles into the financial policy of the state and corporate strategies, which involves finding a balance between shortterm profitability and long-term effects in the socio-economic and environmental spheres. Novelty. Particular attention is paid to the issue of the efficiency of capital investments, because in conditions of limited financial resources, it is their targeted direction that provides a multiplier effect for the economy. It is substantiated that the development of investment activity requires harmonization of the regulatory environment, creation of a transparent institutional framework and introduction of incentive mechanisms that increase the attractiveness of investment for business and society. Practical value. The study confirms that the intensification of investment activity requires the integration of innovative financial solutions, the development of partnership models and an increase in the role of state regulation aimed at stimulating green and socially oriented projects. The obtained results form the basis for further scientific research on improving sustainable financing mechanisms and developing practical tools for implementing sustainable development strategies at the national and corporate levels.