Aflac Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) reported first-quarter 2023 results with total revenues of $4.8 billion, down from $5.2 billion year-over-year. Net earnings rose to $1.2 billion or $1.94 per diluted share, compared to $1.0 billion or $1.60 per share last year. Adjusted earnings increased to $953 million, up 1.2%, with adjusted earnings per diluted share at $1.55, reflecting a 7.6% increase. However, net earned premiums in Aflac Japan fell 17.3%, while Aflac U.S. saw a modest increase of 1.1%. The company declared a $0.42 dividend for Q2 2023 and announced a $700 million share repurchase plan. Aflac maintains a solid capital position despite challenges from currency exchange rates.

Aflac Incorporated's Chairman and CEO, Daniel P. Amos, was honored as a 2023 Georgia Trustee, recognizing his philanthropic efforts and leadership within the state. The award was presented by the Georgia Historical Society and U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock. Aflac's commitment to childhood cancer support is highlighted, with over $167 million contributed to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. The center is renowned nationally for its pediatric care. Amos has also spearheaded initiatives like the My Special Aflac Duck social robot, providing comfort to children in treatment, and establishing Aflac Parents House in Japan, supporting over 149,000 families. Aflac is recognized as a leader in supplemental health insurance in the U.S. and cancer insurance in Japan, maintaining a strong ethical and sustainable business practice.

Aflac continues its commitment to addressing health inequities through its CareGrants initiative, providing $1 million in support throughout 2022. The program focuses on two main types: Individual CareGrants for families facing medical debt and Community CareGrants for organizations enhancing health outcomes in high-need areas. Aflac's initiatives have made a tangible impact, helping individuals like Lashandra Covington and John Shadock manage their medical expenses and improve their quality of life. In 2023, Aflac extends the CareGrants initiative with a contest open until April 30, allowing non-policyholders to share medical debt stories for a chance to win $10,000. This reinforces Aflac's mission to provide support and advocacy for those struggling with unexpected health expenses.

Aflac Incorporated is enhancing employee retention by focusing on traditional benefits aimed at encouraging a return to office work. With a workforce of 12,000, the insurance company has adopted strategies that emphasize benefits requiring in-office presence, such as on-site healthcare services. CHRO Matthew Owenby notes that employees often spend minimal time understanding their benefits, which can impact their financial well-being. Aflac aims to bridge this knowledge gap, suggesting that communication about benefits should extend beyond annual enrollment periods to ensure employees recognize their importance in retaining staff.

Aflac Group employees participated in Curing Kids Cancer's 10th Annual Fire Truck Pull on April 1, 2023, raising $5,925 for childhood cancer research, totaling nearly $30,000 since 2017. The event featured teams pulling a 35,000-pound firetruck in honor of children treated for cancer. Senior VP Bob Ruff emphasized Aflac's commitment to supporting children with cancer. Founded in 2005, Curing Kids Cancer aims to improve treatments for pediatric cancer. Aflac has contributed over $167 million through its Childhood Cancer Campaign, benefiting more than 400 hospitals. Employee involvement underscores Aflac's dedication to community support and fostering awareness for childhood cancer initiatives.

On April 6, 2023, Aflac announced the retirement of Teresa White, the first woman and first African-American to lead Aflac U.S., a nearly $40 billion supplemental insurance firm. With over 20 years at the company, White joined in 1998 as a vice president and played a significant role in diversifying the workforce, with 65% of Aflac's 5,700 employees being women and nearly 50% people of color. Her leadership has been pivotal in shaping company culture and fostering inclusivity. White's departure marks a significant transition for Aflac as it prepares for a new era of leadership.