Aflac Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Aflac reported significant growth in its third quarter 2020 results, with total revenues rising to $5.7 billion, up from $5.5 billion in Q3 2019. Net earnings surged to $2.5 billion or $3.44 per diluted share, boosted by a $1.4 billion tax benefit. Adjusted earnings also increased 15.2% to $994 million. However, premium income in Japan and the U.S. declined 2.3% and 2.6%, respectively, due to COVID-19 impacts. The board declared a fourth-quarter dividend of $0.28 per share.

Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) is set to release its third quarter financial results on October 27, 2020, after market closure. Earnings materials will be accessible on the company's Investor Relations website. A conference call to discuss the results, featuring key executives including Chairman and CEO Daniel P. Amos, is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. (ET) on October 28, 2020. The discussion will cover the financial outlook amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Aflac has released its 2019 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, celebrating 65 years of commitment to ethical business practices. The report highlights Aflac's initiatives in governance, workplace inclusivity, philanthropy, and environmental sustainability. Key achievements include a 64% representation of ethnic minorities and women on its board, a contribution of over $172 million to pediatric cancer support, and a 48% reduction in carbon emissions in Japan since 2004. Aflac aims to create a better future for its stakeholders while upholding its core values.

Aflac announced a $1.5 million annual contribution to the Sickle Cell Disease Program at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center in Atlanta, marking a total of over $6 million donated. This initiative coincides with National Sickle Cell Awareness Month and highlights Aflac's commitment to combating this inherited disease that impacts children significantly. In 2019, over 2,050 children were treated for sickle cell disease at the center. Aflac's funding aims to enhance treatment capabilities, especially through bone marrow transplants, aligning with their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.

Aflac conducted a national survey revealing significant changes in employee behavior concerning open enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the surveyed employees, 49% indicated they are now investing more time researching benefits, a noteworthy shift from the previous norm of 92% choosing the same benefits annually. Financial impacts from the pandemic are evident, with 67% reporting at least minor financial issues. Additionally, 63% expect expanded benefits, underscoring an anticipated rise in demand for better insurance options in the workforce.

Aflac has launched its second marketing campaign featuring legendary coach Nick Saban and the Aflac Duck during the NFL game on Sept. 10, 2020. Titled "The Program," the campaign highlights Aflac's role in providing supplemental insurance that covers expenses health insurance doesn't. This initiative follows the 2019 campaign aimed at clarifying how Aflac operates. The campaign includes television spots like "Go Time" and is supported by social media marketing, emphasizing Aflac's commitment to policyholders during challenging times, particularly amid the ongoing pandemic.

Aflac commemorates National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting its 25-year commitment to childhood cancer support through various initiatives. The company honors healthcare heroes and has invested in its My Special Aflac Duck program. Aflac continues to fund childhood cancer programs with $146 million and recently awarded $2,500 grants to 10 child life programs. The new My Special Aflac Duck innovations include medical play accessories to support children during treatment. Aflac aims to raise awareness and provide support for pediatric cancer families across the U.S.