Manulife Finl Stock Price, News & Analysis

On August 10, 2022, Manulife Financial Corporation announced quarterly dividends for its non-cumulative preferred shares. The dividends are payable on or after September 19, 2022, to shareholders of record as of August 23, 2022. Key dividend amounts include Class A Shares Series 2 at $0.29063, Class A Shares Series 3 at $0.28125, and several Class 1 Shares ranging from $0.14675 to $0.295688. This announcement reflects the company's ongoing commitment to provide returns to its investors.

On August 10, 2022, Manulife's Board of Directors announced a quarterly dividend of $0.33 per share on common shares, payable from September 19, 2022, to shareholders on record by August 23, 2022. The company will also purchase common shares on the market as part of its Canadian and U.S. Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plans, with the purchase price based on average costs. Manulife operates globally, providing financial services to over 33 million customers, with a workforce exceeding 38,000 employees.

Manulife Financial Corporation reported its 2Q22 results with net income attributed to shareholders at $1.1 billion, down from $2.6 billion in 2Q21. Core earnings fell 9% to $1.6 billion on a constant exchange rate basis. The LICAT ratio remains strong at 137%. APE sales totaled $1.4 billion, down 1% year-over-year, while new business value decreased to $511 million, reflecting a 9% decline. Despite challenges, the company achieved net inflows of $1.7 billion in Global Wealth and Asset Management, significantly lower than the previous year. Share repurchase program continues with approximately 2% of common shares bought back.

The John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund (NYSE: PDT) declared a monthly distribution of $0.0975 per share, payable on July 29, 2022, to shareholders of record as of July 11, 2022. This distribution comes from various sources, including 46% net investment income and 54% return of capital. The fund's managed distribution plan ensures fixed monthly payments until further notice. Investors should note that the fund may have distributed more than its income and net capital gains, indicating a return of capital.

On July 29, 2022, John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE: HTD) announced a monthly distribution of $0.1380 per share to shareholders of record as of July 11, 2022. This distribution follows the Fund's managed distribution plan and is part of the July 2022 distribution period. The sources for this payout include 31% net investment income and 69% return of capital. Shareholders are informed that the Fund may have distributed more than its income and net realized gains, indicating that a portion of the distribution could be a return of capital.

John Hancock Retirement, part of Manulife Investment Management, has launched a new prospect finder tool aimed at financial professionals. This interactive tool enhances efficiency in managing leads by offering plan comparisons at various levels—industry, state, and national. It features smart filters, downloadable scouting reports, and insights into potential plan gaps. John Hancock currently services over 54,000 retirement plans with more than 3.1 million participants and over $215 billion in assets under management (AUMA) as of March 31, 2022.

Manulife has received an unsolicited mini-tender offer from Obatan LLC to purchase up to 500,000 shares at USD$12.00 per share, representing a 34.04% discount compared to the closing price on July 14, 2022. Manulife does not endorse this offer and advises shareholders to carefully consider the current market price before making decisions. Mini-tender offers, which seek less than 5% of outstanding shares, often come at below-market prices, leading to potential investor confusion. Shareholders can withdraw their shares before December 31, 2022.

AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (ICR) of 'aa-' (Superior) for Manulife Financial Corporation (MFC) and its life/health subsidiaries. The ratings reflect a very strong balance sheet, strong operating performance, and effective enterprise risk management. MFC reported core earnings of $6.5 billion for 2021, with a 13% return on equity. However, concerns remain regarding MFC's legacy businesses and potential earnings volatility from its investment portfolio. The outlook is stable for all affirmed ratings.

On July 12, 2022, John Hancock Investment Management, part of Manulife Investment Management, announced the launch of the John Hancock Asset-Based Lending Fund, subadvised by Marathon Asset Management. This fund aims to provide high current income by investing at least 80% of its net assets in asset-based lending investments, including distressed loans. With nearly $23 billion in assets under management, Marathon brings extensive experience in credit investments. The fund targets investors seeking alternatives amidst inflation and market volatility.