Manulife Finl Stock Price, News & Analysis

Manulife Financial Corporation reported a net income of $3.0 billion for Q1 2022, a significant increase from $800 million in Q1 2021. However, core earnings fell by 4% to $1.6 billion, and net new business value (NBV) decreased by 14%. The Company achieved 6.9 billion in net inflows in Global Wealth and Asset Management, significantly up from $1.4 billion in 2021. A capital release of $2.4 billion was noted post the variable annuity reinsurance transaction. Looking ahead, management remains optimistic about increased customer demand as markets stabilize.

On April 28, 2022, Manulife Investment Management published its second annual stewardship report, highlighting its commitment to effective asset stewardship across public and private markets. The report outlines responsibilities for asset managers in addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks while promoting sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and regional sensitivity in stewardship practices. Noteworthy achievements include partnerships in climate initiatives and over 1,300 engagements with issuers to foster sustainable outcomes.

Manulife Investment Management has introduced new guidelines for managing carbon credits in timberland and agriculture projects. The firm aims to generate high-quality carbon credits driven by increasing corporate net-zero commitments, with demand expected to rise significantly by 2050. The guidelines emphasize principles like additionality and permanence, requiring carbon credits to genuinely reduce emissions. The firm oversees approximately 6 million acres of timberland and 400,000 acres of farmland, with total assets under management of US$59.2 billion. These initiatives aim to enhance investor confidence in natural climate solutions.

Manulife Financial Corporation has released its Management Information Circular and 2021 Annual Report to shareholders, accessible online. The annual meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. EST, and attendees can participate virtually via live webcast. Shareholders are encouraged to vote their shares in advance to ensure representation. The company reported CAD$31.8 billion in customer payments over the past year and operates primarily in Canada, Asia, and the U.S. under the 'John Hancock' brand.

Manulife hosted Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai at its annual event, Accelerate 2022, to promote the importance of lifelong learning and empowerment. Yousafzai emphasized how education can enact meaningful change and praised Manulife for fostering a culture of continuous education among its 38,000 employees. CEO Roy Gori acknowledged the inspirational nature of Malala's advocacy for women's education, aligning it with Manulife's mission. The company, trading as MFC, highlights its commitment to making decisions easier and lives better globally.

Manulife Investment Management released its Global Intelligence report for H1 2022, highlighting challenges and opportunities amidst current market volatility due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, rising inflation, and supply chain issues. The report emphasizes the importance of active management in navigating these dynamics, addressing the impact of inflation on retirement portfolios, and reviewing U.S. labor market trends. It offers insights on agricultural infrastructure innovations and the necessity for banks to meet net-zero commitments, outlining specific strategies for investors in a changing economic landscape.

Manulife Investment Management has appointed Marc Feliciano as the new global head of real estate for private markets. Reporting to Christoph Schumacher, he will oversee the real estate business, including portfolio management and sustainability integration. Feliciano joins from DWS with nearly 30 years of experience in real estate investment management. The company boasts a total of US$59.2 billion in assets under management across private markets.

His appointment is expected to enhance the firm’s capabilities and growth in the real estate sector.

Manulife announced the appointment of Vanessa Kanu to its Board of Directors, effective February 28, 2022. With over 20 years of experience, Kanu currently serves as global CFO at TELUS International. She brings extensive expertise in finance, including accounting, treasury, and reporting. Kanu is also a Chartered Accountant in Canada and a Certified Public Accountant in the U.S., enhancing her qualifications. Her role includes membership in the Audit Committee and the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee. The board anticipates her leadership will support Manulife’s strategic oversight.

Manulife Investment Management announced key promotions within its fixed-income investment teams to strengthen its global organization. Daniel S. Janis III will retire on March 15, 2023, while Christopher M. Chapman has been promoted to co-head of the global multi-sector team. Other notable changes include Bradley L. Lutz's appointment as a portfolio manager and the formation of a new global credit team led by Caryn E. Rothman. These developments aim to enhance service quality and maintain investment strategies.