Manulife Finl Stock Price, News & Analysis

Manulife has appointed Leagh Turner to its Board of Directors, effective November 10, 2020. Ms. Turner, currently the President and COO of Ceridian HCM Holding Inc., brings extensive experience in technology and organizational transformation. She is also recognized for her advocacy for women in leadership, having been named among Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women twice. Ms. Turner will serve on the Management Resources and Compensation Committee and the Risk Committee, contributing to Manulife's strategy as a digital customer leader.

Manulife Financial Corporation has declared quarterly dividends for various non-cumulative preferred shares, effective December 19, 2020. Shareholders on record by November 23, 2020, will receive the following payments:

• Class A Shares Series 2: $0.29063
• Class A Shares Series 3: $0.28125
• Class 1 Shares Series 3: $0.136125
• Class 1 Shares Series 4: $0.09767
• Class 1 Shares Series 5: $0.243188
• Class 1 Shares Series 7: $0.2695
• Class 1 Shares Series 9: $0.271938
• Class 1 Shares Series 11: $0.295688
• Class 1 Shares Series 13: $0.275875
• Class 1 Shares Series 15: $0.236625
• Class 1 Shares Series 17: $0.2375
• Class 1 Shares Series 19: $0.229688
• Class 1 Shares Series 21: $0.35
• Class 1 Shares Series 23: $0.303125
• Class 1 Shares Series 25: $0.29375

Manulife Financial Corporation announced a quarterly dividend of $0.28 per share on common shares. This dividend is payable on and after December 21, 2020, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 23, 2020. Additionally, Manulife will purchase common shares in connection with its Canadian and U.S. Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plans. The average purchase price will be based on actual costs without applicable discounts.

Manulife Financial Corporation reported a strong 3Q20, achieving a net income attributed to shareholders of $2.1 billion, significantly up from $723 million in 3Q19. Core earnings decreased by 6% to $1.5 billion, influenced by reduced investment income and lower new business volumes. Notably, new business value fell 14% to $460 million, with Asia experiencing a 16% decline. The company maintained a robust LICAT ratio of 155%. Despite challenges from COVID-19, Manulife's capital optimization and expense management strategies have shown positive results, reinforcing confidence in future growth.

Manulife Financial Corporation (MFC) will announce its Q3 2020 financial results on November 11, 2020, after market close. A conference call is scheduled for November 12, 2020, at 8:00 a.m. ET, featuring CEO Roy Gori and CFO Phil Witherington, followed by a Q&A session. Investors can access the call at 1-800-806-5484, and an archived webcast will be available afterward. As of June 30, 2020, Manulife reported $1.2 trillion in assets under management and over $30 billion in customer payments in the past year, demonstrating its significant presence in the financial services sector.

John Hancock has expanded its Apple Watch program for life insurance customers, now including Apple Watch Series 6 and Apple Watch SE. Customers in the Vitality PLUS program can acquire these devices for $25 plus tax by maintaining regular exercise. The initiative aims to motivate healthier lifestyles, especially beneficial for those with higher health risks. Studies indicate that Apple Watch users in the program experienced a 34% increase in physical activity. This development highlights the blend of life insurance and health technology, enhancing customer engagement and wellness.

On October 28, 2020, John Hancock Retirement released its seventh annual financial stress survey, highlighting significant increases in financial stress among U.S. and Canadian workers due to COVID-19. The survey revealed that those reporting high financial stress surged to 27%, up from 11% pre-pandemic. Despite this, interest in financial advice has grown, with 75% of respondents valuing employer-sponsored financial wellness programs. Notably, over a third of U.S. respondents rated their financial situation as fair or poor, while 90% deemed financial wellness programs vital from their employers.

Manulife Investment Management has been recognized in the PRI Leaders' Group 2020 for its excellence in responsible investment, particularly in climate reporting. The firm highlighted its ESG initiatives in its annual Sustainable and Responsible Investing Report, showcasing progress made in both public and private markets during 2019. Key achievements include earning top scores in various PRI assessments, formalizing governance structures, and winning the 2019 SDG Canadian Leadership Awards. With CAD$900 billion in assets under management, the firm continues to focus on integrating sustainability in investment strategies.