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Highlights
- Institutional investors have significantly increased their stakes in Franklin Resources (NYSE:BEN) during recent quarters.
- Analysts have offered mixed ratings with new price targets set amidst fluctuating market conditions.
- The company recently announced a quarterly dividend, maintaining its commitment to shareholder returns.
During the fourth quarter, Allworth Financial LP expanded its investments in Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN) by a notable 82.7%, as per its latest filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm now holds 6,307 shares, increasing its portfolio value in the company to approximately $125,000. Concurrently, multiple prominent investors have recalibrated their equity positions within the company, demonstrating a robust confidence in Franklin Resources' market potential.
For instance, Blue Trust Inc. and Mirae Asset Global Investments both notably amplified their equity by 124.8% and 46.1% respectively in the preceding quarter. Similarly, International Assets Investment Management LLC executed an impressive 1,928.8% hike in shares held, underlining the evolving investor outlook.
Analysts’ Perspectives
Financial analysts have been actively reassessing their perspectives on Franklin Resources, with several revising price targets. StockNews.com recently upgraded the stock to a "hold" status, whereas UBS Group adjusted its target price range upwards, signaling renewed market attention. Meanwhile, firms like Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, and Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft outlined cautious outlooks, focusing on market volatility and sector adjustments.
The consensus among analysts rates the stock as a "Hold" with an average target price of $20.86. Factors such as market dynamics and investor confidence continue to influence these ratings.
Financial Performance and Dividends
Revenue figures show that Franklin Resources outperformed market expectations for its recent quarterly earnings, reporting a $0.59 EPS, surpassing the forecast of $0.56. This reflects a strong return on equity pegged at 9.45%, alongside a net profit margin of 4.32%.
Additionally, Franklin Resources continues to prioritize its shareholders, having declared a quarterly dividend of $0.32 per share. This dividend is scheduled for distribution on April 11th, highlighting an annualized dividend yield of 6.25%. The firm's payout ratio stands at 196.93%, further showcasing its strategic commitment to deliver steady returns to its stakeholders.
Franklin Resources, Inc., based in California, operates as a leading asset management holding company. The firm extends its financial services to both individual and institutional investors, encompassing mutual funds across asset classes such as equity, fixed income, and multi-asset strategies. As the firm continues to adapt to evolving market trends, investor interest remains heightened, underscoring its pivotal role in the asset management industry.
