Franklin Resources, Inc. - BEN STOCK NEWS

Franklin Templeton celebrates the recognition of three of its investment managers in the 2022 Pensions & Investments Best Places to Work in Money Management awards. ClearBridge Investments, with $145.6 billion AUM, has been on the list every year since 2012. Brandywine Global, managing $52 billion AUM, received the award for seven consecutive years, emphasizing long-term value through disciplined investing. Clarion Partners, with $83.5 billion AUM, was recognized in its first year of submission. This acknowledgment highlights a strong workplace culture amidst challenging market conditions.

Franklin Universal Trust (NYSE: FT) announced the estimated sources of its upcoming distribution scheduled for December 30, 2022. The distribution per share is estimated at $0.1037, with allocations including $0.0319 from net investment income, $0.0378 from realized short-term capital gains, and $0.0340 categorized as a return of capital. The cumulative distribution year-to-date is $0.1275. Shareholders are cautioned that distributions may include a return of capital and do not necessarily reflect investment performance.

Franklin Templeton is enhancing workplace dialogue through its D&I Courageous Conversations initiative. This series promotes diversity and inclusion by engaging employees in discussions on critical topics. Key objectives include understanding uncomfortable conversations, practicing empathy, and learning allyship. The program covered various themes throughout 2022, including neurodiversity, diversity strategies, and mental health awareness, with significant employee participation, showcasing the firm's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

On December 23, 2022, the Franklin FTSE Russia ETF (FLRU) suspended the right of redemption for its shares due to capital controls stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This suspension was authorized by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, preventing the liquidation of FLRU's Russian equity holdings. The liquidation process may take an extended period unless market conditions improve. Investors are cautioned about potential liquidation distributions as FLRU may be terminated any time after December 31, 2023.

Fiduciary Trust International, a subsidiary of Franklin Templeton, celebrates Carin L. Pai for being named in Crain’s New York Business 2022's listing of “Notable Asian Leaders.” With 25 years of experience, Pai, who is the executive vice president and head of portfolio management, has significantly contributed to wealth management and client services. She leads the Equity Strategy Committee and is recognized for advocating diversity and mentoring women in finance. The accolade emphasizes the positive impact of the Asian community in financial services within the New York region.

Franklin Templeton has awarded the 2022 Harmon E. Burns Award to Hugh Macdonnell for his significant volunteer efforts supporting ALS patients through the annual Tri-State Trek. The award recognizes employees for extraordinary community contributions. Two finalists were also honored: Debbie Gawrylowicz for addressing disparities faced by women and minorities, and Ivana Sebastian for her work with Footsteps Missions. In total, charitable donations were made to the winners' chosen charities, reinforcing Franklin Templeton's commitment to community service.

Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per share, payable on January 13, 2023, to shareholders on record as of December 30, 2022. This dividend marks a 3.4% increase from the previous quarter and same quarter last year. The company has consistently increased its dividend annually since 1981. As of November 30, 2022, Franklin Templeton, with approximately $1.4 trillion in assets under management, continues to serve clients in over 155 countries.