Franklin Resources, Inc. - BEN STOCK NEWS

Franklin Templeton is transitioning its 403(b) business to PCS Retirement's Aspire 403(b) platform, enhancing investment options for public and non-profit workers. This collaboration aims to provide high-quality, low-cost solutions, focusing on transparency and increased accessibility to mutual funds. Participants will benefit from new features like Roth 403(b) plans and improved financial literacy tools. This move strengthens Franklin Templeton's commitment to the K-12 market and aims to improve financial independence for underserved workers.

Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE: BEN) reported preliminary assets under management (AUM) of $1,387.6 billion as of August 31, 2022. This is a decrease from $1,429.7 billion on July 31, 2022, primarily due to market impacts and long-term net outflows. The breakdown of AUM shows $525.4 billion in fixed income, $435.8 billion in equity, and $225.9 billion in alternatives. The company continues to serve clients globally, emphasizing investment expertise.

Franklin Universal Trust (NYSE: FT) announced a monthly distribution of $0.0425 per share from net investment income, payable on September 30, 2022. Shareholders of record on September 19, 2022 will receive this payment, with an Ex-Dividend Date of September 16, 2022. The Fund aims to provide high current income while preserving capital, and its distribution amounts may vary based on net investment income. The Fund's performance should not be inferred from current distribution amounts.

Templeton Emerging Markets Income Fund (NYSE: TEI) has announced a monthly distribution of $0.0480 per share, payable on September 30, 2022. The payment will be distributed to shareholders of record as of September 19, 2022, with an ex-dividend date of September 16, 2022. The Fund operates under a managed distribution plan that provides a minimum fixed rate of 10% annually based on the average monthly net asset value. However, the sustainability of these distributions is not guaranteed and may involve returns of capital.

Templeton Global Income Fund (NYSE: GIM) announced a monthly distribution of $0.0318 per share from net investment income, payable on September 30, 2022, to shareholders of record on September 19, 2022. The Fund's fee waiver has been extended until December 31, 2022. Post this date, management fees will increase to 0.700% for assets up to $200 million. The Fund operates a managed distribution plan aiming for an annual minimum fixed rate of 8% based on average monthly net asset value, but performance is not guaranteed.

Franklin Templeton has launched two new digital asset separately managed account (SMA) strategies through Eaglebrook Advisors, set to become available to investment professionals in mid-October. The Digital Assets Core strategy targets the largest digital assets, while the Digital Assets Core Capped strategy limits Bitcoin and Ethereum holdings to 25%. These initiatives aim to enhance Franklin Templeton’s offerings in the evolving digital asset landscape, reinforcing their commitment to advisors and clients amid growing market interest.

Franklin Templeton has appointed Jamie Gordon as Senior Vice President, Senior Consultant Advisor, US Institutional. Gordon, with 25 years of financial services experience, will strengthen relationships with key consulting partners on the East Coast. Reporting to Mike Foley, he aims to enhance service delivery for institutional clients. Gordon previously worked at Income Research + Management, JPMorgan Securities, and Prudential Securities. This appointment follows the recent hiring of John Ivanac as a consultant advisor for alternative investments.