Franklin Resources, Inc. - BEN STOCK NEWS

Franklin Limited Duration Income Trust (FTF) announced its estimated sources of distribution for January 14, 2022, detailing a total distribution of $0.0756 per share. This includes 53% from net investment income and 39% as a return of capital. The Fund's Board authorized a managed distribution plan aiming for a minimum annual rate of 10% based on the average monthly NAV. As of November 30, 2021, FTF's average annual total return was 2.69%, while its annualized distribution rate was 10.16%. Shareholders are cautioned that the distribution does not reflect the Fund's investment performance.

Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE: BEN) reported preliminary assets under management (AUM) of $1,578.1 billion as of December 31, 2021, marking an increase from $1,546.8 billion in November 2021. This growth was driven by long-term net inflows of $24.1 billion and the acquisition of O’Shaughnessy Asset Management. For the quarter ending December 31, 2021, AUM included $23.5 billion in reinvested distributions and $7.7 billion from acquisitions, despite $3.6 billion in redemptions having minimal revenue impact.

CAIS, a leading alternative investment platform, has secured a $225 million funding round led by Apollo (NYSE: APO) and Motive Partners, with additional investment from Franklin Templeton (NYSE: BEN), raising its valuation to over $1 billion. This funding aims to enhance technology and customer experience as CAIS responds to increased demand, evidenced by a 65% rise in transaction volume and a 60% increase in platform users. Industry leaders will join CAIS's board, marking a significant step in modernizing access to alternative investments.

Templeton Global Income Fund (NYSE: GIM) announced a monthly distribution of $0.0345 per share, payable on January 31, 2022 for shareholders of record on January 18, 2022. The Fund operates under a managed distribution plan, aiming for an annual minimum fixed rate of 7.5%, based on the average monthly net asset value (NAV). The Board can amend or terminate this Plan, which could negatively impact the market price of GIM shares. Actual distribution amounts may vary and will be reported for tax purposes.

Franklin Universal Trust (NYSE: FT) has declared a monthly distribution of $0.0425 per share, payable on January 31, 2022. Shareholders of record on January 18, 2022 will receive this payment, with an ex-dividend date of January 14, 2022. The Trust aims to provide high current income while preserving capital, with variations in distributions based on net investment income. Investors are reminded that past distributions do not guarantee future results, and actual amounts will depend on the Fund's performance and tax regulations.

The Templeton Emerging Markets Income Fund (NYSE: TEI) announced a monthly distribution of $0.0648 per share on January 31, 2022, for shareholders of record by January 18, 2022. The distribution is part of a managed plan targeting an annual minimum rate of 10% based on average monthly net asset value. Although aimed at stabilizing share pricing relative to net asset value, there is no guarantee of success. The plan may include return of capital, potentially misleading regarding investment performance.

Franklin BSP Lending Corporation and Franklin BSP Capital Corporation have acquired substantially all equity interests of Encina Equipment Finance, LLC, a non-bank equipment finance platform. This acquisition aims to bolster Encina's capital base to support its growth in providing secured leases and loans to middle-market companies in the US and Canada. Since its inception in 2017, Encina has completed over 125 transactions totaling over $1 billion. The acquisition is expected to enhance the capabilities of both Franklin companies in equipment financing.

Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN) has completed its acquisition of O’Shaughnessy Asset Management (OSAM), enhancing its position in the separately managed accounts (SMA) market. With approximately $130 billion in SMA assets under management, the acquisition strengthens Franklin Templeton’s capabilities in Custom Indexing and factor-based investment strategies. OSAM’s flagship Canvas® platform, which has seen rapid growth, will integrate under Franklin Templeton, allowing for tailored investment solutions. The firm will retain its brand while boosting innovation and market competitiveness.