Franklin Resources, Inc. - BEN STOCK NEWS

Franklin Templeton has partnered with LDI-MAP (iJoin) to offer its Goals Optimization Engine (GOE) through iJoin’s managed account technology. This collaboration aims to provide personalized investment advice within defined contribution plans, enhancing access for plan advisors and their clients. The GOE delivers individualized portfolio pathways based on unique client goals, using dynamic programming to increase the likelihood of achieving these goals. This offering targets smaller plans that lack such personalized investment solutions.

Franklin Universal Trust (NYSE: FT) has declared a monthly distribution of $0.0425 per share, payable on November 15, 2021, to shareholders of record on October 29, 2021. The fund's primary objective is to provide high current income while preserving capital, with a secondary goal of income growth through dividends and capital appreciation. Distribution amounts may vary based on net investment income, and past distribution levels do not predict future performance.

Franklin BSP Realty Trust (FBRT) has successfully completed its merger with Capstead Mortgage Corporation (CMO), following the Merger Agreement dated July 25, 2021. As of October 19, 2021, Capstead's shares have been converted into FBRT common stock and cash. Former Capstead directors have joined FBRT's Board, enhancing governance. The combined entity aims to leverage its position as a leading commercial mortgage REIT with a compelling $100 million share repurchase program to support stock value. The transaction positions FBRT for long-term growth in the real estate debt market.

Franklin BSP Realty Trust (FBRT) and Capstead Mortgage Corporation (CMO) completed their merger as of October 18, 2021. Under the terms of the merger, CMO shareholders received 0.3288 shares of FBRT and cash totaling $0.94 per share. CMO ceased trading on NYSE following the merger, with FBRT now being the publicly traded entity. The combined company aims to leverage its scale for long-term growth and returns, with a $100 million share repurchase program set to begin shortly. Additionally, three former CMO directors joined FBRT's Board.

Franklin Universal Trust (NYSE: FT) announced its distribution notification for payments scheduled on October 15, 2021. The distribution per share is estimated at $0.0425, sourced entirely from net investment income (100%). Year-to-date cumulative distributions through August 31, 2021 total $0.4262, with 99% being net investment income. The Fund focuses on providing high current income while preserving capital. Actual distribution sources may vary, and shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV for tax reporting.

Franklin Limited Duration Income Trust (NYSE: FTF) has issued a notification regarding its sources of distribution for the fiscal year-to-date, scheduled for payment on October 15, 2021. The estimated monthly distribution per share is $0.0770, with allocations including net investment income (53%), short-term capital gains (5%), and return of capital (42%). Cumulative estimates reveal a year-to-date distribution of $0.6268 per share. The Fund emphasizes that distributions should not be confused with investment performance, as a portion may be a return of capital.

Franklin BSP Realty Trust, Inc. and Capstead Mortgage Corporation have announced the final exchange ratio and cash consideration for their proposed merger, expected to close on October 19, 2021. Each share of Capstead Common Stock will convert into 0.3288 shares of FBRT Common Stock and receive $0.94 per share in cash from both FBRT and its external manager, Benefit Street Partners. Post-merger, FBRT shares will trade under the ticker symbol 'FBRT' on the NYSE. The merger remains subject to approval by Capstead's stockholders at a special meeting on October 15, 2021.

Franklin BSP Realty Trust and Capstead Mortgage Corporation have announced the final exchange ratio and cash consideration for their proposed merger. If completed on October 19, 2021, Capstead shareholders will receive 0.3288 shares of FBRT and cash totaling $0.94 per share. Following the merger, Capstead's common stock will cease trading on NYSE at the end of October 18, 2021. The merger still requires stockholder approval, with a special meeting scheduled for October 15, 2021.