Franklin Resources, Inc. - BEN STOCK NEWS

AdvisorEngine has completed its integration with Schwab Advisor Center, enhancing its wealth management platform. This integration allows advisors to utilize various features including portfolio management, client onboarding, and automation tools. Key benefits include improved portfolio management, reduced client onboarding errors, and enhanced operational clarity. According to a Schwab study, the integration significantly decreases not-in-good-order rates. Firms are increasingly investing in technology, with 71% making new investments last year. AdvisorEngine, a subsidiary of Franklin Templeton, serves over 1,200 firms managing $600 billion in assets.

The Franklin Limited Duration Income Trust (NYSE:FTF) has declared a dividend of $0.0790 per common share, payable on April 15, 2021, to shareholders of record as of March 31, 2021. This comprises $0.0190 from net investment income and $0.0600 as a return of principal. The Fund operates a managed distribution plan that guarantees an annual minimum rate of 10% based on the average monthly net asset value, aimed at minimizing the market price discount to the NAV. The plan may be amended or terminated by the Board without prior notice.

Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE: BEN) reported preliminary assets under management (AUM) of $1,498.9 billion for March 31, 2021, a slight decrease from $1,500.5 billion in February. The decline was primarily due to long-term net outflows of $4.2 billion, primarily from a nearly $6 billion institutional redemption. Despite these outflows, there were positive market gains this month. Reinvested distributions totaled $2.3 billion for the quarter. The AUM figures indicate a stable but challenged position amidst significant redemptions and market conditions.

Franklin Templeton has unveiled its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report, highlighting its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. For FY 2021, the firm has set goals focused on ESG investing, diversity and inclusion, and the environment. Key initiatives include establishing a Stewardship and Sustainability Council, committing to gender and ethnicity transparency, and expanding emissions reporting. CEO Jenny Johnson emphasized the importance of global citizenship amid recent global challenges. The full CSR Report is accessible here.

Templeton Global Income Fund (NYSE: GIM) has announced its monthly distribution of $0.0377 per share, payable on April 30, 2021. Shareholders of record by April 15 will receive this payout. A new managed distribution plan guarantees a minimum fixed rate of 7.5% annually, based on the Fund’s average net asset value. The strategy seeks to narrow the market price discount compared to NAV, though success is not assured. Additionally, the Fund may utilize reverse repurchase agreements and fixed-income swaps to boost income, which entails increased risks.

Templeton Emerging Markets Income Fund (TEI) declared a monthly distribution of $0.0747 per share from net investment income, scheduled for April 30, 2021. Shareholders of record as of April 15, 2021 will receive this payment, with an ex-dividend date set for April 14, 2021. The Fund is also exploring options for repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements.

Franklin Templeton has announced its sponsorship of LPGA star Nelly Korda, winner of the Gainbridge Tournament. Korda will display the Franklin Templeton logo during LPGA tournaments in North America, Asia, and Europe, starting at the ANA Inspiration in Rancho Mirage, CA. This partnership allows the company to utilize Korda's name for marketing, including social media and meet-and-greet events. Korda, currently ranked #4 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings, is the top American golfer and a four-time LPGA Tour winner.

Franklin Limited Duration Income Trust (FTF) announced a distribution of $0.0790 per share, payable April 15, 2021, to shareholders on record as of March 31, 2021. The Fund has adopted a managed distribution plan, ensuring monthly payouts at an annual minimum fixed rate of 10% based on the average monthly net asset value (NAV). Distributions may include long-term capital gains or returns of capital if investment income is insufficient. The Board holds the authority to amend or terminate the plan, potentially impacting share prices. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV for tax reporting.

Franklin Universal Trust [NYSE: FT] has declared a distribution of $0.0320 per share, which is set to be paid on April 15, 2021, to shareholders recorded by March 31, 2021. The Ex-Dividend Date is March 30, 2021. Distributions may change based on the Fund's net investment income, with past distributions not necessarily predicting future performance. Investors should be aware of risks, such as fluctuations in bond prices and potential defaults on lower-rated bonds.