Principal Financial Group, Inc. - PFG STOCK NEWS

Principal Financial Group announced its multi-year corporate responsibility commitments aimed at employee empowerment, financial inclusion, and sustainability, as detailed in its 2020 CSR report. CEO Dan Houston emphasized the importance of these commitments in driving outcomes for a sustainable future. Key commitments include achieving an 80% score in the Inclusion Index, doubling support for diverse businesses, and reducing carbon emissions by 40% by 2035. The report highlights a 40% reduction in greenhouse gases over the past decade and $25 million for COVID-19 relief.

Principal Financial Group (Nasdaq: PFG) will release its first quarter 2021 financial results on April 27, 2021, 15 minutes after the U.S. market closes. A conference call with management is scheduled for April 28, 2021, at 10 a.m. ET, where results will be discussed. The call will be accessible via the company's website and by phone. An audio replay will be available shortly after the call ends, lasting until May 4, 2021. More details, including earnings information, will be online at principal.com/investor.

The latest survey by Principal Financial Group indicates a 20% increase in employee turnover among small businesses, attributing this rise to the impact of COVID-19. Despite tight budgets, small business owners are enhancing employee benefits to improve retention, with affordability and the ability to attract talent as key priorities. The report highlights that 73% of owners are now consulting financial professionals for assistance, a notable rise from previous years. Key employee retention strategies are emphasized, with growing confidence in achieving business goals over the next five years.

Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) announced its 2021 outlook, projecting non-GAAP operating earnings growth of 18-20% per diluted share compared to 2020. The guidance includes capital deployments of $1.4-$1.8 billion, with $600-$800 million allocated for share repurchases. Each business unit has specific growth targets, with estimates reflecting ongoing impacts from COVID-19. The total company expects a pre-tax operating loss in the corporate segment between $(330)-$(350) million, influenced by macroeconomic factors and integration expenses. A conference call for further discussion is scheduled for February 25, 2021.

Principal Financial Group (Nasdaq: PFG) announced a strategic review of its business mix, capital management, and capital deployment options to enhance shareholder value. This initiative follows discussions with major investor Elliott Investment Management. Principal will appoint Maliz Beams as an independent director to the Board, adding expertise to its Finance Committee. The Finance Committee, which will oversee the review with external advisors, aims to strengthen Principal's position in the competitive life and annuity market. Results from this review are expected to be announced at the 2021 Investor Day.

Principal Financial Group (Nasdaq: PFG) announced that Dan Houston, chairman, president, and CEO, will participate in a fireside chat at the Bank of America Securities 2021 Insurance Conference on February 11, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. (EST). Houston will discuss the company’s diversified business model, enterprise strategy, and how they are creating long-term shareholder value and growth. A live audio webcast will be available on principal.com/investor.

Principal Financial Group (Nasdaq: PFG) is launching the EVERFI Black History Month Challenge to encourage U.S. high school students to engage in discussions about Black history. Running through February, this scholarship competition invites students in grades 9-12 to complete digital lessons and submit essays on fostering conversations about Black history. A total of $20,000 in scholarships will be awarded to three winners. This initiative aligns with Principal's commitment to education and community engagement, aimed at promoting financial literacy and social justice awareness.