Principal Financial Group, Inc. - PFG STOCK NEWS

According to the Principal Retirement Security Survey, nearly 75% of workers and retirees are concerned about their retirement savings due to the pandemic. Workers and retirees plan to improve their financial health by spending less (35%), saving more (29%), and paying down debt (25%). Despite economic uncertainties, 85% reported high happiness levels at the end of 2020. The survey also highlights a surge in individuals seeking financial advice, with significant needs in retirement savings planning and investment selection. Over 60% of workers feel unprepared for retirement, underscoring the need for enhanced financial education.

Principal Financial Group announced that its global asset management division, Principal Global Investors, has been recognized as a Best Place to Work in Money Management by Pensions & Investments for the ninth consecutive year, ranking fifth among companies with over 1,000 employees. This recognition is particularly significant amidst the challenges posed by the global pandemic. Principal Global Investors manages approximately $507.3 billion in assets for over 800 institutional clients across more than 80 markets.

Research from Principal Financial Group reveals heightened stress levels and reduced holiday spending among U.S. consumers as they face COVID-19's economic impact. Over 10% of consumers plan to skip shopping, with financial strain (29%) and unemployment (15%) being significant factors. Those shopping intend to cut back, with over 70% planning to do so online. Stress related to holiday expenses has risen 14% compared to 2019, with food and home improvement spending increasing. For 2021, major financial resolutions include saving more (42%) and reducing spending (40%).

New research from Principal reveals that despite the pandemic's challenges, nonqualified deferred compensation (NQDC) plans continue to be crucial for employers and key employees. The study, surveying nearly 1,200 participants and 137 sponsors, shows minimal impact on sentiment towards NQDC plans. Key findings include that 89% of participants are likely to remain with their current employer and 96% of sponsors won't reduce contributions. The importance of personalized information and the role of financial professionals was also highlighted as essential for enhancing plan value.

Principal Financial Group has announced significant leadership changes, promoting Roberto Walker and Thomas Cheong to executive vice presidents of Principal International, effective January 1, 2021. This move emphasizes the company's focus on international markets as CEO Luis Valdés retires on March 31, 2021, after 26 years with the firm. Valdés has been instrumental in growing Principal's footprint in Latin America and Asia. The company aims to leverage Walker and Cheong's expertise to enhance its global retirement solutions and meet diverse customer needs worldwide.

Principal Financial Group (Nasdaq: PFG) has elected Alfredo Rivera, President of the North America Operating Unit at The Coca-Cola Company, to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Rivera brings over 35 years of global business experience and a strong leadership track record. He has previously been instrumental in driving Coca-Cola's transformation and achieving gender balance in leadership roles. His expertise is expected to guide Principal as it evolves into a global financial services organization.

The Longevity Project, in collaboration with Principal Financial Group, has released a study focusing on retirement income strategies amid increased life expectancies. The study highlights the struggle of retirees in balancing spending and saving, revealing that most retirees rely on Social Security while underestimating the need for guaranteed income sources like annuities. Addressing these challenges is essential for financial security in retirement. The report suggests industry-wide collaboration to improve access to income solutions, especially as the retirement landscape evolves with rising living costs and longer lifespans.