Key Morningstar Metrics for Manulife Financial
- Fair Value Estimate: C$39.00
- Morningstar Rating: ★★
- Morningstar Economic Moat Rating: None
- Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Medium
What We Thought of Manulife Financial’s Earnings
Manulife Financial MFC posted impressive numbers, surprising on the upside in both profitability and growth. They reported core earnings of C$1.90 billion, or C$1.03 per share, in the fourth quarter, up 9% compared with the previous year. Adjusted return on equity was 16.5% during the quarter.
Why it matters: The firm’s Asia, Canada, and asset management business segments are performing extremely well, with some relative weakness in the US business.
- Assets under management and administration in the wealth and asset management segment grew by 21% during the fourth quarter compared with the previous year as it was recorded at C$1.02 trillion. Core profitability in this segment was 34% higher on a year-over-year basis due to margin expansion and higher AUM.
- Shares were trading 7% higher after results were announced as the market reacted favorably to a 10% dividend increase.
The bottom line: We are increasing the fair value estimate to C$39 per share after incorporating the latest results. We still believe the firm is benefiting from a favorable external environment and that shares are overvalued.
- Higher interest rates and buoyant capital markets have been a tailwind for the company in recent quarters resulting in higher investment earnings and AUM. A correction in capital markets or lower rates would be a net negative for the company.
Long view: While all life insurance companies are benefiting from improved profitability, Manulife’s long-term growth potential makes it more attractive.
- Growth metrics were extremely strong during the quarter as annualized premiums grew by 42%, new business CSM grew by 32%, and new business value grew by 31% on a year-over-year basis. The Asia segment holds the key to the firm’s growth and profitability outlook in the long run.
Manulife Stock vs. Morningstar Fair Value Estimate
Source: Morningstar Direct. Latest price as of 09:46 AM EST. Data as of Feb. 21, 2025.
The author or authors do not own shares in any securities mentioned in this article. Find out about Morningstar's editorial policies.