Piper Sandler has reaffirmed its Neutral rating and $40.00 price target for FGL Holdings (NYSE:FG_old) (NYSE: FG).
The financial services firm's stance remains unchanged following a recent investor meeting hosted by Piper Sandler, where FGL Holdings' executive team provided insights into the company's strategic initiatives and market position.
During the meeting, FGL Holdings' President & CEO Chris Blunt, alongside EVP & CFO Wendy JB Young and SVP & IR Lisa Foxworthy-Parker, discussed several key points.
The company's decision to invest in owned distribution was highlighted as a forward-thinking move. They also acknowledged the limited investor audience due to the company's 15% float and expressed an understanding of the need to address this issue.
Contrary to many spread-based companies that have suggested sales may have peaked with the interest rate cycle now turning, FGL Holdings conveyed a different perspective.
The management believes that the company's growth can continue despite the changing rate environment. Moreover, FGL Holdings sees itself as a potential reinsurance partner for smaller asset managers seeking to source life insurance liabilities.
The company also stands by its investment management agreement, considering it to be best-in-class within the industry. FGL Holdings views itself as a distinctive entity with fair valuation, citing a multiple of 7.7 times its estimated 2025 earnings, compared to the coverage average of 8.2 times. The company also mentioned an upcoming tax-free spin window opening on June 1, 2025, which may influence its stock performance.
In other recent news, FGL Holdings has been making significant strides in its financial performance and growth strategy. Barclays initiated coverage on the company with an Equalweight rating, citing a balance between potential growth prospects and potential risks.
The firm highlighted FGL's recent expansion into Retirement Income Liability (RILA) offerings and Pension Risk Transfer (PRT) capabilities, as well as a beneficial partnership with Blackstone (NYSE:BX).
FGL Holdings reported robust Q2 earnings, with adjusted net earnings of $139 million, equivalent to $1.10 per share, and record gross sales of $4.4 billion. The company's strategic investments, such as an increased stake in Freedom Equity Group, are contributing to margin growth and are positioning the firm for sustained asset growth. FGL is on track to meet its target of 50% assets under management (AUM) growth by 2028.
Despite these recent developments, Barclays expressed concerns regarding FGL Holdings' risk profile, particularly its higher invested asset risk profile and larger allocation to private debt.
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