
TSE:MFC
This summary was created by AI, based on 28 opinions in the last 12 months.
Manulife Financial (MFC) has garnered mixed opinions from market experts. Many analysts recognize MFC's potential, particularly highlighting its growth in Asia and successful capital generation from legacy businesses. The consensus seems to indicate a solid long-term investment due to its steady dividend yield, with several experts suggesting that patience may be required as the stock navigates short-term fluctuations. Despite some concerns about past performance and market positioning against competitors, the company's strategy and management is viewed positively. Analysts mention the current valuation as reasonable compared to peers, suggesting MFC is a better option for income rather than growth. Overall, there is a cautious optimism about MFC's capabilities and future direction.
Pros and cons. Yes, they won the trial, but there remains a litigation overhang (they should win their appeal). They just had a good quarter, but it was driven by Asia--is this sustainable? He expects 9% EPS growth and 10% annual dividend growth. Trades around 7x. It's outstanding value, but all insurance companies are hurt by falling interest rates. MFC has done a great job diversifying away from that, though.
vs. the Canadian banks It's not an either-or question. You can buy both. The new CEO has done a very good job to put aside the legacy businesses that are a drag. They have high-growth insurance business in Asia. MFC has lagged SLF the past few years in terms of stock price, but MFC's earnings should outpace SLF's. Also, MFC is closer to book value than SLF. It pays a good dividend. The banks are attractively priced too.
The word hope is always mentioned with MFC as in hoping the price rises to $30. That said, MFC is Scotiabank's top insurance pick. It's the only one to exceed EPS expectations. All Canadian insurers need the markets to do better and be less volatile. MFC's wealth management had outflows of $9 billion last quarter; this quarter only $1 billion which is good. EPS grew 20% in the last quarter. He will wait till MFC breaks out of its 10-year trendline.