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Research Alert: Pfg Q1 Eps Beat On Strong Retirement/benefits; Buybacks Key To 9%-12% Goal

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CFRA, an independent research provider, has providedwith the following research alert. Analysts at CFRA have summarized their opinion as follows:

PFG posted Q1 operating EPS of $2.07 versus $1.81 a year ago, missing our $2.24 estimate but topping the $2.01 consensus view on solid Y/Y performance. Operating EPS excluding significant variances of $2.17 versus $1.92 reflected meaningful improvement across several business segments. We applaud these results but caution Q1 may not represent a sustainable run rate given the volatile and transactional nature of many areas within the core Retirement and Income Solutions unit, though we view positively the margin gains achieved in Specialty Benefits. Management reiterated its earlier guidance for 9% to 12% operating EPS growth in 2026. We note Life Insurance results remain somewhat pressured while Investment Management continues to be plagued by net asset outflows. We think share repurchases, like the $900M completed in 2025, will be a key component supporting the EPS growth target and should aid management's efforts to achieve guidance going forward.

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