Assetmark Inc. increased its stake in Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:PFG – Free Report) by 104.3% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 20,227 shares of the company’s stock after buying an additional 10,325 shares during the quarter. Assetmark Inc.’s holdings in Principal Financial Group were worth $1,823,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.
Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of PFG. DV Equities LLC bought a new stake in shares of Principal Financial Group in the fourth quarter worth $25,000. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. bought a new position in Principal Financial Group during the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Hilton Head Capital Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of Principal Financial Group in the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. MBM Wealth Consultants LLC bought a new stake in shares of Principal Financial Group in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Finally, Quest 10 Wealth Builders Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Principal Financial Group by 343.6% in the 4th quarter. Quest 10 Wealth Builders Inc. now owns 346 shares of the company’s stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 268 shares during the last quarter. 75.08% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Principal Financial Group Stock Up 1.9% NASDAQ:PFG opened at $109.40 on Friday. The business’s fifty day moving average price is $108.14 and its 200 day moving average price is $98.37. The firm has a market capitalization of $23.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.65, a PEG ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 0.88. The company has a current ratio of 0.27, a quick ratio of 0.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. Principal Financial Group, Inc. has a 1-year low of $75.00 and a 1-year high of $114.90.
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ:PFG – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 29th. The company reported $2.07 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $2.01 by $0.06. Principal Financial Group had a return on equity of 16.25% and a net margin of 10.10%.The firm had revenue of $3.53 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.11 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $1.81 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Principal Financial Group, Inc. will post 9.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.
Insider Transactions at Principal Financial Group In other Principal Financial Group news, General Counsel George Djurasovic sold 2,571 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $100.83, for a total transaction of $259,233.93. Following the transaction, the general counsel directly owned 21,906 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $2,208,781.98. This represents a 10.50% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Wee Yee Cheong sold 7,534 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $103.16, for a total value of $777,207.44. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 66,443 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $6,854,259.88. This represents a 10.18% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold a total of 28,317 shares of company stock valued at $2,884,902 over the last ninety days. Company insiders own 1.13% of the company’s stock.
Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several brokerages recently issued reports on PFG. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on Principal Financial Group from $114.00 to $113.00 and set an “equal weight” rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their target price on shares of Principal Financial Group from $91.00 to $98.00 and gave the company a “hold” rating in a research note on Friday, July 10th. Weiss Ratings cut shares of Principal Financial Group from a “buy (b)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a report on Friday, May 1st. Barclays raised their price target on shares of Principal Financial Group from $87.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock an “underweight” rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 7th. Finally, UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Principal Financial Group from $92.00 to $94.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a report on Thursday, April 9th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $105.00.
Get Our Latest Analysis on Principal Financial Group
Principal Financial Group Profile (Free Report)
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ: PFG) is a global financial services company headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, that provides a range of retirement, investment and insurance solutions to individuals, employers and institutional clients. The firm’s business is organized around retirement services, asset management, and insurance products designed to help clients plan, invest for, and protect income over the long term.
Principal’s product and service offerings include retirement plan recordkeeping and administration for employer-sponsored plans, individual and group retirement annuities, life and disability insurance, employee benefits solutions, and wealth management services.
Further Reading Five stocks we like better than Principal Financial Group AMD and Cerbras Create A New Blueprint For Hardware Intel Earnings Reveal Whether the Chip Selloff Created a Buy CrowdStrike’s Cerebras Deal Puts Its AI Security Strategy to the Test Plugging In: How Kinder Morgan Powers Up Profits
Receive News & Ratings for Principal Financial Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Principal Financial Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
« PREVIOUS HEADLINEAllspring Global Investments Holdings LLC Trims Holdings in Universal Health Services, Inc. $UHS
NEXT HEADLINE »IMAX (NYSE:IMAX) Price Target Raised to $54.00 at Wedbush
Whether it's through stocks, bonds, ETFs, or other types of securities, all investors love seeing their portfolios score big returns. But for income investors, generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments is your primary focus.
While cash flow can come from bond interest or interest from other types of investments, income investors hone in on dividends. A dividend is that coveted distribution of a company's earnings paid out to shareholders, and investors often view it by its dividend yield, a metric that measures the dividend as a percent of the current stock price. Many academic studies show that dividends make up large portions of long-term returns, and in many cases, dividend contributions surpass one-third of total returns.
Based in Des Moines, Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) is in the Finance sector, and so far this year, shares have seen a price change of 21.66%. The financial services company is paying out a dividend of $0.82 per share at the moment, with a dividend yield of 3.06% compared to the Insurance - Multi line industry's yield of 1.79% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.33%.
Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $3.28 is up 6.5% from last year. Over the last 5 years, Principal Financial has increased its dividend 4 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 5.97%. Looking ahead, future dividend growth will be dependent on earnings growth and payout ratio, which is the proportion of a company's annual earnings per share that it pays out as a dividend. Principal Financial's current payout ratio is 38%, meaning it paid out 38% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.
PFG is expecting earnings to expand this fiscal year as well. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $9.45 per share, representing a year-over-year earnings growth rate of 14.27%.
From greatly improving stock investing profits and reducing overall portfolio risk to providing tax advantages, investors like dividends for a variety of different reasons. But, not every company offers a quarterly payout.
High-growth firms or tech start-ups, for example, rarely provide their shareholders a dividend, while larger, more established companies that have more secure profits are often seen as the best dividend options. Income investors must be conscious of the fact that high-yielding stocks tend to struggle during periods of rising interest rates. With that in mind, PFG is a compelling investment opportunity. Not only is it a strong dividend play, but the stock currently sits at a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
Key Takeaways PFG is expected to see higher revenues from Retirement, Asset Management and Benefits businesses. PFG is likely to gain from higher AUM, investment income and international pension earnings. PFG is expected to face higher expenses from increased benefits, claims and settlement costs. Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG - Free Report) is expected to register an improvement in its top and bottom lines when it reports second-quarter 2026 results on July 27, after the closing bell.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PFG’s second-quarter revenues is pegged at $4.11 billion, indicating an increase of 11.4% from the year-ago reported figure.
The consensus estimate for earnings is pegged at $2.32 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PFG’s second-quarter earnings has moved down 0.8% in the past 30 days. The estimate suggests a year-over-year increase of 7.4%.
What Our Quantitative Model PredictsOur proven model predicts an earnings beat for Principal Financial this time around. This is because the stock has the right combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold), which increases the chances of an earnings beat.
Earnings ESP: Principal Financial has an Earnings ESP of +0.29% at present. This is because the Most Accurate Estimate of $2.33 is pegged higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.32. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Principal Financial currently carries a Zacks Rank #3.
Factors at PlayPrincipal Financial’s second-quarter results are likely to reflect favorable underwriting results and improved mortality within the benefits and protection business, as well as positive market conditions for fee-based businesses.
Operating revenues are likely to have increased owing to higher premiums & other considerations, as well as higher fees & other revenues in Retirement and Income Solutions, Principal Asset Management, and Benefits and Protection.
Higher management fee revenues, as a result of increased average AUM, are likely to have benefited Investment Management.
Higher earnings from equity method investments in Brazil and foreign currency tailwinds are expected to have benefited International Pension operations.
Investment income is expected to have benefited from higher average invested assets in fixed maturities, derivatives in fair value hedges, and other investments for our U.S. operations. The lower inflation-based returns on average invested assets and cash in Latin America are likely to have offset the upside.
Assets under management are likely to have benefited from positive market performance and net cash flow, as well as foreign currency tailwinds.
Expenses are likely to have increased due to higher benefits, claims and settlement expenses.
Other Stocks to ConsiderHere are three other insurance stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these, too, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat:
Cincinnati Financial Corporation (CINF - Free Report) has an Earnings ESP of +7.22% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2026 earnings is pegged at $1.82, indicating a year-over-year decrease of 7.6%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
CINF’s earnings beat estimates in each of the last four reported quarters.
The Allstate Corporation (ALL - Free Report) has an Earnings ESP of +2.59% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2026 earnings is pegged at $5.61, indicating a year-over-year decrease of 5.5%.
ALL’s earnings beat estimates in each of the last four reported quarters.
Axis Capital Holdings Limited (AXS - Free Report) has an Earnings ESP of +3.82% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2026 earnings is pegged at $3.23, indicating a year-over-year decrease of 1.8%.
AXS’s earnings beat estimates in each of the last four reported quarters.
Analysts on Wall Street project that Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) will announce quarterly earnings of $2.32 per share in its forthcoming report, representing an increase of 7.4% year over year. Revenues are projected to reach $4.11 billion, increasing 11.4% from the same quarter last year.
Over the past 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been adjusted upward by 1% to its current level. This demonstrates the covering analysts' collective reassessment of their initial projections during this period.
Prior to a company's earnings announcement, it is crucial to consider revisions to earnings estimates. This serves as a significant indicator for predicting potential investor actions regarding the stock. Empirical research has consistently demonstrated a robust correlation between trends in earnings estimate revision and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates to gauge how the business may have fared during the quarter, examining analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics often helps gain a deeper insight.
Given this perspective, it's time to examine the average forecasts of specific Principal Financial metrics that are routinely monitored and predicted by Wall Street analysts.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Revenue- Fees and other revenues' will reach $1.11 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +2.2% from the prior-year quarter.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Revenue- Net investment income' will reach $1.30 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +11.9% from the prior-year quarter.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Revenue- Premiums and other considerations' should come in at $1.65 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +17.9%.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Revenue- Principal Asset Management Segment- Fees and other revenues' reaching $554.61 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +4.4%.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Revenue- Principal Asset Management Segment- Net investment income' at $168.47 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +0.1%.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Specialty Benefits- Fees and other revenues' will likely reach $8.06 million. The estimate points to a change of -0.5% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts expect 'Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Specialty Benefits- Premiums and other considerations' to come in at $867.95 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +4.3%.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Specialty Benefits- Net Investment Income' of $56.63 million. The estimate points to a change of +8.9% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts forecast 'Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Specialty Benefits- Total' to reach $932.64 million. The estimate suggests a change of +4.5% year over year.
The consensus estimate for 'Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Life Insurance- Fees and other revenues' stands at $113.43 million. The estimate suggests a change of -0.9% year over year.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Assets under management (AUM) - International Pension' should arrive at $161.70 billion. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $143.40 billion.
Analysts predict that the 'Assets under management (AUM) - Investment Management' will reach $595.94 billion. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $579.60 billion.
View all Key Company Metrics for Principal Financial here>>>
Over the past month, shares of Principal Financial have returned -2.5% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.3% change. Currently, PFG carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), suggesting that its performance may align with the overall market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.
Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) Ranked among the Fortune 500 companies, Des Moines, IA-based Principal Financial Group Inc. is a leader in global investment management offering businesses, individuals and institutional clients a wide range of financial products and services, including retirement, asset management and insurance through our diverse family of financial services companies. The company was founded in 1879.
PFG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Momentum investors should take note of this Finance stock. PFG has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 4% over the past four weeks.
Two analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.09 to $9.40 per share. PFG boasts an average earnings surprise of +1.7%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, PFG should be on investors' short list.
The market expects Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended June 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on July 27. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis financial services company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $2.32 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +7.4%.
Revenues are expected to be $4.11 billion, up 11.4% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.88% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Principal Financial?For Principal Financial, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +0.29%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination indicates that Principal Financial will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Principal Financial would post earnings of $2.01 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.07, delivering a surprise of +2.99%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates two times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Principal Financial appears a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
Expected Results of an Industry PlayerAnother stock from the Zacks Insurance - Multi line industry, Goosehead Insurance (GSHD - Free Report) , is soon expected to post earnings of $0.52 per share for the quarter ended June 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +6.1%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $103.36 million, up 9.9% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus EPS estimate for Goosehead has been revised 1.3% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. However, a higher Most Accurate Estimate has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +0.96%.
When combined with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), this Earnings ESP indicates that Goosehead will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) Ranked among the Fortune 500 companies, Des Moines, IA-based Principal Financial Group Inc. is a leader in global investment management offering businesses, individuals and institutional clients a wide range of financial products and services, including retirement, asset management and insurance through our diverse family of financial services companies. The company was founded in 1879.
PFG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of A thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 12.02; value investors should take notice.
For fiscal 2026, two analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.09 to $9.40 per share. PFG boasts an average earnings surprise of +1.7%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, PFG should be on investors' short list.
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) announced today the expansion of its Principal® Custody Solutions Bank Referral Program to help address a common obstacle regional and community banks face when seeking an institutional trust and custody services partner. The complexity and operational demands of custody services often lead regional and community banks to seek a partner. Many turn to large national providers, but some partnerships can introduce overlap.
Principal Financial Group (Nasdaq: PFG) announced today the expansion of its Principal Custody Solutions Bank Referral Program to help address a common obs
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) announced today an agreement to acquire Beam Benefits, an employee benefits company serving over 25,000 small businesses.
“Beam Benefits’ focus on serving the small business market aligns directly with our commitment to helping small and midsized businesses (SMBs) protect their businesses and their employees,” said Amy Friedrich, president of Benefits and Protection at Principal. “This acquisition strengthens our momentum and delivery of above-market growth in that segment.” Principal currently serves 180,000 employers providing comprehensive retirement, benefits, and business owner solutions.1
Beam offers dental, vision, and ancillary benefits supported by a cloud-native technology stack with AI at its core. The business has scaled rapidly in the small business segment, generating approximately $175 million in premiums in 2025.
“Beam Benefits is purpose-built to transform the employee benefits experience by combining intuitive, cloud-native technology with an unwavering focus on expanding access to vital employee benefits for small business employers, employees, and their families. Joining forces with Principal is the natural next step in our journey,” said Tolithia Kornweibel, CEO of Beam Benefits.
“Beam has built a meaningful customer base that generates strong premium volume,” said Friedrich. “Its digital-first model brings scalable capabilities that can complement our platform, support continued growth, and enhance the customer experience. Beam’s talent and deep expertise in the small business marketplace will be additive to our SMB strategy.”
The acquisition is expected to close in the latter half of 2026, subject to the completion of customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Capital deployment and earnings per share growth targets remain unchanged for 2026. Principal expects this acquisition to accelerate premium and fee growth for Specialty Benefits to at or above the high-end of the 5 – 9% medium-term target range in 2027.
Perella Weinberg Partners served as financial advisor to Principal, with Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP acting as legal counsel. Ardea Partners LP served as financial advisor to Beam Benefits, with Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. acting as legal counsel.
About Principal Financial Group®
Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) is a global financial company with approximately 19,000 employees1 passionate about improving the wealth and well-being of people and businesses. In business for 146 years, we’re helping over 82 million customers1 plan, insure, invest, and retire, while working to support the communities where we do business, and building an inclusive workforce. Principal® is proud to be recognized as one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies2 and named as a “Best Places to Work in Money Management3.” Learn more about Principal and our commitment to building a better future at principal.com.
About Beam Benefits
Beam Benefits is a digitally-native employee ancillary benefits company that offers dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental health coverage for employers. The company simplifies and modernizes ancillary benefits through its intuitive online platform, self-service tools, AI-powered underwriting, and thoughtful coverage for improved overall wellness. Beam is available in 46 states and the District of Columbia. Learn more at beambenefits.com.
This news release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “expect,” “continue,” “plan,” “will,” “strategy,” “target,” and similar expressions, among others, generally identify forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. Forward-looking statements are made based upon management’s current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on us. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements as a result of risks and uncertainties. Those risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors listed in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, and the other filings we make with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) announced today that it will release second quarter 2026 financial results after U.S. markets close on Monday, July 27, 2026. On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET, Deanna Strable, chair, president, and chief executive officer, and Joel Pitz, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will share the results during a live conference call. Other members of senior management will be available for a question a.
Key Takeaways PFG benefits from strength in retirement, asset management and group benefits businesses.Assets under management rose 7% to $770 billion, supported by strong investment sales and inflowsPrincipal Financial supports growth through acquisitions, while returning capital via buybacks and dividends. Shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG - Free Report) have gained 36.6% in the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 1.3%. Its share closed at $108.51 on Monday, near its 52-week high of $112.45, reflecting strong investor confidence.
Continued growth in its retirement business, expanding assets under management and a robust capital position should drive further price appreciation.
Shares of some of its peers include CNO Financial Group, Inc. (CNO - Free Report) , Radian Group Inc. (RDN - Free Report) , and MetLife, Inc. (MET - Free Report) , have gained 35.1%, 5% and 6.9%, respectively, in the past year.
1-Year Price Performance: PFG, CNO, MET, RDN & Industry
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PFG’s ValuationPrincipal Financial shares are trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings of 11.08X, higher than the industry average of 9.12X, reflecting investor confidence. However, it currently carries a Value Score of A.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Shares of CNO Financial, MetLife and Radian Group are currently trading at a price-to-earnings value of 11.15X, 8.19 and 7.21X, respectively, in the past year.
PFG’s Encouraging Growth ProjectionThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for Principal Financial’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates a year-over-year increase of 13.3%. The consensus estimate for revenues is pegged at $16.38 billion, implying a year-over-year improvement of 2%.
The consensus estimate for 2027 EPS and revenues indicates an increase of 9.1% and 7.3%, respectively, from the corresponding 2026 estimates.
The expected long-term earnings growth is pegged at 10.7%.
Optimistic Analyst Sentiment on PFGFour analysts covering the stock have raised estimates for 2026, with no downward revisions, while three out of four analysts have increased estimates for 2027 over the past 60 days. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 has moved 0.6% and 0.5% north, respectively, over the same time period.
PFG’s Key TailwindsPrincipal Financial continues to benefit from its strength and leadership in retirement and long-term savings, group benefits and protection in the United States and retirement and long-term savings in Latin America and Asia. Continued growth in fee, spread, and risk businesses boosts the company’s long-term prospects. The company leverages a favorable market position in the retirement industry and remains optimistic about the momentum across retirement platforms. PFG estimates solid revenue growth and margin expansion across all its segments over the long term.
Principal Financial’s assets under management (AUM) are driven by solid results across its three asset management and asset accumulation segments. Total company-managed AUM was $770 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2026, increasing 7% year over year. Principal Financial’s record investment sales, strong international net inflows, expanding private market strategies, extensive distribution footprint and active ETFs continue to support AUM growth.
The Specialty Benefits Insurance business should continue to gain from record sales, strong retention, improved dental pricing, solid disability performance and better group life results. Lower loss ratios and expanding margins are expected to support underwriting profitability through 2026.
Management utilizes a significant portion of its operating earnings for mergers and acquisitions and intends to continue doing so. Acquisitions, such as MetLife's Afore business, Internos and RobustWealth, have helped the company expand its fee-based businesses and global footprint. Integration of the Wells Fargo Institutional Retirement and Trust business, along with strategic investment and initiatives, has expanded Principal Financial’s retirement offerings. Principal Financial looks forward to further leveraging the relationship to capitalize on its global retirement and asset management expertise through the partnership.
PFG boasts a strong capital position, supported by sufficient cash generation and liquidity. The company ended the first quarter of 2026 with $1.45 billion of excess and available capital. For 2026, PFG remains well-positioned to deliver on its enterprise long-term financial targets, with 9-12% growth in EPS and 75-85% free capital flow conversion. The robust capital position also supports disciplined capital deployment. The company returned $375 million to shareholders in the first quarter, including $200 million through share repurchases.
Risks for PFGPFG’s expenses have been increasing due to a rise in benefits, claims and settlement expenses, as well as operating expenses, weighing on margin expansion.
Principal Financial has been growing inorganically through acquisitions, increasing its debt obligation risks associated with successful integration.
Final Take on PFGPrincipal Financial should benefit from robust retirement business growth, fee-based revenue sources, growth in specialty benefits, strategic buyouts, and a strong capital position. However, escalating costs and dilution from acquisitions are concerns.
The board raised the second-quarter dividend by 8% to 82 cents per share, and the stock offers a dividend yield of 3%, above the industry average of 2.5%.
Coupled with the AUM growth, impressive dividend history, optimistic analyst sentiment, and favorable growth projections, PFG should continue to benefit over the long term. The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
The research service features daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, all of which will help you become a smarter, more confident investor.
Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you like to use all three kinds of investing, then the VGM Score is for you. It's a combination of all Style Scores, and is an important indicator to use with the Zacks Rank. The VGM Score rates each stock on their shared weighted styles, narrowing down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +24% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.
Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) Ranked among the Fortune 500 companies, Des Moines, IA-based Principal Financial Group Inc. is a leader in global investment management offering businesses, individuals and institutional clients a wide range of financial products and services, including retirement, asset management and insurance through our diverse family of financial services companies. The company was founded in 1879.
PFG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of A thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 11.26; value investors should take notice.
Four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.06 to $9.37 per share. PFG boasts an average earnings surprise of +1.7%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, PFG should be on investors' short list.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
Zacks Premium includes access to the Zacks Style Scores as well.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you like to use all three kinds of investing, then the VGM Score is for you. It's a combination of all Style Scores, and is an important indicator to use with the Zacks Rank. The VGM Score rates each stock on their shared weighted styles, narrowing down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +24% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) Ranked among the Fortune 500 companies, Des Moines, IA-based Principal Financial Group Inc. is a leader in global investment management offering businesses, individuals and institutional clients a wide range of financial products and services, including retirement, asset management and insurance through our diverse family of financial services companies. The company was founded in 1879.
PFG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Momentum investors should take note of this Finance stock. PFG has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 2% over the past four weeks.
Four analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.06 to $9.37 per share. PFG also boasts an average earnings surprise of +1.7%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, PFG should be on investors' short list.
On June 24, 2026, Principal Financial Group Inc (PFG) shares fell 5.1% to a current price of $106.66. This drop occurs within a 52-week range of $75.00 to $112.
Getting big returns from financial portfolios, whether through stocks, bonds, ETFs, other securities, or a combination of all, is an investor's dream. But for income investors, generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments is your primary focus.
While cash flow can come from bond interest or interest from other types of investments, income investors hone in on dividends. A dividend is that coveted distribution of a company's earnings paid out to shareholders, and investors often view it by its dividend yield, a metric that measures the dividend as a percent of the current stock price. Many academic studies show that dividends make up large portions of long-term returns, and in many cases, dividend contributions surpass one-third of total returns.
Based in Des Moines, Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) is in the Finance sector, and so far this year, shares have seen a price change of 24.22%. Currently paying a dividend of $0.82 per share, the company has a dividend yield of 2.99%. In comparison, the Insurance - Multi line industry's yield is 1.65%, while the S&P 500's yield is 1.43%.
Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $3.28 is up 6.5% from last year. Over the last 5 years, Principal Financial has increased its dividend 4 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 5.97%. Looking ahead, future dividend growth will be dependent on earnings growth and payout ratio, which is the proportion of a company's annual earnings per share that it pays out as a dividend. Principal Financial's current payout ratio is 38%, meaning it paid out 38% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.
Looking at this fiscal year, PFG expects solid earnings growth. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $9.36 per share, with earnings expected to increase 13.18% from the year ago period.
From greatly improving stock investing profits and reducing overall portfolio risk to providing tax advantages, investors like dividends for a variety of different reasons. However, not all companies offer a quarterly payout.
For instance, it's a rare occurrence when a tech start-up or big growth business offers its shareholders a dividend. It's more common to see larger companies with more established profits give out dividends. Income investors must be conscious of the fact that high-yielding stocks tend to struggle during periods of rising interest rates. With that in mind, PFG is a compelling investment opportunity. Not only is it a strong dividend play, but the stock currently sits at a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our analyst ratings page.
Considering buying PFG stock? Here’s what analysts think:
Photo via Shutterstock
Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs
Principal Financial earns a reiterated buy rating, driven by strong ROE, an investment-grade balance sheet, and consistent fund outperformance. PFG's diversified segments—retirement, asset management, and benefits—capitalize on demographic tailwinds and demonstrate resilient organic growth despite revenue and earnings volatility. Dividend growth is supported by a conservative 44% payout ratio and active share buybacks, with a yield of ~2.9% and robust cash management.
Principal Asset Management® today announced the launch of Principal® Fit, a fixed income exchange-traded fund (ETF) suite that includes four newly launched exchange-traded funds, expanding the firm’s lineup and enhancing fixed income capabilities for investors. The suite and newly launched ETFs are designed to support more precise and flexible portfolio positioning as investors navigate evolving interest rate, credit, and inflation dynamics.
As fixed income markets grow more complex, there is an increasing need for more precise ways to align portfolio allocations with market views and desired outcomes across distinct market environments. The cohesive new suite of ETFs is designed to help simplify the process by providing targeted exposure across key segments of the fixed income market, including inflation protection, securitized credit, long duration, and collateralized loan obligations. Additionally, each ETF can serve a distinct role within a broader portfolio, with exposures aligned to different interest rates, credit, and inflation conditions, and can be used independently or in combination as conditions evolve.
“Principal Fit is designed to help investors navigate rapidly changing market environments and simplify how they make allocation decisions across fixed income,” said Michael Goosay, chief investment officer and global head of fixed income at Principal Asset Management. “In this environment, broad exposure is often less effective than more targeted approaches, and this lineup provides more precise tools to support portfolio decisions as market conditions shift.”
Together with the Principal Investment Grade Corporate ETF (IG), the five ETFs in the suite form a flexible set of solutions that can be used across portfolios to support income generation, diversification, and portfolio positioning across duration, credit, and inflation expectations. The newly launched ETFs include:
The Principal Inflation Protection ETF (RIZE), which focuses on helping investors manage inflation risk by providing exposure to securities sensitive to changes in price levels. The Principal Securitized Debt ETF (WDE) which provides access to securitized sectors of the fixed income market, offering diversified exposure across structured credit. The Principal Long Duration ETF (DWWN) provides exposure to longer-duration bonds, supporting positioning around changes in interest rates. The Principal CLO ETF (UUPP) offers exposure to collateralized loan obligations and seeks to deliver income through floating-rate credit instruments. Principal Asset Management offers 16 ETFs and approximately $10.4 billion in assets under management across its ETF platform3. The funds are listed on Cboe BZX Exchange and trade under the tickers UUPP, DWWN, IG, WDE, and RIZE.
About Principal Asset Management®
With public and private market capabilities across all asset classes, Principal Asset Management and its investment specialists look at asset management through a different lens, creating solutions to help deliver client investment objectives. By applying local insights with global perspectives, Principal Asset Management identifies distinct and compelling investment opportunities for more than 1,100 institutional clients in over 80 markets.1 Principal Asset Management is the global investment solutions business for Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG), managing $578.0 billion in assets1 and recognized as a “Best Places to Work in Money Management”2 for 14 consecutive years.
Learn more at www.PrincipalAM.com
[1] As of March 31, 2026
[2] Pensions & Investments, The "Best Places to Work in Money Management”, among companies with 1,000 or more employees, December 2025.
[3] As of May 31, 2026
Carefully consider a fund’s objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. For a prospectus, or summary prospectus if available, containing this and other information, visit www.PrincipalAM.com or call sales support at 800-787-1621. Please read it carefully before investing.
Investing in ETFs involves risk, including possible loss of principal. ETFs are subject to risk similar to those of stocks, including those regarding short-selling and margin account maintenance.
Fixed income investments are subject to interest rate risk; as interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.
Investments in asset-backed securities such as collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) and mortgage-backed securities are subject to additional risks associated with the nature of the underlying assets and the servicing of those assets, including risk of default of the underlying assets. Neither the principal of bond investment options nor their yields are guaranteed by the U.S. government. Yields for U.S. Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (“TIPS”) are adjusted monthly based on changes in the rate of inflation. This can cause the yield to vary from one month to the next and may not be repeated. Funds with longer average portfolio durations are more sensitive to changes in interest rates and may be more volatile than those with shorter durations. Investing in derivatives entails specific risks relating to liquidity, leverage, and credit, which may reduce returns and/or increase volatility.
ALPS Distributors, Inc. is the distributor of the Principal ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. and the Principal Funds are not affiliated.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260615233888/en/
AIFU (NASDAQ:AIFU – Get Free Report) and Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ:PFG – Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, risk, dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, profitability and earnings.
Risk & Volatility AIFU has a beta of 0.67, suggesting that its share price is 33% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Principal Financial Group has a beta of 0.87, suggesting that its share price is 13% less volatile than the S&P 500.
Insider and Institutional Ownership 26.7% of AIFU shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 75.1% of Principal Financial Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 25.6% of AIFU shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 1.1% of Principal Financial Group shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.
Valuation & Earnings This table compares AIFU and Principal Financial Group”s gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.
Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio AIFU $247.81 million 0.02 $62.33 million $14.60 0.09 Principal Financial Group $15.63 billion 1.22 $1.19 billion $5.27 16.74 Principal Financial Group has higher revenue and earnings than AIFU. AIFU is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Principal Financial Group, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.
Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for AIFU and Principal Financial Group, as provided by MarketBeat.com.
Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score AIFU 1 0 0 0 1.00 Principal Financial Group 1 7 2 0 2.10 Principal Financial Group has a consensus price target of $94.22, indicating a potential upside of 6.79%. Given Principal Financial Group’s stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Principal Financial Group is more favorable than AIFU.
Profitability This table compares AIFU and Principal Financial Group’s net margins, return on equity and return on assets.
Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets AIFU N/A N/A N/A Principal Financial Group 7.58% 16.09% 0.57% Summary Principal Financial Group beats AIFU on 12 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.
About AIFU (Get Free Report)
AIX, Inc. engages in the provision of agency services and insurance claims adjusting services. It operates through the Insurance Agency and Claims Adjusting segments. The Insurance Agency segment includes providing agency services for insurance products and life insurance products. The Claims Adjusting segment provides pre-underwriting survey services, claims adjusting services, disposal of residual value services, loading and unloading supervision services, and consulting services. The company was founded by Yin An Hu and Qiu Ping Lai in 1998 and is headquartered in Guangzhou, China.
About Principal Financial Group (Get Free Report)
Principal Financial Group, Inc. provides retirement, asset management, and insurance products and services to businesses, individuals, and institutional clients worldwide. The company operates through Retirement and Income Solutions, Principal Global Investors, Principal International, and U.S. Insurance Solutions segments. The Retirement and Income Solutions segment provides a portfolio of asset accumulation products and services for retirement savings and income. It offers products and services for defined contribution plans, including 401(k) and 403(b) plans, defined benefit pension plans, nonqualified executive benefit plans, employee stock ownership plans, equity compensation, and pension risk transfer services; individual retirement accounts; investment only products; and mutual funds, individual variable annuities, and bank products. The Principal Global Investors segment provides equity, fixed income, real estate, and other alternative investments, as well as asset allocation, stable value management, and other structured investment strategies. The Principal International segment offers pension accumulation products and services, mutual funds, asset management, income annuities, and life insurance accumulation products, as well as voluntary savings plans in Brazil, Chile, Mexico, China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, India, and Southeast Asia. The U.S. Insurance Solutions segment provides specialty benefits, such as group dental and vision insurance, group life insurance, and group and individual disability insurance, as well as administers group dental, disability, and vision benefits; and individual life insurance products comprising universal, variable universal, indexed universal, and term life insurance products in the United States. It also offers insurance solutions for small and medium-sized businesses and their owners, as well as executives. Principal Financial Group, Inc. was founded in 1879 and is based in Des Moines, Iowa.
Receive News & Ratings for AIFU Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AIFU and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
« PREVIOUS HEADLINEFinancial Comparison: Kilroy Realty (NYSE:KRC) vs. Prologis (NYSE:PLD)
NEXT HEADLINE »The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) Receives Average Recommendation of “Moderate Buy” from Brokerages
Foster & Motley Inc. trimmed its position in shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:PFG – Free Report) by 14.5% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 34,980 shares of the company’s stock after selling 5,943 shares during the quarter. Foster & Motley Inc.’s holdings in Principal Financial Group were worth $3,086,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.
Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Capital A Wealth Management LLC grew its position in Principal Financial Group by 5,533.3% during the second quarter. Capital A Wealth Management LLC now owns 338 shares of the company’s stock valued at $27,000 after buying an additional 332 shares during the period. FWL Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Principal Financial Group in the third quarter worth about $32,000. Rialto Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Principal Financial Group by 3,754.5% during the 4th quarter. Rialto Wealth Management LLC now owns 424 shares of the company’s stock worth $37,000 after acquiring an additional 413 shares in the last quarter. True Wealth Design LLC boosted its stake in shares of Principal Financial Group by 87.9% during the 4th quarter. True Wealth Design LLC now owns 511 shares of the company’s stock worth $45,000 after acquiring an additional 239 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Financial Consulate Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Principal Financial Group during the 3rd quarter valued at about $46,000. 75.08% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Insider Buying and Selling In other Principal Financial Group news, CEO Deanna D. Strable-Soethout sold 9,300 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction on Thursday, January 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $95.12, for a total value of $884,616.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 144,168 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,713,260.16. This trade represents a 6.06% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Over the last three months, insiders sold 24,965 shares of company stock valued at $2,352,460. 1.08% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.
Wall Street Analyst Weigh In PFG has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. UBS Group lifted their price target on Principal Financial Group from $88.00 to $92.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a research note on Thursday, January 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reissued a “neutral” rating and issued a $103.00 price objective on shares of Principal Financial Group in a report on Monday, January 5th. Piper Sandler boosted their price objective on Principal Financial Group from $94.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 23rd. Barclays reaffirmed an “underweight” rating and set a $85.00 target price on shares of Principal Financial Group in a research note on Thursday, January 8th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reiterated a “hold” rating and set a $92.00 target price on shares of Principal Financial Group in a research report on Thursday, March 26th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company’s stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Principal Financial Group has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $94.22.
Get Our Latest Research Report on Principal Financial Group
Principal Financial Group Trading Up 2.1% Shares of Principal Financial Group stock opened at $90.11 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.27, a quick ratio of 0.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. Principal Financial Group, Inc. has a twelve month low of $68.39 and a twelve month high of $97.88. The firm has a market capitalization of $19.54 billion, a PE ratio of 17.10, a P/E/G ratio of 0.82 and a beta of 0.87. The firm’s 50-day moving average price is $91.67 and its 200 day moving average price is $87.34.
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ:PFG – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 18th. The company reported $2.20 EPS for the quarter. Principal Financial Group had a return on equity of 16.09% and a net margin of 7.58%.The company had revenue of $4.58 billion during the quarter.
Principal Financial Group Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 27th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 11th were given a dividend of $0.80 per share. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.6%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, March 11th. Principal Financial Group’s payout ratio is presently 60.72%.
Principal Financial Group Profile (Free Report)
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ: PFG) is a global financial services company headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, that provides a range of retirement, investment and insurance solutions to individuals, employers and institutional clients. The firm’s business is organized around retirement services, asset management, and insurance products designed to help clients plan, invest for, and protect income over the long term.
Principal’s product and service offerings include retirement plan recordkeeping and administration for employer-sponsored plans, individual and group retirement annuities, life and disability insurance, employee benefits solutions, and wealth management services.
Further Reading Five stocks we like better than Principal Financial Group
Receive News & Ratings for Principal Financial Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Principal Financial Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Econ Financial Services Corp bought a new stake in Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:PFG – Free Report) in the fourth quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 44,914 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $3,962,000. Principal Financial Group accounts for approximately 2.0% of Econ Financial Services Corp’s portfolio, making the stock its 15th biggest holding.
Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Mn Services Vermogensbeheer B.V. boosted its holdings in Principal Financial Group by 0.6% during the fourth quarter. Mn Services Vermogensbeheer B.V. now owns 86,815 shares of the company’s stock worth $7,658,000 after buying an additional 535 shares in the last quarter. Centennial Wealth Advisory LLC grew its position in Principal Financial Group by 5.2% during the fourth quarter. Centennial Wealth Advisory LLC now owns 6,060 shares of the company’s stock worth $535,000 after buying an additional 301 shares during the period. Goelzer Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in Principal Financial Group by 0.3% in the fourth quarter. Goelzer Investment Management Inc. now owns 116,588 shares of the company’s stock valued at $10,284,000 after buying an additional 394 shares in the last quarter. Acropolis Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in Principal Financial Group in the fourth quarter valued at about $210,000. Finally, Wedge Capital Management L L P NC lifted its position in shares of Principal Financial Group by 1,173.8% during the 4th quarter. Wedge Capital Management L L P NC now owns 411,887 shares of the company’s stock valued at $36,333,000 after acquiring an additional 379,552 shares during the period. 75.08% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
Insider Buying and Selling at Principal Financial Group In other news, CEO Deanna D. Strable-Soethout sold 9,300 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction on Thursday, January 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $95.12, for a total value of $884,616.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 144,168 shares in the company, valued at $13,713,260.16. This represents a 6.06% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders sold 24,965 shares of company stock valued at $2,352,460 over the last ninety days. Insiders own 1.08% of the company’s stock.
Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the company. Piper Sandler boosted their price target on Principal Financial Group from $94.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 23rd. Wells Fargo & Company raised Principal Financial Group from an “underweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $85.00 to $91.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 25th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reiterated a “hold” rating and set a $92.00 target price on shares of Principal Financial Group in a research report on Thursday, March 26th. Bank of America upped their target price on Principal Financial Group from $95.00 to $96.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a report on Tuesday, February 10th. Finally, UBS Group raised their price target on Principal Financial Group from $88.00 to $92.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a research report on Thursday, January 8th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Principal Financial Group currently has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $94.22.
Read Our Latest Analysis on PFG
Principal Financial Group Stock Up 2.1% PFG stock opened at $90.11 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.27 and a quick ratio of 0.27. The company’s 50 day simple moving average is $91.67 and its 200-day simple moving average is $87.34. Principal Financial Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $68.39 and a 12 month high of $97.88. The firm has a market capitalization of $19.54 billion, a PE ratio of 17.10, a P/E/G ratio of 0.82 and a beta of 0.87.
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ:PFG – Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 18th. The company reported $2.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Principal Financial Group had a return on equity of 16.09% and a net margin of 7.58%.The firm had revenue of $4.58 billion during the quarter.
Principal Financial Group Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 27th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, March 11th were given a dividend of $0.80 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, March 11th. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.6%. Principal Financial Group’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 60.72%.
Principal Financial Group Company Profile (Free Report)
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ: PFG) is a global financial services company headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, that provides a range of retirement, investment and insurance solutions to individuals, employers and institutional clients. The firm’s business is organized around retirement services, asset management, and insurance products designed to help clients plan, invest for, and protect income over the long term.
Principal’s product and service offerings include retirement plan recordkeeping and administration for employer-sponsored plans, individual and group retirement annuities, life and disability insurance, employee benefits solutions, and wealth management services.
See Also Five stocks we like better than Principal Financial Group Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:PFG – Free Report).
Receive News & Ratings for Principal Financial Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Principal Financial Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
« PREVIOUS HEADLINEEcon Financial Services Corp Purchases New Shares in Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF $SCHD
NEXT HEADLINE »HealthEquity, Inc. $HQY Shares Bought by Econ Financial Services Corp
Results will be released April 23; Conference call scheduled for April 24
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) announced today that it will release first quarter 2026 financial results after U.S. markets close on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
On Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET, Deanna Strable, chair, president, and chief executive officer, and Joel Pitz, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will discuss the results during a live conference call. Other members of senior management will be available for a question and answer session. Additional information about quarterly financial results, including the earnings release, supplement, and slides will be available on our website at investors.principal.com.
Here's how you can access the Friday, April 24 conference call:
Connect to investors.principal.com to listen to a live webcast. Please go to the website at least 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register and to download/install any necessary audio software. A replay will be available on investors.principal.com approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. About Principal Financial Group®
Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) is a global financial company with approximately 19,000 employees1 passionate about improving the wealth and well-being of people and businesses. In business for 146 years, we’re helping over 75 million customers1 plan, insure, invest, and retire, while working to support the communities where we do business, and building an inclusive workforce. Principal® is proud to be recognized as one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies2 and named as a “Best Places to Work in Money Management3.” Learn more about Principal and our commitment to building a better future at principal.com.
Principal Financial Group is nearing Dividend Aristocrat status, boasting a 17-year dividend growth streak and robust fundamentals. PFG reported strong 2025 results: $1.81 trillion in assets under administration, 10% AUM growth, and 13% EPS growth in Q4. Shares trade at a forward P/E of 9.1, an 18% discount to fair value, with potential for a 25% total return by 2027.
Wall Street expects a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) reports results for the quarter ended March 2026. While this widely-known consensus outlook is important in gauging the company's earnings picture, a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on April 23. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis financial services company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +13.3%.
Revenues are expected to be $4.13 billion, up 3% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.61% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Principal Financial?For Principal Financial, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -0.10%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Principal Financial will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Principal Financial would post earnings of $2.23 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.19, delivering a surprise of -1.79%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates just once.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Principal Financial doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
Expected Results of an Industry PlayerAnother stock from the Zacks Insurance - Multi line industry, Goosehead Insurance (GSHD - Free Report) , is soon expected to post earnings of $0.2 per share for the quarter ended March 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -23.1%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $87.13 million, up 15.3% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus EPS estimate for Goosehead has been revised 0.5% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. However, a higher Most Accurate Estimate has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +10.66%.
This Earnings ESP, combined with its Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), suggests that Goosehead will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
Besides Wall Street's top-and-bottom-line estimates for Principal Financial (PFG), review projections for some of its key metrics to gain a deeper understanding of how the company might have fared during the quarter ended March 2026.
Cwm LLC increased its holdings in shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:PFG – Free Report) by 91.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 43,486 shares of the company’s stock after acquiring an additional 20,771 shares during the quarter. Cwm LLC’s holdings in Principal Financial Group were worth $3,836,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.
A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of PFG. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Principal Financial Group in the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. FWL Investment Management LLC bought a new position in Principal Financial Group during the 3rd quarter worth $32,000. Rialto Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in Principal Financial Group by 3,754.5% during the 4th quarter. Rialto Wealth Management LLC now owns 424 shares of the company’s stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 413 shares during the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC increased its position in Principal Financial Group by 315.7% in the fourth quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 424 shares of the company’s stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 322 shares during the period. Finally, Flagship Harbor Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Principal Financial Group in the fourth quarter worth $38,000. Institutional investors own 75.08% of the company’s stock.
Insider Buying and Selling In other Principal Financial Group news, CEO Deanna D. Strable-Soethout sold 9,300 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $95.12, for a total transaction of $884,616.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 144,168 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,713,260.16. The trade was a 6.06% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Insiders own 1.08% of the company’s stock.
Principal Financial Group Trading Up 1.8% NASDAQ:PFG opened at $97.43 on Thursday. Principal Financial Group, Inc. has a 1 year low of $71.54 and a 1 year high of $97.88. The stock has a market cap of $21.11 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.49, a PEG ratio of 0.87 and a beta of 0.87. The business has a fifty day moving average of $91.40 and a 200-day moving average of $88.53. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a quick ratio of 0.27 and a current ratio of 0.27.
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ:PFG – Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 18th. The company reported $2.20 EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of $4.58 billion for the quarter. Principal Financial Group had a return on equity of 16.09% and a net margin of 7.58%. Equities analysts predict that Principal Financial Group, Inc. will post 9.4 earnings per share for the current year.
Principal Financial Group Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 27th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, March 11th were paid a dividend of $0.80 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, March 11th. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.3%. Principal Financial Group’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 60.72%.
Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Bank of America reduced their price target on shares of Principal Financial Group from $96.00 to $92.00 and set a “neutral” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 14th. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on shares of Principal Financial Group from $93.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a report on Tuesday, March 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price objective on shares of Principal Financial Group from $91.00 to $87.00 and set an “equal weight” rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, April 10th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reissued a “hold” rating and set a $92.00 target price on shares of Principal Financial Group in a research note on Thursday, March 26th. Finally, Barclays restated an “underweight” rating on shares of Principal Financial Group in a research report on Tuesday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $93.44.
Get Our Latest Report on PFG
Principal Financial Group Company Profile (Free Report)
Principal Financial Group (NASDAQ: PFG) is a global financial services company headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, that provides a range of retirement, investment and insurance solutions to individuals, employers and institutional clients. The firm’s business is organized around retirement services, asset management, and insurance products designed to help clients plan, invest for, and protect income over the long term.
Principal’s product and service offerings include retirement plan recordkeeping and administration for employer-sponsored plans, individual and group retirement annuities, life and disability insurance, employee benefits solutions, and wealth management services.
Read More Five stocks we like better than Principal Financial Group Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:PFG – Free Report).
Receive News & Ratings for Principal Financial Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Principal Financial Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
« PREVIOUS HEADLINEB. Metzler seel. Sohn & Co. AG Increases Stock Holdings in Capital One Financial Corporation $COF
NEXT HEADLINE »Nutanix $NTNX Shares Sold by Cwm LLC
First Quarter Segment Highlights (compared to 1Q25)
RIS transfer deposits of $12 billion, up 35% Investment Management gross sales of $37 billion increased 21% International Pension record AUM of $160 billion increased 20% Specialty Benefits record sales of $213 million increased 24% Life Insurance business market premium and fees increased 15% Segment Results
In millions except percentages, or otherwise noted except percentages or otherwise noted)
Retirement and Income Solutions
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
Change
1Q26
1Q25
Change
Pre-tax operating earnings3
$302.1
$283.7
6%
$1,204.0
$1,077.7
12%
Net revenue4
$750.8
$724.2
4%
$2,970.5
$2,833.7
5%
Operating margin5
40.2%
39.2%
40.5%
38.0%
Pre-tax operating earnings increased $18.4 million primarily due to higher net revenue and disciplined expense management. Net revenue increased $26.6 million due to favorable market performance and growth in the business. Investment Management
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
Change
1Q26
1Q25
Change
Pre-tax operating earnings
$125.1
$116.3
8%
$623.2
$572.9
9%
Operating revenues less pass-through expenses6
$426.0
$416.0
2%
$1,740.8
$1,686.0
3%
Operating margin7
30.0%
29.0%
36.5%
34.9%
Assets under management (billions)
$578.0
$555.8
4%
Pre-tax operating earnings increased $8.8 million primarily due to higher operating revenues less pass-through expenses and disciplined expense management. Operating revenues less pass-through expenses increased $10.0 million primarily due to higher management fees, resulting from higher AUM. International Pension
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
Change
1Q26
1Q25
Change
Pre-tax operating earnings
$83.4
$71.2
17%
$328.0
$288.7
14%
Net revenue
$169.3
$146.7
15%
$668.5
$620.3
8%
Operating margin8
49.3%
48.5%
49.1%
46.5%
Assets under management (billions)
$159.6
$133.5
20%
Pre-tax operating earnings increased $12.2 million due to higher net revenue. Net revenue increased $22.6 million primarily due to foreign currency tailwinds, performance fees, and growth in the business. Specialty Benefits
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
Change
1Q26
1Q25
Change
Pre-tax operating earnings
$136.8
$106.2
29%
$562.0
$463.8
21%
Premium and fees
$861.4
$831.5
4%
$3,392.6
$3,287.4
3%
Operating margin9
15.9%
12.8%
16.6%
14.1%
Incurred loss ratio
58.5%
60.7%
58.1%
60.4%
Pre-tax operating earnings increased $30.6 million primarily due to more favorable underwriting. Premium and fees increased $29.9 million driven by growth in the business, supported in part by record sales. Incurred loss ratio improved to 58.5% and was below targeted range driven by improved group life and group dental results along with continued strong group disability experience. Life Insurance
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
Change
1Q26
1Q25
Change
Pre-tax operating earnings
$33.2
$13.3
150%
$11.7
$7.1
65%
Premium and fees
$238.6
$235.1
1%
$961.7
$928.6
4%
Operating margin
13.9%
5.7%
1.2%
0.8%
Pre-tax operating earnings increased $19.9 million driven by improved mortality experience. Premium and fees increased $3.5 million as strong business market growth outpaced the run-off of the legacy life business. Corporate
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
Change
1Q26
1Q25
Change
Pre-tax operating losses
$(122.1)
$(105.6)
(16)%
$(397.7)
$(392.3)
(1)%
Pre-tax operating losses increased $16.5 million due to timing of expenses. Common Stock Dividend
Announced a second quarter cash dividend of $0.82 per share to holders on common shares. This represents a 2-cent increase over first quarter of 2026 and an 8% increase over the prior year quarter. The second quarter dividend will be payable on June 26, 2026, to shareholders of record as of June 1, 2026. Exhibit 1
Principal Financial Group
Impact of Significant Variances10 on Net Income Attributable to PFG; Non-GAAP Net Income Attributable to PFG, Excluding Exited Business; and Non-GAAP Operating Earnings
In millions except per share data
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
1Q26
1Q25
Net income (loss) attributable to PFG
$
(22.7
)
$
(24.7
)
$
(68.5
)
$
(175.3
)
(Income) loss from exited business
-
-
6.1
20.6
Non-GAAP net income (loss) attributable to PFG, excluding exited business
(22.7
)
(24.7
)
(62.4
)
(154.7
)
Net realized capital (gains) losses, as adjusted
-
-
0.2
(3.7
)
Non-GAAP operating earnings
(22.7
)
(24.7
)
(62.2
)
(158.4
)
Income taxes
(3.2
)
(5.6
)
(13.1
)
(36.2
)
Non-GAAP pre-tax operating earnings
$
(25.9
)
$
(30.3
)
$
(75.3
)
$
(194.6
)
Per diluted share:
Net income (loss) attributable to PFG
$
(0.10
)
$
(0.11
)
(Income) loss from exited business
-
-
Non-GAAP net income (loss) attributable to PFG, excluding exited business
(0.10
)
(0.11
)
Net realized capital (gains) losses, as adjusted
-
-
Non-GAAP operating earnings
$
(0.10
)
$
(0.11
)
Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding
220.3
228.8
Segment pre-tax operating earnings (losses):
Retirement and Income Solutions
$
(16.0
)
$
(21.0
)
$
(31.1
)
$
(96.2
)
Investment Management
-
-
4.8
-
International Pension
2.4
-
38.7
11.1
Principal Asset Management
2.4
-
43.5
11.1
Specialty Benefits
(3.0
)
(5.0
)
3.4
(17.9
)
Life Insurance
(4.0
)
(0.6
)
(109.0
)
(92.9
)
Benefits and Protection
(7.0
)
(5.6
)
(105.6
)
(110.8
)
Corporate
(5.3
)
(3.7
)
17.9
1.3
Total segment pre-tax operating earnings (losses)
$
(25.9
)
$
(30.3
)
$
(75.3
)
$
(194.6
)
Income statement line item details of significant variances are available in our earnings conference call presentation on our website.
Earnings Conference Call
On Friday, Apr. 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (ET), Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer Deanna Strable and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Joel Pitz will lead a discussion of results during a live conference call, which can be accessed as follows:
Via live Internet webcast. Please go to investors.principal.com at least 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register, and to download and install any necessary audio software. Analysts who will be asking questions will be sent a dial in number and authorization code in advance of the call. Replay of the earnings call via webcast as well as a transcript of the call will be available after the call at investors.principal.com. The company’s financial supplement and slide presentation is currently available at investors.principal.com, and may be referred to during the call.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains statements that constitute forward‑looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to share repurchases and planned dividends, the realization of our growth and business strategies and results from ongoing operations. Forward‑looking statements are made based upon our current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on us. Such forward‑looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in the forward-looking statements. We describe risks, uncertainties and factors that could cause or contribute to such material differences in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the “Risk Factors” and “Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” sections in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2025, as updated or supplemented from time to time in subsequent filings. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statement for any reason, which speaks as of its date.
Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The company uses a number of non-GAAP financial measures that management believes are useful to investors because they illustrate the performance of normal, ongoing operations, which is important in understanding and evaluating the company’s financial condition and results of operations. They are not, however, a substitute for U.S. GAAP financial measures. Therefore, the company has provided reconciliations of the non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measure at the end of the release. The company adjusts U.S. GAAP measures for items not directly related to ongoing operations. However, it is possible these adjusting items have occurred in the past and could recur in future reporting periods. Management also uses non-GAAP measures for goal setting, as a basis for determining employee and senior management awards and compensation and evaluating performance on a basis comparable to that used by investors and securities analysts.
About Principal®11
Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) is a global financial company with approximately 19,000 employees12 passionate about improving the wealth and well-being of people and businesses. In business for 146 years, we’re helping over 82 million customers12 plan, insure, invest, and retire, while working to support the communities where we do business, and building an inclusive workforce. Principal is proud to be recognized as one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies13 and named as a “Best Place to Work in Money Management14.” Learn more about Principal and our commitment to building a better future at principal.com.
Summary of Principal Financial Group® and Segment Results
Principal Financial Group, Inc. Results
(in millions)
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
1Q26
1Q25
Net income (loss) attributable to PFG*
$
424.6
$
48.1
$
1,561.6
$
1,086.6
(Income) loss from exited business
(104.1
)
251.3
146.7
341.6
Non-GAAP net income (loss) attributable to PFG excluding exited business
$
320.5
$
299.4
$
1,708.3
$
1,428.2
Net realized capital (gains) losses, as adjusted
135.6
115.1
198.8
232.5
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings*
$
456.1
$
414.5
$
1,907.1
$
1,660.7
Income taxes
102.4
70.6
424.1
357.2
Non-GAAP Pre-Tax Operating Earnings
$
558.5
$
485.1
$
2,331.2
$
2,017.9
Segment Pre-Tax Operating Earnings (Losses):
Retirement and Income Solutions
$
302.1
$
283.7
$
1,204.0
$
1,077.7
Principal Asset Management
208.5
187.5
951.2
861.6
Benefits and Protection
170.0
119.5
573.7
470.9
Corporate
(122.1
)
(105.6
)
(397.7
)
(392.3
)
Total Segment Pre-Tax Operating Earnings
$
558.5
$
485.1
$
2,331.2
$
2,017.9
Per Diluted Share
Three Months Ended,
1Q26
1Q25
Net income (loss) attributable to PFG
$
1.93
$
0.21
(Income) loss from exited business
(0.48
)
1.10
Non-GAAP net income (loss) excluding exited business
Weighted-average diluted common shares outstanding (in millions)
220.3
228.8
*U.S. GAAP (GAAP) net income attributable to PFG versus non-GAAP operating earnings
Management uses non-GAAP operating earnings, which is a financial measure that excludes the effect of net realized capital gains and losses, as adjusted, income (loss) from exited business and other after-tax adjustments the company believes are not indicative of overall operating trends, for goal setting, as a basis for determining employee and senior management awards and compensation and evaluating performance on a basis comparable to that used by investors and securities analysts. Note: it is possible these adjusting items have occurred in the past and could recur in future reporting periods. While these items may be significant components in understanding and assessing our consolidated financial performance, management believes the presentation of non-GAAP operating earnings enhances the understanding of results of operations by highlighting earnings attributable to the normal, ongoing operations of the company’s businesses.
Selected Balance Sheet Statistics
Period Ended,
1Q26
4Q25
Total assets (in billions)
$
332.7
$
341.4
Stockholders’ equity (in millions)
$
11,848.7
$
11,917.0
Stockholders’ equity available to common stockholders (in millions)
$
11,815.3
$
11,883.9
Stockholders’ equity, excluding cumulative change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative and accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) other than foreign currency translation adjustment, available to common stockholders (in millions)
$
12,368.7
$
12,445.5
End of period common shares outstanding (in millions)
216.4
217.4
Book value per common share
$
54.60
$
54.66
Book value per common share excluding cumulative change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative and AOCI other than foreign currency translation adjustment
$
57.16
$
57.25
Principal Financial Group, Inc.
Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(in millions, except as indicated)
Period Ended,
1Q26
4Q25
Stockholders’ Equity, Excluding Cumulative Change in Fair Value of Funds Withheld Embedded Derivative and AOCI Other Than Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Available to Common Stockholders:
Stockholders’ equity
$
11,848.7
$
11,917.0
Noncontrolling interest
(33.4
)
(33.1
)
Stockholders’ equity available to common stockholders
11,815.3
11,883.9
Cumulative change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative
(2,220.4
)
(2,080.2
)
AOCI, other than foreign currency translation adjustment
2,773.8
2,641.8
Stockholders’ equity, excluding cumulative change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative and AOCI other than foreign currency translation adjustment, available to common stockholders
$
12,368.7
$
12,445.5
Book Value Per Common Share, Excluding Cumulative Change in Fair Value of Funds Withheld Embedded Derivative and AOCI Other Than Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment:
Book value per common share
$
54.60
$
54.66
Cumulative change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative and AOCI, other than foreign currency translation adjustment
2.56
2.59
Book value per common share, excluding change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative and AOCI other than foreign currency translation adjustment
$
57.16
$
57.25
Principal Financial Group, Inc.
Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(in millions)
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
1Q26
1Q25
Income Taxes:
Total GAAP income taxes (benefit)
$
68.9
$
(34.0
)
$
263.4
$
162.6
Net realized capital gains (losses) tax adjustments
37.6
25.2
45.9
30.2
Exited business tax adjustments
(27.6
)
63.0
39.2
86.9
Income taxes related to equity method investments and noncontrolling interest
23.5
16.4
75.6
77.5
Income taxes
$
102.4
$
70.6
$
424.1
$
357.2
Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses):
GAAP net realized capital gains (losses)
$
(122.1
)
$
(117.1
)
$
22.7
$
(143.5
)
Market value adjustments to fee revenues
0.1
(0.1
)
0.1
-
Net realized capital gains (losses) related to equity method investments
0.9
4.6
1.6
(2.4
)
Derivative and hedging-related revenue adjustments
(27.4
)
(13.2
)
(115.6
)
14.7
Certain variable annuity fees
17.1
17.0
68.1
70.1
Certain real estate-related depreciation and amortization
(14.9
)
-
(14.9
)
-
Sponsored investment funds and other adjustments
9.5
7.1
43.9
31.1
Capital gains distributed – operating expenses
25.4
33.4
(39.4
)
(41.5
)
Amortization of actuarial balances
(5.9
)
(1.9
)
(18.5
)
(3.5
)
Derivative and hedging-related expense adjustments
(0.6
)
0.5
0.5
(1.7
)
Market value adjustments of embedded derivatives
(20.1
)
(22.0
)
(22.1
)
(42.6
)
Market value adjustments of market risk benefits
(47.8
)
(43.9
)
(104.0
)
(91.1
)
Capital gains distributed – cost of interest credited
0.4
6.1
(28.3
)
(29.8
)
Net realized capital gains (losses) tax adjustments
37.6
25.2
45.9
30.2
Net realized capital gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interest, after-tax
12.2
(10.8
)
(38.8
)
(22.5
)
Total net realized capital gains (losses) after-tax adjustments
(13.5
)
2.0
(221.5
)
(89.0
)
Net realized capital gains (losses), as adjusted
$
(135.6
)
$
(115.1
)
$
(198.8
)
$
(232.5
)
Income (Loss) from Exited Business:
Pre-tax impacts of exited business:
Amortization of reinsurance gains (losses)
$
(19.7
)
$
(26.4
)
$
(77.4
)
$
(605.9
)
Other impacts of reinsured business
(35.4
)
(106.2
)
(139.1
)
68.5
Net realized capital gains (losses) on funds withheld assets
9.4
28.0
24.6
68.2
Change in fair value of funds withheld embedded derivative
177.4
(209.7
)
6.0
40.7
Tax impacts of exited business
(27.6
)
63.0
39.2
86.9
Total income (loss) from exited business
$
104.1
$
(251.3
)
$
(146.7
)
$
(341.6
)
Principal Financial Group, Inc.
Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(in millions)
Three Months Ended,
Trailing Twelve Months,
1Q26
1Q25
1Q26
1Q25
Investment Management Operating Revenues Less Pass-Through Expenses:
Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $2.07 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.01 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.81 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +2.99%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this financial services company would post earnings of $2.23 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.19, delivering a surprise of -1.79%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Principal Financial, which belongs to the Zacks Insurance - Multi line industry, posted revenues of $3.52 billion for the quarter ended March 2026, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 14.51%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $4.01 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Principal Financial shares have added about 10.5% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 4.3%.
What's Next for Principal Financial?While Principal Financial has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Principal Financial was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $2.31 on $4.08 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $9.32 on $16.75 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Insurance - Multi line is currently in the bottom 41% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Enact Holdings, Inc. (ACT - Free Report) , another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended March 2026. The results are expected to be released on May 5.
This company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $1.26 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +14.6%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 2.6% higher over the last 30 days to the current level.
Enact Holdings, Inc.'s revenues are expected to be $312.26 million, up 0.7% from the year-ago quarter.
For the quarter ended March 2026, Principal Financial (PFG - Free Report) reported revenue of $3.52 billion, down 12.4% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $2.07, compared to $1.81 in the year-ago quarter.
The reported revenue represents a surprise of -14.51% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.11 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $2.01, the EPS surprise was +2.99%.
While investors scrutinize revenue and earnings changes year-over-year and how they compare with Wall Street expectations to determine their next move, some key metrics always offer a more accurate picture of a company's financial health.
As these metrics influence top- and bottom-line performance, comparing them to the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated helps investors project a stock's price performance more accurately.
Here is how Principal Financial performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:
Assets under management (AUM) - International Pension: $159.60 billion versus $156.66 billion estimated by four analysts on average.Assets under management (AUM) - Investment Management: $578.00 billion versus $592.39 billion estimated by four analysts on average.Revenue- Net investment income: $1.2 billion compared to the $1.28 billion average estimate based on four analysts. The reported number represents a change of +2.9% year over year.Revenue- Corporate Segment- Net Investment Income: $61.6 million versus the four-analyst average estimate of $51.1 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +8.6%.Revenue- Corporate Segment- Premiums and other considerations: $-1.4 million compared to the $-1.05 million average estimate based on four analysts. The reported number represents a change of +7.7% year over year.Revenue- Corporate Segment- Fees and other revenues: $-0.4 million compared to the $-16.88 million average estimate based on four analysts. The reported number represents a change of -97.8% year over year.Revenue- Corporate Segment- Total: $59.8 million versus the four-analyst average estimate of $33.17 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +61.2%.Revenue- Fees and other revenues: $1.12 billion compared to the $1.1 billion average estimate based on four analysts. The reported number represents a change of +3.7% year over year.Revenue- Premiums and other considerations: $1.15 billion versus the four-analyst average estimate of $1.66 billion. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of -34.4%.Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment: $1.25 billion versus $1.27 billion estimated by four analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +3.3% change.Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Net Investment Income: $153.9 million compared to the $163.95 million average estimate based on four analysts. The reported number represents a change of +4.1% year over year.Revenue- Benefits and Protection Segment- Fees and other revenues: $116.2 million versus $124.66 million estimated by four analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a -2.4% change.View all Key Company Metrics for Principal Financial here>>>
Shares of Principal Financial have returned +9.8% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +9.7% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Adjusted Non-GAAP EPS Growth: 13% growth in the first quarter.Capital Returned to Shareholders: $375 million, including $200 million in share repurchases.Commo
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) announced today Tim Brown will join the company as executive vice president, general counsel, and secretary, effective June 8, 2026. Brown will lead legal, government relations, and compliance, and serve as corporate secretary to the Principal® Board of Directors.
“Tim is a proven leader with a track record of helping financial services organizations navigate complexity while positioning them for long-term growth,” said Deanna Strable, chair, president, and chief executive officer of Principal. “His experience spanning legal, compliance, government relations, and operations, as well as his ability to lead through change, will be invaluable as we continue to deliver for customers around the world.”
Brown will report to Strable and serve as a member of the executive management team. He will relocate to Des Moines, Iowa, and be based in the company’s global headquarters.
Prior to joining Principal, Brown served as vice president, chief legal officer, and corporate secretary of Venerable Holdings, Inc. He previously served as vice president and chief counsel for M&A, corporate transactions, and insurance regulatory at Voya.
Brown received a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School and a Bachelor of Science cum laude from Tennessee State University. Additionally, he completed the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program and serves in leadership positions for multiple industry associations.
About Principal Financial Group®
Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) is a global financial company with approximately 19,000 employees1 passionate about improving the wealth and well-being of people and businesses. In business for 146 years, we’re helping 82 million customers1 plan, insure, invest, and retire, while working to support the communities where we do business, and building an inclusive workforce. Principal® is proud to be recognized as one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies2 and named as a “Best Places to Work in Money Management3.” Learn more about Principal and our commitment to building a better future at principal.com.
Research finds softened employer confidence amid economic pressure, with workforce levels remaining stable
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Against a backdrop of renewed inflationary pressure, escalating global conflict, and price volatility across energy and financial markets, U.S. business leaders have moved from early-year optimism to proceeding with greater caution as they work to maintain stability through ongoing uncertainty. The latest Principal Financial Well‑Being Index℠, a quarterly measure of business sentiment and financial health, finds business optimism declined in March as rising macroeconomic pressures took hold. The Index fell to 6.06 out of 10, which is a nearly 6% decline from January, and erases a modest rebound realized in the second half of 2025.
“Employers across all business sizes are now confronting a more uncertain environment after entering the year with confidence in their ability to navigate policy changes and economic volatility,” said Amy Friedrich, president, Benefits and Protection, Principal®. “Small businesses are paying close attention to forces beyond their immediate control, changing how they plan. Even local decisions are now informed by global dynamics, pushing employers to focus on efficiency and near-term resilience.”
Macroeconomic pressures come into focus
Macroeconomic concerns have moved to the forefront for employers of all sizes. Worries about economic inflation (+7 points), the stability of the global financial system (+6 points), and the potential for a recession (+8 points) have all increased, while nearly half (48%) of employers report concern around energy and fuel price volatility. Additionally, just 17% now believe the U.S. economy is growing, an 8-point decrease from January and a near-record low in the history of the Index.
While small-to-midsize businesses (SMBs) have historically reported lower levels of macroeconomic concerns than larger firms, that gap has narrowed amid rising cost and supply-related pressures. Rising concerns about high interest rates, supply chain and logistics, raw materials and business supplies has steadily brought SMB concern levels in closer alignment with those of larger firms over the past year.
Business optimism and financial performance soften, and staffing remains steady
While measures of business optimism and financial performance softened in March, employers continue to show resilience across core operations. Just over half (54%) of business leaders report their company’s financials have improved compared to this time last year, a six-point decline from January. Perceptions of growth have also moderated, with 51% of employers saying their own business is growing, down from 56% at the start of the year.
Workforce stability remains a bright spot as most businesses are holding steady rather than pulling back. Nearly half (48%) of employers increased headcount, while 42% maintained staffing levels. Only 13% report reducing their workforce.
SMBs share stronger expectations about what lies ahead than larger businesses. They are six times more likely than large employers to believe their financial performance will improve over the next 12 months, signaling confidence that future conditions will outpace today’s reality, even as broader economic confidence declines.
“In 2025, businesses anchored their confidence in the strength of their own operations, even amid market volatility,” said Friedrich. “That confidence has been tested this year by higher fuel costs, persistent inflation, and growing recession concerns. Still, many small and midsize businesses continue to look ahead with cautious optimism—focused on protecting what’s in front of them today while preparing for opportunities that lie ahead.”
About Principal Financial Group®
Principal Financial Group® (Nasdaq: PFG) is a global financial company with approximately 19,000 employees1 passionate about improving the wealth and well-being of people and businesses. In business for 146 years, we’re helping over 75 million customers1 plan, insure, invest, and retire, while working to support the communities where we do business, and building an inclusive workforce. Principal® is proud to be recognized as one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies2 and named as a “Best Places to Work in Money Management3.” Learn more about Principal and our commitment to building a better future at principal.com.
About the Principal Financial Well-Being IndexSM
The Principal Financial Well-Being Index℠ (WBI) Wave 2 (March 16 – 17, 2026) is recurring research used to track sentiment around repeated financial health measures and timely issues relevant to businesses. Business owners, decision makers, and business leader participants who represent companies with between 2 to 10,000 employees (n=1,000) provide information by completing a 15-minute online survey. Access to sample is provided by ROI Rocket, a third-party research panel provider.
In 2025, the WBI added a formal index. The index number in the WBI is calculated by taking responses from 6 perceptual measures evaluating current financial health, financial comparisons year over year, and future projections for business and economic outlook. The percentages of respondents who answered positively for each measure are averaged and standardized to a 0-10 scale, with perceptions of business / company, local economic, and U.S. economic growth weighted 60%, 20%, and 20% respectively within their aggregate measure.
Small businesses = 2–499 employees, Large businesses = 500–10,000 employees
Key Takeaways PFG expects long-term revenue growth from higher premiums, fees and investment income.Principal Financial grew managed AUM 7% year over year to $770B at year-end.PFG targets 9%-12% EPS growth in 2026 despite rising expenses and acquisition risk Shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG - Free Report) are trading at a price-to-book value of 1.88X, lower than the industry average of 2.52X, the Finance sector’s 4.37X and the Zacks S&P 500 Composite’s 8.18X. Its pricing, at a discount to the industry average, provides a better entry point to investors. The stock has a Value Score of A. This style score helps find the most attractive value stocks.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Some of its peers include CNO Financial Group, Inc. (CNO - Free Report) , MetLife, Inc. (MET - Free Report) and Radian Group Inc. (RDN - Free Report) , which are trading at a price-to-book value of 1.73X, 1.94X and 0.97X, respectively, in the past year.
With a market capitalization of $22.36 billion, the average number of shares traded in the last three months was 1.4 million.
PFG’s Price PerformancePrincipal Financial shares have gained 31.6% in the past year against the industry’s decline of 0.3%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PFG’s Encouraging Growth ProjectionThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for Principal Financial’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates a year-over-year increase of 13.2%. The consensus estimate for revenues is pegged at $16.35 billion, implying a year-over-year improvement of 1.8%.
The consensus estimate for 2027 EPS and revenues indicates an increase of 9.4% and 6.7%, respectively, from the corresponding 2026 estimates.
The expected long-term earnings growth is pegged at 11.3%.
PFG’s Key TailwindsPrincipal Financial’s revenue growth is expected to improve in the long run, driven by higher premiums and other considerations, fees and other revenues, and improved net investment income across its segments.
Principal Financial continues to benefit from its strength and leadership in retirement and long-term savings, group benefits and protection in the United States, retirement and long-term savings in Latin America and Asia, plus global asset management. These strengths help it deliver solid operating earnings.
Continued growth in fee, spread and risk businesses boosts the company’s long-term prospects. The company continues to leverage a favorable market position in the retirement industry and remains optimistic about the momentum across retirement platforms. PFG estimates solid revenue growth and margin expansion across all its segments over the long term.
The Specialty Benefits Insurance business should continue to gain from record sales, strong retention and employment growth. Favorable claims, business growth and disciplined expense management should benefit its pre-tax operating earnings.
Principal Financial’s assets under management (AUM) are driven by solid results across its three asset management and asset accumulation segments. Total company-managed AUM was $770 billion at the end of first-quarter 2026, increasing 7% year over year. Principal Financial’s extensive distribution footprint, strategic buyouts and operational discipline should enhance AUM growth.
Management utilizes a significant portion of its operating earnings for mergers and acquisitions and intends to continue doing so. Acquisitions, such as MetLife's Afore business, Internos and RobustWealth, have helped the company expand its fee-based businesses and global footprint. Integration of Wells Fargo Institutional Retirement and Trust business, along with strategic investment and initiatives, has expanded Principal Financial’s retirement offerings. Principal Financial looks forward to further leveraging the relationship to capitalize on its global retirement and asset management expertise through the partnership.
PFG boasts a strong capital position, with sufficient cash generation capabilities and liquidity. The company ended the first quarter of 2026 in a strong position, with $1.45 billion of excess and available capital. For 2026, PFG remains well-positioned to deliver on its enterprise long-term financial targets, with 9-12% growth in EPS and 75% to 85% free capital flow conversion.
Risks for PFGPFG’s expenses have been increasing due to a rise in benefits, claims and settlement expenses, as well as operating expenses, weighing on margin expansion.
Principal Financial has been growing inorganically through acquisitions, which increases its debt obligation risks associated with successful integration.
Final Take on PFGPrincipal Financial should benefit from fee-based revenue sources, improving assets under management, strategic buyouts, strong retention and effective capital deployment. However, escalating costs and dilution from acquisitions are concerns.
The board of directors raised the second-quarter dividend by 8% to 82 cents per share in April 2026 and targets a 40% dividend payout ratio. It also boasts a solid dividend yield of 3.1%, higher than the industry average of 2.6%.
Coupled with the impressive dividend history, attractive valuations, and solid growth projections, PFG should continue to benefit over the long term. The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
OLDWICK, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AM Best has assigned a Long-Term Issue Credit Rating of “a” (Excellent) to Principal Financial Group, Inc.’s (PFG) (headquartered in Des Moines, IA) recently announced USD 400 million issuance of 5.3% senior unsecured notes due 2037. The outlook assigned to this Credit Rating (ratings) is stable.
The proceeds from this debt issuance are expected to be used to cover general business purposes, as well as to prefund upcoming maturities. PFG’s proforma adjusted financial leverage of 24%, as calculated by AM Best, and interest coverage are adequate, and are in line with the company’s current ratings. Its holding company liquidity is strong.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
