BEN – Franklin Resources, Inc.

Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) Monthly Stock Analysis – November 21, 2025

Company Overview

Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE: BEN), headquartered in San Mateo, California, is a prominent player in the financial services sector, functioning primarily as an asset management holding company. Established in 1947, it offers a diverse range of services that cater to both individual and institutional investors, including pension plans, trusts, and mutual funds. With a comprehensive portfolio that spans equity, fixed income, balanced, and multi-asset mutual funds, Franklin Resources positions itself as a key facilitator in the investment landscape, managing assets across public equity, fixed income, and alternative markets.

As of now, Franklin Resources maintains a global presence, with offices in cities such as London, Dubai, Shanghai, and Fort Lauderdale. Despite facing a cautious outlook in the asset management industry, the company stands resilient, displaying robust operational metrics and resourceful asset management practices.

52-Week Price Performance Analysis

The performance of Franklin Resources stocks over the past year reveals a notable narrative marked by volatility and trend shifts. As of November 20, 2025, the stock price settled at $21.21, showcasing an intriguing position between its 52-week high of $26.08 and low of $16.25.

Technical Insights

• Support and Resistance Levels: The $20 mark served as resistance during the early bullish trend from May to September, which was surpassed as the stock rallied. The $26 level proved to be a formidable resistance point, with the stock struggling significantly to remain above this threshold.
• Current Support Testing: Presently, Franklin Resources is testing critical support around $21.18. The ability to maintain above this level will be crucial in determining its immediate future.
• Moving Averages and Momentum: The 50-day moving average stands at $23.08, suggesting that the current trading price is below this level, indicating bearish momentum as selling pressure has intensified following a downturn in October and November. Consequently, the breach of the moving average signals a potential continuation of the downtrend unless a significant reversal occurs.

Chart Overview

The 52-week chart indicates:
– A sideways consolidation phase from November to April with price fluctuations between $18 and $20.
– A bullish breakthrough from May to September where the stock reigned higher than $26, reflecting strong upward momentum backed by positive investor sentiment.
– A bearish reversal from October, culminating in increased selling pressure and breach of key price levels.

Financial Performance and Metrics

Franklin Resources delivered significant numbers in its most recent fiscal quarter:
– Total Revenue: $8.77 billion, which showcases its firm footing in the market.
– Net Income: $117.6 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, showing a rise from the previous quarter’s income of $92.3 million.
– Assets Under Management: A notable growth to $1.66 trillion.
– Alternative Assets: A record of $270 billion was achieved following the strategic acquisition of Apera Asset Management.

Valuation Metrics

• The company reflects a valuation metric that remains attractive, with an EBITDA of $1.70 billion.
• Current trading at $21.21, juxtaposed against the analysts’ projected target prices, implies moderate upside potential, with a high target of $31.00 and a more conservative mean target of $24.82.

Recent News and Developments

Recent developments have included:
– Positive fiscal performance in Q4 2025.
– Strategic expansions leading to increased AUM.
– Acquisitions, like that of Apera Asset Management, contributing positively to alternative asset holdings.

Despite these advancements, the stock has seen a 1.32% dip following the release of these earnings, closing at $23.19. This reaction underscores potential market hesitance reflected in broader economic indicators.

Market Sentiment and Analyst Recommendations

Analyst sentiment as of November 16, 2025, presents a nuanced view:
– The consensus recommendation is to “Reduce” the position based on fourteen ratings.
– Out of the ratings, five analysts assigned a sell, five a hold, and four a buy rating.
– The average target price according to analysts is $23.91, suggesting that while there is growth potential, caution is advised based on market conditions and stock performance.

Outlook

The cautious recommendation aligns with current market trends and the overall economic environment for financial services. The short interest in the stock stands at 11.76%, indicating some bearish sentiment among a segment of investors, though the majority appear to hold a more positive or neutral stance.

Conclusion

In summary, while Franklin Resources, Inc. has demonstrated commendable financial performance and strategic growth avenues in the past year, recent stock price movements reflect a more cautious sentiment. Retail investors should weigh the current trading dynamics critically, particularly the significance of support and resistance levels, and consider broader market trends impacting financial services.

This stock presents an intriguing opportunity for long-term investors but also requires a measured approach amidst short-term volatility. As the company navigates a challenging environment, stakeholders are advised to monitor key price levels, analyst sentiments, and market trends closely for informed decision-making.

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This investment analysis provides a detailed examination of Franklin Resources, allowing readers to make well-informed investment decisions based on comprehensive data and insights from financial markets.

Metric	Value
Market Cap	$11.0b
Total Debt	$3.4b
Total Cash	$3.1b
Shares Outstanding	521.0m
Float Shares	303.7m