Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG)

Over the past six months, PFG's stock has been influenced by strong 2025 results and a positive 2026 outlook, including projected EPS growth and shareholder returns. The company's Q1 2026 earnings were strong, driven by momentum in the retirement ecosystem and global asset management. A dividend increase was announced, representing a 7% increase over the prior year quarter. Credit ratings were affirmed by AM Best and S&P Global Ratings, indicating strong financial health. There were reports of insider selling in early May 2026. PFG's stock price decreased on the last trading day, but has seen stronger returns over longer periods.

Demand seasonality for Principal Financial Group's products and services is influenced by factors within its business segments. Financial institutions often experience seasonal fluctuations, with September and October being strong months for marketing. IRAs tend to see strong sales in March, April, November, and December. The company anticipates higher capital deployments in the second half of the year. Dental claims are typically higher in the first half of the year. New business formation tends to spike in January, March, and June. Historically, November has shown the highest probability of positive returns for PFG stock.

Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG) is a global financial investment management and insurance company based in Des Moines, Iowa. It operates in the asset management and life & health insurance industries, offering diverse financial products and services to businesses, individuals, and institutional clients worldwide. The company's major segments include Retirement and Income Solutions, Principal Asset Management, Benefits and Protection, and Principal International.

Principal Financial Group has a significant global presence with operations in North America (USA, Mexico, and Canada), Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, France, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland), Asia (China, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand), Latin America (Brazil and Chile), Australia (Sydney), and the Middle East.

Principal Financial Group has maintained a strong brand reputation, being named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the 15th time by Ethisphere. It was also ranked #11 on America's JUST 100 list by JUST Capital, recognizing its commitment to stakeholders. Principal has also been recognized as a "Best Places to Work in Money Management."

Principal Financial Group's ownership is primarily dominated by institutional investors, including Vanguard Group Inc., BlackRock, Inc., and Nippon Life Insurance Co. Institutional investors held approximately 73% of the company's shares as of mid-2025. Insider ownership is minimal, with Daniel Gelatt being the largest individual shareholder, owning 0.44% of the company.