Horace Mann(HMN) ZACKS·2025-01-09 17:56Company Overview - Horace Mann Educators Corporation (HMN) has a market capitalization of 37.76, down 12.7% from its 52-week high of 44 per share, suggesting a potential upside of 15.6% from the recent closing price [8] Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HMN's 2025 earnings is 10 billion, which is a 6.1% increase [9] - HMN aims to achieve a combined ratio of 97% to 98% in 2025, supported by solid retention and a well-planned approach to auto rate increases [10] Financial Health - The company estimates generating about $50 million in excess capital annually to support growth initiatives, share buybacks, and dividend increases, with free cash flow conversion remaining above 100% [13] - HMN's return on invested capital (ROIC) has improved but was 1.2% in the trailing 12 months, below the industry average of 2.4% [15] - The return on equity (ROE) for HMN was 8.1% in the trailing 12 months, also below the industry average of 15.3%, with a target of achieving double-digit ROE by 2025 [16] Valuation - HMN shares are trading at a discount with a book-to-price ratio of 1.2X compared to the industry average of 2.3X, earning a Value Score of A [17] - Despite being cheaper than the industry average, HMN shares are still considered expensive compared to competitors like Brighthouse Financial, Inc. and Lincoln National Corporation [17] Dividend Policy - HMN has increased dividends for 16 consecutive years at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14%, with a current dividend yield of 3.6%, higher than the industry average of 2.5% [19] - The company targets a 50% dividend payout over the medium term, indicating a strong commitment to returning value to shareholders [19] Market Position - The K-12 educator market presents substantial growth potential for HMN, which is well-positioned to capitalize on strategic initiatives aimed at profitability and maintaining a solid capital position [18]