Apollo Global Management (NYSE: APO ) is one of the world's leading alternative asset managers, with more than $785 billion under management , and with around $380 billion via Athene, its insurance subsidiary. Despite the complexity of its incomeMy investing approach blends macroeconomic analysis with valuation models, including DCF, multiple-based analysis. I pay close attention to financial structure, free cash flow generation, and capital allocation discipline. I’m particularly drawn to companies undergo ...

[Music] Stocks, bonds, ETFs, straight out of downtown Chicago. This is Zach's Market Edge. Welcome to Zach's Market Edge, the podcast about investing in your life.I'm your host, Tracy Rinick. And this week, I'm going solo to talk about Bitcoin. Yes, can you believe it.Bitcoin and gold. Should you be buying one or the other or neither right now here in 2025. Both are hitting new highs.And so I thought it'd be an interesting time to compare the two. Also, I went to some graduations and barbecues on Memorial D ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has $275 billion in assets under management, with 90% deployed in the U.S. [9] - Spreads have widened back up from their lows by approximately 25 to 50 basis points, indicating a stable pricing environment despite market volatility [20][21] - The company reported strong net inflows even during periods of market panic, demonstrating resilience in retail flows [36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has three established flagship products: Diversified Core Income Product, Technology Income, and O Rent, with a newly launched Alternative Credit Interval Fund [42][44] - O Rent is noted as the fastest-growing product, significantly contributing to net capital raising [49] - The company is focused on expanding its distribution footprint, particularly in underpenetrated markets like Japan [46] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The direct lending market is gaining share as the syndicated loan market experiences volatility, with many borrowers preferring the predictability and partnership offered by direct lending [12][19] - The company is seeing a shift in investor behavior, with retail investors viewing alternative products as a safe haven during market volatility [36][38] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on income-oriented products and has a strategic approach to acquisitions, targeting firms that align with its culture and operational model [91][92] - The company is expanding into digital infrastructure and alternative credit markets, recognizing the growing demand for these sectors [66][80] - The company emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong partnership with borrowers, offering predictability and privacy in lending [13][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the current economic uncertainty and stickier inflation but views it as a favorable environment for their business model focused on downside protection and stability [4][5] - The company does not anticipate material stress in its portfolio, as it primarily lends to large, durable companies in sectors like software and healthcare [10][11] - Management believes that the private equity market is more resilient due to the availability of capital in the private credit market, which supports ongoing M&A activity [30][31] Other Important Information - The company has integrated its capabilities with Coveris Asset Management to enhance its distribution channels and asset management capabilities [83][85] - The company is exploring opportunities in the retirement market, recognizing its potential for growth in the long term [58][60] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the balance between the syndicated loan market and direct lending tracking? - The company notes that when the syndicated market is active, borrowers may prefer it, but when it closes, they have no choice but to return to private markets, which benefits direct lending [12][19] Question: What is the view on retail flows and redemption trends? - Management reports strong net inflows and a shift in retail investor behavior towards viewing alternative products as a safe haven [36][38] Question: How does the company view the current M&A environment? - While a less active M&A market is a negative, it can also lead to increased market share for direct lending as liquid markets become less favorable [26][29]

Core Viewpoint - Beneficient has adjourned its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to allow more time for stockholders to vote, as there was not a sufficient number of shares present to constitute a quorum [1][2]. Group 1: Meeting Details - The Annual Meeting has been rescheduled to reconvene on May 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time and will be held virtually [3]. - During the adjournment, the Company will continue to solicit proxies from stockholders regarding the proposals in the proxy statement [4]. - Stockholders who have not yet voted are encouraged to do so before May 28, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Central time, using various voting methods [5]. Group 2: Company Overview - Beneficient is a technology-enabled platform aimed at democratizing the global alternative asset investment market, providing solutions for mid-to-high net worth individuals and small-to-midsized institutions [6]. - The Company’s AltQuote™ tool offers customers a range of potential exit options quickly, while the AltAccess® portal allows secure exploration of opportunities [6]. - Beneficient Fiduciary Financial, L.L.C., a subsidiary of the Company, operates under the Technology-Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institution Act in Kansas and is subject to regulatory oversight [7]. Group 3: Proxy Information - The Company has filed a definitive proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the Annual Meeting [8]. - Information regarding the Company’s directors, executive officers, and their interests is included in the definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on March 21, 2025 [8].

Core Viewpoint - Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) has shown resilience in its stock performance, gaining 6.2% over the past three months, contrasting with the industry's decline of 8.1% and the S&P 500 Index's dip of 2.7% [1] Group 1: Factors Driving Growth - Strategic acquisitions have expanded Franklin's investment capabilities, notably the acquisition of Putnam Investments in January 2024, which increased its defined contribution AUM to over $100 billion [5] - The acquisition of Lexington Partners in 2022 has enhanced Franklin's exposure to private equity and alternative investments, diversifying revenue streams and reducing reliance on traditional investment management fees [6] - Franklin has recorded a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% in AUM over the past five fiscal years, with growth continuing in the first half of fiscal 2025 [7] - Increasing client demand for alternative asset classes is expected to drive AUM expansion, supported by a regionally focused distribution model that has strengthened non-U.S. business [8] Group 2: Financial Position - As of March 31, 2025, Franklin has $5 billion in liquidity, including cash and cash equivalents, ensuring financial flexibility and no short-term debt, which reduces immediate financial strain [9] - The company announced a repurchase authorization of 27.2 million shares in December 2023, with 29.2 million shares remaining available for repurchase as of March 31, 2025, and a 3.2% increase in its common stock dividend [10][11] Group 3: Near-Term Challenges - Investment management fees, constituting 79.3% of total revenue, have shown volatility, with fluctuations influenced by AUM levels and market conditions [12] - Franklin's cost base has increased at a CAGR of 7.2% over the last three fiscal years, driven by investments in technology and talent, which may pressure bottom-line growth [14] Group 4: Valuation and Estimates - Franklin is trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of 10.14X, below the industry average of 16.42X, but at a premium compared to peers Invesco and Grupo Aval [15][18] - Sales estimates for the current year (2025) are projected at $8.29 billion, reflecting a year-over-year decline of 2.27% [21] - Earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026 have been revised downward, indicating a cautious outlook from analysts [22]

CHICAGO, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GCM Grosvenor (Nasdaq: GCMG), a global alternative asset management solutions provider, announced today that Jon Levin, President of GCM Grosvenor, will present at the Morgan Stanley 2025 U.S. Financials, Payments & Commercial Real Estate Conference on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 3:15 PM EDT. A link to the live audio webcast of the presentation will be available on GCM Grosvenor’s public shareholders website and the event website. For those unable to listen to the li ...

Core Viewpoint - The asset management industry is experiencing growth driven by a shift towards higher-yielding investment vehicles, deregulation, and the adoption of tokenized assets, positioning BlackRock and Blackstone favorably to capitalize on these trends [2][25]. Group 1: BlackRock (BLK) - BlackRock has a total AUM of $11.58 trillion as of March 31, 2025, and has expanded through acquisitions, including a 75% stake in SpiderRock Advisors and a deal for HPS Investment, which has nearly $148 billion in AUM [4][5]. - The company has achieved a five-year CAGR of 9.2% in AUM from 2019 to 2024, with continued growth in Q1 2025, supported by its iShares unit and ETF operations [5][6]. - BlackRock's GAAP revenues have seen a CAGR of 7% over the last five years, with ongoing momentum in Q1 2025, bolstered by strategic acquisitions and a diversified product suite [6][25]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BlackRock's revenues indicates a year-over-year growth of 11.83% for Q2 2025 and 10.40% for the current year [7][17]. - BlackRock is considered a stronger investment for 2025 due to its diversified growth strategy, robust AUM expansion, and consistent revenue and earnings growth [25][26]. Group 2: Blackstone (BX) - Blackstone has a total AUM of $1.17 trillion as of March 31, 2025, with available capital of $177.2 billion, positioning it to capitalize on market dislocations despite near-term headwinds [11][12]. - The company is focusing on key sectors such as digital infrastructure and life sciences, with growth opportunities in India and Japan [12][13]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Blackstone's revenues shows a year-over-year growth of 8.88% for Q2 2025 and 2.83% for the current year [16][17]. - Blackstone faces challenges from tighter credit markets and geopolitical uncertainties, which may hinder its near-term growth prospects [14][26]. - Despite a higher return on equity (ROE) of 19.84% compared to BlackRock's 15.57%, Blackstone's deployment challenges and market conditions make it a less compelling buy for 2025 [20][21][26].

CHICAGO, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GCM Grosvenor (Nasdaq: GCMG), a global alternative asset management solutions provider, announced today that Michael Sacks, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GCM Grosvenor, will present at the William Blair 45th Annual Growth Stock Conference on Wednesday, June 4 at 8:40 a.m. CDT. A link to the live audio webcast of the presentation will be available on GCM Grosvenor’s public shareholders website and the event website. For those unable to listen to the live a ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2025 more than doubled year over year to $44.1 million from $21.5 million [7][13] - Adjusted net income increased to $17.3 million, representing a 158% increase from $6.7 million in the prior year [15] - Adjusted EBITDA also more than doubled to $24.5 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 55.6% compared to 53.9% in the prior year [15] - GAAP net income attributable to stockholders was $4.6 million, compared to a GAAP net loss of $1.3 million in the prior year [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Life Solutions revenue was a key driver, with capital deployed increasing 128% to $124.9 million in Q1 2025 compared to $54.6 million in the prior year [13][14] - Asset management revenue for Q1 2025 was $7.8 million, marking the first full quarter of fees from acquisitions made in late 2024 [14] - New AUM inflows for asset management offerings were $151 million, with $123 million coming from newly launched private funds [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - As of March 31, 2025, the company held cash and cash equivalents of $43.8 million and balance sheet policy assets valued at $448.1 million [9][16] - The company reported annualized adjusted return on equity of 16% and adjusted return on invested capital of 16.7% [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to solidify its position as a leader in alternative asset management and wealth management, focusing on uncorrelated assets [12] - The rebranding to Abacus Global Management reflects its evolution and expanded global market presence [10] - The company is committed to executing its growth strategy and expanding its brand recognition through new advertising campaigns [10][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating current market volatility and achieving full-year 2025 adjusted net income guidance of $70 million to $78 million, implying growth of 51% to 68% [7][16] - The macro environment remains uncertain, but the company believes it is well-positioned to capitalize on opportunities arising from market dislocations [9][12] Other Important Information - The company has purchased over $10 billion in face value of life insurance policies since February 2004 [10] - The technology solutions segment has seen significant growth, with nearly one million lives currently tracked and an additional 700,000 in trial [42] Q&A Session Summary Question: Has there been an uptick in inquiries from policyholders since Liberation Day? - Management noted a noticeable uptick in interest from policyholders seeking liquidity and from investors looking for uncorrelated assets [21][23] Question: How does the company view the new repurchase authorization? - Management discussed the strategic decision to repurchase stock based on valuation and potential returns compared to acquiring new policies [24][25] Question: Is the company fully deployed today? - Management confirmed that the capital deployment in Q1 was higher than historical levels and expressed confidence in continuing to recycle capital effectively [28][30] Question: What are the latest thoughts on the carrier buyback program? - Management indicated ongoing activity in the buyback program and noted increasing competition for assets from investors [32][33] Question: Can you provide an update on the technology solutions segment? - Management reported significant growth in the number of lives tracked and highlighted the potential for cross-selling asset management services [42][44] Question: What is the mix of policy acquisitions? - Management stated that approximately 40% of policy flow was direct to consumer, 40% from financial advisors, and 20% from brokers, maintaining a consistent split [66]

Core Insights - Abacus Global Management, Inc. reported exceptional financial results for the first quarter of 2025, with total revenue more than doubling year-over-year to $44.1 million, driven by increased revenues from Life Solutions and asset management fees from recent acquisitions [1][6][2] Financial Performance - Total revenue for Q1 2025 was $44.1 million, compared to $21.5 million in Q1 2024, representing a growth of over 105% [6] - GAAP net income for Q1 2025 was $4.6 million, a significant turnaround from a net loss of $1.3 million in the prior-year period [6] - Adjusted net income grew 158% year-over-year to $17.3 million, up from $6.7 million in Q1 2024 [6] - Adjusted EBITDA more than doubled to $24.5 million, compared to $11.6 million in the prior-year period, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 55.6% [6][27] Capital and Liquidity - As of March 31, 2025, the company had cash and cash equivalents of $43.8 million and total assets of $856.5 million [4][22] - The company reported outstanding long-term debt of $238.0 million [4] Growth and Market Position - The company attracted $122.8 million in capital inflows for its newly launched funds within the first month, indicating strong market demand [2] - The number of policies held increased to 753 from 322 year-over-year, reflecting growth in the company's Life Solutions segment [6] 2025 Outlook - The company maintains its full-year 2025 outlook for adjusted net income between $70 million and $78 million, implying growth of 51% to 68% compared to 2024 [7]