Federated Hermes, Inc. ((FHI)) has held its Q1 earnings call. Read on for the main highlights of the call.
Federated Hermes, Inc. recently held its earnings call, showcasing a mixed sentiment. The company reported record assets under management and strong sales in equity and alternative markets. Strategic acquisitions and increased dividends were also highlighted. However, challenges such as decreased market share in money markets, mixed equity performance, and net redemptions in fixed-income assets were noted. Additionally, uncertainties related to tax rate fluctuations and FX impacts on expenses were discussed.
Record Assets Under Management
Federated Hermes ended the first quarter with record assets under management totaling $840 billion. This achievement was primarily driven by record money market assets, which reached $637 billion. The company attributes this growth to strategic investments and market conditions favoring their money market offerings.
Strong Equity Sales
The company experienced a significant increase in equity assets, which rose by $1.5 billion from the year-end. This growth was largely due to net sales of $1.4 billion, with MDT strategies contributing $2.5 billion in net sales during the first quarter, more than doubling the previous quarter’s figures.
Increase in Alternative Private Markets
Federated Hermes reported an increase of $562 million in assets within the alternative private markets category during the first quarter. This growth was influenced by favorable FX rates and net sales of approximately $61 million, highlighting the company’s expanding presence in this sector.
Acquisition of Rivington Energy Management Limited
The acquisition of a majority interest in Rivington Energy Management Limited, a U.K. renewable energy company, was completed. This strategic move is expected to enhance Federated Hermes’ private markets platform, particularly in the renewable energy sector.
Dividend Increase
Federated Hermes’ Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.34 per share, marking an increase of nearly 10% from the previous quarter’s dividend. This decision reflects the company’s commitment to returning value to shareholders.
Lower Money Market Fund Market Share
Despite the overall positive performance, Federated Hermes experienced a slight decrease in its money market mutual fund market share, which fell to about 7.10% at the end of the first quarter from approximately 7.22% at the end of 2024.
Equity Performance Challenges
Challenges were noted in equity performance, with only 44% of equity funds outperforming their peers. Additionally, only 31% of these funds were in the top quartile of their category, indicating room for improvement.
Fixed-Income Net Redemptions
The company faced net redemptions of $88 million in combined fixed-income funds and SMAs during the first three weeks of the second quarter, posing a challenge to their fixed-income strategy.
Tax Rate Fluctuations
Federated Hermes reported a lower-than-expected tax rate of 23.6% for the first quarter. However, future expectations range between 25% to 28%, adding an element of uncertainty to financial planning.
FX and VAT Impact on Expenses
Operating expenses in the first quarter decreased due to a VAT refund and FX-related expenses. This indicates potential volatility in future quarters, as these factors can significantly impact financial outcomes.
Forward-Looking Guidance
Looking ahead, Federated Hermes has outlined several key metrics and guidance indicators. The company anticipates $3.9 billion in net institutional mandates yet to fund, including $1.8 billion in equities and $1.7 billion in private market strategies. They also expect fixed income net additions of about $400 million. The company continues to see opportunities in money market strategies, emphasizing their appeal during periods of market volatility.
In summary, Federated Hermes’ earnings call reflected a balanced sentiment with record achievements in assets under management and strategic growth initiatives. While challenges remain in certain areas, the company’s forward-looking guidance suggests continued opportunities for growth, particularly in money market and private market strategies.