Rising LeverageHigher leverage (D/E 1.33) raises financial risk for a business exposed to market cycles. Increased interest and principal obligations can limit flexibility to invest in distribution or product development, strain cash management during downturns, and amplify earnings volatility over months to years.
Weak Cash GenerationNegative operating and free cash flow undermine an asset manager's ability to fund growth, service debt, and sustain dividends. Without consistent cash generation, the company may need to rely on external financing or restrict capital returns, weakening resilience and strategic optionality over the medium term.
Earnings VolatilityA steep EPS decline indicates earnings volatility that can reflect fee pressure, one-offs, or operating leverage issues. For a fee-based business, persistent EPS weakness reduces predictability of fee-linked compensation, harms reinvestment plans, and can challenge long-term dividend and capital allocation consistency.