What does BHFAO's full-year 2024 earnings reveal about its stability?
4/13/2025 12:13am
Brighthouse Financial's (BHF) full-year 2024 earnings report highlights several key aspects of its stability and resilience:
1. **Consistent Profitability**: BHF demonstrated robust profitability, with adjusted net income of $4.25 per share in Q1 2024, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 7.3%. This indicates strong financial performance and the company's ability to generate earnings in line with market expectations.
2. **Revenue Growth**: Despite a slight miss in revenue expectations, BHF's total operating revenues increased by 2.9% year-over-year, reaching $2.1 billion. This growth, although modest, shows the company's ability to generate income from its operations.
3. **Capital Adequacy**: BHF's capital position remains stable, with a risk-based capital (RBC) ratio between 380-400% as of Q1 2024. While this is below the 400-450% range the company typically aims for, it is important to note that this does not indicate an immediate solvency threat. The company's capital is still considered adequate to support its operations and future growth.
4. **Dividend Returns**: BHF continues to return value to shareholders, with a history of stock repurchases. In 2024, the company returned $250 million to shareholders through common stock repurchases, reflecting its commitment to shareholder value.
5. **Business Segment Performance**: The Annuities segment showed strength, with adjusted operating income of $313 million and a 14.1% increase year-over-year. Annuity sales increased by 3% to $2.9 billion, driven by strong sales of Shield Level Annuities. This indicates a solid base of business that can contribute to stability.
6. **Strategic Initiatives**: BHF's strategic moves, such as the launch of new products like Shield Level Pay Plus and enhancements to the Shield Level Annuities suite, suggest a forward-looking approach to growth and stability.
In conclusion, BHF's full-year 2024 earnings reveal a company that is stable and resilient, with consistent profitability, growing revenue, and a strong capital position. While there are areas for improvement, such as capital generation and a slight miss in revenue expectations, the overall picture presents a company that is well-managed and positioned for the future.