John Hancock Investors Trust: A Steady Beacon in Turbulent Markets with Record Dividends and Fiscal Fortitude

In a market rife with volatility, investors crave consistency. The John Hancock Investors Trust (JHI) emerges as a compelling income play, delivering not only a robust $0.299 per share dividend but also demonstrating 33% year-over-year growth in net investment income and NAV stability amid economic uncertainty. This closed-end fund (CEF) is positioning itself as a pillar of reliability for those seeking steady dividends and capital preservation.

Dividend Growth: A Testament to Fiscal Discipline

JHI's Q2 2025 dividend of $0.299 per share, announced on June 2, 2025, marks a 27% increase from its previous distribution of $0.2349. This surge underscores the Trust's commitment to rewarding shareholders, even as markets fluctuate. The dividend is part of JHI's managed distribution plan, which allows the Trust to balance income from net investment gains, capital appreciation, and, if necessary, return of capital.

The Trust's 22nd consecutive year of dividend growth since 2003 signals institutional strength. With a current annualized yield of 8.93% at its May 2025 market price, JHI offers a compelling contrast to fixed-income alternatives struggling with rising rates.

Q1 2025 Financials: Growth Amid Headwinds

JHI's Q1 2025 net investment income (NII) surged to $2.48 million, a 33% jump from $1.86 million in 2024. This growth, despite a slight dip in NAV from $14.47 to $14.32, reflects the Trust's ability to generate income through diversified asset allocations.

The increase in NII stems from strategic investments in sectors with stable cash flows, such as real estate and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the NAV decline of 1.0% is negligible compared to broader market declines, highlighting JHI's resilience.

Closed-End Fund Structure: An Advantage in Volatile Markets

CEF structures like JHI's offer distinct benefits. Unlike open-end funds, CEFs can:
1. Leverage capital to amplify returns.
2. Maintain consistent distributions even during market downturns by drawing from accumulated capital gains or return of capital (disclosed transparently to investors).
3. Trade at discounts/premiums, offering opportunities to buy below NAV.

JHI's discount to NAV (as of May 2025, trading at $13.40 vs. a NAV of $14.32) creates an entry point for investors to benefit from potential NAV convergence.

Risks and Transparency: A Balanced Perspective

While JHI's managed distribution plan ensures steady payouts, investors should note that up to 10% of distributions may include return of capital. However, the Trust provides clear disclosures, including estimated distribution sources in shareholder notices.

The $29.5 million net realized loss in Q1 2024 (noted in related filings) underscores the importance of risk management. Yet, JHI's focus on lower-risk, income-generating assets—such as preferred stocks and corporate bonds—buffers against volatility.

Why Act Now?

1. Income Stability: With the Fed signaling caution on rate hikes and bond yields stagnating, JHI's 8.93% yield offers unmatched security.
2. NAV Resilience: Even a 1.0% dip in NAV is dwarfed by broader market declines, proving JHI's portfolio discipline.
3. CEF Discounts: Buying at a discount to NAV positions investors to profit if JHI's shares rebound to intrinsic value.

Conclusion: JHI—Your Anchor in the Storm

John Hancock Investors Trust is more than a fund; it's a blue-chip income solution engineered for turbulent markets. With unwavering dividend growth, strong NII expansion, and a closed-end structure designed for stability, JHI offers a rare blend of yield and security.

Act now to secure this opportunity:
- Buy JHI shares at the current discount to NAV.
- Reap the benefits of an 8.93% yield, backed by 22 years of consistent growth.

In a world where volatility is the norm, JHI's disciplined strategy and proven track record make it a must-have holding for income-focused portfolios.

Invest wisely. Invest decisively.