SCHEDULE 13G/A: Franklin Resources and Affiliates Disclose 16.3% Stake in Benitec Biopharma Inc.

Franklin Resources, Inc. and its affiliates, including Franklin Advisers, Inc., have disclosed a beneficial ownership of 16.3% in Benitec Biopharma Inc., totaling 4,415,130 shares as of March 31, 2025.

Summary

• Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin Advisers, Inc. collectively beneficially own 4,415,130 shares of Benitec Biopharma Inc. Common Stock.
• This ownership represents 16.3% of the class of securities.
• The total shares beneficially owned include 1,554,404 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants.
• Franklin Advisers, Inc. holds sole voting and sole dispositive power over all 4,415,130 shares.
• Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson, Jr., as principal shareholders of Franklin Resources, Inc., are also listed as reporting persons but report 0 beneficial ownership directly.
• Clients of Franklin Resources' Investment Management Subsidiaries, including registered investment companies and other managed accounts, have the right to receive dividends and proceeds from the sale of these securities.
• Specifically, Franklin Biotechnology Discovery Fund (a U.S. registered investment company) has an interest in 1,529,335 shares, representing 5.6% of the class.
• Franklin Biotechnology Discovery Fund (a Luxembourg registered SICAV) has an interest in 2,885,722 shares, representing 10.6% of the class.
• The filing certifies that the securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business and not for the purpose of changing or influencing control of the issuer.

Sentiment

Score: 5

Explanation: The document is a factual disclosure of beneficial ownership, providing neutral information without expressing positive or negative sentiment regarding the company's performance or outlook.

Future Outlook

NA

Industry Context

This filing is a standard disclosure of a significant ownership stake by a large asset manager in a biotechnology company. Such disclosures provide transparency regarding institutional investment positions within the industry, which can sometimes signal confidence or strategic interest in specific sectors or companies.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: Provides transparency regarding a significant institutional investor's stake, which can influence market perception and trading activity.
• Management: Awareness of a large shareholder's position, though the filing states the stake is not for influencing control.

Key Dates

Keywords

Benitec Biopharma Inc., Franklin Resources Inc., Franklin Advisers Inc., Schedule 13G, Beneficial Ownership, Common Stock, SEC Filing, Investment Management, Biotechnology, Warrants