Form 4: Franklin Resources Director Acquires Deferred Stock Units

Karen Matsushima King, a director at Franklin Resources, acquired deferred director's fees representing 1,644.2258 shares of common stock on April 1, 2025.

Summary

• On April 1, 2025, Karen Matsushima King, a director of Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN), acquired deferred director's fees equivalent to 1,644.2258 shares of common stock.
• The transaction was reported on a Form 4 filing with the SEC.
• Following the transaction, King beneficially owns 53,507.8416 shares of Franklin Resources common stock.
• The deferred director's fees are part of the 2006 Directors Deferred Compensation Plan and are payable in cash over ten years after separation from service.
• The payment schedule begins on the earlier of January 20, April 20, July 20, or October 20 following separation from service.

Sentiment

Score: 6

Explanation: The sentiment is neutral as it reflects a standard director compensation transaction. It doesn't indicate any significant positive or negative implications for the company.

Positives

• The acquisition of deferred stock units by a director signals confidence in the company's future performance.

Future Outlook

The deferred director's fees will be paid out in cash over ten years following the director's separation from service, based on the performance of Franklin Resources, Inc.'s stock.

Industry Context

Director stock ownership is a common practice in publicly traded companies to align the interests of management with those of shareholders. This transaction reflects ongoing compensation practices at Franklin Resources.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Deferred compensation plans for directors are a standard practice among financial services companies.
• Companies like BlackRock and T. Rowe Price also utilize similar compensation structures to incentivize and retain board members.
• The amount of deferred compensation varies based on company size, performance, and individual director contributions.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction has a minor positive impact on shareholders as it aligns the director's interests with the company's performance.

Key Dates

Keywords

Franklin Resources, Director, Deferred Compensation, Stock Acquisition, Form 4, BEN, Karen Matsushima King