What happened
Financial services giant Prudential (PRU 0.41%) outpaced the market last month as the stock rose 15% versus a 4% jump in the S&P 500, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence.
The rally added on to strong returns for shareholders, with the stock up over 20% so far in 2019 compared with a 15% increase in the broader market.
Image source: Getty Images.
So what
April's rally came as investors bet that the company's first-quarter report, slated for May 1, would show strong operating results. Prudential didn't disappoint in that regard. Key operating metrics including book value and return on equity rose despite a modest decrease in adjusted operating income. The company continued its strategy of returning plenty of excess capital to shareholders, with $915 million directed toward investors through stock buybacks and dividend payments.
Now what
Prudential plans to spend about $1.5 billion over the next three quarters on repurchasing its stock, and its 11% dividend hike also implies increased direct returns on the way for investors. Over the longer term, its success will depend on management's ability to strengthen its three main revenue streams -- U.S. workplace financial products, global asset management, and international life insurance -- while always selling its offerings at an appropriate risk-based price.
