Barclays Cautiously Optimistic On Manulife Financial (MFC) Amid Industry Challenges

Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE:MFC) is one of the most undervalued Canadian stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On January 8, Barclays increased its price target for Manulife Financial to C$52 from C$49, while keeping an Equal Weight rating. As part of its 2026 outlook, the firm expressed a cautiously optimistic view on life insurers and noted that capital strength, cash flow, and consolidation are offsetting challenges like spread compression and tech expenditures.

In Q3 2025, Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE:MFC) highlighted a 16% year-over-year increase in EPS and a core ROE of 18.1%. The company’s performance was supported by record core earnings in its Asia, Canada, and Global WAM (Wealth and Asset Management) segments, with the Asia division notably delivering a 29% increase in core earnings. During the quarter, Manulife also reached a milestone by announcing a 50:50 JV with Mahindra & Mahindra to enter the Indian life insurance market, a move intended to leverage Mahindra’s local distribution and Manulife’s global expertise.

Barclays Cautiously Optimistic On Manulife Financial (MFC) Amid Industry Challenges

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Despite these gains, the Global WAM segment faced $6.2 billion in net outflows, and the US segment saw a 20% decrease in core earnings due to unfavorable life insurance claims. The company also noted potential volatility in the Hong Kong market and an expected $25 million quarterly impact from regulatory changes to the Mandatory Provident Fund.

Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE:MFC), together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services internationally. It operates through Wealth & Asset Management Businesses, Insurance & Annuity Products, and Corporate & Other segments.

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.