#USA #Carmel #earnings report #CNO Financial Group #Operating EPS

CNO Financial Group Announces Third Quarter 2026 Financial Results

CARMEL, Ind. — CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) recently presented its financial outcomes for the third quarter of 2026, reflecting robust growth and optimistic projections for earnings moving forward. The company has revised its operating earnings per share (EPS) guidance upward, indicating an increase of 9% from previous estimates.

Reported net income stood at an impressive $161 million, equating to $1.71 per diluted share. Net operating income totaled $179 million, or $1.90 per diluted share, a positive sign for stakeholders. Notably, a substantial $44.9 million came from significant items related to the comprehensive annual actuarial review, contributing favorably to both net income and net operating income.

Operating EPS saw an impressive surge of 47% for the quarter and 43% year-to-date, bolstering investor confidence in the company's performance. The return on equity (ROE) was reported at 16.4%, while the operating ROE, excluding significant items, reached 14.1%.

In terms of stability, the book value per share is now $25.34, while the book value per diluted share, excluding accumulated other comprehensive losses, rose to $41.29, marking an 8% increase. Furthermore, the company has seen its total new annualized premiums (NAP) increase for the 17th consecutive quarter, demonstrating sustained demand and growth within its asset accumulation products.

The consumer and worksite segments of CNO Financial Group have each achieved remarkable milestones, with agent count growth for the 15th and 17th consecutive quarters, respectively. This consistency indicates successful sales strategies in these areas.

One significant development includes the closure of a third reinsurance transaction with CNO’s wholly owned Bermuda affiliate, which reinsures approximately $270 million of in-force graded benefit life statutory reserves from Colonial Penn. This strategic move underscores CNO's commitment to serving middle-income households in America.

Gary C. Bhojwani, CEO of CNO Financial Group, commented on the quarter's achievements, stating, “CNO delivered an excellent quarter, with operating earnings per share up 47% and our 17th consecutive quarter of sales growth.” He emphasized that this momentum reflects disciplined execution across the business and improvements in profitability. Bhojwani also noted, “Based on these results, we are raising our full-year operating earnings per share guidance.”

Looking ahead, CNO Financial Group remains focused on driving sustained, profitable growth while continuing to create long-term value for its shareholders. This strategic direction, combined with the financial resilience demonstrated in the latest quarterly report, positions the company favorably in the ever-evolving landscape of financial services.

Financial Summary

• - Net Income: $161 million
• - Operating EPS: $1.90
• - Book Value per Share: $25.34
• - Total New Annualized Premiums: Increased for 17 consecutive quarters.

In summary, CNO Financial Group's third-quarter performance illustrates its strong operational capabilities and commitment to enhancing shareholder value. The company’s foresight in managing growth and profitability will be pivotal as it navigates the future of the financial services market.