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Monthly Distribution Update from John Hancock

On December 1, 2025, John Hancock made a significant announcement regarding its closed-end funds, revealing their monthly distributions for the upcoming month. This initiative aims to provide stability and predictability for investors who rely on income generated from these financial instruments.

Details of the Announcement

The declaration date for the monthly distributions is set as December 1, 2025. The distributions will officially take effect with an ex-date of December 11, 2025. This means that investors who buy shares after this date will not receive the upcoming distribution. The record date, which determines which shareholders are entitled to receive the dividends, coincides with the ex-date, also set for December 11, 2025. All payments will be processed by December 31, 2025.

The announcement also highlighted the specific details of the various funds involved, noting their respective distributions per share and current market pricing:

• - Preferred Income Fund II (HPF): Distribution of $0.1235 per share, with a market price of $16.43, representing an annualized distribution rate of 9.02%.
• - Preferred Income Fund III (HPS): Distribution of $0.1100 per share, with a market price of $14.98, showing an annualized rate of 8.81%.
• - Premium Dividend Fund (PDT): Distribution of $0.0825, with a current market rate of $13.12, translating to a 7.55% annualized distribution.
• - Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (HTD): Shares will receive $0.1580 per share, priced at $24.92 in the market, with a 7.61% annualized distribution.

Fund Distribution Plans

The underlying structure of these distributions is governed by managed distribution plans specific to each fund.

The PDT Plan:

The Premium Dividend Fund operates under a managed distribution plan designed to ensure that shareholders consistently receive the same amount each month. Currently, the fund’s monthly distribution stands at $0.0825 per share. This amount, which will continue until further notice, can originate from various sources, including net investment income and realized capital gains. Additionally, if necessary, it could comprise a return of capital.

The HTD Plan:

Similarly, the Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund also follows a managed distribution plan, stipulating a monthly distribution of $0.1580 per share. Like the PDT Plan, distributions may include net investment income and capital gains, but may also involve a return of capital if the fund meets its requirements under federal tax regulations.

Insight into Distributions and Tax Considerations

It’s essential for investors to understand that a portion of the current distributions could include sources other than net investment income, particularly a return of capital. This distinction is crucial as a return of capital signifies that the fund is returning part of the initial investment rather than profits, which may have tax consequences for the shareholder.

Each year, as required by the Investment Company Act of 1940, shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV that outlines how to report these distributions for tax purposes. Notably, this will be sent after the conclusion of the calendar year, providing clear guidance for tax reporting.

Looking Ahead

John Hancock's focus remains on providing valuable investment products that cater to the diverse needs of investors. Through the strength of their funds and careful management, they continue to prioritize investor assurance and financial growth amid evolving market conditions.

In the end, while the distribution announcements provide immediate benefit to shareholders, they also symbolize John Hancock's broader strategy of maintaining investor trust and maximizing financial stewardship, a commitment that remains core to their mission.

For details on each fund's performance and any future changes in distribution plans, investors can visit John Hancock Investments for access to the latest updates and financial insights.