CNO Financial Group Raises Full-Year Earnings Guidance Amid Strong Q2 Performance
CNO Financial Group reported a strong second-quarter performance, with operating earnings per diluted share rising 45% year over year to $1.26 and raising its full-year guidance for operating EPS to between $4.60–$4.80, an increase of 8% at the midpoint from previous estimates. The company experienced broad-based sales growth across divisions, with total new annualized premiums up 7%. Medicare Supplement sales surged by 52%, while Worksite life and health premiums increased by 29%. Annuity collected premiums reached a record $536 million. CNO also returned $77 million to shareholders through buybacks and dividends. CFO Paul McDonough noted the company narrowed its projected expense ratio range, reaffirming other full-year guidance measures. CEO Gary Bhojwani highlighted favorable underwriting results, higher investment income, and disciplined capital management as key drivers of performance.