Vanguard Group Adds $590M in Ares Management Corporation ($ARES)

Vanguard Group has significantly increased its holdings in Ares Management Corporation (NYSE:ARES). According to the latest 13F filing with the SEC, Vanguard added 4,373,955 shares, boosting its position by 20.18%. This brings its total holdings to 26,050,425 shares valued at approximately $3.51 billion as of the reporting period.

What Changed in Vanguard Group's Ares Management Position

Vanguard Group's recent filing shows a substantial increase in its Ares Management stake. The fund added 4,373,955 shares, taking its total from 21,676,470 shares to 26,050,425 shares. This represents a 20.18% increase, reflecting a strong confidence in Ares Management's prospects.

Other Institutional Activity in Ares Management

Other funds have also been active with Ares Management. BlackRock, Inc. slightly reduced its stake by 40,317 shares, leaving it with 16,169,065 shares valued at $1.76 billion. Vanguard Capital Management LLC initiated a new position, acquiring 13,489,463 shares worth about $1.47 billion. Capital World Investors increased its holdings by 1,654,954 shares, reaching 11,784,120 shares valued at $1.29 billion. Wellington Management Group LLP significantly boosted its position by 5,333,577 shares, bringing its total to 11,162,802 shares worth $1.22 billion.

Ares Management Stock Snapshot

Shares of Ares Management (NYSE:ARES) are trading at approximately $134.9. The company has a market capitalization of $30.42 billion, with a forward P/E ratio of 18.43 and a beta of 1.516, indicating some volatility relative to the market. The stock's 52-week range spans from $95.8 to $195.26, with a 50-day moving average of $120.07 and a 200-day moving average of $142.04.

Recent Earnings

Ares Management reported revenue of $5.91 billion, showing a growth of 28.3%. The company's net margin stands at 10.54%, with a return on equity of 14.18%. Earnings per share (EPS) were $2.17. The next earnings report is expected on May 1, 2026.

Dividend

Ares Management offers an annual dividend rate of $5.4, yielding 4.0% with a dividend payout ratio of 217.05%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Ares Management Corporation

Insider activity at Ares Management has been notable. On February 20, 2026, Judy Olian bought 480 shares at an average price of $124.43. Ashish Bhutani made two purchases on February 6, 2026, buying a total of 20,000 shares at $126.61 each. Conversely, Co-President Jacobson Blair sold 8,000 shares on June 3, 2026, under a non-planned transaction.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Analysts have been active with their ratings on Ares Management. On May 18, 2026, TD Cowen maintained a 'buy' rating with a price target of $144. Oppenheimer reiterated its 'buy' rating with a target of $146 on May 4, 2026. The consensus among analysts is a 'buy' recommendation, with an average price target of $145.24 based on 17 opinions.

About Ares Management Corporation

Ares Management Corporation, headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is a leading alternative asset manager. It operates through various segments including Direct Lending, Private Equity, and Real Estate. The company provides financing solutions to small-to-medium-sized enterprises and invests in a range of industries from healthcare to energy. Founded in 1997, Ares Management has a global presence with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, employing over 4,297 people.

Bottom Line

The Vanguard Group's decision to increase its stake in Ares Management highlights the firm's confidence in the company's future. As a major player in asset management, Ares Management's stock remains a point of interest for investors. While 13F filings are historical and may not reflect current positions, they offer insight into institutional sentiment and strategy.