Effective 3/1/19, Franklin Balanced Fund repositioned to become an income strategy. The fund changed its name to Franklin Managed Income Fund, as well as its dividend policy, investment management fees and primary benchmark.
Managed Distribution Policy Risks - The Franklin Managed Income Fund is not guaranteed to achieve its investment goal of seeking to maximize income to support monthly distributions, while maintaining the prospects for capital appreciation. In addition, some of its distributions may be treated in part as a return of capital which will decrease shareholders' cost basis in the fund and affect the amount of any capital gain or loss that they realize when selling or exchanging fund shares. The annual payout rate may be adjusted higher or lower from year to year, and could vary substantially over time. It is possible for the fund to suffer substantial investment losses and simultaneously experience additional asset reductions as a result of its distributions to shareholders under the managed distribution policy. Investors who hold the fund within a tax-advantaged retirement account should consult their tax advisors to discuss tax consequences of receiving cash distributions. In addition, use of the fund or election of the option to receive distribution payments in cash may be restricted in certain retirement plans by the terms of the governing plan documents and/or the discretion of the plan administrator. Investors are strongly advised to consult with their financial professional for assistance before selecting the fund, based on their goals and personal situations, including time horizon, income needs, risk tolerance, and tax bracket. These and other risks are described more fully in the fund's prospectus.