Wellington Management ("Wellington"), one of the world's leading independent investment managers, and The Hartford (NYSE:HIG), today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Wellington will acquire Hartford Funds, a leading provider of investment solutions for the wealth management market. Upon closing, Hartford Funds will be integrated into Wellington's U.S. Wealth business and going forward the business will operate under the Wellington brand.

This transaction will allow Wellington to offer financial advisors and investors broader access to investment capabilities, a deeper distribution platform, and more integrated support across the U.S. wealth management landscape. This will be achieved by combining Wellington's global institutional investment expertise with Hartford Funds' established advisor relationships. This acquisition transforms the companies' long-term, strategic partnership into a single, full-service firm that can deliver stronger outcomes for financial advisors and investors in the decades ahead. The combined organization will be a stronger independent investment manager well-positioned to compete as the industry continues to evolve.

Jean Hynes, CEO and managing partner at Wellington Management, said, "For more than 40 years, Wellington and Hartford Funds have partnered together in support of advisors and investors, and I'm excited about what this combination means for the future of both organizations. Wellington's nearly century-long investment heritage is underscored by a deep commitment to supporting advisors, investors, and employees, and I know that the Hartford Funds team shares this commitment. Together, we are building on the strengths that have defined our relationship to reinforce our commitment to the U.S. wealth market through expanded access to investment capabilities, broader distribution reach, and enhanced resources for advisors and investors. I look forward to continuing to build on the strengths that have defined our partnership together in the years ahead."

The Hartford's Chairman and CEO Christopher Swift said, "We are proud of the strong advisor-centric fund company that we have built, powered by Wellington's outstanding investment capabilities for many years. This transaction allows us to realize immediate and continued value for The Hartford's shareholders and positions Hartford Funds' exceptional people for ongoing success. This combination creates the ideal long-term home for Hartford Funds."