Sunlife Report
Sunlife Report
Annual Report
Table
of Contents
02 Financial
highlights 09 Management’s
discussion and analysis
194
Board of directors and
executive team 201 Major offices
03 Message from
the Chair
105 Consolidated financial
statements and notes
195
Subsidiaries
associates
and
205 Corporate and
shareholder
information
04 Message from
the CEO
191 Sources of earnings
As a purpose-driven company, we’re here for our Sustainable investing – committed to $20 billion in new
Clients through life’s most important moments. sustainable investments over the next five years.
Embedding sustainability as a key component of
DE&I commitments – our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
our strategy supports how we deliver meaningful
Strategy 2025 outlines our focus areas, our goals, the progress
outcomes. We want to help create a brighter future
for our Clients, employees, advisors, investors we’re making and our promise to keep pushing for action.
and communities. Net zero by 2050 – committed to the goal of net-zero
greenhouse gas emissions for our investments and operations.
Visit sunlife.com/sustainability to learn more
about our sustainability efforts. Carbon neutral operations – our global business operations
are carbon neutral and we continue to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions.
The circle is resonant for Sun Life. It’s prominent in our brand,
symbolizes our inclusive culture and reminds us of the role we
play in our Clients’ lives.
27 markets
our people who make us a leading
international financial services organization. *
118,400 advisors *
*At the end of 2021. Rounded to the nearest hundred. Represents full-time
equivalent employees, temporary employees and employees in Asia joint ventures.
Moments that matter
– Micah’s story
Dealing with symptoms affecting his nervous system,
Micah received a probable diagnosis of multiple
sclerosis (MS). He turned to PinnacleCare, a Sun Life
company in the U.S., for a second opinion.
Micah’s personal health advisor, along with a team
of researchers and specialists, navigated the complex
health-care system on his behalf. They were there for
him when he needed it most.
Our purpose
Helping our Clients achieve lifetime financial
security and live healthier lives
38%
30%
$
1.44
Sun Life Asset
Management
16%
Sun Life Asia
Group & shorter
duration insurance trillion
Assets under
management1,2
2 02 1 2 02 1 15% YoY growth
19%
32% Traditional
14% Sun Life insurance 51%
Canada Wealth & asset
Sun Life U.S. management
Claims and
0%
benefits paid
in 20211
6%
CAGR4 CAGR4 CAGR4 CAGR4
5-Year
$
2,149 $3,934 $
2,546 $3,533 CAGR4 $
968 $
1,346 $
1.75 $
2.31
11% 5-Year
CAGR4
2017 2021 2017 2021 2017 2021 2017 2021
145 124%
Life insurance
% Financial
25.5%
capital adequacy
test (LICAT) Sun Life
leverage
Sun Life
ratio1,6 Financial Inc. Assurance ratio1,2 Target - 25%
Our purpose
inspires, guides
and drives
everything we do.
Helping our Clients build and achieve financial security – that incorporates wealth and asset management, health and protection
solutions, and holistic advice – is core to what we do. Success is measured by impact: both financial and health outcomes. We’re
also helping our Clients by increasing access to tools, support and products focused on driving positive outcomes. Here are some
ways we helped our Clients in 2021.
Malaysia – offering microinsurance Canada – launched our online Mental Health Coach, helping
solutions like GOLIFE, which helps group benefits Clients address mental health needs.
Clients in underserved communities
access affordable insurance.
Canada – teamed up with Conquest Philippines – GoWell Studio, an on-demand wellness initiative
Planning to equip our Clients with to help Clients access exercise programs, guided meditation
personalized financial plans. and health-care awareness and education resources.
Asset Management – acquired U.S. – expanded our online Dental Health Center with a
Crescent Capital Group, extending SLC dental cost estimator, videos and articles. The acquisition of
Management’s solutions to include DentaQuest (scheduled for completion in 2022) will position
alternative credit. Sun Life as a leading dental benefits provider in the U.S., with
a focus on supporting underserved populations to improve oral
care access.
Purpose-driven
business strategy
In 2021, we introduced our refreshed strategy
with a focus to accelerate our priorities, drive
bolder outcomes and most importantly, have
greater Client Impact.
We have diversified businesses across
asset management, insurance and health
protection. This is what makes us truly
unique. This mix of businesses will help
deliver on our purpose, but also reach
our ambition: to be one of the best asset
management and insurance companies in
the world.
Our path to win is based on a clear strategy
to grow across our pillars – Asset Management,
Canada, U.S. and Asia. We have four areas of
focus: distribution excellence, financial discipline, digital
leadership and sustainability.
We’re continuing to emphasize measures that have supported our success –
excelling in distribution whether it be at Sun Life, through our best-in-class advisor channel, third-parties,
or new innovative channels, combined with a prudent approach to financial discipline that includes financial
Digital coach, Ella, proactively nudged Canada digitally processed 93% of retail insurance
Canadian Clients more than 20 million applications, 83% of retail wealth transactions and
times in 2021. 96% of group benefits health and dental claims,
throughout the year.
If the pandemic is defining our lives at this moment, the VP+ level and 25% of our senior leaders in North America
climate change will define our lifetime. 2021 was a year from underrepresented communities. We’re a member of the
where Sun Life deepened its commitment to sustainability. Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business and we’re one of the
For us, sustainability is an imperative. To keep our strategy first insurance companies in Canada to begin PAR (Progressive
Sustainability Officer, reporting to me, with a mandate I’m proud of the positive social and environmental impact
to lead company-wide actions and embed sustainable Sun Life has had and the work we’ve done towards our
practices across our businesses. sustainability commitments. And because the work is not done,
Our drive for sustainability focuses on the areas we we will continue our impact and look for ways to increase it.
Leadership matters
Last year, Sun Life’s former President and CEO Dean
Connor retired after 10 years leading the organization.
Dean’s legacy lives on. He is my mentor and under his
leadership we put Clients at the centre of our strategy.
Throughout Dean’s tenure, Sun Life became known as
a company with a strong strategy and even stronger
execution.
Bill Anderson, Sun Life’s Chair, announced in December he’s
retiring after his full term of 12 years on our Board, the last
five as Chair. Bill has played an instrumental role charting
Sun Life’s path forward and delivering industry-leading
returns to you, our shareholders.
Scott Powers, Chair of the Governance, Investment and
Conduct Review Committee, will succeed Bill as Board
Chair following our upcoming Annual Meeting in May. Scott
brings an exceptional level of expertise and experience to
his new role. I look forward to working with Scott as we
build Sun Life for the future.
I’m excited about what lies ahead for Sun Life. Success Sun Life’s future remains bright for our Clients, employees,
means delivering on our purpose and executing on our advisors, and for you, our shareholders, because optimism
strategy. Sustainability and digital will play important roles makes for a brighter tomorrow.
and our people and culture will be how we get there.
Our culture is our superpower. I’m honoured to lead
a company that is empowered by passionate and
Thank you for your
engaged people. Together, we’re focused on creating and
embracing a future of work that is flexible, caring, and
ongoing trust and
supportive of our employees’ success and well-being.
confidence in Sun Life.
We’re a company that puts people first and delivers great
Client experiences, with everyone united by our common
purpose. We are leading with our heads turned towards
the sun as we move our feet ever forward.
Kevin Strain
President & Chief Executive Officer
AND ANALYSIS
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 9
Management's Discussion and Analysis
February 9, 2022
Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual
and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom,
Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2021,
Sun Life had total assets under management ("AUM") of $1.44 trillion. For more information please visit www.sunlife.com.
Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.
Sun Life Financial Inc. ("SLF Inc.") is a publicly traded company domiciled in Canada and is the holding company of Sun Life Assurance Company of
Canada ("Sun Life Assurance"). In this management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"), SLF Inc., its subsidiaries and, where applicable, its joint
ventures and associates are collectively referred to as "the Company", "Sun Life", "we", "our", and "us". Unless otherwise indicated, all information
in this MD&A is presented as at and for the year ended December 31, 2021 and the information contained in this document is in Canadian dollars.
Where information at and for the year ended December 31, 2021 is not available, information available for the latest period before December 31,
2021 is used. Except where otherwise noted, financial information is presented in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards
("IFRS") and the accounting requirements of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions ("OSFI"). Reported net income (loss) refers to
Common shareholders' net income (loss) determined in accordance with IFRS.
We manage our operations and report our financial results in five business segments: Canada, United States ("U.S."), Asset Management, Asia, and
Corporate. Information concerning these segments is included in our annual and interim consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes
("Annual Consolidated Financial Statements" and "Interim Consolidated Financial Statements", respectively, and "Consolidated Financial
Statements" collectively), and this MD&A document.
2. Forward-looking Statements
Certain statements in this document are forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the "safe harbour"
provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities legislation. Additional information
concerning forward-looking statements and important risk factors that could cause our assumptions, estimates, expectations and projections to be
inaccurate and our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements can be found
in section O - Forward-looking Statements in this document.
3. Additional Information
Additional information about SLF Inc. can be found in the Consolidated Financial Statements, the annual and interim MD&A, and SLF Inc.'s Annual
Information Form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2021. These documents are filed with securities regulators in Canada and are available at
www.sedar.com. SLF Inc.'s Annual Consolidated Financial Statements, annual MD&A and AIF are filed with the United States Securities and Exchange
Commission ("SEC") in SLF Inc.'s annual report on Form 40-F and SLF Inc.'s interim MD&A and Interim Consolidated Financial Statements are
furnished to the SEC on Form 6-Ks and are available at www.sec.gov.
For additional information, refer to sections B - Overview - 5 - COVID-19 and J - Risk Management - 9 - Risks relating to the COVID-19 pandemic in
this document.
10 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
B. Overview
Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of asset management, wealth, insurance, and health
solutions to individual and institutional Clients. We have four business pillars: Asset Management, Canada, U.S. and Asia.
1. Strategy
In 2021, we refreshed our enterprise strategy to reflect our priorities and evolving business mix:
We seek to provide outstanding value and impact for our Clients in three ways:
Our ambition is "to be one of the best asset management and insurance companies in the world". Achieving our ambition will rely on maintaining
our balanced business mix and leading positions across our pillars, delivering on our Purpose and Client Impact strategy, and strong business
execution to meet our medium-term financial objectives(1):
• Underlying Earnings Per Share growth: 8-10%.
• Underlying Return on Equity: 16%+.
• Underlying Dividend Payout Ratio: 40%-50%.
(1)
For more information about our medium-term financial objectives, see section B - Overview - 2 - Financial Objectives in this document. Underlying earnings
per share, underlying ROE and underlying dividend payout ratio are Non-IFRS financial measures. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this
document.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 11
Our Four Pillars
Our four pillars define the businesses and markets in which we compete. In each of these pillars, we focus on creating value and positively impacting
our Clients and shareholders in businesses that have strong growth prospects, favourable return on equity ("ROE"), and strong capital generation in
attractive global markets. We are well-positioned across each of our pillars.
Asset Management: A global leader in both public and alternative asset classes through MFS and SLC Management
We deliver value and drive positive Client impact through our offering of quality investment products, including active asset management as well as
liability driven investing ("LDI") and alternative asset classes:
• MFS Investment Management ("MFS") is a premier active investment manager offering a comprehensive selection of asset management
products and services to retail and institutional investors around the world.
• SLC Management is an institutional investment manager delivering customized LDI, alternative fixed income, private credit, infrastructure and
global real estate solutions.
Client Impact: Our Clients are at the centre of everything we do. Whether it is helping to navigate health concerns, save and plan for retirement or
provide financial security for their families, our focus is on the impact we have on our Clients' lives. We believe this allows us to maximize positive
impacts for Clients, builds lasting and trusted Client relationships and leads to better business outcomes for Sun Life. We are committed to helping
Clients by driving positive health and financial actions, and delivering long-term investment returns.
Distribution Excellence: We have established an omni-channel approach to distribution that makes it easier for our Clients to do business with us
across all markets. To excel at distribution, we prioritize exceptional service, connecting with our Clients when and how they want to engage, and
providing personalized and holistic solutions. We are focused on meeting our Clients' needs by being an exceptional distribution partner that
empowers our advisors and partners to harness digital solutions to provide seamless Client experiences.
Digital Leadership: We are accelerating our digital, data and analytics ambitions and seek to think and act like a digital company. Our Digital
Enterprise strategy brings our businesses and technology teams closer together and transforms how we work in an agile way to deliver digital
experiences, products, and solutions that meet our Clients’ needs and drive positive outcomes. We continue to adopt Client-centric solutions that
incorporate our Clients’ perspectives in every stage of their lives, creating long-term relationships.
(1)
Source: International Monetary Fund, 2021.
12 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Financial Discipline: Our strategy is underpinned by a continued commitment to strong financial prudence and risk management, coupled with a
focus on capital management. Sustained focus across these areas support our medium-term financial objectives and our aim of top quartile total
shareholder returns. Specific areas of focus include:
• Delivering strong, stable earnings growth and disciplined expense management.
• Adequately managing our capital to protect our policyholders and to maintain strong financial flexibility, while optimizing the benefits for our
shareholders.
• Disciplined investment and a programmatic M&A(1) approach focused on building scale and capabilities.
Sustainability Driven: Sustainability is essential to our long-term business success. We strive to embed sustainability into our strategy, culture, and
operations, to drive meaningful social and economic outcomes for our Clients, employees, advisors, investors and communities. We believe our
actions will contribute to a healthier, more financially resilient, environmentally secure, and economically prosperous world. See Section B -
Overview - 3 - Sustainability Plan in this document for more information about our approach to sustainability.
Empowered People and Inclusive Culture: Delivering on our strategy will require us to attract, retain, and develop the best talent, and to empower
our people to drive results. It will also require us to preserve and strengthen our strong culture of Client focus, integrity, collaboration and
inclusivity. Specifically, our focus is to:
• Empower employees and advisors to take action, make decisions, and be accountable.
• Develop talent with both technology and leadership skills, to support our transformation to a leading digital organization.
• Maintain momentum on our diversity, equity and inclusion (“DE&I”) commitment, embedding DE&I into our decision-making to reflect our
values.
• Design our future of work with intent, offering employees choice and flexibility in how and where we work
• Be the employer of choice for top talent.
Trusted Brand: Preserving our long standing reputation of being a trusted brand is paramount in an increasingly complex and digitized world. Over
the last 150 years, we have built and enjoyed a strong, trusted relationship with our Clients in all Sun Life markets and through our distribution
partnerships. Our forward-looking brand strategy will maintain a focus on ensuring future competitive advantage and brand appeal with new and
existing Clients. This will inform the innovative and differentiated Sun Life experiences we create, the products and service experiences we deliver,
and the culture we live by, to achieve our Purpose.
We believe we are well-positioned to execute on each of these strategic priorities and that doing so will create positive Client Impact and further
differentiate us from peers.
Our balanced four pillars, holistic Client Impact strategy, and focus on our strategic priorities combine elements that have been core to our success
together with emerging areas of increasing importance. Looking ahead, we are confident that our strategy will allow us to deliver on our Purpose,
drive positive Client outcomes, create meaningful value for our shareholders, and support our ambition to be one of the best asset management
and insurance companies in the world.
(1)
Mergers & Acquisitions ("M&A").
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 13
2. Financial Objectives
Our medium-term financial objectives are outlined as follows:
Medium-term
Measure(1) financial objectives(2) 5-Year(3) 2021 results
Underlying EPS growth
Growth in EPS reflects the Company's focus on generating sustainable earnings
for shareholders. 8%-10% 10% 10%
Underlying Return on Equity ("ROE")
ROE is a significant driver of shareholder value and is a major focus for
management across all businesses. 16%+ 14.2% 15.4%
Underlying dividend payout ratio
Payout of capital versus shareholder value, based on underlying net income. 40%-50% 40% 38%
(1)
Underlying earnings per share ("EPS"), underlying ROE and underlying dividend payout ratio are non-IFRS financial measures. See section L - Non-IFRS
Financial Measures in this document. Underlying dividend payout ratio represents the ratio of common shareholders' dividends to diluted underlying EPS.
See section I - Capital and Liquidity Management - 3 - Shareholder Dividends in this document for further information regarding dividends.
(2)
Although considered reasonable, we may not be able to achieve our medium-term financial objectives as our assumptions may prove to be inaccurate.
Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our medium-term financial objectives as described above. Our medium-term financial objectives
do not constitute guidance. Our medium-term financial objectives are forward-looking non-IFRS financial measures and additional information is provided
in this MD&A in the section O - Forward-looking Statements - Medium-Term Financial Objectives.
(3)
Underlying EPS growth is calculated using a compound annual growth rate. Underlying ROE and dividend payout ratio are calculated using an average.
In the year and over the medium-term, we have performed well against our medium-term financial objectives. In addition, in 2021, we increased
our underlying ROE medium-term financial objective to 16%+ from our previous objective of 12% to 14%. This update is supported by strong
business performance and a meaningful shift in mix towards businesses which generate higher ROE.
3. Sustainability Plan
Our sustainability plan is aligned directly with our Purpose of helping our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, and is
integrated into our enterprise strategy. We focus on three areas where we have the greatest opportunity to have a positive impact on society, while
creating a competitive advantage for our business.
Increasing Financial Security: We provide Clients and employees with innovative solutions and services that increase their lifetime financial security.
We empower and educate Clients to take positive financial action, increasing access to wealth and protection products, helping to build long-term
wealth and close insurance coverage gaps.
Fostering Healthier Lives: We offer Clients and employees products and tools to live healthier lives. In addition, we are focused on improving health
and wellness in society through investments in community health and access to health and disability insurance.
Advancing Sustainable Investing: We aspire to deliver sustainable returns for our Clients and drive the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable
economy. We embed sustainability in our investment processes, offering Clients and employees sustainable investing opportunities. In addition, we
invest our own assets in ways that support a low-carbon and more inclusive economy.
Our sustainability plan builds from our foundation as a Trusted and Responsible Business. We prioritize foundational sustainability considerations
that are important to stakeholders: climate change, diversity, equity & inclusion, data security & privacy, talent management, governance & ethics,
risk management, and reporting & disclosure. We recognize climate change as one of the defining issues of our time and commit to working
together across industries, with our Clients, investees and other stakeholders to contribute to solving this global challenge.
Our sustainability plan is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ("SDGs"). We focus primarily on supporting the five SDGs
where we believe we can have the greatest influence and impact. These are: #3 Good health & well-being, #5 Gender equality, #7 Affordable and
clean energy, #8 Decent work and economic growth and #13 Climate action.
In 2021, we further advanced our commitment to a cleaner, more inclusive and sustainable future with the announcement of our goal to achieve
net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 or sooner as an asset owner and manager, along with the appointment of our first Chief Sustainability
Officer.
For additional information on our sustainability plan and recent progress, refer to www.sunlife.com/sustainability. For more information on our
approach to climate change, refer to the heading "Environmental and Social Risk Section" in section J - Risk Management - 9 - Business and Strategy
Risks of this document, which includes our disclosure based on the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures
(“TCFD”).
On January 1, 2021, our subsidiary, Sun Life Vietnam Insurance Company Limited ("Sun Life Vietnam"), and Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank ("ACB")
launched a 15-year exclusive bancassurance partnership in Vietnam.
14 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
On January 5, 2021, we completed our acquisition of a majority stake of Crescent(1) ("Crescent acquisition"), a U.S.-based global alternative credit
investment manager. Total cash consideration of $308 million (US$241 million) was paid. The acquisition extends SLC Management's solutions in
alternative credit, which will benefit existing and prospective Clients. Crescent had more than 180 partners and employees and approximately
$39.1 billion in AUM (US$30.7 billion), as at January 5, 2021. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2021 Consolidated Financial
Statements.
On July 1, 2021, we completed the acquisition of Pinnacle Care International, Inc. ("PinnacleCare"), a leading U.S. health care navigation and medical
intelligence provider, for $110 million (US$85 million). PinnacleCare joins our U.S. Group Benefits business in the medical stop-loss organization, the
largest independent medical stop-loss provider in the country. The acquisition expands our medical stop-loss business beyond the traditional model
that reimburses employers after care has occurred, to one that engages employees at diagnosis to help improve the entire care experience and
outcomes for both the employee and employer. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our Consolidated Financial Statements for the period
ended December 31, 2021.
On October 3, 2021, we entered into an agreement to acquire DentaQuest(2). DentaQuest is the largest provider of Medicaid dental benefits in the
U.S., with growing Medicare Advantage, commercial and U.S. Affordable Care Act exchange businesses, and serves more than 33 million members.
The acquisition of DentaQuest aligns to our business strategy of being a leader in health and group benefits. Upon close, which is expected in the
first half of 2022, DentaQuest will more than double the size of Sun Life's U.S. employee benefits business by revenues and will position us as a
leader in providing government dental benefits.
On October 12, 2021, we announced that our India joint venture, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited ("ABSLAMC") completed an Initial Public Offering
("IPO"). As a result of the IPO, our ownership interest was reduced by 12.5% and we have realized a gain of $362 million (post-tax $297 million).
After the IPO, we retained ownership of the listed entity of 36.5%. Shares of ABSLAMC began trading on the BSE Limited and the National Stock
Exchange of India Limited on October 11, 2021. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements.
On December 13, 2021, we announced that Canadian Premier Life Insurance Company ("Canadian Premier") entered into an agreement to acquire
the sponsored markets business from Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada ("SLA"), a wholly owned subsidiary of SLF Inc. Sponsored markets
include a variety of association & affinity, and group creditor clients. This transaction will see over 100 plan sponsors and roughly 1.5 million insured
clients and plan members move from Sun Life to Canadian Premier. The transaction is expected to close in early 2023, subject to satisfaction of
customary closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals. Upon close of the transaction, Sun Life expects to generate an after-tax gain
of approximately $65 million, with a corresponding 1% increase to the SLF and SLA LICAT ratios, and approximately $0.03 reduction in annual
underlying earnings per share going forward.
5. COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of COVID-19 as a pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures
imposed by governments around the world to limit its spread including travel restrictions, business closures, social distancing protocols, school
closures, quarantines, and restrictions on gatherings and events, have disrupted the global economy, financial markets, supply chains, business
activity and productivity in unprecedented ways.
We have and we will continue to adjust our operations across each of our businesses as government restrictions and measures around the globe
evolve. We have taken proactive measures through our business continuity processes, which are designed to ensure that key business functions and
normal operations can continue effectively and efficiently in the event of a disruption. We have processes in place to monitor and maintain ongoing
systems availability, stability and security.
Due to various restrictions, the majority of our employees and advisors continue to work from home. Our working from home strategy continues to
operate effectively and, depending on each location, the return to offices has been gradual and measured to ensure the health and safety of our
employees and our communities. We have also introduced new policies which provide employees more flexibility to empower them to optimize
their work and personal priorities.
Our communities are vital and we have been taking actions to support them. Since the start of the pandemic, we donated more than $4.5 million to
support communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic for causes supporting areas such as the food bank, health inequities and vaccine
distribution efforts. We have also donated to food banks and provided hand sanitizer to various communities, while digital life insurance coverage
was donated to doctors, nurses, and other medical support staff as a way of saying "Thank you" for their efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Awareness and concern about mental health and well-being was amplified throughout the pandemic. Sun Life helped bridge the gap by hosting an
executive summit on mental health in the workplace, offering mental health resources and support through digital platforms, like Lumino Health,
and for Group Benefits Clients in Canada, providing access to personalized mental health coaching resources. The pandemic also accelerated the
need for digital tools and innovation to support Clients where and when they need it. From virtual health care, to new online products and services,
to enhancing the ability for digital insurance applications, wealth transactions and eClaims, we made it easier for Clients to do business with us
across our operations. We continue to support our Clients throughout this difficult time. To date, Sun Life has delivered nearly $900 million in
COVID-19-related health and life insurance benefits to Clients and their families at a time when they needed it the most.
(1)
Crescent Capital Group LP ("Crescent").
(2)
DentaQuest Group, Inc. ("DentaQuest").
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 15
Regulatory Responses to COVID-19
Sun Life is subject to regulation and supervision by government authorities in the jurisdictions in which it does business. Various regulators have
introduced new measures or adjustments to respond to the evolving situation with the COVID-19 pandemic.
OSFI(1), which supervises the activities of Sun Life, has announced various measures to support the resilience of the financial institutions that it
regulates. On March 13, 2020, OSFI set the expectation for all federally regulated financial institutions that dividend increases and share buybacks
should be halted. On November 4, 2021, OSFI lifted this restriction on the basis that these restrictions were no longer considered necessary.
In the U.S., state insurance regulators issued an unprecedented volume of emergency measures to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on
policyholders in 2020. These regulatory changes impacted policy administration and business practices for the U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and
health insurance subsidiaries. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners issued guidance to U.S. insurers on March 27, 2020 encouraging
insurers to work with borrowers who may be unable to meet obligations because of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and on April 15, 2020
adopted interpretations of statutory accounting principles applicable to U.S. insurers related to, among other things, direct mortgage loans and
Schedule BA mortgages. In the fourth quarter of 2020, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners adopted interpretations of statutory
accounting principles that extend these concepts to statutory financial statements and risk-based capital calculations through the fourth quarter of
2021.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, sales results have been mixed across our products and businesses. Some markets benefited from investments
in digital tools, pre-existing sales pipelines, re-pricing and return to office opportunities. In other markets, we experienced significant sales declines
resulting from strict quarantine protocols impacting face-to-face sales transactions.
We also experienced favourable morbidity experience, mostly in the first half of 2020, due to lower benefit utilization of dental, extended health
care, vision, and hospital and surgical coverages. However, as restrictions eased with health care providers enhancing safety measures, benefit
utilization has returned to near normal levels in 2021. The unfavourable morbidity in Canada is also related to lower resolution rates from disability
experience reflecting more challenging conditions exacerbated by pandemic-related issues, such as mental health and delayed treatment.
Unfavourable mortality in the current year was primarily in the U.S., reflecting elevated case counts in the working-age population. The pandemic
also adversely impacted mortality in Asia.
While rising vaccination rates have supported an easing of containment measures in some geographies, progress towards re-opening has been
accompanied by resurgences in the spread of COVID-19 including variants and the re-imposition of restrictions. The overall impact of the COVID-19
pandemic is still uncertain and dependent on the progression of the virus, including variants, mass vaccine production and distribution, vaccine
efficacy, public acceptance of containment measures and vaccine adoption, the subsequent reduction in rates of infection and the actions taken by
governments, monetary authorities, regulators, financial institutions, businesses and individuals, which could vary by country and result in differing
outcomes. In addition, the business landscape we operate in is shifting and the longer term impacts from containment measures on the economy
and Client behaviour, after the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, as well as long-term health impacts from COVID-19, is difficult to predict.
Examples include reductions on office space as more employees shift to remote working or higher demand for employer health coverage. Given the
extent of the circumstances, it is difficult to reliably measure or predict the potential impact of this uncertainty on our future financial results. For
additional information, please refer to section J - 9 - Risks relating to the COVID-19 Pandemic in this document.
(1)
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions ("OSFI"). For additional information, see Section F - Financial Strength in this document.
16 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
C. Financial Summary
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 17
D. Profitability
The following table reconciles our Common shareholders' net income ("reported net income") and underlying net income. The table also sets out
the impacts that other notable items had on our reported net income and underlying net income. All factors discussed in this document that impact
our underlying net income are also applicable to reported net income.
1. Market-related impacts
Market-related impacts in 2021 resulted in an increase of $627 million to reported net income compared to a decrease of $461 million in 2020,
reflecting higher equity markets, an increase in the value of our real estate investments and interest rate impacts. See Section L - Non-IFRS
Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown of the components of market-related impacts.
ACMA in 2021 resulted in an increase of $74 million to reported net income, compared to
a decrease of $143 million to reported net income in
2020.
(1)
Assumption changes and management actions ("ACMA").
(2)
Reflects the changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates.
(3)
Refer to section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a reconciliation between reported net income and underlying net income.
(4)
Prior year included an unfavourable adjustment relating to historical Canadian tax filings and lower tax-exempt investment income.
18 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Assumption Changes and Management Actions by Type
The following table sets out the impacts of ACMA on our reported net income in 2021.
As at December 31, 2021
Impacts on reported
($ millions, after-tax) net income(1) Comments
Mortality / morbidity 74 Updates to reflect mortality/morbidity experience in all jurisdictions.
Policyholder behaviour (174) Updates to policyholder behaviour in all jurisdictions. The largest item
was in U.S. In-force Management.
Expenses 159 Updates to reflect expense experience and margins in all jurisdictions.
The largest item was a reduction in expense margins.
Investment returns (47) Updates to various investment-related assumptions across the
Company. The largest items were a reduction to the best estimate real
estate assumption in all jurisdictions, updates to the promulgated
Ultimate Reinvestment Rate ("URR") and updates to the promulgated
maximum net credit spreads. This was partially offset by increased
investment in non-fixed assets in Canada Individual Insurance & Wealth
and U.S. In-force Management.
Model enhancements and other 62 Various enhancements and methodology changes across all jurisdictions.
Total impacts on reported net income(2) 74
(1)
ACMA is included in reported net income and is presented as an adjustment to arrive at underlying net income.
(2)
In this table, ACMA represents the shareholders' reported net income impacts (after-tax) including management actions. In Note 10.A of our 2021
Consolidated Financial Statements, the impacts of method and assumptions changes represents the change in shareholders' and participating
policyholders' insurance contract liabilities net of reinsurance assets (pre-tax) and does not include management actions. Further information can be
found in section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Additional information on estimates relating to our policyholder obligations, including the methodology and assumptions used in their
determination, can be found in this MD&A under the section M - Accounting and Control Matters - 1 - Critical Accounting Policies and
Estimates and in Note 10 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
3. Other adjustments
Other adjustments in 2021 decreased reported net income by $300 million, compared to $205 million in 2020, related to Asia, partially offset
by Asset Management and Canada. In Asia, other adjustments related to a gain of $297 million on the IPO of ABSLAMC, our India joint venture.
In Asset Management, other adjustments related to a $153 million increase in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities. The increase
reflects changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates. Higher fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards also contributed to the decrease
in Asset Management. In Canada, other adjustments included an adjustment of investment income and expense allocations between
participating policyholders and shareholders for prior years ("par allocation adjustment").
4. Experience-related items
In 2021, the notable experience-related items are as follows:
• Investing activity gains across the insurance businesses;
• Favourable credit experience in all insurance businesses, comprised of:
($ millions, after-tax) 2021 2020
Changes in ratings 8 (138)
Impairments, net of recoveries (10) (28)
Release of best estimate credit 116 109
Credit Experience 114 (57)
• Unfavourable mortality experience related to COVID-19, of which $142 million was primarily impacting the working-age population in the
U.S., and $60 million from our India joint ventures, the Philippines and Indonesia in Asia;
• Favourable morbidity experience in U.S. medical stop-loss, partially offset by disability in the U.S. and lower disability claims resolutions in
Canada;
• Unfavourable policyholder behaviour experience reflecting small amounts in various products across the Company;
• Unfavourable expense experience related to higher compensation-related costs reflecting stronger earnings performance, VNB and Client
measures; and
• Other experience was unfavourable in Corporate and Asia, partially offset by the U.S. and Canada, and was higher than the prior year. In
the year, other experience included unfavourable results in our joint ventures in Asia, mainly driven by mortality in India, and project
spend.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 19
5. Income taxes
Our statutory tax rate is normally impacted by various tax benefits, such as lower taxes on income subject to tax in foreign jurisdictions, a range
of tax-exempt investment income, and other sustainable tax benefits.
In 2021, our effective tax rates on reported net income and underlying net income(1) were 14.3% and 13.5%, respectively, compared to 15.1%
and 19.3%, respectively, in 2020. Our effective tax rate on underlying net income in 2021 is slightly below our expected range of 15% to 20%,
primarily due to higher tax-exempt investment income and resolutions of prior year's tax matters. The effective tax rate on underlying net
income in 2020 included an unfavourable adjustment relating to historical Canadian tax filings and lower tax-exempt investment income. For
additional information, refer to Note 20 of our in 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Items impacting our Consolidated Statements of Operations are translated into Canadian dollars using average exchange rates for the
respective period. For items impacting our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, period end rates are used for currency translation
purposes.
The following table provides the foreign exchange rates for the U.S. dollar, which is our most significant impact of foreign exchange translation,
over the past four quarters and two years.
Exchange rate Quarterly Full year
Q4'21 Q3'21 Q2'21 Q1'21 2021 2020
U.S. Dollar - Average 1.260 1.259 1.229 1.266 1.254 1.341
U.S. Dollar - Period end 1.263 1.268 1.239 1.256 1.263 1.273
In general, our net income benefits from a weakening Canadian dollar and is adversely affected by a strengthening Canadian dollar as net
income from the Company's international operations is translated back to Canadian dollars. Conversely, in a period of losses, the weakening of
the Canadian dollar has the effect of increasing losses in foreign jurisdictions. The relative impacts of foreign exchange translation in any given
period are driven by the movement of foreign exchange rates as well as the proportion of earnings generated in our foreign operations. We
generally express the impacts of foreign exchange translation on net income on a year-over-year basis.
Foreign exchange translation led to a decline of $177 million in reported net income and $164 million in underlying net income.
E. Growth
(1)
Our effective income tax rate on underlying net income is calculated using underlying net income and income tax expense associated with underlying net
income, which excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
20 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Total Company insurance sales increased by $173 million ($329 million or 9%(1) excluding foreign exchange translation) in 2021 compared to 2020.
• Canada insurance sales increased by 9%, driven by higher individual participating whole life insurance sales, partially offset by lower large case
group benefits sales in Sun Life Health.
• U.S. insurance sales increased by 13%(1), driven by growth in medical stop-loss and employee benefits sales.
• Asia insurance sales increased by 6%(1), driven by increases in Vietnam, India and the Philippines, partially offset by decreases in Hong Kong.
Total Company wealth sales increased by $7.5 billion ($21.4 billion or 10%(1) excluding foreign exchange translation) in 2021 compared to 2020.
• Canada wealth sales were in line with the prior year, as lower defined contribution sales in Group Retirement Services ("GRS") were offset by
higher individual wealth mutual fund sales.
• Asia wealth sales increased by 51%(1), driven by higher sales in India, the Philippines and Hong Kong.
• Asset Management gross flows increased by 8%(1), as higher gross flows of managed funds in SLC Management were partially offset by lower
gross flows of mutual funds in MFS.
VNB was $1,346 million in 2021, an increase of 17% compared to 2020, driven by higher sales across all business groups.
General fund assets increased by $8.3 billion or 4% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, primarily attributable to:
(i) additional investments to support business growth of $10.8 billion; partially offset by
(ii) a decrease of $1.8 billion from the change in fair value through profit or loss ("FVTPL") on assets and liabilities; and
(iii) a decrease of $1.1 billion from the impacts of foreign exchange translation.
Segregated fund assets increased by $14.1 billion or 11% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, driven by favourable market
movements of $14.4 billion.
AUM increased by $188.7 billion or 15% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, primarily driven by:
(i) favourable market movements on the value of mutual funds, managed funds and segregated funds of $131.2 billion;
(ii) an increase of $39.1 billion from the Crescent acquisition;
(iii) net inflows from mutual, managed and segregated funds of $26.3 billion; and
(iv) an increase in AUM of general fund assets of $8.3 billion; partially offset by
(v) a decrease of $6.8 billion from foreign exchange translation (excluding the impacts from general fund assets).
The net inflows of mutual, managed and segregated funds of $26.3 billion in 2021 was driven by net inflows in SLC Management of $32.5 billion and
in Asia of $4.6 billion, partially offset by net outflows of $11.4 billion in MFS.
Mutual funds, managed funds and other AUM increased by $166.4 billion or 18% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, driven
by favourable market movements of $116.8 billion, AUM from the Crescent acquisition of $39.1 billion, net inflows of $25.8 billion, partially offset
by foreign exchange translation of $6.3 billion.
(1)
This percentage change excludes the impacts of foreign exchange translation. For more information about these non-IFRS financial measures, see section L
- Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 21
F. Financial Strength
SLF Inc. is a non-operating insurance company and is subject to the LICAT guideline. As at December 31, 2021, SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio was 145%, 2%
lower than December 31, 2020. The favourable impacts of reported net income, the issuance of $1 billion principal amount of other equity
instruments, and net subordinated debt issuances were more than offset by dividend payments, preferred share redemptions, the ACB(1)
bancassurance partnership in Vietnam, the PinnacleCare(2) acquisition and market movements.
Sun Life Assurance, SLF Inc.'s principal operating life insurance subsidiary, is also subject to the LICAT guideline. As at December 31, 2021, Sun Life
Assurance's LICAT ratio was 124%, 3% lower than December 31, 2020. The favourable impacts of reported net income were more than offset by the
ACB bancassurance partnership in Vietnam, dividends to SLF Inc., market movements and the smoothing impact of the interest rate scenario switch
in North America for participating businesses.
The Sun Life Assurance LICAT ratios in both periods are well above OSFI's supervisory ratio of 100% and regulatory minimum ratio of 90%.
Capital
Our total capital consists of subordinated debt and other capital instruments, participating policyholders' equity and total shareholders' equity
which includes common shareholders' equity, preferred shares and other equity instruments, and non-controlling interests. As at December 31,
2021, our total capital was $34.7 billion, an increase of $3.9 billion compared to December 31, 2020. The increase included reported net income of
$3.9 billion, the issuance of $1 billion principal amount of other equity instruments, the issuance of Series 2021-1, Series 2021-2, and Series 2021-3
debentures, totaling $2.0 billion, all of which are detailed below. These were partially offset by the payment of $1.4 billion of dividends on common
shares of SLF Inc. ("common shares"), the redemption of Class A Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares Series 1 and Series 2, and Series 12R, totaling
$1.025 billion, and the redemption of $350 million Series 2016-1 debentures, all of which are also detailed below.
Our capital and liquidity positions remain strong with a LICAT ratio of 145% at SLF Inc., a financial leverage ratio of 25.5%(3)(4) and $4.7 billion in cash
and other liquid assets(3)(4) as at December 31, 2021 in SLF Inc. (the ultimate parent company), and its wholly-owned holding companies ($3.1 billion
as at December 31, 2020).
(1)
Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank ("ACB").
(2)
Pinnacle Care International, Inc. ("PinnacleCare"). For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements for the period
ended December 31, 2021.
(3)
This is a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(4)
Includes $2.0 billion of proceeds from the subordinated debt offerings completed in November 2021, of which $1.5 billion is subject to contractual terms
requiring us to redeem the underlying securities, in full, if the closing of the DentaQuest acquisition does not occur. These amounts will not qualify as LICAT
capital until the acquisition closes.
22 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Capital Transactions
On February 19, 2021, SLF Inc. redeemed all of the outstanding $350 million principal amount of Series 2016-1 Debentures. The redemption was
funded from existing cash and other liquid assets.
On June 30, 2021, SLF Inc. issued $1 billion principal amount of 3.60% Limited Recourse Capital Notes Series 2021-1 ("LRCNs"). The net proceeds
were used for general corporate purposes, which included investments in subsidiaries, repayment of indebtedness and other strategic investments.
On August 23, 2021, SLF Inc.'s Series E Senior Unsecured 4.57% Debentures ("Series E Debentures") matured and SLF Inc. redeemed all of its
outstanding $300 million principal amount, including all accrued and outstanding interest. Under LICAT, senior debentures do not qualify as
available capital, as a result, the repayment of the Series E Debentures had no impact on the LICAT ratio of Sun Life Assurance or SLF Inc. In addition,
a separate pool of assets had been set aside to support the redemption of these debentures. As such, the redemption did not affect the cash and
other liquid assets held by SLF Inc. and its wholly-owned holding companies noted above.
On September 29, 2021, SLF Inc. redeemed all of the $400 million Class A Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares Series 1 issued by SLF Inc. on February
25, 2005 and all of the $325 million Class A Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares Series 2 issued by SLF Inc. on July 15, 2005, in accordance with the
terms attached to the two series of preferred shares. The redemptions were funded from existing cash and other liquid assets in SLF Inc.
On September 30, 2021, 0.5 million of the 6.9 million Class A Non-cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 10R (the "Series 10R Shares") were
converted into Class A Non-cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares 11QR (the "Series 11QR Shares") on a one-for-one basis and 0.4 million of the
1.1 million Series 11QR were converted into Series 10R on a one-for-one basis. Upon completion of the conversion, approximately 6.8 million Series
10R Shares and 1.2 million Series 11QR Shares were issued and outstanding in SLF Inc.
On November 18, 2021, SLF Inc. issued $500 million principal amount of Series 2021-1 Subordinated Unsecured 2.46% Fixed/Floating Debentures
due 2031 (the "Series 2021-1 Debentures"), $1 billion principal amount of Series 2021-2 Subordinated Unsecured 2.80% Fixed/Floating Debentures
due 2033 (the "Series 2021-2 Debentures"), and $500 million principal amount of Series 2021-3 Subordinated Unsecured 3.15% Fixed/Floating
Debentures due 2036 (the "Series 2021-3 Debentures"). The net proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes, which may include funding a
portion of the purchase price for the DentaQuest acquisition, investments in subsidiaries, repayment of indebtedness and other strategic
investments.
The Company will be required to redeem the Series 2021-2 Debentures and the Series 2021-3 Debentures in full at a redemption price equal to par,
together with accrued and unpaid interest up to but excluding the date fixed for redemption if either (i) the closing of the acquisition of DentaQuest
Group, Inc. has not occurred on or prior to October 3, 2022 (or such later date as extended pursuant to the acquisition agreement relating to the
acquisition of DentaQuest Group, Inc.) (the “Outside Date”) or (ii) such acquisition agreement is terminated at any time prior to the Outside Date in
accordance with its terms without closing of the acquisition of DentaQuest Group, Inc.
On December 31, 2021, SLF Inc. redeemed all of the $300 million principal amount of Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series
12R (the "Series 12R Shares") issued by SLF Inc. on November 10, 2011, in accordance with the terms attached to the series of preferred shares. The
redemption was funded from existing cash and other liquid assets in SLF Inc.
The financial strength ratings assigned by rating agencies are intended to provide an independent view of the creditworthiness and financial
strength of a financial institution. Each rating agency has developed its own methodology for the assessment and subsequent rating of life insurance
companies.
Rating agencies do not assign a financial strength rating for SLF Inc., however, credit ratings are assigned to the securities issued by SLF Inc. and its
subsidiaries and are described in SLF Inc.'s AIF under the heading Security Ratings.
The following table summarizes the financial strength ratings for Sun Life Assurance as at January 31, 2022 and January 31, 2021.
A.M. Best DBRS Moody's Standard & Poor's
January 31, 2022 A+ AA Aa3 AA
January 31, 2021 A+ AA Aa3 AA
Most recent rating agency actions on the financial strength rating of Sun Life Assurance:
• April 27, 2021 - Standard and Poor's ("S&P") affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
• April 1, 2021 - Moody's affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
• October 29, 2021 - DBRS affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
• January 28, 2022 - A.M. Best affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 23
G. Performance by Business Segment
Sun Life's business is well-diversified across geographies and business types, supported by our four pillar strategy and diversified offerings of wealth
and insurance products.
($ millions) 2021 2020
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders
Canada 1,558 717
U.S. 499 257
Asset Management 892 980
Asia 1,075 594
Corporate (90) (144)
Total reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 3,934 2,404
Underlying net income (loss)(1)
Canada 1,131 1,073
U.S. 518 568
Asset Management 1,346 1,128
Asia 586 579
Corporate (48) (135)
(1)
Total underlying net income (loss) 3,533 3,213
(1)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
All factors discussed in this document that impact our underlying net income are also applicable to reported net income.
1. Canada
Our Canada business segment is a leading provider of protection, health, asset management and wealth solutions, providing products and
services that deliver value to over 6.6 million Clients. We are the largest provider of benefits and pensions in the workplace, and offer a
wide range of products to individuals via retail channels. We are focused on helping Canadians achieve lifetime financial security and live
healthier lives.
Business Units
• Individual Insurance & Wealth • Group Retirement Services • Sun Life Health
2021 Highlights
Growing our businesses with the continued focus on helping Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives
• During the year, we announced the creation of our Sun Life Health. This new business unit brings Group Benefits and Lumino Health together,
linking the strength of our overall health offering to Clients, including our core insurance solutions. We leveraged our market leadership
position in group benefits(1), with over $11.8 billion of business-in-force, to proactively advance a greater focus on mental health in workplaces
across Canada, including engaging with market and industry leaders to take meaningful action and investing in workplace mental health
resources. We launched our Sun Life Health Mental Health Coach to support Clients' mental health journeys with personalized treatment
options, virtual tools for ongoing care and diversifying providers available on our digital platforms.
• Maintained our #1 position in the group retirement market(2) with over $141 billion assets under administration. In our pension risk transfer
business, Defined Benefit Solutions, we completed $2.3 billion in sales, helping Canadian employers reduce their pension risk and provide long-
term protection for their retirees. Additionally, we took industry-leading action on sustainable investing by deploying a digital Plan Sponsor
Sustainability Playbook that ensures members are informed of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors within their plans.
• Upheld our leadership position in individual insurance(3) by enhancing our products and services, while growing advisor relationships across the
market. We made it easier for Clients to get the coverage they need by augmenting our predictive underwriting models with the help of
advanced data and analytics, allowing Clients aged 18 to 40 to qualify for up to $5 million in life insurance coverage without the need for lab
exams.
• Continued individual wealth momentum by launching our Investment GIF eApp, enabling Clients and third-party advisors to process investment
applications digitally, streamlining the Client experience. In addition, we grew Sun Life Global Investments ("SLGI") assets under management
to $38 billion and increased net flows by 73% compared to 2020, supported by the launch of a sustainable infrastructure fund.
• SLGI Asset Management Inc. joined the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, committing to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We are
doing our part to provide Clients with access to sustainable investments, allowing us to build on our commitment to invest in strategies that
drive long-term sustainable outcomes while helping Clients build wealth and secure their financial future.
(1)
Based on revenue for year ended December 2020 from 2021 Group Benefits Provider Report.
(2)
Fraser Pension Universe Report (based on year-ended December 2020).
(3)
LIMRA Market Share as of third quarter 2021 year-to-date.
24 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Putting Client Impact at the centre of everything we do when developing new business models
• Enhanced Client value and positive outcomes by providing every Client with personalized financial tools that will enable them to set, track, and
continuously adjust personal goals across all our wealth and insurance platforms.
• Our digital coach, Ella, proactively connected with Clients over 20 million times throughout the year, supporting our Clients during moments
that matter and assisting them with an additional $690 million in wealth deposits and $950 million in insurance coverage.
• Made it easier for our Clients to do business with us by digitally processing 93% of retail insurance applications, 83% of retail wealth
transactions and 96% of group benefits health and dental claims, throughout the year.
• Our Canadian mobile app, my Sun Life, continued to be recognized as a highly rated digital platform that delivered exceptional Client
experiences, maintaining a 4.0+ overall user rating since its inception(1), and unique users grew by 12% in 2021.
• Introduced the new Lumino Health [provider search] mobile app that makes it easier for Canadians to book appointments with paramedical
providers, which empowers Clients and their families to live healthier lives and also deepens our Clients' relationships with the Lumino Health
website, helping us reach over 1.6 million visitors.
Put Client Impact at the centre of everything we do, driving positive financial and health actions and outcomes
• Equip every Client with a personalized financial plan, leveraging the strength of our diversified products and services to deliver a One Sun Life
Client experience and provide a holistic and tailored offering.
• Empower Clients to build and secure their financial future through our growing asset management product and services offering, driving long-
term Client investment returns and sustainable outcomes.
• Continue to educate and equip our Clients with tools to understand their sustainable investment choices and enable Clients, plan sponsors, and
advisors to create measurable impact through their investments.
• Incorporate sustainability into our culture and decision making to deliver a positive social impact, increase Client and employee engagement,
and drive market differentiation.
• Bring innovative solutions to market that address major health concerns in Canada, enabling Clients with existing health challenges to gain
access to insurance cost-effectively, while helping them manage their health.
(1)
Achieved 4.0 or above overall annual user rating on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store, since its inception in 2011.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 25
Outlook
Client expectations across all cohorts are rapidly changing, driving higher demand for personalized experiences that are aligned with their needs,
while being quicker and seamless. In addition, evolving mental, physical and sociological needs across the Canadian population is increasing the
need to provide tailored solutions within the health market. We continue to embrace these changes and evolve our diversified business model in
response to the shifting Canadian market, by accelerating key investments and expanding our Client offerings, while maintaining strong financial,
risk and capital management practices.
Financial security and health are two primary preoccupations for Canadians. It drives the need for asset and wealth management, as well as life and
health protection, while presenting opportunities for integrated solutions. Each individual’s needs vary as they progress through different life stages,
requiring diverse offerings, holistic advice and a personalized, evolving plan throughout their wealth and health journeys. Accumulation and
decumulation of wealth remains top of mind as Clients seek investment options with financial returns aligned with their goals.
In addition, while Canadians continue to live longer and desire digital health experiences, the impact and instances of mental health continues to be
more prevalent than ever. We recognize the need to expand our role to provide support for Canadians’ health and well-being. This includes our
focus on mental health and improving health outcomes through solutions that will ensure our Clients have the resources and support available to
develop and maintain a positive mental health environment.
Business Units
Business Description Market position
Individual • Provides holistic advice to individuals to help them and their families achieve • 1st place market position by premiums
Insurance & lifetime financial security, and live healthier lives, leveraging a broad suite of life within the individual life and health
Wealth and health insurance and investment products. market and 2nd place for Individual
• Products distributed via multi-channel distribution model consisting of the SLFD Critical Illness Insurance based on
network(1), third-party channels, including independent brokers and broker-dealers, premiums(2)
and direct-to-consumer. • 1st in fixed product sales(2) and 4th
place market position by total wealth
deposits and premiums(2)
Sun Life Health • In 2021, we announced the creation of Sun Life Health business. This new business • 1st place group benefits provider in
unit brings Group Benefits and Lumino Health together. Sun Life Health will provide Canada for the 9th consecutive year(3)
Clients with personalized and on-demand digital health experiences that will
empower them to take action on their health earlier, ultimately improving their
health outcomes.
• Provides group insurance products in Canada, including life, dental, extended health
Group • Provides defined contribution pension plans and defined benefit solutions in • Ranked 1st in the defined contribution
Retirement Canada to employers of all sizes. market based on total Capital
Services • Leverages our worksite advantage to offer voluntary savings plans, including post- Accumulation Plan assets for the 19th
employment plans, to those members exiting their employer-sponsored plans. consecutive year(4)
• Defined Benefit Solutions offers an expanding range of innovative de-risking • Ranked 1st in the defined benefit
solutions for defined benefit pension plans. solutions annuity market(2)
• Products distributed by sales representatives in collaboration with a multi-channel
• Planning and asset consolidation capabilities for current and former plan members
(1)
Sun Life Financial Distribution ("SLFD") is our proprietary career advisory network.
(2)
LIMRA Market Share as of third quarter 2021, on a year-to-date basis.
(3)
Based on revenue for year ended December 2020 from 2021 Group Benefits Provider Report.
(4)
Fraser Pension Universe Report (based on year-ended December 2020).
26 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Financial and Business Results
($ millions) 2021 2020
Individual Insurance & Wealth 911 36
Sun Life Health(1) 271 422
Group Retirement Services 376 259
Reported net income - Common shareholders 1,558 717
Less: Market-related impacts(2) 474 (392)
Assumption changes and management actions(2) 40 32
Other(2)(3) (87) 4
Underlying net income(4) 1,131 1,073
(4)
Reported ROE (%)
19.8%
9.8%
Underlying ROE (%)(4)
14.4%
14.7%
Insurance sales(4) 852 779
Wealth sales(4) 19,854 19,938
(1)
Effective Q4 2021, we began reporting on the performance and results of Sun Life Health, which brings our Group Benefits business and Lumino Health
platform together.
(2)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment, including pre-tax adjustments.
(3)
Other adjustments to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure include other items that are unusual or exceptional in nature. See section L - Non-IFRS
Financial Measures in this document.
(4)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Profitability
In 2021, Canada's reported net income of $1,558 million increased $841 million or 117.3% compared to 2020, driven by favourable market-related
impacts. Underlying net income of $1,131 million increased $58 million or 5%, driven by business growth, partially offset by experience-related
items and an investment impairment in earnings on surplus. Experience in the year included favourable credit, investing activity gains, and
favourable mortality. These factors were partially offset by unfavourable morbidity reflecting lower disability claims resolutions, while pricing
actions were in line with higher disability claims volumes. Unfavourable expense experience also contributed to the offset.
Growth
Canada insurance sales increased by $73 million or 9% in 2021 compared to 2020. Individual insurance sales were $489 million, an increase of $131
million or 37%, driven by higher participating whole life insurance sales. Sun Life Health sales were $363 million, a decrease of $57 million or 14%,
reflecting lower large case group benefits sales.
Canada wealth sales were in line with the prior year. Individual wealth sales were $9.0 billion, an increase of $1.5 billion or 20%, driven by higher
mutual fund sales. GRS sales were $10.9 billion, a decrease of $1.6 billion or 13%, reflecting lower defined contribution sales and retained business,
partially offset by increased asset consolidations and rollovers.
AUM for our wealth businesses, including GRS, was $165.2 billion as at December 31, 2021, an increase of $14.4 billion or 9.5% compared to
December 31, 2020, driven by improved markets and net inflows.
Individual life and health insurance product sales were $489 million in 2021, an increase of $131 million or 37% compared to 2020. As noted above,
the increase was driven by higher participating whole life insurance sales. Individual wealth product sales were
$9.0 billion in 2021, an increase of
$1.5 billion or 20% compared to 2020, driven by higher mutual fund sales.
Sun Life Health sales were $363 million in 2021, a decrease of $57 million or 14% compared to 2020, reflecting lower large case group benefits sales.
GRS sales were $10.9 billion in 2021, a decrease of $1.6 billion or 13% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by
lower defined contribution sales and
retained business, partially offset by increased asset consolidations and rollovers. Assets under administration was $142.1 billion as at December 31,
2021, an increase of $16.2 billion or 13% compared to December 31, 2020, driven by improved market movement and net inflows.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 27
2. U.S.
Our U.S. business group is one of the largest group benefits providers in the U.S. market, serving employees and their families at more
than 55,000 workplaces of all sizes across the country with employer-sponsored insurance products and solutions. In addition, our U.S.
business manages an in-force block of more than 90,000 individual life insurance policies.
Business Units
• Group Benefits • In-force Management
2021 Highlights
Helping Clients improve health outcomes and get the coverage they need
• Introduced Health Navigator powered by PinnacleCare, a unique medical stop-loss platform that guides members through the complex U.S.
health-care system. Health Navigator helps Clients get the right care to create better health outcomes and experiences, while reducing costs.
• Launched Stitch in select states, an innovative supplemental health offering that members can buy directly from Sun Life online or via mobile
any time of year without the need for employer administration. Stitch also helps protect part-time and gig workers, who are not typically
eligible for employee benefits.
• Increased the number of employees covered on the Sun Life + Maxwell Health platform by 70% compared to the prior year, contributing to a
4% increase in employee benefits sales.
• Broadened the FullscopeRMS portfolio with a supplemental health offering to help more Clients cover out-of-pocket costs resulting from
treatment for health conditions.
• In-force Management paid the highest amount of claims in its history at more than US$1 billion, continuing to help Clients at a time they
needed it most.
Our strategy is centred on being a leader in health and benefits in the U.S. We are focused on helping Clients improve health outcomes and reduce
costs, delivering tools that make it easier to do business with us, and helping members close coverage gaps. We are committed to diversity, equity
and inclusion in our workforce and support a future of work built on flexible work styles. This will help us continue to increase employee
engagement and attract and retain top talent to meet and exceed the needs of our Clients. We remain committed to being a business known for
doing the right thing, guided by our Purpose of helping Clients live healthier lives by getting them the right care at the right time at the right cost.
28 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Be a digital leader, enhancing the digital experience and make it easier to do business with us
• Expand our ability to integrate with other major platforms in the health and benefits ecosystem, delivering an automated and more efficient
Client experience.
• Drive digital expansion through new capabilities and partnerships while leveraging existing assets to deliver predictive and personalized
analytics to help members make decisions that are right for them.
• Leverage digital tools to increase Client interactions and elevate content to drive sales and virtual engagement, enhancing selling effectiveness
and delivering deeper insights for brokers and employers.
Help members close coverage gaps and select the right benefits
• Continue to help members optimize the coverage they need through clear benefits communication, simple product packages, and excellent
enrollment support.
• Grow our national accounts business with a focus on our expanded supplemental health and voluntary offerings and our integrated disability
and absence claims management process, helping employers comply with complex regulations and giving more Americans access to paid leave.
• Drive more growth in FullscopeRMS by leveraging the recently expanded suite of turnkey solutions for insurance company and health plan
partners.
Help In-force Management policy-owners achieve lifetime financial security, while effectively managing our operations
• Continue to provide excellent service to our over 90,000 individual insurance policy-owners.
• Optimize the value of the business by implementing opportunities to improve profitability, including expense efficiencies and alternative
investment strategies.
• Effectively manage risk and capital through reinsurance and via product offerings for converting or maturing policies.
Outlook
The pandemic continues to impact the U.S. group benefits industry, especially as COVID-19-related deaths in the working-age population increased
significantly in the second half of 2021. Our diversified business model has supported our performance throughout the pandemic, as strong medical
stop-loss and In-force Management results offset unfavorable COVID-19 impacts in our employee benefits business. It is difficult to predict the direct
and indirect impacts of the pandemic going forward, but we continue to be here for our Clients in the moments that matter most, paying more than
$300 million in claims to families impacted by COVID-19 in 2021.
The U.S. health and employee benefits ecosystem is large and growing with Clients becoming increasingly aware of the value of our products and
services. These markets remain competitive, but we are committed to growing profitably by leveraging our leadership position, deep expertise, and
new capabilities to extend further into the health services space. With our acquisition of PinnacleCare and plan to acquire DentaQuest, more than
70% of our active U.S. business will be in health care products and services. We expect to close the DentaQuest acquisition during the first half of
2022.
We have advocated for and collaborated with members of Congress to encourage the passage of a Federal Paid Family and Medical Leave program.
If enacted, the proposal we support would expand coverage to all Americans, and give employers the flexibility to provide these benefits through
insurers. We continue to monitor other possible legislative changes to key areas impacting our business, including federal data security and privacy
legislation, modifications to the Affordable Care Act, and changes to corporate tax rates.
Business Units
Business Description Market position
Group Benefits • Provides group insurance products and services, including life, long-term and • Largest independent medical stop-
short-term disability, absence management, medical stop-loss, dental, vision, loss provider(1)
voluntary and supplemental health insurance such as hospital indemnity, accident • Largest turnkey disability provider(2)
and critical illness. • One of the largest preferred.
• Stop-loss insurance provides employers who self-insure their employee health provider organization ("PPO") dental
plans with protection against large claims. networks with 130,000 unique
• Products distributed through more than 32,000 independent brokers and benefits dentists(3)
consultants, supported by approximately 175 employed sales representatives. • Top ten group life and disability
• Serves more than 55,000 employers in small, medium and large workplaces across benefits provider(4)
the U.S.
• FullscopeRMS, provides turnkey solutions for disability, absence management,
stop-loss and supplemental health coverages and capabilities including
underwriting services, claims administration, product development, actuarial and
policy administration.
In-force • Provides more than 90,000 individual life insurance policies, primarily universal life
Management and participating whole life insurance.
(1)
Ranking compiled by Sun Life based on data contained in the 2020 Accident and Health Policy Experience Report from the National Association of
Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC"). An independent stop-loss carrier is defined as a stop-loss carrier that does not also sell medical claim administration
services.
(2)
Based on annual 2020 NAIC Accident and Health Policy Experience Report and DRMS market expertise.
(3)
Based on unique dentist count from Zelis Network Analytics data as of September 2020. Nationwide counts are state level totals.
(4)
Based on LIMRA 2020 Annual U.S. Sales & In-Force Reports for group term life, group short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 29
Financial and Business Results
(US$ millions) 2021 2020
Group Benefits 247 331
In-force Management 152 (140)
Reported net income - Common shareholders 399 191
Less: Market-related impacts(1) 74 6
Assumption changes and management actions(1) (80) (236)
Acquisition, integration and restructuring(1) (8) (4)
Underlying net income(2) 413 425
(2)
Reported ROE (%) 13.6% 6.9%
Underlying ROE (%)(2) 14.0% 15.3%
After-tax profit margin for Group Benefits (%)(2)(3) 5.7% 8.0%
Insurance sales(2) 1,244 1,102
(C$ millions)
Reported net income - Common shareholders 499 257
Less: Market-related impacts(1) 93 8
Assumption changes and management actions(1) (101) (313)
Acquisition, integration and restructuring(1) (11) (6)
Underlying net income(2) 518 568
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment, including pre-tax amounts.
(2)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(3)
Based on underlying net income, on a trailing four-quarter basis. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Profitability
In 2021, U.S's reported net income of US$399 million increased US$208 million compared to the same period in 2020, driven by ACMA impacts
largely pertaining to In-force Management and an increase in the value of our real estate investments. Underlying net income decreased
US$12 million or 3%, reflecting US$105 million(1) primarily from elevated COVID-19 impacts on the working-age population. In addition, experience
in the year included investing activity gains and favourable credit, partially offset by unfavourable expense experience. Foreign exchange translation
led to a decline of $42 million in reported net income and $40 million in underlying net income.
The trailing four-quarter after-tax profit margin for Group Benefits was 5.7% as of the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to 8.0% as of the fourth
quarter of 2020.
Growth
U.S. insurance sales increased by US$142 million or 13% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by growth in medical stop-loss and employee benefits
sales.
Acquisition of PinnacleCare
On July 1, 2021, we completed the acquisition of PinnacleCare, a leading U.S. health care navigation and medical intelligence provider, for
$110 million (US$85 million). PinnacleCare joins our U.S. Group Benefits business in the medical stop-loss organization, the largest independent
medical stop-loss provider in the country. The acquisition expands our medical stop-loss business beyond the traditional model that reimburses
employers after care has occurred, to one that engages employees at diagnosis to help improve the entire care experience and outcomes for both
the employee and employer. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended
December 31, 2021.
In-force Management
In-force Management's reported net income of US$152 million increased US$292 million in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by less unfavourable
ACMA, and favourable market-related impacts and mortality.
(1)
$135 million in Canadian dollars.
30 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
3. Asset Management
Our Asset Management business group is comprised of MFS and SLC Management. MFS is a premier global asset manager which offers a
comprehensive selection of financial products and services that deliver superior value and actively manages assets for retail and
institutional investors around the world. SLC Management is a global institutional asset manager with capabilities across public and
private credit, fixed income, real estate and infrastructure.
Business Units
• MFS Investment Management • SLC Management
2021 Highlights
• We ended 2021 with $1.06 trillion in assets under management consisting of $875.2 billion (US$692.8 billion) from MFS and $183.9 billion from
SLC Management.
MFS
• MFS generated record high ANA, revenues and net income during 2021.
• 2021 marked the third straight year where MFS posted net retail inflows in every quarter.
• Delivered strong long-term investment performance with 97%, 96%, and 80% of MFS's U.S. retail mutual fund assets ranked in the top half of
their Morningstar categories based on ten-, five- and three-year performance, respectively, as at December 31, 2021.
• MFS joined the Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative, a global group of asset managers committed to supporting the goal of net-zero greenhouse
gas emissions by 2050, or sooner, by working with their clients across their portfolios.
• Sustained a strong pre-tax net operating profit margin ratio for MFS of 41%, up from 39% in 2020.
SLC Management
• On January 5, 2021, we completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Crescent Capital Group, a global alternative credit investment
manager, forming the alternative credit investing pillar of SLC Management. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2021
Consolidated Financial Statements.
• SLC Management achieved net flows of $33 billion through strong capital raising across all of our affiliate managers, capitalizing the
momentum of investor demand across a broad range of asset classes, products and geographies, demonstrating the breadth and diversity of
the platform.
◦ Of the record capital raised in 2021, Crescent Capital Group produced over a third as it executed on capital raises in two flagship funds,
while BGO achieved an over 40% increase in capital raising relative to 2020.
◦ There are opportunities to offer the entire product shelf to our Clients and we have made tangible progress in cross-selling, particularly to
our Fixed Income Clients.
◦ SLC Management achieved a record AUM of $184 billion; excluding the Crescent Capital acquisition, AUM was up 19% compared to the
prior year.
• We continued to build on our commitment to sustainable investing:
◦ Our affiliate managers, InfraRed and BGO joined the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, pledging to achieve net-zero emissions for their
portfolios by 2050.
◦ Added global ESG expertise to its diverse investment platform through the appointment of a Global Head of ESG.
MFS: Continue to deliver superior investment performance while allocating capital responsibly for our Clients
MFS's active management strategy focuses on delivering value to our Clients over the long term. Our relative performance puts us in a strong
competitive position over other asset managers:
• With increasing market volatility and a successful track record, MFS is well-positioned to attract flows from all Client sectors that are seeking
risk-managed capital appreciation over the long term based on our disciplined, long-term approach. We are engaging Clients to align with MFS
to focus on longer investment horizons, to leverage our proven ability to deliver over benchmark performance through a market cycle.
• Our strong leadership on ESG is embedded in our overall investment approach of allocating capital responsibly on behalf of our Clients.
• Our continued strategic focus to build out institutional fixed income product and sales capabilities and broaden our non-U.S. retail initiatives
enables us to meet Clients' unique and local needs. As COVID-19 restrictions on travel lift, we will be able to make more in-person visits with
new and prospective clients to better present our capabilities.
• MFS strives to maintain margins in the top quartile of active managers while maintaining our commitment to provide long-term value to
Clients.
• Continue to focus on diversity at all levels and promoting an inclusive culture.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 31
SLC Management: Help investors meet their investment objectives by offering a broad suite of alternative asset classes and fixed income
strategies
We are well-positioned to take advantage of key trends in our target markets:
• Growing demand for alternative investments due to low nominal interest rates
• An increasing focus by investors on ESG and sustainability issues
• Outsourcing of asset management by insurance companies, and
• Consolidation of investment manager relationships by institutional investors.
Our strategy is to continue to deliver superior investment performance, expand and deepen our distribution relationships and build out our product
lineup. SLC Management is positioned for growth over the medium-term and aligned with our objectives(1) to achieve AUM of $225 billion, operating
margin of 30%-35%, and underlying net income of $225 million by 2025. We offer our Clients a compelling suite of investment capabilities to meet
their needs, including:
• Leading public and private fixed income capabilities, spanning both investment grade and alternative credit
• Global real estate expertise across both equity and debt and
• Global infrastructure capabilities.
Outlook
MFS
We continued to see consolidation in the asset management industry as changes are driving clients and platforms to consolidate assets into fewer
investment firms. Within this context, we believe that we have the scale, proven long-term track records and broad product portfolios to take
advantage of this opportunity to gain market share. Active asset managers continue face headwinds from passive investment products and
downward pressure on fees. To address these headwinds, we will continue to grow our retail business outside the U.S and to diversify our global
business with fixed income products. Outside the U.S., we are looking to build local infrastructure with in-country resources, incorporating local
language websites and sales materials, as well as partnering with local firms who distribute our products. For our fixed income initiative, we
continue to enhance our dedicated infrastructure, build our long-term track records and improve our Client engagement.
SLC Management
We expect to see continued investor demand for yield-oriented fixed income and alternative asset classes, as yields around the world continue to
remain at or near historic lows. We believe we are well-positioned to meet this demand with our platform of world-class investment capabilities,
complimentary businesses that drive product and distribution opportunities, and global resources that come from being part of Sun Life. The
investment capabilities we use for our Clients are the same capabilities that we use in managing the general account of Sun Life Financial; this
facilitates co-investment opportunities that result in an alignment of interest with our Clients and enables SLC Management's speed to market for
products.
Business Units
Business Description Market position
MFS • Actively manages assets for retail and institutional investors, including • US$693 billion in AUM.
pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, monetary authorities, and • The 10th largest U.S. Retail funds manager(1)
endowments and foundations.
• Retail products are distributed through financial advisors, brokerages and
other professionals.
SLC • SLC Management delivers public and private credit, fixed income, real estate • $184 billion in AUM.
Management and infrastructure solutions to Clients through a group of affiliate managers,
including:
manager.
(1)
As reported by ISS Market Intelligence Simfund based on AUM as at December 31, 2021.
(1)
Although considered reasonable, we may not be able to achieve our medium-term financial objectives as our assumptions may prove to be inaccurate.
Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our medium-term financial objectives as described above. Our medium-term financial objectives
do not constitute guidance. Our medium-term financial objectives are forward-looking non-IFRS financial measures and additional information is provided
in this MD&A in section O - Forward-looking Statements - Medium-Term Financial Objectives.
32 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Financial and Business Results
Asset Management (C$ millions) 2021 2020
Reported net income - Common shareholders 892 980
Less: Fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards(1) (186) (92)
Acquisition, integration and restructuring(1)(2)(3) (247) (56)
Other(1)(4) (21) —
Underlying net income(5) 1,346 1,128
(5)(6)
Assets under management (C$ billions) 1,059.2 891.9
Gross flows (C$ billions)(5)(7) 193.1 190.0
Net flows (C$ billions)(5)(7) 21.1 17.2
MFS (C$ millions)
Reported net income - Common shareholders 1,049 942
Less: Fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards(1) (186) (92)
Underlying net income(5) 1,235 1,034
(5)
Assets under management (C$ billions) 875.2 776.8
Gross flows (C$ billions)(5) 150.1 178.3
Net flows (C$ billions)(5) (11.4) 17.7
MFS (US$ millions)
Reported net income - Common shareholders 836 704
Less: Fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards(1) (149) (70)
Underlying net income(5) 985 774
(5)
Pre-tax net operating profit margin ratio for MFS 41% 39%
Average net assets (US$ billions)(5) 657.8 525.4
Assets under management (US$ billions)(5)(8) 692.8 610.2
Gross flows (US$ billions)(5) 119.7 132.8
Net flows (US$ billions)(5) (9.2) 13.1
Asset appreciation (depreciation) (US$ billions) 91.7 69.7
S&P 500 Index (daily average) 4,266 2,942
MSCI EAFE Index (daily average) 2,289 1,853
SLC Management (C$ millions)
Reported net income - Common shareholders (157) 38
Less: Acquisition, integration and restructuring(1)(2)(3) (247) (56)
Other(1)(4) (21) —
(5)
Underlying net income 111 94
Assets under management (C$ billions)(5)(6) 183.9 115.1
Gross flows (C$ billions)(5)(7) 43.0 11.7
Net flows (C$ billions)(5)(7) 32.5 (0.5)
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment, including pre-tax adjustments.
(2)
Amounts relate to acquisition costs for our acquisition of a majority stake in BentallGreenOak ("BGO acquisition"), our acquisition of a majority stake in
InfraRed Capital Partners ("InfraRed acquisition"), and the Crescent acquisition, which include the unwinding of the discount for Other financial liabilities of
$59 million in 2021 ($47 million in 2020).
(3)
Reflects the changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates of $153 million in 2021.
(4)
Other adjustments to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure include other items that are unusual or exceptional in nature. See section L - Non-IFRS
Financial Measures in this document.
(5)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(6)
Effective January 1, 2021, the methodology for AUM was updated for SLC Management with respect to certain real estate and investment-grade fixed
income products to include uncalled capital commitments. We have updated prior period amounts to reflect this change. For more details, see section L -
Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(7)
Effective January 1, 2021, the methodology for gross flows and outflows was updated for SLC Management. Prior period amounts have not been updated.
For more details, see section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(8)
Monthly information on AUM is provided by MFS in its Corporate Fact Sheet, which can be found at www.mfs.com/CorpFact. The Corporate Fact Sheet
also provides MFS's U.S. GAAP assets and liabilities as at December 31, 2021.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 33
Profitability
In 2021, Asset Management's reported net income of $892 million decreased $88 million or 9% compared to 2020, reflecting a $153 million increase
in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities(1) and higher fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards, partially offset by an
increase in underlying net income of $218 million. The increase in underlying net income was driven by a 19% increase in MFS and an 18% increase
in SLC Management. Foreign exchange translation led to a decline of $67 million in reported net income and $85 million in underlying net income.
Growth
Asset Management’s AUM increased by $167.3 billion or 18.8% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, driven by asset
appreciation of $120.3 billion, the Crescent acquisition of $39.1 billion and net inflows of $21.1 billion.
MFS’s AUM increased by US$82.5 billion or 14% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, driven by asset appreciation of
US$91.7 billion, partially offset by net outflows of US$9.2 billion.
SLC Management
In 2021, SLC Management's reported net loss was $157 million, compared to reported net income of $38 million in 2020, reflecting a $153 million
increase in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities. Underlying net income of $111 million increased $17 million or 18%, driven by gains on
real estate seed investments and results from our acquisitions, partially offset by higher performance fees in the prior year.
SLC Management's AUM increased by $68.8 billion or 60% as at December 31, 2021 compared to December 31, 2020, driven by the Crescent
acquisition of $39.1 billion, net inflows of $32.5 billion and asset appreciation of $5.9 billion. These factors were partially offset by Client
distributions of $6.4 billion.
4. Asia
Our Asia presence provides us with a strong footprint to take advantage of the high growth prospects in the region. We operate in eight
Asian markets, delivering value to over 21 million Clients. Local Markets provides asset management, wealth, protection and health
solutions through a multi-channel distribution approach. International Hubs offers leading insurance and wealth products through agency
and broker distribution, including life insurance solutions, to High Net Worth families and individuals.
Business Units
• Local Markets • International Hubs
2021 Highlights
Growth in scale and distribution
• We ended 2021 with $63.5 billion in total AUM in our asset management and wealth businesses, up 2 billion from the prior year.
• In Vietnam, we are now the 4th largest bancassurance player and the 6th largest life insurer based on sales, up from 13th in 2020, driven by the
rapid growth of our new bancassurance partnerships and the success of our agency force.
• In the Philippines, we established SLIMTC(2) to provide multi-strategy, local and global portfolio management services to deliver superior risk-
adjusted returns for both individual and institutional investors.
• In Singapore, we launched our first High Net Worth life insurance product which helps Clients grow, protect and transfer their wealth to the
next generation. This extends our presence to eight markets in Asia and reinforces our position in the international High Net Worth life
insurance market.
• Established a relationship with MDRT Academy(3), an association helping financial professionals accelerate their careers, to supplement our
existing elite advisor training program, the Brighter Academy. This partnership will support our goal of having the most respected advisors in
the industry.
• Successful initial public offering of our India asset management joint venture, Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset Management Company Limited
("ABSLAMC")(4), which generated a gain of $362 million (post-tax $297 million).
(1)
Reflects the changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates.
(2)
Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (“SLIMTC”).
(3)
Million Dollar Round Table ("MDRT").
(4)
As a result of the initial public offering ("IPO"), our holding of ABSLAMC was reduced by 12.5%. After the IPO, we retained indirect ownership of the listed
entity of 36.5%. Shares of ABSLAMC began trading on the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited on October 11, 2021.
34 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Putting Client Impact at the centre of everything we do
• We launched SunCanvas, a new scalable virtual solution for advisors to enhance Client experiences and increase non-face-to-face sales
capabilities in the Philippines, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Vietnam.
• In the Philippines, we launched GoWell Studio, a premier digital on-demand wellness platform that includes virtual exercise programs, guided
meditation sessions, and healthcare awareness and education content, amongst a variety of other features.
• We rolled out major upgrades to SunSmart, our digital point of sales tool, including straight-through processing capabilities in the Philippines
for six key products and non-face-to-face sales capabilities in Malaysia.
Embed sustainability into our business to drive value creation and align with our Purpose
• We launched the Sun Life AM Hong Kong ESG Index Fund (SLHKEIB), bringing the first Hang Seng ESG 50 Index fund to investors in Hong Kong.
• We were the first Malaysian insurance company to launch an ESG investment-linked fund, the Global Sustainable Equity Fund, partnering with
Nomura Asset Management.
Embed sustainability into our business to drive value creation, positive impact, and align with our Purpose
• Provide quality advice and offer relevant financial solutions to enable Clients to plan and protect themselves from adverse financial events and
invest for their future.
• Become a partner in our Clients' health journeys, by offering a wider set of valued health solutions and deepen the level of engagement across
the Client relationship.
• Fully embed ESG into our investment processes and introduce ESG investment opportunities for our Clients.
Outlook
Our diversified business, with a multi-country presence and multi-channel distribution, positions us to capture opportunities as they arise, and
protects our business against adverse economic or regulatory cycles in any one market. We expect that the region’s economic growth will continue,
despite the uncertainties and short-term headwinds from COVID-19, and that rapid wealth creation, coupled with low penetration rates for
insurance, will result in sustained growth across all of our distribution channels and markets over the medium-term. In addition, we expect to
continue to reach more Clients by expanding and deepening our high-quality agency force and diverse network of bancassurance partners.
Furthermore, we feel confident that our position among the global leaders in the international High Net Worth space will continue to generate value
and positive outcomes for Clients.
Economic and geopolitical uncertainty, as well as intense competition, continue to pose challenges to our businesses, and these are further
intensified by the ongoing pandemic. However, our steadfast dedication to our Purpose and our Clients, strengthening market positions, key
strategic relationships, investments in digital and analytics, and our ability to leverage Sun Life's global expertise position us well for the future. As
local governments continue to download responsibilities in both the retirement and health spaces, we are well-equipped to offer current and
prospective Clients a diverse range of products and solutions.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 35
Business Markets
36 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Profitability
In 2021, Asia's reported net income of $1,075 million increased $481 million or 81% compared to 2020, driven by a $297 million gain from the IPO of
our India asset management joint venture, and favourable market-related and ACMA impacts. Underlying net income was in line with the prior year,
as business growth and new business gains were offset by experience-related items and unfavourable foreign exchange translation. Experience in
the year included unfavourable COVID-19-related mortality of $60 million from our India joint venture(1), the Philippines and Indonesia, as well as
expense experience, partially offset by favourable credit. Foreign exchange translation led to a decline of $67 million in reported net income and $40
million in underlying net income.
Growth
Asia insurance sales increased by 6%(2) in 2021 compared to 2020. Individual insurance sales were $1,219 million. Individual insurance sales
increased 5%(2), driven by increases in Vietnam, India and the Philippines, partially offset by decreases in Hong Kong.
Asia wealth sales increased by 51%(2) in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by higher sales in India, the Philippines and Hong Kong.
We continued to build our agency and alternate distribution channels, leverage a more balanced product portfolio and increase efficiency and
productivity, while maintaining Client focus.
Philippines - On a local currency basis, individual insurance sales increased 21% in 2021 compared to 2020. Mutual and managed fund AUM was
$4.3 billion as at December 31, 2021, an increase of 40% compared to 2020, measured in local currency, reflecting strong money market sales.
Agency headcount reached approximately 22,300 at the end of 2021, 14% higher than 2020.
Indonesia - On a local currency basis, individual life insurance sales increased 9% in 2021 compared to 2020, with growth in the bancassurance
channel, partially offset by lower sales in agency and telemarketing channel.
Agency headcount was at approximately 5,800 in 2021, an increase of 9% from the previous year-end.
Vietnam - On a local currency basis, individual insurance sales increased 262% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by the new bancassurance channel
and growth in the agency channel.
Agency headcount was almost 5,700 at the end of 2021, 11% lower than 2020, as a result of the impact of COVID-19 and stricter validation criteria.
Malaysia - On a local currency basis, individual insurance sales increased 6% in 2021 compared to 2020, with higher sales in the bancassurance
channel.
Malaysia's agency force was at approximately 840 agents as at the end of 2021, 18% higher than 2020.
India - On a local currency basis, individual life insurance sales increased 21% in 2021 compared to 2020, with growth in all channels. On a local
currency basis, gross sales of equity and fixed income funds increased 59%.
India's agency headcount reached 70,000 at the end of 2021, 14% lower than 2020 reflecting COVID-19 impacts and stricter validation criteria.
Total AUM as at December 31, 2021 was $50.4 billion, of which $18.3 billion is reported in our AUM based on Sun Life's 36.49% share, 9% higher
than 2020.
China - On a local currency basis, individual insurance sales increased 13% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by growth in the bancassurance
channel, partially offset by lower sales in agency and broker channels.
Agency headcount reached 8,400 at the end of 2021, 63% lower than 2020 due to focus on quality.
International Hubs
International Hubs' reported net income of $467 million increased $138 million or 42% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by favourable market-
related and ACMA impacts, business growth and favourable credit experience, partially offset by the unfavourable impacts of foreign exchange and
less favourable morbidity experience.
Hong Kong - On a local currency basis, individual insurance sales decreased 36% in 2021 compared to 2020, reflecting lower sales in the broker
channel, partially offset by the agency channel. AUM in our pension business reached $21.5 billion as at December 31, 2021, an increase of 11%
compared to 2020, measured in local currency, and pension net flows increased 35% compared to 2020.
Agency headcount increased by 12% from 2020 to approximately 2,500 at the end of 2021.
(1)
Experience-related items from our India, China and Malaysia joint ventures and associates are recorded within other experience.
(2)
This percentage change excludes the impacts of foreign exchange translation. For more information about these non-IFRS financial measures, see section L
- Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 37
International - On a constant currency basis, individual life insurance sales increased 3%(1) in 2021 compared to 2020, due to the competitive
environment and market shifts in the first half of 2020.
Singapore - Singapore launched its first High-Net-Worth life insurance product in Q3 2021, driving $6 million of individual life insurance sales in
2021.
5. Corporate
Corporate includes the results of our UK business and Corporate Support.
Business Units
Business Description
UK • UK has a run-off block of business consisting of approximately 480,000 in-force life and pension policies, with
approximately £10 billion of AUM. Since December 2010, UK has been closed to new business and focuses on
supporting existing Clients. Most administrative functions have been outsourced to external service providers
which are managed by an in-house management team.
Corporate Support • Corporate Support operations consist of the certain expenses, debt charges, investment income, capital and other
items, which pertain to monitoring and oversight of enterprise activities and Corporate treasury functions, which
are not allocated to business segments. Corporate Support also includes our Run-off reinsurance business.
Coverage in our Run-off reinsurance business includes long-term care, medical coverage, and guaranteed
minimum income and death benefit coverage. The block also includes group long-term disability and personal
accident policies which are 100% retroceded.
Profitability
In 2021, Corporate's reported net loss was $90 million, an improvement of $54 million compared to 2020, driven by the change in underlying net
loss, partially offset by unfavourable ACMA impacts. Underlying net loss of $48 million improved $87 million, driven by a lower effective tax rate(2),
partially offset by higher expenses.
Corporate Support
Corporate Support's reported net loss of $231 million improved $106 million or 31% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by a lower effective tax
rate(2), partially offset by unfavourable expense experience and unfavourable mortality experience in the run-off businesses.
(1)
This percentage change excludes the impacts of foreign exchange translation. For more information about these non-IFRS financial measures, see section L
- Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)
Prior year included an unfavourable adjustment relating to historical Canadian tax filings and lower tax-exempt investment income.
38 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
H. Investments
The Company strives to ensure that all general fund investments are properly aligned with business objectives including meeting policyholder
obligations and maintaining adequate liquidity at all times. Consideration is given in our investment process to a wide range of factors, including
ensuring attractive risk and return profiles, appropriate diversification by asset type, credit exposure and sector, financial condition and ESG profile
of issuers and borrowers, quality and value of underlying security and macro- and micro-economic developments and trends including prospects for
specific industry sectors. The Risk Committee of the Board of Directors ("Risk Committee") approves policies that contain prudent standards and
procedures for the investment of our general fund assets. These policies include requirements, restrictions and limitations for interest rate, credit,
equity market, real estate market, liquidity, concentration, currency, and derivative risks. Compliance with these policies is monitored on a regular
basis and reported annually to the Risk Committee. The Governance, Investment & Conduct Review Committee of the Board of Directors monitors
the Company's Investment Plan and investment performance, oversees practices, procedures and controls related to the management of the
general fund investment portfolio, and reviews corporate governance guidelines and processes.
1. Investment Profile
Total general fund invested assets of $184.5 billion as at December 31, 2021, compared to $177.9 billion as at December 31, 2020. The increase was
primarily due net purchases in our invested asset portfolio from general operating activities. This was partially offset by a decline in net fair value
from rising interest rates, foreign exchange translation and decline in cash, including the funding of acquisitions. Our general fund invested assets
are well-diversified across investment types, geographies and sectors with the majority of our portfolio invested in fixed income high-quality assets.
The following table sets out the composition of our general fund invested assets:(1)
December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020
Carrying % of Total Carrying % of Total
($ millions) value Fair value fair value value Fair value fair value
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities 12,278 12,278 6
% 13,527 13,527 7 %
Debt securities 88,727 88,727 47
% 89,089 89,089 48 %
Equity securities 9,113 9,113 5
% 6,631 6,631 4 %
Mortgages and loans 51,692 55,756 29
% 49,946 56,231 31 %
Derivative assets 1,583 1,583 1
% 2,160 2,160 1 %
Other invested assets - financial assets 7,081 7,071 4
% 4,167 4,167 2 %
Policy loans 3,261 3,261 2
% 3,265 3,265 2 %
Total financial assets 173,735 177,789 94
% 168,785 175,070 95 %
Investment properties 9,109 9,109 5
% 7,516 7,516 4 %
Other invested assets - non-financial assets 1,678 1,678 1
% 1,611 1,611 1 %
Total invested assets 184,522 188,576 100
% 177,912 184,197 100 %
(1)
The values and ratios presented are based on the fair value of the respective asset categories. Generally, the carrying values for invested assets are equal
to their fair values; however our mortgages and loans are generally carried at amortized cost. For invested assets supporting insurance contracts, in the
event of default, if the amounts recovered are insufficient to satisfy the related insurance contract liability cash flows that the assets are intended to
support, credit exposure may be greater than the carrying value of the assets.
2. Debt Securities
Our debt securities portfolio is actively managed through a regular program of purchases and sales aimed at optimizing yield, quality and liquidity,
while ensuring that it remains well-diversified and duration-matched to insurance contract liabilities. As at December 31, 2021, with the exception
of certain countries where we have business operations, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and the Philippines, our exposure
to debt securities from any single country did not exceed 1% of total invested assets.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 39
Debt Securities by Issuer and Industry Sector
December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020
($ millions) Total % of Total Total % of Total
Debt securities issued or guaranteed by:
Canadian federal government 7,101 8% 6,489 7%
Canadian provincial and municipal government 17,079 19% 18,242 20%
U.S. government and agency 2,413 3% 2,475 3%
Other foreign government 5,511 6% 6,104 7%
Total government issued or guaranteed debt securities 32,104 36% 33,310 37%
Corporate debt securities by industry sector:(1)
Financials 11,948 14%
11,856 13%
Utilities 8,192 9%
8,243 9%
Industrials 6,596 7%
6,226 7%
Energy 4,279 5%
4,802 6%
Communication services 3,886 4%
3,966 5%
Real estate 2,688 3%
2,767 3%
Health care 2,427 3%
2,172 2%
Consumer staples 2,278 3%
2,051 2%
Consumer discretionary 2,120 2%
1,771 2%
Information technology 1,635 2%
1,495 2%
Materials 1,517 2%
1,625 2%
Total corporate debt securities 47,566 54%
46,974 53%
Asset-backed securities 9,057 10%
8,805 10%
Total debt securities 88,727 100%
89,089 100%
(1)
Our grouping of debt securities by sector is based on the Global Industry Classification Standard and S&P Dow Jones Indices.
Our gross unrealized losses as at December 31, 2021 for FVTPL and AFS debt securities were $405 million and $122 million, respectively, compared
with $94 million and $27 million, respectively, as at December 31, 2020. The increase in gross unrealized losses was largely due to the impact from
rising interest rates.
40 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
The credit risk ratings in the following table were established in accordance with the internal rating process described in this MD&A under the
heading J - Risk Management - 9 - Risk Categories - Credit Risk Management Governance and Control.
2021 2020
% of % of
FVTPL debt AFS debt Total debt Total debt FVTPL debt AFS debt Total debt Total debt
($ millions) securities securities securities securities securities securities securities securities
Debt securities by credit rating:
AAA 12,811 5,294 18,105 20% 12,794 4,810 17,604 20%
AA 11,510 1,502 13,012 15% 11,870 1,586 13,456 15%
A 29,984 3,282 33,266 38% 30,812 2,600 33,412 37%
BBB 20,710 2,484 23,194 26% 21,203 2,091 23,294 26%
BB and lower 983 167 1,150 1%
1,155 168 1,323 2%
Total debt securities 75,998 12,729 88,727 100% 77,834 11,255 89,089 100%
3. Equities
Our equity portfolio is well-diversified with approximately 64% of our portfolio invested in exchange-traded funds as at December 31, 2021,
compared to 58% as at December 31, 2020. Exchange-traded fund holdings are primarily in the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust and Tracker Fund of Hong
Kong Ltd. The carrying value of equities by issuer geography as at December 31, 2021 is set out in the following table.
Excluding exchange-traded funds and mutual funds, there were no issuers exceeding 1% of the equity portfolio as at December 31, 2021.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 41
Mortgage Portfolio
As at December 31, 2021, we held $15.5 billion of mortgages, compared to $15.4 billion as at December 31, 2020. Our mortgage portfolio consists
entirely of commercial mortgages, as presented in the following table.
December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020
($ millions) Insured Uninsured Total Insured Uninsured Total
Mortgages:
Retail — 3,388 3,388 — 3,710 3,710
Office — 3,531 3,531 — 3,481 3,481
Multi-family residential 3,870 1,857 5,727 3,663 1,968 5,631
Industrial and land — 2,035 2,035 — 1,945 1,945
Other 348 456 804 345 316 661
Total mortgages 4,218 11,267 15,485 4,008 11,420 15,428
% of Total mortgages
27%
73%
100%
26%
74%
100%
Our mortgage portfolio consists entirely of commercial mortgages, including retail, office, multi-family, industrial and land properties. As at
December 31, 2021, 37% of our commercial mortgage portfolio consisted of multi-family residential mortgages; there are no single-family
residential mortgages. Our uninsured commercial portfolio had a weighted average loan-to-value ratio of approximately 58% as at December 31,
2021, consistent to December 31, 2020. While we generally limit the maximum loan-to-value ratio to 75% at issuance, we may invest in mortgages
with a higher loan-to-value ratio in Canada if the mortgage is insured by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation ("CMHC"). The estimated
weighted average debt service coverage for our uninsured commercial portfolio is 1.72 times. Of the $4.1 billion of multi-family residential
mortgages in the Canadian commercial mortgage portfolio, 93% were insured by the CMHC.
Loan Portfolio
As at December 31, 2021, we held $36.2 billion of loans, compared to $34.5 billion as at December 31, 2020. Private placement loans provide
diversification by type of loan, industry segment and borrower credit quality. The private placement loan portfolio consists of senior secured and
unsecured loans to large- and mid-market corporate borrowers, securitized lease/loan obligations secured by a variety of assets, and project finance
loans in sectors such as power and infrastructure.
The credit risk ratings in the following table were established in accordance with the internal rating process described in this MD&A under the
heading J - Risk Management - 9 - Risk Categories - Credit Risk Management Governance and Control. As at December 31, 2021, 94% of our total
loan portfolio is investment grade, compared to 93% as at December 31, 2020.
($ millions) December 31, 2021 As % of Total Loans December 31, 2020 As % of Total Loans
Loans by credit rating:
AAA 192 1% 212 1%
AA 4,994 14% 4,906 14%
A 14,231 39% 13,183 38%
BBB 14,632 40% 13,758 40%
BB and lower 2,139 6% 2,427 7%
Impaired 19 —% 32 —%
Total loans 36,207 100% 34,518 100%
42 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
The following tables summarize our loans by sector:
($ millions) December 31, 2021 As % of Total Loans December 31, 2020 As % of Total Loans
Loans by Sector:
Corporate issued loans 24,852
69% 22,886
66%
Canadian provincial & municipal government 7,041 19% 7,124 21%
U.S. government & agency 2,783 8%
2,962 9%
Other foreign government 1,470 4%
1,481 4%
Canadian federal government 61 —% 65 —%
Total loans 36,207 100% 34,518 100%
Our impaired mortgages and loans, net of allowances for losses, were $31 million as at December 31, 2021, compared to $58 million as at
December 31, 2020.
5. Derivatives
The fair value of derivative assets held by the Company was $1,583 million, while the fair value of derivative liabilities was $1,392 million as at
December 31, 2021, compared to a fair value of derivative assets of $2,160 million and a fair value of derivative liabilities of $1,744 million as at
December 31, 2020.
We use derivative instruments to manage risks related to interest rate, equity market and currency fluctuations and in replication strategies to
reproduce permissible investments. Our use of derivatives in these risk mitigation strategies does not mitigate all risk exposure; rather, they are
used to keep us within our risk tolerance limits.
In addition to the general policies and monitoring, we use a variety of tools in counterparty risk management. Over-the-counter ("OTC") derivative
transactions are executed under International Swaps and Derivatives Association ("ISDA") Master Agreements. A Credit Support Annex accompanies
most of the ISDAs, which establish requirements for collateral.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 43
The net fair value of derivatives was an asset of $191 million as at December 31, 2021, compared to an asset of $416 million as at
December 31, 2020. The decrease in net fair value was primarily due to the impact from upward shifts in yield curves, partially offset by the
strengthening of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar on foreign exchange contracts.
The total notional amount of our derivatives increased to $66.0 billion as at December 31, 2021 from $62.8 billion as at December 31, 2020. The
change in notional amount is mainly attributable to an increase in foreign exchange contracts used for hedging foreign currency assets.
Certain of our derivatives are designated in qualifying hedging relationships for accounting purposes, and represented $1.2 billion, or 1.8% of the
total notional amount. Derivatives are designated in hedging relationships for accounting purposes to minimize accounting mismatches. These
hedging relationships are documented at inception and hedge effectiveness is assessed on a quarterly basis.
Our derivatives designated in qualifying hedging relationships for accounting purposes include interest rate swaps, foreign exchange agreements,
equity forwards and, previously, currency swaps. We designate certain interest rate swaps in fair value hedging relationships to hedge interest rate
exposure on AFS assets. We also designate certain foreign exchange agreements in fair value and cash flow hedging relationships to manage foreign
currency fluctuations associated with AFS assets. Additionally, we designate certain equity forwards in cash flow hedging relationships for
anticipated payments of awards under certain stock-based compensation plans.
The risk-weighted credit equivalent amount is a measure used to determine the amount of capital necessary to support derivative transactions
for certain Canadian regulatory purposes. It is determined by weighting the credit equivalent amount according to the nature of the derivative
and the creditworthiness of the counterparties.
2021 2020
Credit equivalent Risk Credit equivalent Risk
($ millions) amount ("CEA")(1) weighted CEA(1) amount ("CEA")(1) weighted CEA(1)
Foreign exchange contracts 1,024 24 787 18
Interest rate contracts 90 2 86 2
Equity and other contracts 65 2 31 1
Total 1,179 28 904 21
(1)
Amounts presented are net of collateral received.
The following table provides a summary of the credit default swap protection sold by credit rating of the underlying reference security.
2021 2020
($ millions) Notional amount Fair value Notional amount Fair value
Single name credit default swap contracts
AA 38 1 38 1
A 347 4 325 4
BBB 431 9 530 12
BB 19 — 19 —
Total single name credit default swap contracts 835 14 912 17
Credit default swap index contracts — — — —
Total credit default swap contracts sold 835 14 912 17
Additional detail on our derivative portfolio by derivative type is provided in Note 6.A.iv of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
44 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
6. Investment Properties
Office, retail and industrial properties are the major components of our investment properties portfolio, representing approximately 75% as at
December 31, 2021. The increase in our investment property portfolio is predominantly driven by net purchases, partially offset by market appraisal
losses and foreign exchange translation in the year.
7. Impaired Assets
Financial assets that are classified as FVTPL, which represented 48% of our invested assets as at December 31, 2021, do not have allowances for
losses since changes in the fair value of these assets are recorded to income and the assets are recorded at fair value in our 2021 Annual
Consolidated Financial Statements. In the event of default, if the amounts recovered are insufficient to satisfy the related insurance contract
liability cash flows that the assets are intended to support, credit exposure may be greater than the carrying value of the asset.
In the absence of objective evidence of impairment, impairment losses are not recognized on AFS debt securities, equity securities and other
invested assets. If the cost of these assets is greater than their fair values, unrealized losses are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
Unrealized losses may be due to interest rate fluctuations or depressed fair values in sectors which have experienced strong negative market
performance. Additional detail on our impairment policy is provided in Note 1.iii of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Our asset default provision reflects the provision relating to future credit events for fixed income assets currently held by the Company that support
our insurance contract liabilities. Our asset default provision as at December 31, 2021 was $2,992 million for losses related to possible future credit
events for fixed income assets currently held by the Company that support our insurance contract liabilities. This represents 2.4% of the fixed
income assets supporting insurance contract liabilities reported on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as at December 31, 2021.
Our asset default provision as at December 31, 2021 was $135 million or 5% lower than the provision as at December 31, 2020 of $3,127 million,
primarily due to the release of provisions on fixed income assets supporting our insurance contract liabilities, changes in ratings and foreign
exchange translation, partially offset by increases in the provisions for assets purchased net of dispositions.
A one-notch downgrade of 25% of our fixed income investment portfolio(1) would result in an increase in insurance contract liabilities from the
changes in ratings of $125 million post-tax and a decrease to our common shareholders' net income. This excludes the impact from the release of
best estimate credit provision and fixed income investments not impacting shareholders net income, for example assets supporting participating
policyholders. Of this total amount, approximately 60% related to our BBB portfolio.
(1)
Excluding federal and provincial securities, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, and CMHC mortgages.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 45
The following table sets out the changes in our asset default provision for existing fixed income investments.
($ millions) 2021 2020
Opening balance 3,127 2,637
Purchases, dispositions and net asset movement(1) 251 690
Changes in assumptions and methodologies — —
Changes in ratings (25) 170
Release of provisions(2) (339) (323)
Currency (22) (47)
Closing balance 2,992 3,127
(1)
Net movement reflects the fluctuation in the value of FVTPL assets arising from movements in interest rates, credit spreads and other factors that impact
the market value of fixed income investments.
(2)
This amount represents the orderly release of provisions for future credit events held in insurance contract liabilities.
Capital and liquidity management is core to our business as an insurance company. We ensure adequate capital for the protection of our
policyholders, Clients and creditors, while managing capital adequacy and allocation across our businesses for the benefit of our shareholders. In
addition, we maintain strong financial flexibility by ensuring that sufficient liquid assets are available to cover our anticipated payment obligations
and funding requirements. We invest in various types of assets with a view to matching them with liabilities of various durations.
The regulatory environments in which we operate are expected to evolve as governments and regulators work to develop the appropriate level of
financial regulation required to ensure that capital, liquidity and risk management practices are sufficient to withstand severe economic downturns.
1. Capital
We have a capital risk policy designed to maintain a strong capital position and to provide the flexibility necessary to take advantage of growth
opportunities, to support the risk associated with our businesses and to optimize shareholder return. Our capital risk policy is also intended to
provide an appropriate level of risk management over capital adequacy risk, which is defined as the risk that capital is not or will not be sufficient to
withstand adverse economic conditions, to maintain financial strength, or to allow the Company and its subsidiaries to take advantage of
opportunities for expansion. Our capital base is structured to exceed minimum regulatory and internal capital targets and to maintain strong credit
and financial strength ratings, while maintaining a capital-efficient structure. Capital is managed both on a consolidated basis under principles that
consider all the risks associated with the business as well as at the business group level under the principles appropriate to the jurisdictions in which
we operate. The capital of our foreign subsidiaries is managed on a local statutory basis in a manner commensurate with their individual risk
profiles.
Sun Life, including all of its business groups, engages in a capital planning process annually in which capital deployment options, capital raising and
dividend recommendations are presented to the Board of Directors ("Board"). Capital reviews are regularly conducted which consider the potential
impacts under various business, interest rate and equity market scenarios. Relevant components of these capital reviews, including dividend
recommendations, are presented to the Risk Committee on a quarterly basis. The Board is responsible for the approval of our annual capital plan
and quarterly shareholder dividends.
The Company's capital risk policy establishes policies, operating guidelines and procedures that govern the management of capital. The capital risk
policy is reviewed annually by the Risk Committee and any changes are approved by the Board. Our Corporate Capital & Treasury and Risk
Management functions are responsible for the development and implementation of the capital risk policy.
The Company's capital base consists mainly of common shareholders' equity. Other sources of capital include preferred shares and other equity
instruments, non-controlling interests, participating policyholders' equity, subordinated debt issued by SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance, and certain
other capital securities that qualify as regulatory capital. For Canadian regulatory purposes, our capital also includes innovative capital instruments
issued by Sun Life Capital Trust.
46 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
The following table summarizes the sources of our capital and our capital position over the past two years. Notes 13, 14, 15 and 21 of our
2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements include additional details on our capital.
($ millions) 2021 2020
Subordinated debt(1) 6,425 4,781
Innovative capital instruments(2) 200 200
Equity
Preferred shares and other equity instruments 2,239 2,257
Common shareholders' equity(3) 24,075 22,212
Participating policyholders' equity 1,700 1,368
Non-controlling interests' equity 59 25
Total equity 28,073 25,862
Total capital(1) 34,698 30,843
Financial leverage ratio(1)(4) 25.5% 23.5%
(1)
Includes $2.0 billion of proceeds from the subordinated debt offerings completed in November 2021, of which $1.5 billion is subject to contractual terms
requiring us to redeem the underlying securities, in full, if the closing of the DentaQuest acquisition does not occur. These amounts will not qualify as LICAT
capital until the acquisition closes.
(2)
Innovative capital instruments are presented net of associated transaction costs and consist of SLEECS, which were issued by Sun Life Capital Trust. SLEECS
qualify as capital for Canadian regulatory purposes. However, under IFRS they are reported as Senior debentures in our Annual and Interim Consolidated
Financial Statements.
(3)
Common shareholders’ equity is equal to Total shareholders’ equity less Preferred shares and other equity instruments.
(4)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Our total capital consists of subordinated debt and other capital instruments, participating policyholders' equity, non-controlling interests and total
shareholders' equity, which includes common shareholders' equity, preferred shares and other equity instruments.
Common shareholders' equity was $24.1 billion as at December 31, 2021, compared with $22.2 billion as at December 31, 2020. The increase of
$1.9 billion was due to common shareholders' net income and other comprehensive income, partially offset by dividends.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 47
The table below provides the earliest par call and maturity dates for our subordinated debt, innovative capital instruments, preferred shares and
other equity instruments outstanding as at December 31, 2021.
Principal/
Interest Earliest Par Call Date/ Face Amount
Description Rate Redemption Date(1) Maturity ($ millions)
Subordinated Debt Issued by Sun Life Assurance
6.30% Debentures, Series 2 6.30% n/a 2028 150
Subordinated Debt Issued by SLF Inc.
Series 2007-1 5.40% May 29, 2037 2042 400
Series 2016-2 3.05% September 19, 2023 2028 1,000
Series 2017-1 2.75% November 23, 2022 2027 400
Series 2019-1 2.38% August 13, 2024 2029 750
Series 2020-1 2.58% May 10, 2027 2032 1,000
Series 2020-2 2.06% October 1, 2030 2035 750
Series 2021-1 2.46% November 18, 2026 2031 500
Series 2021-2 2.80% November 21, 2028 2033 1,000
Series 2021-3 3.15% November 18, 2031 2036 500
Trust Units Issued by Sun Life Capital Trust
SLEECS - Series B 7.09% June 30, 2032 Perpetual 200
Class A Preferred Shares and Other Equity Instruments Issued by SLF Inc.
Series 3 4.45% Any time Perpetual 250
Series 4 4.45% Any time Perpetual 300
Series 5 4.50% Any time Perpetual 250
Series 8R(2) 1.825% June 30, 2025 Perpetual 155
Series 9QR(3) Floating June 30, 2025(5) Perpetual 125
Series 10R(2) 2.967% September 30, 2021 Perpetual 171
Series 11QR(4) Floating September 30, 2021(5) Perpetual
June 30, 29
Series 2021-1 - LRCN(6) 3.600% June 30, 2026 2081 1,000
(1)
The earliest date on which the Company has the option, but not the obligation, to call securities for redemption at their par value. Redemption of these
securities is subject to regulatory approval.
(2)
On the earliest redemption date and every five years thereafter, the dividend rate will reset to an annual rate equal to the 5-year Government of Canada
bond yield plus a spread specified for each series. The specified spread for Class A shares is: Series 8R - 1.41% and Series 10R - 2.17%. On the earliest
redemption date and every five years thereafter, holders will have the right, at their option, to convert their shares into the series that is one number
higher than their existing series.
(3)
Holders of Series 9QR Shares will be entitled to receive quarterly floating rate non-cumulative dividends at an annual rate equal to the then 3-month
Government of Canada treasury bill yield plus 1.41%. Holders of the Series 9QR Shares will have the right, at their option, to convert their Series 9QR
Shares into Series 8R Shares on June 30, 2025, and on June 30 every five years thereafter.
(4)
Holders of Series 11QR Shares will be entitled to receive quarterly floating rate non-cumulative dividends at an annual rate equal to the then 3-month
Government of Canada treasury bill yield plus 2.17%. Holders of the Series 11QR Shares will have the right, at their option, to convert their Series 11QR
Shares into Series 10R Shares on September 30, 2021, and on September 30 every five years thereafter.
(5)
Redeemable on the redemption date and every five years thereafter, in whole or in part, at par, and on any other date at $25.50 per share.
(6)
Series 2021-1 Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.60% payable semi-annually until June 30, 2026. On June 30, 2026, and every five years thereafter until
June 30, 2076, the interest rate on the Series 2-21-1 Notes will be reset at an interest rate equal to the five-year Government of Canada yield, as defined in
the prospectus, plus 2.604%. In case of non-payment of interest on or principal of the Series 2021-1 Notes when due, the recourse of each noteholder will
be limited to that holder's proportionate share of the Limited Recourse Trust's assets. For more information about the LRCN, see Note 15.B of the 2021
Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
48 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
The following table shows the number of common shares and stock options outstanding of SLF Inc. for the last two years.
Number of Common Shares Outstanding
(in millions) 2021 2020
Balance, beginning of year 585.1 587.8
Stock options exercised 0.9 0.8
Common shares repurchased and cancelled — (3.5)
Balance, end of year 586.0 585.1
Under our Canadian Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan ("DRIP"), Canadian-resident common and preferred shareholders may choose
to have their dividends automatically reinvested in common shares of SLF Inc. and may also purchase common shares through our DRIP with cash.
For dividend reinvestments, we may, at our option, issue common shares of SLF Inc. from treasury at a discount of up to 5% to the volume-weighted
average trading price or direct that common shares be purchased on behalf of participants on the open market through the TSX and alternative
Canadian trading platforms (collectively, the "Exchanges") at the market price. Common shares of SLF Inc. acquired by participants through optional
cash purchases may also be issued from treasury or purchased through the Exchanges at SLF Inc.'s option, in either case at no discount.
Commencing with the dividends payable on March 31, 2016 and until further notice, common shares purchased under the Plan were purchased on
the open market. There are no applicable discounts because the common shares are being purchased on the open market and are not being issued
from treasury.
SLF Inc. grants stock options to certain employees. These options are granted at the closing price of SLF Inc.'s common shares on the TSX on the
grant date.
As at January 28, 2022, SLF Inc. had 586,046,796 common shares, 2,981,710 options to acquire SLF Inc. common shares and 52,200,000 Class A
Shares outstanding.
2. Capital Adequacy
OSFI has indicated that it will review the effectiveness of the LICAT guideline and update it to keep abreast of development in the life insurance
industry and evolving risk measurement and management practices.
SLF Inc.
SLF Inc. is a non-operating insurance company and was subject to OSFI's LICAT guideline as at December 31, 2021. In accordance with this guideline,
SLF Inc. manages its capital in a manner commensurate with its risk profile and control environment, and SLF Inc.'s regulated subsidiaries comply
with the capital adequacy requirements imposed in the jurisdictions in which they operate. SLF Inc.'s consolidated capital position is above its
internal target. As at December 31, 2021, SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio was 145%. For additional information, refer to section F - Financial Strength in this
document.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 49
The following table shows the components of Sun Life Assurance's LICAT ratio for 2021 and 2020.
Capital requirements
Credit, market and insurance risks 24,292 22,353
Less: Diversification and other credits 4,446 4,106
Segregated fund guarantee risk 872 904
Operational risk 2,101 2,054
Total before scalar 22,819 21,205
Base solvency buffer (Total before scalar x 1.05) 23,960 22,265
LICAT ratio 124%
127%
As at December 31, 2021, we have two internal reinsurance arrangements with affiliated reinsurance companies, in Delaware and Michigan, relating
to our closed block of individual universal life insurance products with no-lapse guarantee benefits issued in the U.S. The Delaware reinsurance
structure was established in 2013 and finances excess U.S. statutory reserves for certain universal life policies issued between January 2000 and
February 2006. The financing of U.S. statutory reserve requirements in excess of those required under IFRS for the Delaware reinsurance company is
supported by a guarantee from SLF Inc. The Michigan reinsurance structure was established in 2007 for certain policies issued between March 2006
and December 2008. The entity was redomesticated from Vermont to Michigan in 2020. Under the Michigan reinsurance structure, the related
excess U.S. statutory reserve requirements are similarly supported by a guarantee from SLF Inc.
3. Shareholder Dividends
The declaration, amount and payment of dividends by SLF Inc. is subject to the approval of our Board and is dependent on our results of operations,
our reported net income, financial condition, cash requirements and contractual restrictions. Capital management activities, as well as regulatory
considerations and macro-economic factors including the economic outlook for the jurisdictions in which we do business, are also considered along
with other factors. The Board reviews the level of dividends on a quarterly basis.
A regular and appropriate level of dividend payout and growth provides a stable source of return to common shareholders.
We target an underlying dividend payout ratio of between 40% and 50% based on underlying EPS.
During 2021, our dividend payout ratio to common shareholders based on our reported EPS was 35% and on an underlying EPS basis was 38%.
Total common shareholder dividends declared in 2021 were $2.310 per share, compared to $2.200 in 2020.
On March 13, 2020, OSFI set the expectation for all federally regulated financial institutions that dividend increases and share buybacks should be
halted. On November 4, 2021, OSFI lifted this restriction on the basis that these restrictions were no longer considered necessary.
50 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Dividends declared
Amount per share 2021 2020 2019
Common shares 2.310 2.200 2.100
Class A preferred shares
Series 1(1) 0.890625 1.187500 1.187500
Series 2(1) 0.900000 1.200000 1.200000
Series 3 1.112500 1.112500 1.112500
Series 4 1.112500 1.112500 1.112500
Series 5 1.125000 1.125000 1.125000
Series 8R(2)(3) 0.456250 0.512500 0.568800
Series 9QR(4) 0.382421 0.583985 0.772500
Series 10R(2)(5) 0.718313 0.710500 0.710500
Series 11QR(6) 0.572421 0.774505 0.962500
Series 12R(7) 0.951500 0.951500 0.951500
(1)
Series 1 and 2 Shares were redeemed on September 30, 2021.
(2)
On the earliest redemption date and every five years thereafter, the dividend rate will reset to an annual rate equal to the 5-year Government of Canada
bond yield plus a yield specified for each series. The specified yield for Class A shares is: Series 8R - 1.41% and Series 10R - 2.17%. On the earliest
redemption date and every five years thereafter, holders will have the right, at their option, to convert their shares into the series that is one number
higher than their existing series.
(3)
The dividend rate was reset on June 30, 2020 to a fixed annual dividend rate of 1.825% until the earliest redemption date June 30, 2025.
(4)
Holders of the Series 9QR Shares are entitled to receive quarterly floating rate non-cumulative dividends at an annual rate equal to the then 3-month
Government of Canada treasury bill yield plus 1.41%. Holders of the Series 9QR Shares will have the right, at their option, to convert their Series 9QR
Shares into Series 8R Shares on June 30, 2025 and on June 30 every five years thereafter.
(5)
The dividend rate was reset on September 30, 2021 to a fixed annual dividend rate of 2.967% until the earliest redemption date September 30, 2026.
(6)
Holders of the Series 11QR Shares are entitled to receive quarterly floating rate non-cumulative dividends at an annual rate equal to the then 3-month
Government of Canada treasury bill yield plus 2.17%. Holders of the Series 11QR Shares will have the right, at their option, to convert their Series 11QR
Shares into Series 10R Shares on September 30, 2026 and on September 30 every five years thereafter.
(7)
The dividend rate was reset on December 31, 2016 to a fixed annual dividend rate of 3.806% until the earliest redemption date December 31, 2021. Series
12R Shares were redeemed on December 31, 2021.
As at December 31, 2021, we maintained net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities totaling $12.1 billion. In addition to providing for
near-term funding commitments, cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities include amounts that support short-term payment obligations.
Net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities decreased by $1.4 billion in 2021 compared to 2020. The table below outlines our principal
sources and uses of cash.
($ millions) 2021 2020
Net cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 10,648 6,685
Cash flows provided by (used in):
Operating activities (1,857) 7,253
Investing activities (803) (886)
Financing activities (260) (2,312)
Changes due to fluctuations in exchange rates (35) (92)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (2,955) 3,963
Net cash and cash equivalents, end of period 7,693 10,648
Short-term securities, end of period 4,452 2,873
Net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities, end of period 12,145 13,521
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 51
5. Liquidity
We generally maintain an overall asset liquidity profile that exceeds requirements to fund insurance contract liabilities under prescribed adverse
liability demand scenarios. To strengthen our liquidity further, we actively manage and monitor our:
• Capital levels
• Asset levels
• Matching position
• Diversification and credit quality of investments
• Cash forecasts and actual amounts against established targets
We are subject to various regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. The ability of SLF Inc.'s subsidiaries to pay dividends and transfer
funds is regulated in certain jurisdictions and may require local regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of specific conditions in certain
circumstances. Through effective cash management and capital planning, SLF Inc. ensures that its subsidiaries, as a whole and on a stand-alone
basis, are properly funded and maintain adequate liquidity to meet obligations, both individually and in aggregate.
SLF Inc. and its wholly-owned holding companies had $4.7 billion in cash and other liquid assets(1)(2) as at December 31, 2021. See section F -
Financial Strength in this document for more information.
We maintain various credit facilities for general corporate purposes, as set out in the table below. Unless otherwise noted, all amounts are in
Canadian dollars.
($ millions) December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020
Credit Facility Amount Utilized Expiry Amount Utilized Expiry
Committed US $ 400 US $ 12 2025 US $ 400 US $ 12 2022
Committed
US $1,000 US $ 349 2023 US $ 1,000 US $ 266 2021
Uncommitted US $ 100 US $ — n/a US $ 100 US $ — n/a
Uncommitted $ 225 $ 81 n/a $ 228 $ 97 n/a
Uncommitted US $ 25 US $ 7 n/a US $ 25 US $ 7 n/a
The agreements relating to our committed credit facilities contain typical covenants for investment grade companies regarding solvency, credit
ratings and financial strength, all of which were met as at December 31, 2021. These covenants include, but are not limited to, the maintenance of
total equity by SLF Inc. of at least $12 billion, tested as of the last day of each fiscal quarter. SLF Inc.'s total equity was $28.1 billion as at December
31, 2021.
Our failure to comply with the covenants under the committed credit facility would, subject to grace periods in the case of certain covenants, result
in an event of default. This could require us to repay any outstanding borrowings or to cash collateralize letters of credit under the facility. A failure
by SLF Inc. (or any of its subsidiaries) to pay an obligation due for an amount exceeding $250 million would also result in an event of default under
the committed credit facility described above.
Based on our historical cash flows and liquidity management processes, we believe that the cash flows from our operating activities will continue to
provide sufficient liquidity for us to satisfy debt service obligations and to pay other expenses as they fall due.
(1)
This is a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)
Includes $2.0 billion of proceeds from the subordinated debt offerings completed in November 2021, of which $1.5 billion is subject to contractual terms
requiring us to redeem the underlying securities, in full, if the closing of the DentaQuest acquisition does not occur. These amounts will not qualify as LICAT
capital until the acquisition closes.
52 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
J. Risk Management
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 53
2. Risk Governance and Accountabilities
Our Risk Framework sets out lines of responsibility and authority for risk-taking, governance and control. These governance requirements are
summarized below.
Board of Directors
The Board is responsible for ensuring the governance of all risks across the enterprise and has primary responsibility for taking action to ensure risk
management policies, programs and practices are in place. By approving our Risk Framework and the Risk Appetite Policy and providing ongoing
oversight of the risk management programs, the Board monitors that significant risks are appropriately identified and managed. The Board oversees
business and strategic risk through review and approval of the business and strategic plans, and regularly discusses key themes, issues and risks
emerging in connection with the design or implementation of these plans.
The Risk Committee is a standing committee of the Board whose primary functions are to assist the Board with oversight of the management of
current and emerging risks enterprise-wide, and of the risk management function to ensure that management has in place programs, policies,
processes and controls designed to identify and effectively manage the significant risks to which the Company is exposed and has sufficient capital
to underpin those risks. It reviews and approves all risk management policies and reviews compliance with those policies. In addition, where the
Board has delegated risk oversight to other committees of the Board ("Board Committees"), the Risk Committee provides the Board with an
integrated view of oversight of risk management across all Board committees. The Risk Committee regularly monitors the Company's risk profile to
ensure it is within the agreed risk appetite and that the Company's capital position exceeds regulatory capital requirements, monitors and
recommends to the Board for approval, the specific risk limits allocated to the businesses and the annual Capital Plan. The Risk Committee also
oversees risk management activities of our subsidiaries and risks posed to the Company through its joint ventures.
The Governance, Investment & Conduct Review Committee ("GICRC") of the Board is responsible for assisting the Board in developing effective
corporate governance guidelines and processes, including processes to assess the effectiveness of the Board and its Committees. It reviews and
monitors the Company's Investment Plan and investment performance and oversees investment practices, procedures and controls related to the
management of the general fund investment portfolio. It assists the Board with its oversight over the Corporation’s sustainability reporting and
Sustainability Plan. In addition, the GICRC meets with the senior business and functional leaders who have first-line responsibility for compliance and
compliance management programs, oversees the effectiveness of the second-line compliance function, oversees compliance with legal and
regulatory requirements and the identification and management of compliance risk, and oversees the development of policies and processes to
sustain ethical behaviour.
The Audit Committee of the Board is responsible for assisting the Board in overseeing the integrity of financial statements and related information
provided to shareholders and other stakeholders, compliance with financial regulatory requirements, adequacy and effectiveness of the internal
controls implemented and maintained by management, and assessing the qualifications, independence and performance of the external auditor.
The Management Resources Committee of the Board is responsible for assisting the Board with oversight of succession planning for senior executive
positions and programs to effectively attract, retain, develop and reward employees. It provides guidance to management on advancing the talent
54 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
agenda to achieve strategic objectives and foster Sun Life's culture. The Management Resources Committee reviews incentive designs and
governance of material incentive programs against alignment with business objectives and avoiding excessive risk taking. It reviews the implications
of key enterprise risks, including human resources risks pertaining to compensation design and human resources practices. In addition, the
Management Resources Committee reviews compensation matters, including the remuneration of executives who have a material impact on the
risk exposure of the Company.
The Investment & Credit Risk Committee is responsible for reviewing matters related to the management of the Company's general fund assets
which includes providing oversight and direction on the current and potential credit and investment risk exposures facing the Company and
mitigating strategies to ensure that effective credit risk management practices and controls are in place.
The Corporate Asset Liability Management Committee is responsible for providing executive oversight and direction for the effective measurement,
control and management of the market and liquidity risks in the design and operation of general fund investment strategies for efficiently
discharging the Company's general fund liabilities.
The Operational Risk & Compliance Committee is responsible for providing oversight of the Company's operational and compliance risk
management practices, current and emerging operational risk exposures, and the processes to ensure ongoing identification of significant
operational and compliance risks facing the Company.
The Insurance Risk Committee is responsible for providing oversight and direction on insurance risk exposures facing the Company and to ensure
that effective insurance risk management practices and controls are in place. This includes reviewing the current and projected insurance risk profile
against limits; engaging in review of topical insurance, reinsurance and underwriting risk issues; and reviewing and recommending changes to the
insurance risk measurement methodology to the ERC.
Accountabilities
Primary accountability for risk management is delegated by the Board to our Chief Executive Officer ("CEO"), and the CEO further delegates
responsibilities throughout the Company through management authorities and responsibilities. The CEO delegates accountability for the various
classes of risk management to our executive officers, who are accountable for ensuring that the management of risks in the scope of their business
accountability is in accordance with the Board-approved Risk Framework, Risk Appetite Policy and risk management policies.
3. Risk Universe
As a large financial services organization operating in a complex industry, the Company encounters a variety of risks and uncertainties. We face risks
in formulating our business strategy and business objectives, in carrying on our business activities in the pursuit of our strategy and objectives, and
from external factors such as changes in the economic, political, competitive, regulatory and environmental landscapes. We are subject to financial
and insurance risks that are connected to our liabilities and with the management and performance of our assets, including how we match returns
from assets with the payment of liabilities to our Clients. Each of these risks is also considered from the perspective of different types of
uncertainties under which either the outcomes and/or their probabilities of occurrence are unknown. The Risk Framework covers all risks and these
have been grouped into six major categories: credit, market, insurance, business and strategic, operational and liquidity risks. The Risk Framework
sets out the key risk management processes in the areas of risk: appetite, identification, measurement, management, monitoring and reporting. The
Risk Framework sets out both qualitative and quantitative measures and processes to control the risk the Company will bear in respect of each of
these categories of risk and in aggregate.
4. Risk Appetite
Our Risk Appetite Policy defines the amount and type of risk we are willing to accept in pursuit of our business objectives, and is approved by the
Board. It is forward-looking and our strategic plan, capital plan, business plan and business objectives are established within its boundaries.
The Company's risk appetite seeks to balance the various needs, expectations, risk and reward perspectives and investment horizons of key
stakeholders. In particular, our risk appetite supports the pursuit of shareholder value while ensuring that the Company's ability to pay claims and
fulfill policyholder commitments is not compromised.
The Company's risk appetite is the primary mechanism to operationalize its risk philosophy and the boundaries of permissible risk-taking across the
enterprise. It ensures that business activities are assessed against performance criteria that are appropriately risk-adjusted. Our risk appetite
supports the objective of maintaining adequate capital, managing return on equity, managing earnings volatility, managing operational risk and
managing liquidity. To accomplish this, our risk appetite includes a wide array of qualitative and quantitative standards that reflect the Company's
overall risk management principles and values.
We generally accept diversifiable risks and utilize risk pooling to create portfolios with relatively low liability volatility. We take risk where we have
internal expertise such as actuarial, underwriting, claims management, investment or distribution or where reinsurance partners are able to
supplement our internal expertise. We prefer risks where it is possible to diversify across various segments including products, geographies,
distribution channels or asset classes in order to maximize diversification opportunities.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 55
Our Risk Appetite Policy sets out specific constraints which define the aggregate level of risk that the Company is willing to accept. We translate our
risk appetite constraints into specific risk limits by risk class and business segment. Our risk profile is measured, managed and monitored regularly to
ensure that we operate within our risk appetite. Our risk appetite limits are reviewed periodically to reflect the risks and opportunities inherent in
our evolving business strategies and operating environment.
Risk measurement involves determining and evaluating potential risk exposures, and includes a number of techniques such as monitoring key risk
indicators, assessing probability and severity of risks, and conducting stress testing.
A robust stress testing program is an essential component of the Company's Risk Framework used to measure, monitor and mitigate the Company's
risk exposures and to ensure ongoing capital adequacy under plausible stress events. Stress testing is performed on key metrics such as earnings,
regulatory capital ratios and liquidity to identify and monitor potential vulnerabilities to key risk drivers and ensure that the Company is operating
within its risk appetite.
We develop and test a range of scenarios based on our internal assessment and regulatory guidance. Sensitivity testing is conducted on a regular
basis and measures the earnings and regulatory capital impact from changes in underlying risk factors. Sensitivity testing is performed for individual
risks and for consolidated risk exposures at different levels of stress and at various levels of aggregation. Scenario testing involves changes to a
number of risk factors to assess the impact of and interaction between these risk factors. These scenarios include integrated scenario testing,
reverse scenario testing and key assumption sensitivity testing. We also use the Financial Condition Testing ("FCT") process, as prescribed by the
Canadian Institute of Actuaries, to satisfy requirements under the Canadian insurance Company Act, and OSFI regulations, to annually stress test
capital.
Monitoring processes include oversight by the Board, which is exercised through Board Committees and senior management committees described
in the Risk Governance and Accountabilities section in this document.
Senior management committees, Board Committees and the Board regularly review reports that summarize our risk profile against the Board
approved risk appetite, including the exposures across our principal risks, any changes in risk trends, forward-looking view of risks and emerging
risks. These committees also review the effectiveness of the risk management strategies presented in the reports. On a regular basis, the Board and
the Board Committees review and approve any significant changes to key policies for the management of risk and review compliance with these
policies.
The first line of defence is represented by the business segment management who own the risks that are intrinsic to the business and have the
primary responsibility to identify, measure, manage, monitor and report these risks. Some of the first LOD risk related responsibilities include:
• Identification of key and emerging risks;
• Manage, measure, monitor and report on risk within their business operations;
• Accountability for business results and the risks taken to achieve those results; and
• Operating within risk appetite and according to risk management policies.
The second line of defence includes the Chief Risk Officer ("CRO") and various functional heads who are responsible for providing independent
oversight of our Company-wide risk management programs. The CRO is responsible for developing our Risk Framework and Risk Appetite Policy, and
for overseeing the development and implementation of risk management strategies aimed at optimizing the risk-return profile of the Company. The
56 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
CRO is supported by a network of business segment risk officers. The functional heads support the CRO in the implementation and communication
of our Risk Framework and Risk Appetite Policy. Some of the key second LOD risk related responsibilities include:
• Establishment of the risk management framework and policies;
• Providing oversight and effective independent challenge of first line current and emerging risks; and
• Independent reporting to senior management committees and the Board on the level of risk appetite.
The third line of defence responsibilities are distinct from first and second LOD responsibilities. The Internal Audit function is the third LOD and is
responsible for providing independent assurance to management, the Audit Committee, the Risk Committee and OSFI on the design and operational
effectiveness of the risk management practices and internal controls carried out by first LOD and second LOD. Internal Audit provides a quarterly
opinion on the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management and governance processes to the Risk Committee. In addition, the Risk
Committee may engage third-party independent reviews to supplement the third LOD review of the effectiveness of the Company's risk
management programs.
Risk culture relates to how we behave and respond, in addition to the requirements we set. It enables and rewards taking the right risks in an
informed manner. It enables effective challenge and transparency regarding risks and outcomes without fear of reprisal. It drives us to understand
Client needs and preferences so that we can act in their best interests. In order to support employees in fulfilling their role, we have taken action to
ensure our risk protocols and procedures are well defined and embedded in our day-to-day business activities, assess that appropriate resources
and training are provided, establish and communicate a common risk philosophy and a high bar for integrity and conduct, and encourage every
employee to openly identify risk exposures and communicate escalating risk concerns. The following six elements support our Risk Culture:
• Establishing tone from the top;
• Encouraging transparency in risk-taking;
• Performing effective challenge in conducting business decisions;
• Aligning incentives and risk management practices;
• Effectively communicating the risk culture expectations; and
• Establishing clear accountabilities.
A key premise of our culture is that all employees have an important role to play in managing the Company's risks. Risk Management is embedded
in the Company's culture, which encourages ownership and responsibility for risk management at all levels. Our compensation programs are
aligned to the organization's risk management practices through our governance structure for the design and approval of incentive compensation
plans and processes used to support the alignment of compensation and risk management. We continuously reinforce and embed the culture
through communication and training on risk culture elements at various forums and across various levels through training on the Code of Conduct
annually, reinforcing accountability through performance reviews and compensation, and through defining roles, responsibilities and expectations
in the risk management policies.
Strategic Alignment
Our corporate strategy and business objectives are required to be established within the boundaries set out in the Risk Framework and the Risk
Appetite Policy. This requires us to consider whether a business activity will result in a risk profile that we are willing to accept and which we are
prepared to manage. We have established a range of explicit risk appetite limits and control points for credit, market, insurance, operational and
liquidity risks. Business and strategic risk is managed through our strategic and business planning process and through controls over the
implementation of these strategic and business plans. Risks associated with activities outside our risk appetite or outside the acceptable defined
risks are avoided.
Stakeholder Interests
Our Risk Appetite Policy considers the interests of a large number of key stakeholders, including Clients, policyholders, shareholders, debt-holders,
employees, regulators, distributors, rating agencies and other capital markets participants. The policy describes how to balance the needs,
expectations, risk and reward perspectives, and investment horizons of these different stakeholders.
Effective risk management requires that objectives and incentives be aligned to ensure management's decisions are consistent with the Company's
risk philosophy and risk appetite. To ensure this, the business plans and strategies are independently tested to ensure that they operate within the
boundaries and requirements set out in the Risk Framework and the Risk Appetite Policy, and the results of this testing are reported to the Board.
Compensation programs for employees are approved by the Board and the Board Committees and are aligned with the Company's risk philosophy,
values, business and risk management strategies, and the long-term interests of stakeholders. In establishing annual performance objectives, we
consider risk management goals to ensure that business decisions are consistent with the desired risk and return profile of the Company.
Capability Alignment
We seek out profitable risk-taking opportunities in those areas where we have established risk management skills and capabilities. Conversely, we
endeavour to avoid or transfer risks that are beyond our risk-taking capability. Our ability to measure and evaluate risks, the quality of our risk
governance and control environment, the depth and quality of our risk responses and the robustness of our pricing strategies are particularly
important capabilities that we assess.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 57
Portfolio Perspective
In evaluating a particular risk, consideration is given to a portfolio perspective of risk and return including the explicit recognition of the impacts of
diversification and concentration and how different risks interact with each other. This perspective is extended to the development of risk mitigation
and pricing strategies, recognizing that often the most cost-effective way of managing risk involves utilizing available relationships already inherent
in our business.
Risk-Adjusted Returns
The financial return metrics which are used to assess business activities are required to be risk-adjusted. Financial return metrics are developed in
consideration of the constraints set out in the Risk Appetite Policy, and reflect the expected costs of mitigation and the cost of risk capital required
to support the risk taking activity.
Culture
Culture is the sum of the shared assumptions, values and beliefs that create the unique character of an organization. Our culture encourages
behaviour aligned with goals for long-term value creation. It defines the appropriate behaviour for any given situation, governs the interaction with
Clients and affects how employees identify with the organization. Our company culture has significant potential to impact our risk profile. An
organization's culture impacts its ability to create value and to protect value. Maintaining the right balance of risk-taking and risk control activities is
a key organizational capability and fundamental to our long-term sustainable success.
9. Risk Categories
The shaded text and tables in the following section of this MD&A represent our disclosure on credit, market and liquidity risks in accordance with
IFRS 7 Financial Instruments - Disclosures and includes a discussion on how we measure risk and our objectives, policies and methodologies for
managing these risks. The shaded text and tables represent an integral part of our audited annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year
ended December 31, 2021. The shading in this section does not imply that these disclosures are of any greater importance than non-shaded tables
and text, and the Risk Management disclosure should be read in its entirely. This information should be considered carefully together with other
information in this MD&A and in the 2021 AIF, our Consolidated Financial Statements and other reports and materials that we file with securities
regulators.
In this section, segregated funds include segregated fund guarantees, variable annuities and investment products, and includes Run-off
reinsurance in Corporate.
Our Risk Framework groups all risks into six major risk categories: market, insurance, credit, business and strategic, operational and liquidity risks.
i. Market Risk
Risk Description
We are exposed to financial and capital market risk, which is defined as the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of an insurance contract or
financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes or volatility in market prices. Market risk includes equity, interest rate and spread, real estate
and foreign currency risks.
Specific market risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail.
Equity Risk
Equity risk is the potential for financial loss arising from declines or volatility in equity market prices. We are exposed to equity risk from a number of
sources. A portion of our exposure to equity risk arises in connection with benefit guarantees on segregated fund products. These benefit
guarantees may be triggered upon death, maturity, withdrawal or annuitization. The cost of providing these guarantees is uncertain and depends
upon a number of factors, including general capital market conditions, our hedging strategies, policyholder behaviour and mortality experience,
each of which may result in negative impacts on net income and capital.
58 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
We generate revenue in our asset management businesses and from certain insurance and annuity contracts where fees are levied on account
balances that are affected directly by equity market levels. Accordingly, we have further exposure to equity risk as adverse fluctuations in the
market value of such assets will result in corresponding adverse impacts on our revenue and net income. In addition, declining and volatile equity
markets may have a negative impact on sales and redemptions (surrenders) in these businesses, and this may result in further adverse impacts on
our net income and financial position.
We also have direct exposure to equity markets from the investments supporting other general account liabilities, surplus, and employee benefit
plans. These exposures fall within our risk-taking philosophy and appetite, and are therefore generally not hedged.
Our primary exposure to interest rate and spread risk arises from certain general account products and segregated fund contracts which contain
investment guarantees in the form of minimum crediting rates, guaranteed premium rates, settlement options and benefit guarantees. If
investment returns fall below guaranteed levels, we may be required to increase liabilities or capital in respect of these contracts. The guarantees
attached to these products may be applicable to both past premiums collected and future premiums not yet received. Segregated fund contracts
provide benefit guarantees that are linked to underlying fund performance and may be triggered upon death, maturity, withdrawal or
annuitization. These products are included in our asset-liability management program and the residual interest rate exposure is managed within
our risk appetite limits.
Declines in interest rates or narrowing spreads can result in compression of the net spread between interest earned on investments and interest
credited to policyholders. Declines in interest rates or narrowing spreads may also result in increased asset calls, mortgage prepayments, and net
reinvestment of positive cash flows at lower yields, and therefore adversely impact our profitability and financial position. Negative interest rates
may additionally result in losses on our cash deposits and low or negative returns on our fixed income assets impacting our profitability. In
contrast, increases in interest rates or a widening of spreads may have a material impact on the value of fixed income assets, resulting in
depressed market values, and may lead to lower LICAT ratios or losses in the event of the liquidation of assets prior to maturity.
Significant changes or volatility in interest rates or spreads could have a negative impact on sales of certain insurance and annuity products, and
adversely impact the expected pattern of redemptions (surrenders) on existing policies. Increases in interest rates or widening spreads may
increase the risk that policyholders will surrender their contracts, potentially forcing us to liquidate assets at a loss and accelerate recognition of
certain acquisition expenses. While we have established hedging programs in place and our insurance and annuity products often contain
surrender mitigation features, these may not be sufficient to fully offset the adverse impact of the underlying losses.
We also have direct exposure to interest rates and spreads from investments supporting other general account liabilities, surplus and employee
benefit plans. Lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads will result in reduced investment income on new fixed income asset purchases.
Conversely, higher interest rates or wider spreads will reduce the value of our existing assets. These exposures fall within our risk-taking
philosophy and appetite and are therefore generally not hedged.
A sustained low interest rate environment may adversely impact our earnings, regulatory capital requirements and our ability to implement our
business strategy and plans in several ways, including:
• Lower sales of certain insurance and wealth products, which can in turn pressure our operating expense levels;
• Shifts in the expected pattern of redemptions (surrenders) on existing policies;
• Higher new business strain reflecting lower new business profitability;
• Reduced return on new fixed income asset purchases, and higher hedging costs;
• The impact of changes in actuarial assumptions;
• Impairment of goodwill; and
• Additional valuation allowances against our deferred tax assets.
Our net income(1) is affected by the determination of policyholder obligations under our annuity and insurance contracts. These amounts are
determined using internal valuation models and are recorded in our Consolidated Financial Statements, primarily as Insurance contract liabilities.
The determination of these obligations requires management to make assumptions about the future level of equity market performance, interest
rates, credit and swap spreads and other factors over the life of our products. Differences between our actual experience and our best estimate
assumptions are reflected in our Consolidated Financial Statements. Refer to Additional Cautionary Language and Key Assumptions Related to
Sensitivities in this section for important additional information regarding these estimates.
(1)
Net income in section J - Risk Management in this document refers to common shareholders' net income.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 59
The market value of our investments in fixed income and equity securities fluctuates based on movements in interest rates and equity markets. The
market value of fixed income assets designated as AFS that are held primarily in our surplus segment increases with declining interest rates and
decreases with rising interest rates. The market value of equities designated as AFS and held primarily in our surplus segment increases with rising
equity markets and decreases with declining equity markets. Changes in the market value of AFS assets flow through OCI and are only recognized in
net income when realized upon sale, or when considered impaired. The sale or impairment of AFS assets held in surplus can therefore have the
effect of modifying our net income sensitivity.
In 2021, we realized $146 million (pre-tax), in net gains on the sale of AFS assets ($169 million(1) pre-tax in 2020). The net unrealized gains (losses)
within our Accumulated OCI position on AFS fixed income and equity assets were $137 million and $129 million, respectively, net of tax, as at
December 31, 2021 ($556 million and $76 million, respectively, net of tax, as at December 31, 2020).
During the fourth quarter of 2021, we realized $5 million (pre-tax), in net gains on the sale of AFS assets ($20 million pre-tax in the fourth quarter of
2020).
It is important to note that these estimates are illustrative and performance of our segregated fund dynamic hedging program may differ as actual
equity-related exposures vary from broad market indices (the impact of active management, basis risk, and other factors) and higher or lower
volatility level than assumed.
(1)
Amount excludes net gains of $282 million relating to the impact from the repayment of our senior financing obligation. Including the net gains from the
impact of the repayment of our senior financing obligation, we realized $451 million pre-tax in net gains on the sale of AFS assets in the third quarter of
2020. Our senior financing obligation related to U.S. statutory regulatory capital requirements for In-force Management. See section K - Additional
Financial Disclosure in this document.
60 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Interest Rate Sensitivities
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income and OCI and Sun Life Assurance's LICAT ratio to
certain instantaneous changes in interest rates as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
Our LICAT sensitivities may be non-linear and can change due to the interrelationship between market rates and spreads, actuarial assumptions and
our LICAT calculations.
($ millions, unless otherwise noted) As at December 31, 2021 As at December 31, 2020
(1)
Change in Interest Rates 50 basis point decrease 50 basis point increase 50 basis point decrease 50 basis point increase
(2)(3)(4)
Potential impact on net income $ (50) $ 50 $ (100) $ 100
Potential impact on OCI(3) $ 250 $ (250) $ 250 $ (250)
Potential impact on LICAT(2)(5) 1.5% point increase 0.5% point decrease 3.5% point increase 1.5% point decrease
(1)
Interest rate sensitivities assume a parallel shift in assumed interest rates across the entire yield curve as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
with no change to the Actuarial Standards Board ("ASB") promulgated URR. Variations in realized yields based on factors such as different terms to
maturity and geographies may result in realized sensitivities being significantly different from those illustrated above. Sensitivities include the impact of
re-balancing interest rate hedges for dynamic hedging programs at 10 basis point intervals (for 50 basis point changes in interest rates).
(2)
The market risk sensitivities include the estimated mitigation impact of our hedging programs in effect as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020,
and include new business added and product changes implemented prior to such dates.
(3)
Net income and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $50 million. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our
joint ventures and associates, which we account for on an equity basis.
(4)
The majority of interest rate sensitivity, after hedging, is attributed to individual insurance products. We also have interest rate sensitivity, after hedging,
from our fixed annuity and segregated funds products.
(5)
The LICAT sensitivities illustrate the impact on Sun Life Assurance as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. The sensitivities assume that a
scenario switch does not occur in the quarter. LICAT ratios are rounded in increments of 0.5%.
The above sensitivities were determined using a 50 basis point change in interest rates and a 10% change in our equity markets because we
believe that these market shocks were reasonably possible as at December 31, 2021. We have also disclosed the impact of a 25% change in equity
markets to illustrate that significant changes in equity market levels may result in other than proportionate impacts on our sensitivities.
($ millions, unless otherwise noted) As at December 31, 2021 As at December 31, 2020
(1)
Change in Credit Spreads 50 basis point decrease 50 basis point increase 50 basis point decrease 50 basis point increase
Potential impact on net income(2) $ (75) $ 50 $ (125) $ 75
Potential impact on LICAT(3) 0.5% point decrease 0.5% point increase 0.5% point decrease 0.5% point increase
(1)
In most instances, credit spreads are assumed to revert to long-term insurance contract liability assumptions generally over a five-year period.
(2)
Sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25 million.
(3)
The LICAT sensitivities illustrate the impact on Sun Life Assurance as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. The sensitivities assume that a
scenario switch does not occur in the quarter. LICAT ratios are rounded in increments of 0.5%.
The credit and swap spread sensitivities assume a parallel shift in the indicated spreads across the entire term structure. Variations in realized
spread changes based on different terms to maturity, geographies, asset classes and derivative types, underlying interest rate movements, and
ratings may result in realized sensitivities being significantly different from those provided above. The credit spread sensitivity estimates exclude
any credit spread impact that may arise in connection with asset positions held in segregated funds. Spread sensitivities are provided for the
consolidated entity and may not be proportional across all reporting segments. Refer to Additional Cautionary Language and Key Assumptions
Related to Sensitivities in this section for important additional information regarding these estimates.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 61
LICAT Interest Rate Scenario Switch
The LICAT interest rate risk is assessed under four different interest rate scenarios, and the scenario leading to the highest capital requirement is
chosen as the worst scenario for each geographic region as defined by the LICAT guideline. Changes and interaction between the level and term
movements in interest rates and credit spreads can shift the interest rate scenario applied in the LICAT calculation causing a discontinuity where
capital requirements change materially. In 2020, OSFI updated the LICAT guideline for interest rate risk requirements for participating businesses to
be smoothed over six quarters. As a result, the actual impact to the LICAT ratio from participating businesses in any quarter will reflect the scenarios
from current quarter as well as the prior five quarters and switching between the scenarios would have the effect of offsetting the previous impacts
over time. As per OSFI's communication, this new treatment will remain in place until at least December 31, 2023. It should be noted that switching
of the scenario can also change the direction of credit spread sensitivities.
Sun Life Assurance last experienced a switch in the interest rate scenario in North America in the second quarter of 2020. The total cumulative
impact of that scenario switch for Sun Life Assurance was a reduction of four LICAT percentage points. No additional impact is expected should we
remain on the current scenario.
SLF Inc. has experienced multiple scenario switches since the second quarter of 2020. In the fourth quarter of 2021, SLF Inc. experienced a scenario
switch back to the less severe scenario, resulting in an increase in the LICAT ratio of approximately one percentage point. Over the last six quarters,
SLF Inc. has been on the more severe scenario in three quarters and has been on the less severe scenario for three quarters. The cumulative impact
to date has been a reduction of two LICAT percentage points and, assuming no further scenario switches, we expect to regain the two percentage
points over the next six quarters.
We have implemented asset-liability management and hedging programs involving regular monitoring and adjustment of market risk exposures
using assets, derivative instruments and repurchase agreements to maintain market risk exposures within our risk appetite. The general
availability and cost of these hedging instruments may be adversely impacted by a number of factors including changes in interest rates, increased
volatility in capital markets, and changes in the general market and regulatory environment within which these hedging programs operate. In
particular, regulations for OTC derivatives could impose additional costs and could affect our hedging strategy. In addition, these programs may
themselves expose us to other risks.
Our market risk management strategies are developed based on policies and operating guidelines at the enterprise level, business segment level
and product level. Liabilities having a similar risk profile are grouped together and a customized investment and hedging strategy is developed and
implemented to optimize return within our risk appetite limits.
In general, market risk exposure is mitigated by the assets supporting our products. This includes holdings of fixed income assets such as bonds and
mortgages. Derivative instruments may supplement these assets to reduce the risk from cash flow mismatches and mitigate the market risk
associated with liability features and optionality. The following table sets out the use of derivatives across a number of our products as at
December 31, 2021.
62 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
General Account Insurance and Annuity Products
Most of our expected sensitivity to changes in interest rates and about three-quarters of our expected sensitivity to changes in equity markets are
derived from our general account insurance and annuity products. We have implemented market risk management strategies to mitigate a portion
of the market risk related to our general account insurance and annuity products.
Individual insurance products include universal life and other long-term life and health insurance products. Major sources of market risk exposure
for individual insurance products include the reinvestment risk related to future premiums on regular premium policies, asset reinvestment risk on
both regular premium and single premium policies and the guaranteed cost of insurance. Interest rate risk for individual insurance products is
typically managed on a duration basis, within tolerance ranges set out in the applicable investment policy or guidelines. Targets and limits are
established so that the level of residual exposure is commensurate with our risk appetite. Exposures are monitored frequently, and assets are re-
balanced as necessary to maintain compliance within prescribed tolerances using a combination of assets and derivative instruments. A portion of
the longer-term cash flows are backed with equities and real estate.
For participating insurance products and other insurance products with adjustability features, the investment strategy objective is to provide a total
rate of return given a constant risk profile over the long term.
Fixed annuity products generally provide the policyholder with a guaranteed investment return or crediting rate. Interest rate risk for these products
is typically managed on a duration basis, within tolerance ranges set out in the applicable investment guidelines. Targets and limits are established
so that the level of residual exposure is commensurate with our risk appetite. Exposures are monitored frequently, and assets are re-balanced as
necessary to maintain compliance within prescribed tolerances using a combination of fixed income assets and derivative instruments.
Certain insurance and annuity products contain minimum interest rate guarantees. Market risk management strategies are implemented to limit
potential financial loss due to reductions in asset earned rates relative to contract guarantees. These typically involve the use of hedging strategies
utilizing interest rate derivatives such as interest rate floors, swaps and swaptions.
Certain insurance and annuity products contain features which allow the policyholders to surrender their policy at book value. Market risk
management strategies are implemented to limit the potential financial loss due to changes in interest rate levels and policyholder behaviour. These
typically involve the use of dynamic hedging strategies and the purchase of interest rate swaptions.
Certain products have guaranteed minimum annuitization rates. Market risk management strategies are implemented to limit the potential financial
loss and typically involve the use of fixed income assets, interest rate swaps, and swaptions.
The following table provides information with respect to the guarantees provided for our segregated fund products by business group.
Segregated Fund Risk Exposures
As at December 31, 2021
Insurance contract
($ millions) Fund value Amount at Risk(1) Value of guarantees(2) liabilities(3)
Canada 13,751 183 11,210 350
Asia 1,728 166 1,711 69
Corporate(4) 2,672 137 892 184
Total 18,151 486 13,813 603
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 63
The movement of the items in the table above from December 31, 2020 to December 31, 2021 primarily resulted from the following factors:
(i) the total fund values increased due to an increase in equity markets, which was partially offset by higher interest rates and net redemptions
from products closed to new business;
(ii) the total amount at risk decreased due to increases in equity markets and interest rates;
(iii) the total value of guarantees decreased due to net redemptions from products closed to new business; and
(iv) the total insurance contract liabilities decreased due to increases in interest rates and equity markets.
The following table illustrates the impact of our hedging program related to our sensitivity to a 50 basis point decrease in interest rates and a 10%
and 25% decrease in equity markets for segregated fund contracts as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
It is important to note that these estimates are illustrative and performance of our segregated fund dynamic hedging program may differ as actual
equity-related exposures vary from broad market indices (the impact of active management, basis risk, and other factors) and higher or lower
volatility level than assumed.
Our hedging strategy is applied both at the line of business or product level and at the Company level using a combination of dynamic hedging
techniques (i.e., frequent re-balancing of short-dated interest rate and equity derivative contracts) and longer-dated put options. We actively
monitor our overall market exposure and may implement tactical hedge overlay strategies in order to align expected earnings sensitivities with risk
management objectives.
64 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Real Estate Risk
Real estate risk is the potential for financial loss arising from fluctuations in the value of, or future cash flows from, our investments in real estate.
We are exposed to real estate risk and may experience financial losses resulting from the direct ownership of real estate investments or indirectly
through fixed income investments secured by real estate property, leasehold interests, ground rents, and purchase and leaseback transactions. Real
estate price risk may arise from external market conditions, inadequate property analysis, inadequate insurance coverage, inappropriate real estate
appraisals, or from environmental risk exposures. We hold direct real estate investments that support general account liabilities and surplus, and
fluctuations in value will impact our profitability and financial position. A material and sustained increase in interest rates may lead to deterioration
in real estate values. An instantaneous 10% decrease in the value of our direct real estate investments as at December 31, 2021 would decrease net
income(1) by approximately $375 million ($275 million decrease as at December 31, 2020). Conversely, an instantaneous 10% increase in the value of
our direct real estate investments as at December 31, 2021 would increase net income by approximately $350 million ($250 million increase as at
December 31, 2020).
As an international provider of financial services, we operate in a number of countries, with revenues and expenses denominated in several local
currencies. In each country in which we operate, we generally maintain the currency profile of assets to match the currency of aggregate liabilities
and required surplus. This approach provides an operational hedge against disruptions in local operations caused by currency fluctuations. Foreign
currency derivative contracts such as currency swaps and forwards are used as a risk management tool to manage the currency exposure in
accordance with our Asset Liability Management Policy. As at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company did not have a material
foreign currency risk exposure on a functional currency basis.
Changes in exchange rates can affect our net income and surplus when financial results in functional currencies are translated into Canadian
dollars. Net income earned outside of Canada is generally not currency hedged and a weakening in the local currency of our foreign operations
relative to the Canadian dollar can have a negative impact on our net income reported in Canadian currency. A strengthening in the local currency
of our foreign operations relative to the Canadian dollar would have the opposite effect. Regulatory capital ratios could also be impacted by
changes in exchange rates.
We have also provided measures of our net income sensitivity to instantaneous changes in credit spreads, swap spreads, real estate price levels, and
capital sensitivities to changes in interest rates and equity price levels. The real estate sensitivities are non-IFRS financial measures. For additional
information, see section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. The cautionary language which appears in this section is also applicable
to the credit spread, swap spread, real estate, and LICAT ratio sensitivities. In particular, these sensitivities are based on interest rates, credit and
swap spreads, equity market, and real estate price levels as at the respective calculation dates and assume that all other risk variables remain
constant. Changes in interest rates, credit and swap spreads, equity market, and real estate prices in excess of the ranges illustrated may result in
other-than-proportionate impacts.
As these market risk sensitivities reflect an instantaneous impact on net income, OCI and Sun Life Assurance's LICAT ratio, they do not include
impacts over time such as the effect on fee income in our asset management businesses.
The sensitivities reflect the composition of our assets and liabilities as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. Changes in
these positions due to new sales or maturities, asset purchases/sales, or other management actions could result in material changes to these
reported sensitivities. In particular, these sensitivities reflect the expected impact of hedging activities based on the hedge programs in place as at
the December 31 calculation dates. The actual impact of hedging activity can differ materially from that assumed in the determination of these
indicative sensitivities due to ongoing hedge re-balancing activities, changes in the scale or scope of hedging activities, changes in the cost or
general availability of hedging instruments, basis risk (i.e., the risk that hedges do not exactly replicate the underlying portfolio experience), model
risk, and other operational risks in the ongoing management of the hedge programs or the potential failure of hedge counterparties to perform in
accordance with expectations.
(1)
Sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25 million.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 65
The sensitivities are based on methods and assumptions in effect as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, as applicable. Changes in the
regulatory environment, accounting or actuarial valuation methods, models, or assumptions (including changes to the ASB promulgated URR) after
those dates could result in material changes to these reported sensitivities. Changes in interest rates and equity market prices in excess of the
ranges illustrated may result in other than proportionate impacts.
Our hedging programs may themselves expose us to other risks, including basis risk, volatility risk, and increased levels of derivative counterparty
credit risk, liquidity risk, model risk and other operational risks. These factors may adversely impact the net effectiveness, costs, and financial
viability of maintaining these hedging programs and therefore adversely impact our profitability and financial position. While our hedging
programs are intended to mitigate these effects, residual risk, potential reported earnings and capital volatility remain. Hedge counterparty credit
risk is managed by maintaining broad diversification, dealing primarily with highly-rated counterparties, and transacting through over-the-counter
("OTC") contracts cleared through central clearing houses, exchange-traded contracts or bilateral OTC contracts negotiated directly between
counterparties that include credit support annexes.
For the reasons outlined above, our sensitivities should only be viewed as directional estimates of the underlying sensitivities of each factor under
these specialized assumptions, and should not be viewed as predictors of our future net income, OCI, and capital. Given the nature of these
calculations, we cannot provide assurance that actual impacts will be consistent with the estimates provided.
Information related to market risk sensitivities and guarantees related to segregated fund products should be read in conjunction with the
information contained in the sections in this MD&A under the section M - Accounting and Control Matters - 1 - Critical Accounting Policies and
Estimates in our 2021 annual MD&A. Additional information on market risk can be found in Note 6 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial
Statements and the Risk Factors section in the AIF.
Our Insurance Risk Policy sets maximum global retention limits and related management standards and practices that are applied to reduce our
exposure to large claims. Amounts in excess of the Board-approved maximum retention limits are reinsured. On a single life or joint-first-to-die
basis retention limit is $40 million in Canada and US$40 million outside of Canada. For survivorship life insurance, our maximum global retention
limit is $50 million in Canada and US$50 million outside of Canada. In certain markets and jurisdictions, retention levels below the maximum are
applied. Reinsurance is utilized for numerous products in most business segments, and placement is done on an automatic basis for defined
insurance portfolios and on a facultative basis for individual risks with certain characteristics.
66 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Our reinsurance coverage is well diversified and controls are in place to manage exposure to reinsurance counterparties. Reinsurance exposures are
monitored to ensure that no single reinsurer represents an undue level of credit risk. This includes performing periodic due diligence on our
reinsurance counterparties as well as internal credit assessments on counterparties with which we have material exposure. While reinsurance
arrangements provide for the recovery of claims arising from the liabilities ceded, we retain primary responsibility to the policyholders.
Specific insurance risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail.
Uncertainty in policyholder behaviour can arise from several sources including unexpected events in the policyholder's life circumstances, the
general level of economic activity (whether higher or lower than expected), changes in the financial and capital markets, changes in pricing and
availability of current products, the introduction of new products, changes in underwriting technology and standards, as well as changes in our
financial strength or reputation. Uncertainty in future cash flows affected by policyholder behaviour can be further exacerbated by irrational
behaviour during times of economic turbulence or at key option exercise points in the life of an insurance contract.
Various types of provisions are built into many of our products to reduce the impact of uncertain policyholder behaviour. These provisions include:
• Surrender charges that adjust the payout to the policyholder by taking into account prevailing market conditions.
• Limits on the amount that policyholders can surrender or borrow.
• Restrictions on the timing of policyholders' ability to exercise certain options.
• Restrictions on both the types of funds Clients can select and the frequency with which they can change funds.
• Policyholder behaviour risk is also mitigated through reinsurance on some insurance contracts.
Internal experience studies are used to monitor, review and update policyholder behaviour assumptions as needed which could result in updates to
policy liabilities.
External factors could adversely affect our life insurance, health insurance, critical illness, disability, long-term care insurance and annuity
businesses. Morbidity experience could be unfavourably impacted by external events, such as pandemics, increases in disability claims during
economic slowdowns and increases in high medical treatment costs and growth in utilization of specialty drugs. This introduces the potential for
adverse financial volatility in our financial results.
Detailed uniform underwriting procedures have been established to determine the insurability of applicants and to manage exposure to large
claims. These underwriting requirements are regularly scrutinized against industry guidelines and oversight is provided through a corporate
underwriting and claim management function.
Mortality and morbidity concentration risk is the risk of a catastrophic event, such as natural environmental disasters (for example, earthquakes),
human-made disasters (for example, acts of terrorism, military actions, and inadvertent introduction of toxic elements into the environment) as well
as epidemics that could occur in geographic locations where there is significant insurance coverage. We do not have a high degree of concentration
risk to single individuals or groups due to our well-diversified geographic and business mix. The largest portion of mortality risk within the Company
is in North America. Individual and group insurance policies are underwritten prior to initial issue and renewals, based on risk selection, plan design,
and rating techniques.
The Insurance Risk Policy approved by the Risk Committee includes limits on the maximum amount of insurance that may be issued under one policy
and the maximum amount that may be retained. These limits vary by geographic region and amounts in excess of limits are reinsured to ensure
there is no exposure to unreasonable concentration of risk.
Longevity Risk
Longevity risk is the potential for economic loss, accounting loss or volatility in earnings arising from adverse changes in rates of mortality
improvement relative to the assumptions used in the pricing and valuation of products. This risk can manifest itself slowly over time as
socioeconomic conditions improve and medical advances continue. It could also manifest itself more quickly, for example, due to medical
breakthroughs that significantly extend life expectancy. Longevity risk affects contracts where benefits or costs are based upon the likelihood of
survival and higher than expected improvements in policyholder life expectancy could therefore increase the ultimate cost of these benefits (for
example, annuities, pensions, pure endowments, reinsurance, segregated funds, and specific types of health contracts). Additionally, our longevity
risk exposure is increased for certain annuity products such as guaranteed annuity options by an increase in equity market levels.
To improve management of longevity risk, we monitor research in the fields that could result in a change in expected mortality improvement.
Stress-testing techniques are used to measure and monitor the impact of extreme mortality improvement on the aggregate portfolio of insurance
and annuity products as well as our own pension plans.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 67
Product Design and Pricing Risk
Product design and pricing risk is the risk a product does not perform as expected, causing adverse financial consequences. This risk may arise from
deviations in realized experience versus assumptions used in the pricing of products. Risk factors include uncertainty concerning future investment
yields, policyholder behaviour, mortality and morbidity experience, sales levels, mix of business, expenses and taxes. Although some of our products
permit us to increase premiums or adjust other charges and credits during the life of the policy or contract, the terms of these policies or contracts
may not allow for sufficient adjustments to maintain expected profitability. This could have an adverse effect on our profitability and capital
position.
Our Product Design and Pricing Policy, approved by the Risk Committee, establishes the framework governing our product design and pricing
practices and is designed to align our product offerings with our strategic objectives and risk-taking philosophy. Consistent with this policy, product
development, design and pricing processes have been implemented throughout the Company. New products follow a stage-gate process with
defined management approvals based on the significance of the initiative. Each initiative is subject to a risk assessment process to identify key risks
and risk mitigation requirements, and is reviewed by multiple stakeholders. Additional governance and control procedures are listed below:
• Pricing models, methods, and assumptions are subject to periodic internal peer reviews.
• Experience studies, sources of earnings analysis, and product dashboards are used to monitor actual experience against those assumed in
pricing and valuation.
• On experience rated, participating, and adjustable products, emerging experience is reflected through changes in policyholder dividend scales as
well as other policy adjustment mechanisms such as premium and benefit levels.
• Limits and restrictions may be introduced into the design of products to mitigate adverse policyholder behaviour or apply upper thresholds on
certain benefits.
Expense Risk
Expense risk is the risk that future expenses are higher than the assumptions used in the pricing and valuation of products. This risk can arise from
general economic conditions, unexpected increases in inflation, slower than anticipated growth, or reduction in productivity leading to increases in
unit expenses. Expense risk occurs in products where we cannot or will not pass increased costs onto the Client and will manifest itself in the form of
a liability increase or a reduction in expected future profits.
We closely monitor expenses through an annual budgeting process and ongoing monitoring of any expense gaps between unit expenses assumed in
pricing and actual expenses.
Reinsurance Risk
We purchase reinsurance for certain risks underwritten by our various insurance businesses. Reinsurance risk is the risk of financial loss due to
adverse developments in reinsurance markets (for example, discontinuance or diminution of reinsurance capacity, or an increase in the cost of
reinsurance), insolvency of a reinsurer or inadequate reinsurance coverage.
Changes in reinsurance market conditions, including actions taken by reinsurers to increase rates on existing and new coverage and our ability
to obtain appropriate reinsurance, may adversely impact the availability or cost of maintaining existing or securing new reinsurance capacity,
with adverse impacts on our business strategies, profitability and financial position. There is a possibility of rate increases or renegotiation of
some of the legacy reinsurance contracts by a few of our reinsurers, as they continue to review and optimize their business models. In addition,
changes to the regulatory treatment of reinsurance arrangements could have an adverse impact on our capital position.
We have an Insurance Risk Policy and an Investment & Credit Risk Policy approved by the Risk Committee, which set acceptance criteria and
processes to monitor the level of reinsurance ceded to any single reinsurer. These policies also set minimum criteria for determining which
reinsurance companies qualify as suitable reinsurance counterparties having the capability, expertise, governance practices and financial capacity to
assume the risks being considered. Additionally, these policies require that all agreements include provisions to allow action to be taken, such as
recapture of ceded risk (at a potential cost to the Company), in the event that the reinsurer loses its legal ability to carry on business through
insolvency or regulatory action. Periodic due diligence is performed on the reinsurance counterparties with which we do business and internal credit
assessments are performed on reinsurance counterparties with which we have material exposure. Reinsurance counterparty credit exposures are
monitored closely and reported annually to the Risk Committee.
New sales of our products can be discontinued or changed to reflect developments in the reinsurance markets. Rates for our in-force
reinsurance treaties can be either guaranteed or adjustable for the life of the ceded policy. In order to diversify reinsurance risk, there is
generally more than one reinsurer supporting a reinsurance pool.
Additional information on insurance risk can be found in Note 7 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and in the Risk Factors
section in the AIF.
68 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
investment portfolio would cause the Company to record realized or unrealized losses and may cause an increase in our provisions for asset default,
adversely impacting earnings.
Our core principles of credit risk management include asset diversification, fundamental research and analysis of cash flows, proactive and
continuous risk monitoring, active management and relative value assessment, all with the objective of optimizing risk-adjusted returns, with due
consideration for the impacts of capital and taxation.
We rate fixed income investments primarily through the use of internally developed scorecards which combine an estimated probability of default
and loss given default to determine an expected loss and credit risk rating. This rating is expressed using a 22-point scale that is generally
consistent with those used by external rating agencies, and is based on detailed examination of the borrower's, or issuer's, credit quality and the
characteristics of the specific instrument. The probability of default assessment is based on borrower-level or issuer-level analysis, which
encompasses an assessment of industry risk, business strategy, competitiveness, strength of management and other financial information. The
loss given default assessment is based on instrument-level analysis, which considers the impact of guarantees, covenants, liquidity and other
structural features. These scorecards provide input to stochastic value-at-risk models and are used to stress test the portfolio, which provide
insight into the distribution and characteristics of credit risk within our portfolios. In accordance with our policies and under normal circumstances,
our ratings cannot be higher than the highest rating provided by certain Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations ("NRSROs"). Certain
assets, including those in our sovereign debt and asset-backed securities portfolios, are assigned a rating based on ratings provided by NRSROs
using a priority sequence order of Standard & Poor's, Moody's, Fitch and DBRS Limited.
Additional information on credit risk can be found in Note 6 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and in the Risk Factors section in
the AIF.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 69
• Key and emerging risks are identified, monitored and reported, including emerging regulatory changes that may have a material impact on our
finances, operations or reputation.
• Internal capital targets are established at an enterprise level to cover all risks and are above minimum regulatory and supervisory levels. Actual
capital levels are monitored to ensure they exceed internal targets.
We regularly review and adapt our business strategies and plans to take account of changes in the external business, economic, political and
regulatory environments in which we operate. Our business strategies and plans are designed to align with our risk appetite, our capital position and
our financial performance objectives. We periodically reassess our risk appetite taking into consideration the economic, regulatory and competitive
environment in which we operate.
Specific business and strategic risks are discussed below in further detail.
Distribution Risk
Failure to achieve planned distribution scale could materially impact our financial and strategic objectives. This includes the inability to attract and
retain intermediaries and agents at a cost that is financially feasible to the Company, or to develop digital sales and Client support capabilities and
technologies. Distribution risk may also be influenced where our distribution or product strategy and related services (including digital sales and
Client support capabilities and technologies) are not developed, modified or executed in line with our strategic objectives or in consideration of the
changes in Client behaviour or our regulatory environment. In addition, the lack of a well-diversified distribution model in the jurisdictions in which
we do business may cause over-reliance on agency channel or key partners.
There is a risk that we may be unable to make an appropriate acquisition in a desired market or business line or are unable to realize the financial
and strategic benefits of the transactions due to competitive factors, regulatory requirements or other factors. There is a risk that the capital utilized
to finance any transaction could limit our ability to deploy further capital to pursue other opportunities and initiatives. These risks could adversely
impact our ability to achieve our financial and strategic objectives.
Our ability to realize the contemplated economic, financial, and strategic benefit of any transaction that we enter into is contingent on the effective
separation and integration of the transferred businesses, restructuring or reorganization of related businesses, and motivating and retaining
personnel to effectively execute these transactions. In addition, the integration of operations and differences in organizational culture may require
the dedication of significant management resources, which may distract management’s attention from our day-to-day business. Anticipated cost
synergies or other expected benefits may not materialize due to a failure to successfully integrate the acquired businesses with our existing
operations. Any of these risks, if realized, could prevent us from achieving the expected results from a transaction or could impact our financial and
strategic objectives.
To mitigate these risks, we have established procedures to govern the evaluation, execution and integration of merger and acquisition transactions.
Regular updates on execution and integration risks relating to these transactions are provided to the Board, Board Committees and senior
management committees, as appropriate, along with any mitigants developed to address such risks.
Competitive Environment
Competition from insurance companies, banks, asset managers, mutual fund companies, financial planners and other service providers (including
new entrants and non-traditional financial services companies) is intense, and could adversely affect our business in certain countries.
The businesses in which we engage are highly competitive and our ability to sell our products is dependent on many factors, including scale, price
and yields offered, distribution channels, digital capabilities, financial strength ratings, range of product lines and product and service quality, brand
strength, investment performance, historical dividend levels and the ability to provide value added services to distributors and Clients. In certain
markets, some of our competitors may be superior to us on one or more of these factors. Our competitors have significant potential to disrupt our
70 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
business through targeted strategies to reduce our market share which may include targeting our key people or bancassurance partners and other
distributors or aggressively pricing their products. Our ability to achieve our business plans and strategies depends significantly upon our capacity to
anticipate and respond quickly to these competitive pressures.
Technology is driving rapid change in the financial services sector and is enabling new entrants to compete or offer services to our competitors to
enhance their ability to compete in certain segments of the insurance, wealth and asset management markets. The emergence of new technologies
such as robotic process automation, artificial intelligence, blockchain and advanced analytics may have an impact on the financial services sector
and how companies interact with their stakeholders. Our current competitors or new entrants may use these or other new technologies to provide
services in various areas such as customized pricing, proactive outreach to Clients and targeted marketing in order to strengthen their Client
relationships and influence Client behaviour. The impact of disruption from changing technology and innovation by traditional and non-traditional
competitors who may offer a better user experience, functionality or lower priced products and may have lower distribution costs will require us to
adapt at a more rapid pace and may create margin pressures. The risk of disruption may also impact our distribution models as new and low cost
digital-based business models emerge in connection with the distribution of financial services and products, such as insurtechs and robo-advisors.
These risks are evolving rapidly with an increasing number of digital users and are difficult to anticipate and respond to proactively, and may
adversely impact our profitability and financial position.
Investment Performance
Investment performance risk is the possibility that we fail to achieve the desired return objectives on our investment portfolio, or that our asset
management businesses fail to design or execute investment strategies in order to achieve competitive returns on the products and managed
accounts offered by these businesses. Failure to achieve investment objectives may adversely affect our revenue and profitability through slower
growth prospects and adverse impacts on policyholder or Client behaviour.
Business units in our Asset Management pillar integrate environmental (as well as social and governance - ESG) considerations in their investment
decision-making for Sun Life assets and Client assets. Existing and potential ESG risks are incorporated into initial and ongoing reviews and
assessments of public equities and fixed income, private fixed income, real estate, infrastructure and commercial mortgage investments. In addition,
we monitor our third party managers in the asset management, general account and fund platform businesses through our International Investment
Centre. This centre functions as an investment research and consulting group. In the due diligence and monitoring of third-party managers, it
assesses each manager’s incorporation of ESG into its investment processes, as well as other relevant sustainability factors, and monitors them on
an ongoing basis.
We engage in and monitor environmental, social and broader sustainability developments in part through our participation as a signatory to the
United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment ("PRI"), United Nations Environment Programme - Finance Initiative ("UNEPFI"),
Climate Action 100+, Climate Engagement Canada and CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project). Our Chief Sustainability Officer leads
enterprise-wide efforts to embed sustainable practices across our businesses and help drive further actions that create a cleaner, more inclusive,
and sustainable future, in line with our enterprise strategy and our Purpose. Our International Sustainability Council, composed of senior executives
from each of our businesses, key functions and regions convenes on broad sustainability issues. Members are responsible for implementation of our
sustainability plan, through the areas of focus that align with their business. They champion, influence and drive action. We report on sustainability
performance, including reporting related to climate change, the environment and social issues, in our annual Sustainability Report, available at
sunlife.com/sustainability.
Climate Change
Climate change is one of the defining issues of our time. The scientific community has demonstrated that the world is warming. Governments,
regulators, investors, clients and other stakeholders are increasing efforts to tackle this global issue. The UN Secretary-General referred to the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change ("IPCC") Working Group 1 report released in 2021 as “code red for humanity”. We believe that it is
incumbent upon us to respond and to take actions that support the goal of the Paris Agreement to limit the global temperature increase in this
century to well below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees
Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Climate change presents risks of varying timelines to our business, with complex and broad potential impacts. As the commitments we make to our
Clients may extend decades into the future, the risks related to climate change impacts exist within the solutions we are providing to our Clients
today. Our Purpose of helping our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives cannot be achieved without a sound approach to
climate change that supports the transition to a lower-carbon future. Our Purpose can best be realized through the integration of this thinking
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 71
across our businesses, and through working collaboratively with other stakeholders towards a common goal of avoiding the worst effects of climate
change. We have set a goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions by 2050. (Refer to Metrics and Targets for additional details.)
We commit to working together across industries, with our Clients, investees and other stakeholders to contribute to solving this global challenge.
We recognize that we do not yet have the answers to this complex topic.
Our strategy will evolve over time, building on our experience and external developments.
TCFD Disclosures
We support the recommendations of the TCFD. The following sets out our climate-related disclosures in line with these recommendations, which
are structured around four themes that represent core elements of how organizations operate: strategy, governance, risk management, and metrics
and targets.
A dedicated senior executive steering committee guides our implementation of TCFD recommendations. Refer to Governance, below, for further
details.
Strategy
Climate change is an important issue with potential implications for us as an asset management and insurance company. Similar to our previous
experience with Financial Condition Testing ("FCT"), external research indicates climate change risks are not expected to have a material impact on
the liability side of life insurance portfolios over the shorter-term and that the greater risk in the shorter-term is expected to be to the asset side of
life insurance portfolios(1).
With respect to investments, our approach for climate change encompasses both a risk and opportunity viewpoint.
A transition to a lower carbon economy could affect asset values. Portfolio investments in coal, conventional oil and oil sands producers, utilities and
related fossil fuel industries, railways and pipelines, as well as markets that depend on these industries, may be subject to additional financial risk as
a result of changes in regulation, cost of capital, consumer preferences and competition from renewable energy companies leading to lower overall
profitability and/or stranded assets (assets for which the investment costs cannot be recovered as intended).
Physical climate impacts could affect investments in real assets such as real estate, commercial mortgages, and infrastructure, as well as our own
operations, and operations and revenues of our Clients and businesses across our portfolios. Risks may result from increased severity and frequency
of extreme weather events and from longer-term shifts in climate patterns.
For further discussion of potential climate-related risks, please refer to Environmental and Social Risk in our 2021 AIF under Risk Factors – Business
and Strategic Risk.
Climate-related opportunities include those related to sustainability and green bonds, and investments in developing resilient and adaptive real
estate and infrastructure as well as renewable energy and other assets and businesses that support a transition to a low-carbon economy. Many
companies and industries are benefiting from climate change-related tailwinds, such as mobility (vehicle electrification), energy efficiency services,
battery technology and renewables. Through our ESG integration efforts, we seek to identify these investment opportunities in both public and
private markets in both direct (real estate, infrastructure) and securitized investments. We were the first life insurer globally to issue a sustainability
bond. Sustainability bonds can play a role in supporting the transition to a lower-carbon economy. Through our Asset Management pillar, we are
well-positioned to invest in this transition. Asset management is delivered by SLC Management, InfraRed, BGO and Crescent, all of which operate
under the SLC Management brand, as well as by MFS. Climate-related investing strategies for our asset management businesses are highlighted
below.
• SLC Management invests in sustainable infrastructure around the world through its platform of public and private fixed income investments.
Sustainable infrastructure categories include renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transportation.
• InfraRed invests in and manages social infrastructure and energy efficiency, low-carbon generation, and renewable energy projects, which
advances our sustainable investment options for institutional Clients while complementing our focus on sustainable investing and climate
change.
(1)
The Geneva Association. 2021. Climate Change Risk Assessment for the Insurance Industry. February. Authors: Maryam Golnaraghi and the Geneva
Association Task Force on Climate Change Risk Assessment for the Insurance Industry
72 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
• BGO proactively addresses climate risks at the property and portfolio levels through strategic planning that assesses and mitigates critical
vulnerabilities and builds adaptive capacity. BGO utilizes its award-winning proprietary resilience tool that combines industry research with
predictive climate modelling to deliver tailor-made climate resilience adaptation plans across our portfolios. These efforts help BGO to drive for
long-term returns for Clients and investors.
• Crescent’s investment decisions are guided by Clients’ long-term interests, which are served through the incorporation of ESG considerations,
including those related to climate change. Where possible, Crescent seeks to engage collaboratively with portfolio companies on topics such as
carbon emissions measurement and reporting and energy efficiency.
• As long-term investors in public issuers, MFS assesses climate change as a key investment decision factor at both the issuer level and portfolio
level. MFS also regularly engages with companies to encourage better disclosure and management of climate-related risks and opportunities.
In 2021, MFS published its Climate Manifesto which outlines its beliefs and purpose as an investor with regard to the risks and opportunities
associated with climate change and the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
As longer-term investors, we believe that integrating climate change as a key element of investment decision-making can be a source of competitive
advantage for two reasons: we believe it should lead to stronger risk-adjusted returns for Clients over time, and stronger ESG investment ratings
from groups like the PRI, Morningstar, GRESB (formerly Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark) and others are increasingly key decision factors
for Clients. As participants in Climate Engagement Canada and Climate Action 100+ investor initiatives, we engage some of the world’s largest
corporate GHG emitters with whom we have investments, to ensure their climate related goals and objectives align with those of the Company and
our Clients.
The same principles are used in the selection and monitoring of third-party investment managers that we engage to invest assets on behalf of our
Clients in group retirement savings plans. We recognize that our Clients are increasingly bringing a sustainable investment lens to our solutions. Our
proprietary ESG integration evaluation framework helps sponsors of Sun Life Canada group retirement plans make informed decisions about the
investment options they make available to their employees in their workplace plans. The evaluation framework uses detailed criteria in three key
areas: Firm Policies, Investment Process and Active Ownership.
Our previous work with climate change scenarios, as part of our FCT, provided insight into the impact of climate-related risks. In 2021, we
participated in a climate scenario analysis pilot project between the Bank of Canada, OSFI, and a small group of Canadian financial institutions. The
scenarios that were developed focused on transition risks. They were designed to capture a range of potential outcomes and illustrate the kinds of
stresses on the financial system and economy that could occur as the world transitions to a lower-carbon future. Scenarios were not intended to be
forecasts or predictions. The findings of the pilot are broadly consistent with our past understanding of sectors that are most likely to be affected by
potential climate change transition impacts and the implications of delaying policy action. While the pilot analyzed a sample of general account
assets managed by SLC Management, other asset management affiliate companies also have been progressing their work on climate scenario
analysis.
The pilot experience was valuable in deepening our understanding of potential carbon transition impacts, helping develop needed skill-sets, and
better understanding the degree of resources and technical expertise required for this type of analysis. Participation in the pilot highlighted the
important role industry initiatives can play in accelerating the timelines by which these capabilities can be developed in comparison to individual
institutions working in isolation.
We support The Bank of Canada and OSFI’s commitment to better understanding and assessing climate-related risks to the Canadian economy and
financial system and to supporting financial institutions in building their capacity for climate-related risk assessment and management.
Governance
Three Board Committees have oversight over aspects of climate change.
• The GICRC provides oversight of our enterprise-wide Sustainability Policy and sustainability program, including reviewing and recommending
approval of the annual Sustainability Report and Sustainability Plan to the Board. The GICRC monitors progress on sustainability plan
implementation, goals and targets, including greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions performance.
• The Risk Committee provides enterprise-wide oversight of the management of current and emerging risks, including of climate-related risks
and, broadly, environmental risks. For more detail on the Risk Committee’s role, refer to Risk Management in this section.
• The Audit Committee has oversight of all financial disclosures in the financial statements and MD&A, including those related to climate change.
The Board has ultimate oversight of climate change issues, and uses reports from the Board Committee Chairs noted above, and other direct
presentations by management and external experts, to decide on the nature and extent of its input and to provide challenge, advice and guidance to
senior management on the enterprise approach to climate change.
At the management level, the Chief Sustainability Officer, Chief Legal Officer, Chief Risk Officer, and Chief Investment Officer play key roles in
assessing and managing climate-related risks and opportunities.
• Our Chief Sustainability Officer has overall accountability for sustainability, including climate change, across the enterprise. This accountability
includes setting strategy and the governance framework for our organization. Climate Change is part of the Trusted and Responsible Business
foundation of our sustainability plan (available at sunlife.com/sustainability). As stated above, the Chief Sustainability Officer chairs our
International Sustainability Council.
• Our Chief Legal Officer served as executive sponsor of sustainability prior to the appointment of the Chief Sustainability Officer, and through
2021 has chaired our senior executive TCFD steering committee with representation from Enterprise Risk Management, Finance, Asset
Management, and Sustainability.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 73
• Our Chief Risk Officer is responsible for leading the Risk Management function (as noted above in Risk Management sections 2 and 7). Key and
emerging risks are monitored and reported to the Risk Committee of the Board.
• The Chief Investment Officer chairs the Sustainability Committee and Sustainable Investment Council within SLC Management. The
Sustainability Committee is responsible for setting strategic direction related to sustainability and ESG matters and sets priorities on key
sustainability initiatives across SLC Management. The Sustainable Investment Council oversees the integration of material ESG factors,
including climate change, into the investment process. SLC Management's Global Head of ESG, appointed in 2021, is responsible for leading
ESG strategies for SLC Management that deliver on Client mandates by building resilience, environmental and social performance, and risk
mitigation into the firm's investment management activities. With the role being added in 2021, SLC Management is assessing its governance
around sustainability and climate change.
At MFS, three governance bodies have responsibility for sustainable investing and stewardship activities. These groups set sustainable investing
strategy, monitor progress and broadly ensure that MFS considers material risks such as climate change in its investment activities:
• MFS Sustainability Executive Group (SEG) oversees MFS' sustainability strategy (membership includes MFS' CEO, President, Chief Investment
Office, Head of Sustainability and Stewardship, General Counsel and other senior leaders directly responsible for the integration of
sustainability across the firm).
• MFS Responsible Investing Committee (membership includes MFS' president, general counsel and chief compliance officer), and
• MFS Proxy Voting Committee (membership includes senior leaders from MFS' investment, legal, compliance and global investment operations
departments).
In addition, MFS' head of sustainable investing and stewardship chairs a sustainable investing steering group with members from across asset
classes and investment styles. The steering group established a climate change working group to stimulate discussions across the investment team
and develop practical frameworks to inform MFS' investment decision-making process and corporate engagement strategy in these areas.
We anticipate evolving our governance structures over time to ensure we maintain effective decision-making and appropriate accountability.
Risk Management
Climate risk management is integrated into our Risk Framework, Governance, and supporting processes (as noted in preceding sections 1 through 8
and under Governance above).
Our definition of climate risk includes physical impacts of climate change and impacts of the transition to a lower-carbon economy. These impacts
can include, but are not limited to, damage to owned and operated real assets including real estate and infrastructure, a reduction in the values of
investments in public and private fixed income and non-fixed income assets tied to fossil fuels and carbon intensive industries, litigation risk to a
company or sector in which we invest, health impacts to affected populations, and socio-economic, geo-political and regulatory changes.
From an investment perspective, climate-related risks (where material to an industry or asset class) are integrated into the risk management process
as we look to make long-term investments that are better positioned to withstand issues related to climate change. We incorporate a number of
different analyses into our assessment of climate risks through both stand-alone analysis of physical risks by geographic region and through the
assessment of business model and carbon transition risks. Climate-related risk types monitored may include acute and chronic physical risks and
transition risks related to current and emerging regulation, legal, technology, market and reputation or consumer preferences.
Each of the Company’s asset management businesses takes its own approach to identifying, assessing, monitoring and responding to climate-related
risks and opportunities, based on the asset classes it invests in. Examples of approaches include:
• proprietary climate risk surveys to identify, assess and respond to climate-related risks and opportunities,
• portfolio and asset level risk analysis to inform investment decisions and resilience plans,
• emissions data analysis,
• stranded asset modeling,
• carbon intensity monitoring and benchmarking, and
• individual as well as collaborative engagements on topics such as decarbonization.
Approaches are refined periodically. For example, in 2021, SLC Management updated its proprietary ESG Plus scoring methodology to place a larger
emphasis on emissions profiles for non-financial corporates. This enhanced analysis looks to standardize the assessment of transition risks and to
continue to build capabilities within our investment teams around company-level carbon assessments. When considering a longer term investment
in fossil fuel related companies, SLC Management reviews the companies' carbon reduction plans and ability to transition to a lower-carbon future.
Additionally, an environmental issue, whether caused by climate change or other factors, on a property owned or operated by us could have
financial or reputational impacts. We maintain an environmental risk management program to help monitor and manage real estate investment
assets from losses due to environmental issues and to ensure compliance with applicable laws. We maintain insurance policies to cover certain
environmental risks on owned assets. We have implemented a business continuity program to facilitate the recovery of critical business operations
if an environmental issue affects a location where we conduct operations. The Company’s corporate real estate group, together with our building
owners and property managers, assesses the potential effects of climate change-related hazards and examines ways to improve the ability of our
buildings to withstand these hazards. These hazards include tornadoes, flash floods, ice storms and coastline flooding.
74 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
We will target a 50% absolute reduction of GHG emissions in our operations by 2030, relative to 2019. This target includes emissions reductions
from our offices and corporate travel(1). We will realign our GHG emissions reporting in 2022 with this new target. We have also set a goal of carbon-
neutrality for our global operations beginning in 2021, to be achieved through reduction efforts and the purchase of high-quality offsets for the
remainder.
The Company is targeting $20 billion in new sustainable investments from 2021 to 2025 across its general account and Client investments, which are
managed by SLC Management. Investments include, but are not limited to, renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable buildings, clean
transportation, water management, and social infrastructure projects.
We report our global Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions from company-occupied real estate and real estate investments under our financial
control as well as Scope 3 GHG emissions(2) from corporate travel and as available, real estate-related sources such as water, waste and tenant- or
landlord-paid utilities in our annual Sustainability Report available at www.sunlife.com/sustainability.
Please refer to Environmental and Social Risk in our AIF for additional climate-related risk discussion.
v. Operational Risk
Risk Description
Operational risk is the risk of loss (financial and non-financial) resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people and systems or from
external events. Operational risk is present in all of our business activities and encompasses a broad range of risks as described below. Operational
risk is embedded in the practices utilized to manage other risks and, therefore, if not managed effectively, operational risk can impact our ability to
manage other key risks.
Specific operational risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail and in the Risk Factor section in the AIF.
Our business and the successful implementation of our digital strategy are dependent on various factors including maintaining a secure environment
for our Clients, employees and other parties' information. This requires the effective and secure use, management and oversight of information and
physical assets. We engage with various stakeholders and leverage emerging technologies, including digital, mobile applications, cloud computing,
artificial intelligence and robotic process automation. These technologies are used to collect, process and maintain information relating to business
transactions and financial reporting, as well as the personal information of our Clients and employees. We also obtain services from a wide range of
third-party service providers and have outsourced some business and information technology functions in various jurisdictions.
(1)
Scope 1 and 2 emissions of corporate offices globally, and Scope 3 emissions resulting from the water supply and landlord-paid utility services to these
offices, as well as from corporate travel, per the GHG Protocol.
(2)
Scope 3 emissions related to utilities for Corporate Real Estate where utility bills are paid by the landlord are prorated for Sun Life's share of the building’s
total gross leasable area and Real Estate Investment properties only include consumption where there is submetering. Scope 3 emissions from utilities that
are directly billed to third party is excluded from reporting as it is considered outside of Sun Life's financial control.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 75
There continues to be an increasing number of information security compromises and privacy breaches across industry sectors, governments and
individuals. The increasing scope and complexity of malicious activity poses a significant risk to our systems and these risks may be exacerbated by
the breadth of our operations, our geographic footprint and the complexity of our technology systems. The risk of information security compromises
and privacy breaches has also increased during the COVID-19 pandemic as individuals continue remote working arrangements. A serious security or
privacy breach of either an internal or third-party service provider’s computer system that contains sensitive business, Client and/or employee
information may result in business interruption, theft or misuse of confidential information, regulatory penalties and scrutiny, litigation,
reputational damage and may have an adverse impact on current and future business opportunities with our Clients, employees and business
relationships.
We continue investing in people, processes and technology to strengthen our abilities to respond to the evolving threat landscape. Our Information
Security framework is overseen by the Chief Information Security Officer, supported by senior leadership and by our Operational Risk Management
Framework. Our information security framework and governance controls (policies, procedures, training) are aligned with recognized industry
standards and are compliant with applicable laws and regulations.
Our well-established security controls and processes are intent on protecting our information and computer systems and the information entrusted
to us by our Clients and employees. Our protection strategy leverages information security risk assessments and privacy impact assessments to
evaluate potential risks. The security framework also includes technology and process safeguards and regularly promotes secure behavioural
practices. As part of our layered security approach, we deliver general security awareness training sessions to all employees every year that is
reinforced with regular awareness resources and activities.
Many jurisdictions in which we do business are developing and implementing cyber security reporting requirements and more stringent consumer
privacy legislation. Our global privacy program monitors adherence to our global privacy commitments, local laws and local privacy policies. We
have also established a network of privacy officers across the Company who monitor emerging privacy legislation and provide guidance on handling
personal information and help manage, report and resolve any privacy incidents that may occur. We also conduct privacy training, provide regular
monitoring and reporting and carry cyber risk insurance to help mitigate the impact of privacy incidents.
To mitigate this risk, we have comprehensive Human Resource policies, practices and programs in place to ensure compliance with employment
legislation, minimize the risk of employee misconduct, and proactively develop employee skills, capabilities and behaviours to meet future business
needs.
Our Chief Compliance Officer oversees our comprehensive Enterprise-wide compliance framework, which is consistent with regulatory guidance
from OSFI and other regulators. This framework promotes proactive, risk-based management of compliance and regulatory risk, and includes
Enterprise-wide and business segment policies, standards and operating guidelines, programs to promote awareness of laws and regulations that
impact us, ongoing monitoring of emerging legal issues and regulatory changes and training programs. The employee training programs include anti-
money laundering and anti-terrorist financing, anti-bribery and corruption, privacy and information security risk management. Effective governance,
oversight and implementation is a coordinated effort between first and second lines of defense functions. Second line oversight relies on a network
of compliance officers. In addition to the second line, the general counsel in each business segment provides advice. The Chief Compliance Officer
reports regularly to the Board and Board Committees on the state of compliance, key compliance risks, emerging regulatory trends, escalation of
key issues and key risk indicators.
To manage the risks associated with our technology infrastructure and applications, we have implemented a number of policies, directives and
controls through our technology approval and risk governance model to ensure ongoing systems availability, stability and currency.
Third-Party Risk
We engage in a variety of third-party relationships, including with distributors, independent contractors, outsourcing service providers and
suppliers. Our profitability or reputation could be impacted if these third parties are unable to meet their ongoing service commitments or fail to
perform to expected standards.
To manage these risks, we have established Company-wide policies and guidelines which are consistent with OSFI's and other local regulatory
requirements, and which set out our requirements to identify, assess, manage, monitor and report on third-party risks. Our program includes third-
76 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
party risk assessments and enhanced due diligence if a supplier will have access to any personal data and/or confidential information or access to
non-public systems. The key elements and risks associated with the third party are documented in the form of a written agreement, and the
company monitors performance of its third parties in a manner that is commensurate to the size, risk, scope and complexity of the third-party
relationship.
To manage this risk, we have implemented a business continuity program to facilitate the recovery of critical business operations. This program
encompasses business continuity, crisis management and disaster recovery planning. Our policy, guidelines and operating procedures establish
consistent processes designed to ensure that key business functions can continue and normal operations can resume effectively and efficiently
should a major disruption occur. In addition, to regularly update and test business continuity plans for critical business operations, we conduct
mandatory business continuity awareness training for all employees annually and have off-site backup facilities and failover capability designed to
minimize downtime and accelerate recovery time in the event of a major disruption.
Model Risk
We use complex models to support many business functions including product development and pricing, capital management, valuation, financial
reporting, planning, hedging, asset-liability management, risk management and advanced analytics (such as artificial intelligence, predictive
modeling and decision making algorithms). Model risk is the risk of loss, either in the form of financial loss, inappropriate or poor business decisions,
damage to reputation, or other adverse impact, arising from inaccurate model outputs or incorrect use or interpretation of model outputs.
To manage model risk, we have established robust, Company-wide model risk management procedures over the models' life cycle with respect to
building, using, changing and retiring models. The policy and operating guidelines set out minimum, risk-based requirements to ensure that models
are effectively controlled, maintained and appropriately understood by users.
the inability to capture, manage, retain and appropriately dispose of business records, the inability to provide data that is fit for purpose, accurate,
complete or timely to support business decisions, and the inability to manage data location and cross-border appropriately. Failure to manage these
risks could have financial or reputational impacts, and may lead to regulatory proceedings, penalties and litigation.
To manage and monitor information management risk, we have an internal control framework, data governance and record management practices
in place. Additional information on operational risk can be found in the Risk Factors section in the AIF.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 77
The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of our significant financial liabilities and contractual commitments as at
December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Additional information on liquidity risk can be found in Note 10 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and the Risk Factors section
in the 2021 AIF.
78 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
vii. Other Risks
Risks relating to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Pandemics, epidemics or outbreaks of an infectious disease could have an adverse impact on our results, business, financial condition or liquidity,
and could result in changes to the way we operate. The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures imposed by governments around the world to limit
its spread including travel restrictions, business closures, social distancing protocols, school closures, quarantines, and restrictions on gatherings and
events, have disrupted the global economy, financial markets, supply chains, business activity and productivity in unprecedented ways. The duration
and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in the countries in which we operate are varied and cannot currently be determined. Containment measures
continue to impact global economic activity, including the pace and magnitude of recovery as well as contributing to increased market volatility
supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and changes to the macroeconomic environment. Governments, monetary authorities, regulators
and financial institutions, have taken, and continue to take, actions in support of the economy and financial system. These actions include fiscal,
monetary and other financial measures to increase liquidity, and to provide financial aid to individuals and businesses. While some programs and
temporary measures have come to an end, others remain in place or have continued to be developed in an effort to support the economy.
Additional risks are emerging around governments' withdrawal of COVID-19 pandemic support measures, and how they will seek to finance the
unprecedented level of support. If the COVID-19 pandemic is prolonged, the adverse impact on the global economy could deepen, augmenting
financial market declines or volatility, corporate insolvency risks and negative household wealth impacts. The continuing or worsening of the
economic and market conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and impact on clients, industries and individual countries could have a material
adverse effect on our businesses including sales, fee income, investment performance, expenses, results of operations, corporate reputation and
financial condition. Sustained adverse effects could negatively impact profitability and also make it difficult for us to access capital markets, could
impact our liquidity and capital position, or may result in downgrades in our credit ratings. To the extent the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affects
our business, results of operations, corporate reputation and financial condition, it may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks
described in the Risk Factors section in our AIF and section J - Risk Management in this document. This includes, but is not limited to:
• Market risks, such as equity, interest rates and spread, real estate, and foreign currency risks, including impact on fee income;
• Insurance risk, including higher than expected mortality and, morbidity claims and adverse policyholder behaviour including but not limited to
higher than expected policy lapses, withdrawals, and surrenders;
• Credit risk, including defaults, impairments and downgrades;
• Business and strategic risk including economic and political risk, business strategy implementation risk, distribution risk, expense risk, changes
in Client behaviour, sales, investment performance, and changes in legal and regulatory environment;
• Operational risk, including information security and privacy risk, human resources risks, regulatory compliance, legal and conduct risk,
information technology risk, processing risk, third-party risk, and business disruption risk, and change management risk with the need to
quickly implement and execute new programs and procedures to support Clients, advisors, employees, products, and services; and
• Liquidity risk including collateral, and payment deferrals on invested assets or policyholder insurance premium impacts.
While rising vaccination rates have supported an easing of containment measures in some geographies, progress towards re-opening has been
accompanied by resurgences in the spread of COVID-19 including variants and the re-imposition of restrictions in other geographies. The overall
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is still uncertain and dependent on the progression of the virus, including variants, mass vaccine production and
distribution, vaccine efficacy, public acceptance of containment measures and vaccine adoption, the subsequent reduction in rates of infection and
the actions taken by governments, monetary authorities, regulators, financial institutions, businesses and individuals, which could vary by country
and result in differing outcomes. Given the extent of the circumstances, it is difficult to reliably measure or predict the potential impact of this
uncertainty on our future financial results.
Consistent with the protocols and programs established in our Risk Management Framework, we continue to manage the risks that arise when
providing products and services to Clients, which are in line with our Purpose to help Client achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.
IFRS 17 and 9
IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts ("IFRS 17") and IFRS 9 Financial Instruments ("IFRS 9") are effective for Canadian insurance companies for annual
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023.
The adoption of IFRS 17 will be a material change to the accounting and reporting process for the Company. We have established a transition
program for IFRS 17 and 9 and have dedicated significant resources to execute and oversee the multi-year cross functional plan to manage
operational, regulatory, and business and strategic risks associated with the implementation of these standards.
• Operational risk - the standards requires a more expansive set of data, introduces complex estimation techniques, computational requirements
and disclosures, which necessitate a major transformation to various actuarial and financial reporting processes, tools, and systems.
• Business and strategic risk - the standards may create additional volatility in our financial results and capital position. Volatility of reported
results may require changes to business strategies and the introduction of new or modified non-GAAP measures to explain our results. The
impact to business strategy could include changes to hedging and investment strategy, product strategy and the use of reinsurance and, as a
result, could impact our exposures to other risks such as counterparty risk and liquidity risk.
• Regulatory Capital risk - the regulatory capital framework in Canada currently based on IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts ("IFRS 4") will align with
IFRS 17 effective January 1, 2023. The impact to Sun Life from this change is currently uncertain. While OSFI has stated that it intends to
maintain capital frameworks consistent with current capital policies and to minimize potential capital impacts at the industry level, the impact
for individual companies may vary. OSFI will make changes to the LICAT guideline to reflect IFRS 17 and is consulting directly with key
stakeholders. LICAT guideline changes for Segregated Fund Guarantee capital are also planned to take effect January 1, 2025. OSFI has been
engaging the industry in testing of new Segregated Fund Guarantee capital requirements, and the impact will not be known until the final
calibrations are completed.
Additional information on other risks can be found in the Risk Factor section in our 2021 AIF.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 79
K. Additional Financial Disclosure
Canada
Canada's revenue decreased by $2.8 billion or 13% in 2021 compared to 2020, reflecting lower net investment income from fair values changes of
assets, partially offset by higher net premiums in GRS and Individual Insurance & Wealth.
U.S.
U.S.'s revenue decreased by $2.1 billion or 26% in 2021 compared to 2020, reflecting lower net investment income from fair values changes of
assets.
Asset Management
Asset Management's revenue increased by $0.8 billion or 16% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by higher fee income in SLC Management and MFS.
Asia
Asia's revenue decreased by $2.8 billion in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by lower net premiums in International Hubs and lower net investment
income from fair values changes of assets.
Corporate
Corporate's revenue decreased by $0.8 billion in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by lower net investment income from fair value changes of assets.
80 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
ii. Revenue
Revenue includes: (i) premiums received on life and health insurance policies and fixed annuity products, net of premiums ceded to reinsurers; (ii)
net investment income comprised of income earned on general fund assets, realized gains and losses on AFS assets and changes in the value of
derivative instruments and assets designated as FVTPL and foreign exchange translation on assets and liabilities; and (iii) fee income received for
services provided. Premium and deposit equivalents from ASO, as well as deposits received by the Company on investment contracts such as
segregated funds, mutual funds and managed funds are not included in revenue; however, the Company does receive fee income from these
contracts, which is included in revenue. Fee income and ASO premium and deposit equivalents are an important part of our business and as a result,
revenue does not fully represent sales and other activity taking place during the respective periods.
Net investment income can experience volatility arising from the quarterly fluctuation in the value of FVTPL assets and foreign currency changes on
assets and liabilities, which may in turn affect the comparability of revenue from period to period. The change in fair value of FVTPL assets is driven
largely by market-related factors such as interest rates, credit spreads and equity returns. The debt and equity securities that support insurance
contract liabilities are generally designated as FVTPL and changes in fair values of these assets are recorded in net investment income in our
Consolidated Statements of Operations. Changes in the fair values of the FVTPL assets supporting insurance contract liabilities are largely offset by a
corresponding change in the liabilities.
($ millions) 2021 2020
Premiums
Life insurance 10,925 11,812
Health insurance 10,664 10,649
Annuities 3,917 3,729
Gross 25,506 26,190
Life insurance (1,563) (1,573)
Health insurance (611) (587)
Annuities (279) (292)
Less: Ceded 2,453 2,452
Net premiums 23,053 23,738
Net investment income (loss)
Interest and other investment income 6,272 5,407
Fair value(1)(2) and foreign currency changes on assets and liabilities (1,785) 6,860
Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale assets(2) 146 451
Net Investment income (loss) 4,633 12,718
Fee income 8,002 6,881
Total revenue 35,688 43,337
(1)
Represents the change in FVTPL assets and liabilities.
(2)
The prior year included an AFS gain of $282 million relating to the sale of debt securities and a loss of $342 million as a result of the termination of our fair
value derivatives, both of which were related to the repayment of our senior financing obligation. Our senior financing obligation related to U.S. statutory
regulatory capital requirements for In-force Management. For additional information, refer to Note 12 in our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial
Statements.
Revenue decreased by $7.6 billion or 18% in 2021 compared to 2020, reflecting lower net investment income from fair values changes of assets,
partially offset by higher fee income. Foreign exchange translation decreased revenue by $1,287 million.
Gross premiums increased by $0.7 billion or 3% in 2021 compared to 2020, driven by increases in Canada.
Net investment income decreased by $8.1 billion or 64% in 2021 compared to 2020, mainly from fair value changes of assets reflecting the impact of
interest rates, credit spreads, as well as seed investments and AFS gains(1) in the prior year.
Fee income increased by $1.1 billion or 16% in 2021, compared to 2020, driven by Asset Management and Canada.
(1)
Our senior financing obligation related to U.S. statutory regulatory capital requirements for In-force Management. For additional information, refer to
Note 12 of our 2020 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 81
iii. Benefits and Expenses
($ millions) 2021 2020
Benefits and Expenses
Gross claims and benefits paid 18,722 18,307
Changes in insurance contract liabilities, investment contract liabilities and reinsurance assets(1) 2,150 13,300
Operating expenses, commissions and premium taxes 11,817 10,441
Reinsurance expenses (recoveries) (2,425) (2,353)
Interest expense 327 355
Total benefits and expenses 30,591 40,050
(1)
Includes changes in insurance contract liabilities, investment contract liabilities, reinsurance assets and segregated funds. For more information, see
Note 10.F in our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Total benefits and expenses decreased by $9.5 billion or 24% in 2021 compared to 2020, primarily driven by decreases in insurance contract
liabilities, partially offset by lower net transfers from segregated funds in Canada.
Gross claims and benefits paid of $18.7 billion in 2021 was relatively consistent with 2020.
Changes in insurance contract liabilities, investment contract liabilities and reinsurance assets decreased by $11.2 billion in 2021 compared to 2020,
driven by Canada, the U.S. and Asia.
Operating expenses, commissions and premium taxes increased $1.4 billion or 13% in 2021compared to 2020, reflecting higher expenses supporting
business growth, higher compensation costs and project spend, and $364 million of unfavourable foreign exchange translation. For additional
information, see Note 18 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Reinsurance recoveries of $2.4 billion and interest expense of $0.3 billion were relatively consistent with 2020.
iv. Taxes
Income Taxes
In 2021, we had an income tax expense of $727 million on reported net income before taxes of $5,097 million, which resulted in an effective income
tax rate of 14.3%. This compares to an income tax expense of $495 million on reported net income before taxes of $3,287 million and an effective
income tax rate of 15.1% in 2020.
On an underlying basis(1), in 2021, we had an income tax expense of $578 million on our underlying net income before taxes of $4,275 million,
representing an effective income tax rate of 13.5% which is slightly below our expected range of 15% to 20%. This compares to an income tax
expense of $808 million on our underlying net income before taxes of $4,176 million and an effective income tax rate of 19.3% in 2020, which was
within our expected range of 15% to 20%.
See section D - Profitability - 5 - Income taxes in this document for additional information on our effective tax rates.
Other Taxes
In addition to income taxes, we pay various indirect taxes in jurisdictions in which we carry on business. Indirect taxes include premium taxes,
investment income tax, payroll related taxes, property taxes, sales taxes, business taxes and other taxes, as follows:
($ millions) 2021 2020
Income tax expense 727 495
Indirect taxes
Premium taxes (net of premium taxes on ceded business)(1) 396 395
Payroll taxes 202 190
Property taxes 126 124
Goods and services tax ("GST"), harmonized tax ("HST") and other sales taxes 125 121
Business taxes and other 58 30
Total indirect taxes 907 860
Total taxes 1,634 1,355
Reported effective income tax rate
14.3%
15.1%
Total taxes as a percentage of net income before deduction of total taxes
27.2%
32.7%
(1)
Premium taxes include investment income tax.
(1)
Our effective income tax rate on underlying net income is calculated using underlying net income and income tax expense associated with underlying net
income, which excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
82 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
3. Items related to Statements of Financial Position
i. Changes in Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Insurance contract liabilities balances before Other policy liabilities of $135.5 billion as at December 31, 2021, compared to $137.7 billion
December 31, 2020, mainly due to balances arising from new policies, partially offset by changes in balances on in-force policies (which include fair
value changes on FVTPL assets supporting insurance contract liabilities) and foreign exchange translation.
Total shareholders' equity, including preferred share capital, was $26.3 billion as at December 31, 2021, compared to $24.3 billion as at
December 31, 2020. The change in total shareholders' equity included:
(i) total shareholders' net income of $4.0 billion, before preferred share dividends of $0.1 billion; and
(ii) the issuance of $1 billion principal amount of other equity instruments; partially offset by
(iii) common share dividend payments of $1.4 billion; and
(iv) redemptions of preferred shares of $1 billion.
While most of these activities are reflected on our balance sheet with respect to assets and liabilities, certain of them are either not recorded on our
balance sheet or are recorded on our balance sheet in amounts that differ from the full contract or notional amounts. The types of off-balance sheet
activities we undertake primarily include asset securitizations and securities lending.
Asset Securitizations
In the past, we sold mortgage or bond assets to non-consolidated structured entities, which may also purchase investment assets from third parties.
Our securitized AUM held by these non-consolidated structured entities were $nil as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
However, the majority of our securitization activities are recorded on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. We securitize multi-
residential mortgages under the National Housing Act Mortgage-Backed Securities program sponsored by the CMHC. The securitization of the multi-
residential mortgages with the CMHC does not qualify for de-recognition and remains on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Additional information on this program can be found in Note 5 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Securities Lending
We lend securities in our investment portfolio to other institutions for short periods to generate additional fee income. We conduct our program
only with well-established, reputable banking institutions that carry a minimum credit rating of "AA". Collateral, which exceeds the fair value of the
loaned securities, is deposited by the borrower with a lending agent, usually a securities custodian, and maintained by the lending agent until the
underlying security has been returned to us. We monitor the fair value of the loaned securities on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or
refunded as the fair value fluctuates. Certain arrangements allow us to invest the cash collateral received for the securities loaned. Loaned securities
are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as Invested Assets. As at December 31, 2021, we loaned securities with a
carrying value of $9.9 billion for which the collateral held was $9.9 billion. This is consistent to loaned securities of $2.0 billion, with collateral of
$2.1 billion as at December 31, 2020. Of the collateral held, we held cash collateral of $51 million as at December 31, 2021 ($306 million as at
December 31, 2020), which is recognized on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 83
4. Fourth Quarter 2021 Profitability
The following table reconciles our reported net income and underlying net income. The table also sets out the impacts of experience-related items
attributable to reported net income and underlying net income in the fourth quarter of 2021 and 2020. All factors discussed in this document that
impact our underlying net income are also applicable to reported net income.
Q4'21 Q4'20
($ millions, after-tax)
Reported net income - Common shareholders 1,078 744
Less: Market-related impacts(1) 156 20
Assumption changes and management actions(1) (19) (42)
Other adjustments(1) 43 (96)
Underlying net income(2) 898 862
Reported ROE(2) 18.0% 13.3%
Underlying ROE(2) 15.0% 15.4%
Experience-related items attributable to reported net income and underlying net income(3)
Investing activity 14 3
Credit 32 18
Mortality (71) (4)
Morbidity (34) 24
Policyholder behaviour (10) (18)
Expenses (47) (53)
Other experience (1) (1)
Total of experience-related items (117) (31)
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment, including pre-tax amounts.
(2)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(3)
Experience-related items reflect the difference between actual experience during the reporting period and best estimate assumptions used in the
determination of our insurance contract liabilities. Experience-related items are a part of the Sources of Earnings framework, and are calculated in
accordance with OSFI Guideline D-9, Sources of Earnings Disclosures. Experience-related items from our India, China and Malaysia joint ventures and
associates are recorded within other experience.
Q4'21 reported net income of $1,078 million increased $334 million or 45% compared to the same period in 2020, driven by a $297 million gain on
the IPO of our India asset management joint venture and an increase in the value of our real estate investments, partially offset by a $153 million
increase in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities(1). Underlying net income of $898 million increased $36 million or 4%, driven by broad-
based business growth across our pillars, with particular strength in asset management and wealth. Underlying net income also benefited from a
lower effective tax rate in the quarter, largely offset by $113 million of ongoing COVID-19-related mortality and morbidity experience. Earnings on
surplus were impacted by lower contributions from seed investments and available-for-sale ("AFS") gains. Foreign exchange translation led to a
decline of $33 million in reported net income and $22 million in underlying net income.
In the fourth quarter of 2021, our effective income tax rate on reported net income and underlying net income(2)was 4.2% and 4.8%, compared to
5.8% and 15.2% in the fourth quarter of 2020, respectively. In the fourth quarter of 2021, our effective tax rate on reported net income and
underlying net income were below our expected range of 15% to 20% due to higher tax-exempt investment income and resolutions of prior year's
tax matters. For additional information, refer to Note 20 in our Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended December 31, 2021.
(1)
Reflects the changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates.
(1)
Our effective income tax rate on underlying net income is calculated using underlying net income and income tax expense associated with underlying net
income, which excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
84 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Performance by Business Group - Fourth Quarter
We manage our operations and report our financial results in five business segments. The following section describes the operations and financial
performance of Canada, U.S., Asset Management, Asia and Corporate.
The following table sets out the differences between our reported net income (loss) and underlying net income (loss) by business group.
Q4'21
Asset
($ millions, after-tax) Canada U.S. Management Asia Corporate Total
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 356 85 140 446 51 1,078
Less: Market-related impacts(1) 90 40 — 23 3 156
Assumption changes and management actions(1) 2 (19) — (2) — (19)
Other adjustments(1) (2) (8) (242) 295 — 43
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 266 72 382 130 48 898
Q4'20
Asset
($ millions, after-tax) Canada U.S. Management Asia Corporate Total
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 255 88 267 132 2 744
Less: Market-related impacts(1) 15 2 — 3 — 20
Assumption changes and management actions(1) (3) (60) — 21 — (42)
Other adjustments(1) — (2) (66) (8) (20) (96)
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 243 148 333 116 22 862
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment, including pre-tax amounts
(2)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Canada
Canada's Q4'21 reported net income of $356 million increased $101 million or 40% compared to the same period in 2020, driven by an increase in
the value of our real estate investments and higher equity markets. Underlying net income of $266 million increased $23 million or 9%, driven by
experience-related items and business growth, partially offset by a $20 million investment impairment in earnings on surplus. Experience in the
quarter included favourable credit, partially offset by unfavourable morbidity reflecting lower disability claims resolutions.
U.S.
U.S.'s Q4'21 reported net income of US$68 million ($85 million) increased US$2 million or 3% compared to the same period in 2020, driven by an
increase in the value of our real estate investments and ACMA impacts, largely offset by the decrease in underlying net income of US$56 million
($76 million). Underlying net income decreased, primarily due to COVID-19-related experience, as working-age population mortality continued to be
elevated in the fourth quarter. COVID-19-related experience of US$66 million included US$51 million from mortality and US$15 million primarily
from disability.(1)
Lower earnings on surplus also contributed to the decrease, partially offset by favourable credit and other experience. Foreign exchange translation
led to a decline of $3 million in reported net income and $2 million in underlying net income.
The trailing four-quarter after-tax profit margin for Group Benefits was 5.7% as of the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to 8.0% as of the fourth
quarter of 2020.
Asset Management
Asset Management's Q4'21 reported net income of $140 million decreased $127 million or 48% compared to the same period in 2020, reflecting a
$153 million increase in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities. Underlying net income of $382 million increased $49 million or 15%, driven
by a 14% increase in MFS and an 18% increase in SLC Management. Foreign exchange translation led to a decline of $7 million in reported net
income and $12 million in underlying net income.
MFS's Q4'21 reported net income of US$234 million increased US$40 million or 21% compared to the same period in 2020, driven by the increase in
underlying net income of US$42 million, partially offset by higher fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards. Underlying net
income increased, driven by higher ANA, partially offset by higher variable compensation expenses. The pre-tax net operating profit margin ratio for
MFS for the fourth quarter of 2021 was 43%, compared to 41% in the same period of 2020.
SLC Management's Q4'21 reported net loss was $155 million, compared to reported net income of $14 million in the same period in 2020, reflecting
a $153 million increase in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities(2). Underlying net income of $40 million increased $6 million or 18%,
driven by higher AUM, including the Crescent acquisition which closed in January of 2021.
(1)
In Canadian dollars, COVID-19-related experience of $83 million included $65 million from mortality and $18 million primarily from disability.
(2)
Reflects the changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 85
Asia
Asia's Q4'21 reported net income of $446 million increased $314 million compared to the same period in 2020, driven by a $297 million gain from
the IPO of our India asset management joint venture, ABSLAMC. Underlying net income of $130 million increased $14 million or 12%, driven by
business growth and an investment impairment from the prior year, partially offset by experience-related items and foreign exchange translation.
Experience in the quarter included COVID-19-related mortality of $12 million, mostly in the Philippines, and unfavourable experience in our joint
ventures(1). Foreign exchange translation led to a decline of $23 million in reported net income and $8 million in underlying net income.
Corporate
Corporate's Q4'21 reported net income of $51 million increased $49 million compared to the same period in 2020, driven by the increase in
underlying net income and restructuring costs in the prior year. Underlying net income of $48 million increased $26 million, benefiting from a lower
effective tax rate in the quarter, partially offset by unfavourable expense experience.
(1)
Experience-related items from our India, China and Malaysia joint ventures and associates are recorded within other experience.
86 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Third Quarter 2021
Q3'21 reported net income of $1,019 million increased $269 million or 36% compared to the same period in 2020, driven by favourable market-
related impacts from changes in the fair value of investment properties, and ACMA, partially offset by a par allocation adjustment. Underlying net
income of $902 million increased by $60 million or 7%, driven by business growth, favourable credit experience and higher tax-exempt investment
income. This was partially offset by morbidity and expense experience, and the unfavourable impacts of foreign exchange translation. Mortality
experience was elevated in the U.S. and Asia, but relatively in line with the prior year. During the third quarter of 2021, the impacts of foreign
exchange translation led to a decline of $41 million in reported net income and $36 million in underlying net income.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 87
L. Non-IFRS Financial Measures
All factors discussed in this document that impact our underlying net income are also applicable to reported net income. All EPS measures in this
document refer to fully diluted EPS, unless otherwise stated. As noted below, underlying EPS excludes the dilutive impacts of convertible
instruments.
Underlying EPS (diluted). This measure is used in comparing the profitability across multiple periods and is calculated by dividing underlying net
income by weighted average common shares outstanding for diluted EPS, excluding the dilutive impact of convertible instruments. For additional
information about the underlying net income, see above. For additional information about the composition of the EPS, please refer to Note 26 of
our Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information about the SLEECS, please refer to Note 13 of our Consolidated Financial
Statements.
88 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
The following table sets out the post-tax amounts that were excluded from our underlying net income (loss) and underlying EPS and provides a
reconciliation to our reported net income (loss) and EPS based on IFRS.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 89
The following table shows the pre-tax amount of underlying net income adjustments:
($ millions, unless otherwise noted) 2021 2020
Reported net income - Common shareholders (after-tax) 3,934 2,404
Underlying net income adjustments (pre-tax):
Less: Market-related impacts 849 (716)
Assumption changes and management actions 66 (214)
Other adjustments (338) (241)
Total underlying net income adjustments (pre-tax) 577 (1,171)
Less: Taxes related to underlying net income adjustments (176) 362
Underlying net income (after-tax) 3,533 3,213
Taxes related to underlying net income adjustments may vary from the expected effective tax rate range reflecting the mix of business based on the
Company's international operations.
Assets under management. AUM is a non-IFRS financial measure that indicates the size of our company's asset management, wealth, and insurance
assets. There is no standardized financial measure under IFRS. In addition to the most directly comparable IFRS measures, which are the balance of
General funds and Segregated funds on our Statements of Financial Position, AUM also includes Other AUM, defined below.
Effective January 1, 2021, the methodology for AUM was updated for SLC Management with respect to certain real estate and investment-grade
fixed income products to include uncalled capital commitments. We have updated prior period amounts to reflect this change.
Assumption changes and management actions. In this document the impacts of ACMA on shareholders' net income (after-tax) is included in
reported net income and is excluded from underlying net income, as described in section D - Profitability in this document. See section D -
Profitability - 2 - Assumption changes and management actions in this MD&A for details on ACMA.
Note 10.A of the Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended December 31, 2021 shows the pre-tax impacts of method and assumption
changes on shareholders' and participating policyholders' insurance contract liabilities net of reinsurance assets, excluding changes in other policy
liabilities and assets. The view in this document of ACMA is the impacts on shareholders' reported net income (after-tax). The Consolidated Financial
Statements view is a component of the change in total company liabilities.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the differences between the two measures.
($ millions) 2021 2020
Impacts of method and assumption changes on insurance contract liabilities (pre-tax) (273) (116)
Less: Participating policyholders(1) (9) 54
Impacts of method and assumption changes excluding participating policyholders (pre-tax) (264) (170)
Less: Tax (93) (64)
Impacts of method and assumption changes excluding participating policyholders (after-tax) (171) (106)
Add: Management actions (after-tax)(2)(3) 247 (65)
Other (after-tax)(4) (2) 28
Assumption changes and management actions (after-tax)(3)(5)(6) 74 (143)
(1)
Adjustment to remove the pre-tax impacts of method and assumption changes on amounts attributed to participating policyholders.
(2)
Adjustment to include the after-tax impacts of management actions on insurance contract liabilities and investment contract liabilities which include, for
example, changes in the prices of in-force products, new or revised reinsurance on in-force business, and material changes to investment policies for assets
supporting our liabilities. The pre-tax impact of management actions to Method and assumption changes on insurance contract liabilities was an increase
of $331 million in 2021 (a decrease of $76 million in 2020).
(3)
In the third quarter of 2020, ACMA included an after-tax loss of $10 million relating to the impact from the repayment of a senior financing obligation
related to U.S. statutory regulatory capital requirements for In-force Management. The transaction mainly comprises of the benefit of an unwind fee of
$15 million, more than offset by the net impact from the liquidation of the investment portfolio of $47 million. The latter included a loss on the
termination of derivatives and realized AFS gains on the disposal of debt securities of $270 million and $223 million ($342 million and $282 million, on a
pre-tax basis), respectively. See section K - Additional Financial Disclosure in our 2020 Annual MD&A.
(4)
Adjustments to include the after-tax impacts of method and assumption changes on investment contracts and other policy liabilities, and the pre-tax
impact to Method and assumption changes on insurance contract liabilities was a decrease of $2 million in 2021 (an increase of $35 million in 2020).
(5)
Includes the tax impacts of ACMA on insurance contract liabilities and investment contract liabilities, reflecting the tax rates in the jurisdictions in which we
do business.
(6)
ACMA is included in reported net income and is excluded in calculating underlying net income, as described in section C - Profitability in our Q4 2021
MD&A.
90 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Cash and other liquid assets. This measure is comprised of cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, and publicly traded securities that are
held at SLF Inc. (the ultimate parent company), and its wholly owned holding companies. This measure represents available funds for capital re-
deployment to support business growth.
($ millions) As at December 31, 2021 As at December 31, 2020
Cash and other liquid assets (held at SLF Inc. and its wholly owned holding companies):
Cash, cash equivalents & short-term securities 2,383 3,037
Debt securities(1) 1,421 18
Equity securities(2) 861 —
(3)
Cash and other liquid assets (held at SLF Inc. and its wholly owned holding companies) 4,665 3,055
(1)
Includes publicly traded bonds.
(2)
Includes ETF Investments.
(3)
Includes $2.0 billion of proceeds from the subordinated debt offerings completed in November 2021, of which $1.5 billion is subject to contractual terms
requiring us to redeem the underlying securities, in full, if the closing of the DentaQuest acquisition does not occur. These amounts will not qualify as LICAT
capital until the acquisition closes.
Constant currency. We remove the impacts of foreign exchange translation from certain IFRS and non-IFRS measures to assist in comparing our
results from period to period. The impacts of foreign exchange translation is approximated by using the foreign exchange rates in effect during the
comparative period, using the average or period end foreign exchange rates, as appropriate.
Earnings on Surplus. This component of the Sources of Earnings ("SOE") represents the net income earned on a company’s surplus funds. Earnings
on Surplus is comprised of realized gains on available-for-sale assets, as well as net investment returns on surplus, such as investment income, gains
(losses) on seed investments, investment properties mark-to-market, and interest on debt.
Expected profit. The portion of the consolidated pre-tax net income on business in-force at the start of the reporting period that was expected to be
realized based on the achievement of the best estimate assumptions made at the beginning of the reporting period. Expected profit for asset
management companies is set equal to their pre-tax net income.
Effective January 1, 2021, expected profit for U.S. group policies includes previously classified impact of new business, aligning group business
sources of earnings reporting across business groups. We have updated prior period amounts to reflect this change.
Experience-related items attributable to reported net income and underlying net income. Pre-tax gains and losses that are due to differences
between the actual experience during the reporting period and the best estimate assumptions at the start of the reporting period. Experience-
related items are a part of the Sources of Earnings framework, and are calculated in accordance with OSFI Guideline D-9, Sources of Earnings
Disclosures.
Financial leverage ratio. This total debt to total capital ratio is ratio of debt plus preferred shares to total capital, where debt consists of all capital
qualifying debt securities. Capital qualifying debt securities consist of subordinated debt and innovative capital instruments. The ratio is an indicator
of the Company's capital adequacy measured by its proportion of capital qualifying debt in accordance with OSFI guidelines.
Impacts of foreign exchange translation. To assist in comparing our results from period-to-period, the favourable or unfavourable impacts of
foreign exchange translation are approximated using the foreign exchange rates, in effect during the comparative period, for several IFRS and Non-
IFRS financial measures using the average or period end foreign exchange rates, as appropriate. Items impacting a reporting period, such as
Revenue, Benefits and expenses, and Reported net income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, as well as underlying net income
(loss), and sales, are translated into Canadian dollars using average exchange rates for the appropriate daily, monthly, or quarterly period. For items
as at a point in time, such as Assets and Liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, as well as the AUM and Expected profit
component of our Sources of Earnings disclosure, period-end rates are used for currency translation purposes.
Impact of new business. The point-of-sale impact on pre-tax net income of writing new business during the reporting period. Issuing new business
may produce a gain or loss at the point-of sale, primarily because valuation assumptions are different than pricing assumptions and/or actual
acquisition expenses may differ from those assumed in pricing.
Other AUM. Other AUM is composed of mutual funds, managed funds, as well as general fund and segregated fund assets managed by our joint
ventures. In Canada, other AUM includes Client assets in retail mutual fund products of Sun Life Global Investments. In Asia, other AUM includes
Client assets in Hong Kong managed fund products, International Wealth products, Philippines mutual and managed fund products, Aditya Birla Sun
Life AMC Limited equity and fixed income mutual fund products, Sun Life Everbright Asset Management products and our joint ventures’ general
fund and segregated fund assets based on our proportionate equity interest. In Asset Management, other AUM includes Client assets for retail and
institutional Clients, as well as capital raising, such as uncalled commitments and fund leverage in SLC Management. There is no directly comparable
IFRS financial measure.
Pre-tax net operating profit margin ratio for MFS. This ratio is a measure of the profitability of MFS, which excludes the impact of fair value
adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards, investment income, and certain commission expenses that are offsetting. These commission
expenses are excluded in order to neutralize the impact these items have on the pre-tax net operating profit margin ratio and have no impact on the
profitability of MFS. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Real estate market sensitivities. Real estate market sensitivities are non-IFRS financial measures for which there are no directly comparable
measures under IFRS so it is not possible to provide a reconciliation of these amounts to the most directly comparable IFRS measures.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 91
Return on equity. IFRS does not prescribe the calculation of ROE and therefore a comparable measure under IFRS is not available. To determine
reported ROE and underlying ROE, respectively, reported net income (loss) and underlying net income (loss) is divided by the total weighted average
common shareholders’ equity for the period. The ROE provides an indication of the overall profitability of the Company. The quarterly ROE is
annualized.
Sales. In Canada, insurance sales consist of sales of individual insurance and Sun Life Health products; wealth sales consist of sales of individual
wealth products and sales in GRS. In the U.S., insurance sales consist of sales by Group Benefits. In Asia, insurance sales consist of the individual and
group insurance sales by our subsidiaries and joint ventures and associates, based on our proportionate equity interest, in the Philippines,
Indonesia, India, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, International, Hong Kong and Singapore; wealth sales consist of Hong Kong wealth sales, Philippines
mutual fund sales, wealth sales by our India and China insurance joint ventures and associates, and Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited's equity and
fixed income mutual fund sales based on our proportionate equity interest, including sales as reported by our bank distribution partners. Asset
Management sales consist of gross flows for retail and institutional Clients; SLC Management gross flows include capital raising, such as uncalled
capital commitments and fund leverage. To provide greater comparability across reporting periods, we exclude the impacts of foreign exchange
translation from sales. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Effective January 1, 2021, the methodology for Assets Under Management was updated for SLC Management with respect to certain real estate and
investment-grade fixed income products to add uncalled capital commitments not previously included. This will align SLC Management’s AUM with
market conventions applied across asset classes. We have updated prior period amounts for all quarters of 2020 to reflect this change in
methodology. Subsequent to the fourth quarter of 2020, increases and decreases in all capital raising, including uncalled capital commitments and
fund leverage, for the aforementioned products are reflected in gross flows, outflows and net flows as applicable. Gross flows is a component of
managed fund sales and total wealth sales. Client distributions from the sale of underlying assets in closed-end funds are no longer reported in net
flows.
Sources of Earnings ("SOE"). The SOE is prepared in accordance with the OSFI Guideline D-9, Sources of Earnings Disclosures and is therefore not
prescribed under IFRS. The preparation for the document and its components does not have a standard for preparation as it depends on the
methodology, estimates, and assumptions used. The components of the SOE are: expected profit, impact of new business, experience gains and
losses, management actions and changes in assumptions, and earnings on surplus. On a comparative period-over-period basis, this document refers
to the change in expected profit as business growth.
Underlying dividend payout ratio. This is the ratio of dividends paid per share to diluted underlying EPS for the period. The ratio is utilized during
the capital budgeting process to ensure that we are able to achieve our payout targets after factoring in our planned capital initiatives. We target an
underlying dividend payout ratio of between 40% and 50% based on underlying EPS. For more information, see Section I - Capital and Liquidity
Management in this document.
Underlying effective tax rate. This measure is calculated using the pre-tax underlying net income and the income tax expense associated with it,
excluding amounts attributable to participating policyholders. Our statutory tax rate is normally reduced by various tax benefits, such as lower taxes
on income subject to tax in foreign jurisdictions, a range of tax-exempt investment income, and other sustainable tax benefits. Our effective tax rate
helps in the analysis of the income tax impacts in the period.
Value of New Business. VNB represents the present value of our best estimate of future distributable earnings, net of the cost of capital, from new
business contracts written in a particular time period, except new business in our Asset Management pillar. The assumptions used in the
calculations are generally consistent with those used in the valuation of our insurance contract liabilities except that discount rates used
approximate theoretical return expectations of an equity investor. Capital required is based on the higher of Sun Life Assurance's LICAT operating
target and local (country specific) operating target capital. VNB is a useful metric to evaluate the present value created from new business contracts.
There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Effective January 1, 2021, VNB reflects a change in the timing of recognition of U.S. group policies sold or renewed with an effective date of
January 1, which will recognize VNB for these policies in the prior year rather than the first quarter, to align with the timing of U.S. renewals and
reported insurance sales. We have updated prior period amounts to reflect this change.
92 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
iii. Reconciliations of Select Non-IFRS Financial Measures
Reported Net Income to Underlying Net Income Reconciliation - Pre-tax by Business Group
Q4'21
Asset
($ millions, after-tax) Canada U.S. Management Asia Corporate Total
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 356 85 140 446 51 1,078
Less: Market-related impacts (pre-tax)(1) 71 51 — 29 2 153
ACMA (pre-tax)(1) 2 (23) — (2) — (23)
Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) (3) (10) (278) 353 — 62
Tax expense (benefit) on above items 20 (5) 36 (64) 1 (12)
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 266 72 382 130 48 898
Q4'20
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 255 88 267 132 2 744
Less: Market-related impacts (pre-tax)(1) (75) 2 — 3 5 (65)
ACMA (pre-tax)(1) (4) (76) — 21 (1) (60)
Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) — (1) (78) (8) (27) (114)
Tax expense (benefit) on above items 91 15 12 — 3 121
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 243 148 333 116 22 862
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment.
(2)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
2021
Asset
($ millions, after-tax) Canada U.S. Management Asia Corporate Total
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 1,558 499 892 1,075 (90) 3,934
Less: Market-related impacts (pre-tax)(1) 669 117 — 67 (4) 849
ACMA (pre-tax)(1) 52 (126) — 135 5 66
Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) (118) (14) (488) 352 (70) (338)
Tax expense (benefit) on above items (176) 4 34 (65) 27 (176)
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 1,131 518 1,346 586 (48) 3,533
2020
Asset
($ millions, after-tax) Canada U.S. Management Asia Corporate Total
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 717 257 980 594 (144) 2,404
Less: Market-related impacts (pre-tax)(1) (656) 10 — (77) 7 (716)
ACMA (pre-tax)(1) 43 (397) — 99 41 (214)
Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) 4 (6) (167) (8) (64) (241)
Tax expense (benefit) on above items 253 82 19 1 7 362
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 1,073 568 1,128 579 (135) 3,213
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment.
(2)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 93
Reported Net Income to Underlying Net Income Reconciliation - Pre-tax by Business Unit - Asset Management
Q4'21 Q4'20
SLC SLC
($ millions, after-tax) MFS Management MFS Management
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 295 (155) 253 14
Less: Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) (53) (225) (52) (26)
Tax expense (benefit) on above items 6 30 6 6
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 342 40 299 34
2021 2020
SLC SLC
($ millions, after-tax) MFS Management MFS Management
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 1,049 (157) 942 38
Less: Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) (206) (282) (103) (64)
Tax expense (benefit) on above items 20 14 11 8
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 1,235 111 1,034 94
(1)
Represents an adjustment made to arrive at a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a breakdown
of components within this adjustment.
(2)
Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section L - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Reported Net Income to Underlying Net Income Reconciliation - Pre-tax in U.S. dollars
Q4'21 Q4'20
(US$ millions) U.S. MFS U.S. MFS
Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders 68 234 66 194
Less: Market-related impacts (pre-tax)(1) 42 — 1 —
ACMA (pre-tax)(1) (19) — (58) —
Other adjustments (pre-tax)(1) (8) (43) (1) (40)
Tax expense (benefit) on above items (3) 5 12 4
Underlying net income (loss)(2) 56 272 112 230
Benefits to Policyholders
General
The liabilities for insurance contracts represent the estimated amounts which, together with estimated future premiums and net investment
income, will provide for outstanding claims, estimated future benefits, policyholders' dividends, taxes (other than income taxes), and expenses on
in-force insurance contracts.
In determining our liabilities for insurance contracts, assumptions must be made about mortality and morbidity rates, lapse and other policyholder
behaviour, interest rates, equity market performance, asset default, inflation, expenses, and other factors over the life of our products. Most of
94 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
these assumptions relate to events that are anticipated to occur many years in the future. Assumptions require significant judgment and regular
review and, where appropriate, revision.
We use best estimate assumptions for expected future experience and apply margins for adverse deviations to provide for uncertainty in the choice
of the best estimate assumptions. The amount of insurance contract liabilities related to the application of margins for adverse deviations to best
estimate assumptions is called a provision for adverse deviations.
Provisions for adverse deviations in future interest rates are included by testing a number of scenarios of future interest rates, some of which are
prescribed by Canadian actuarial standards of practice, and determining the liability based on the range of possible outcomes. A scenario of future
interest rates includes, for each forecast period between the statement of financial position date and the last liability cash flow, interest rates for
risk-free assets, premiums for asset default, rates of inflation, and an investment strategy consistent with the Company's investment policy. The
starting point for all future interest rate scenarios is consistent with the current market environment. If few scenarios are tested, the liability would
be at least as great as the largest of the outcomes. If many scenarios are tested, the liability would be within a range defined by the average of the
outcomes that are above the 60th percentile of the range of outcomes and the corresponding average for the 80th percentile.
Provisions for adverse deviations in future equity returns are included by scenario testing or by applying margins for adverse deviations. In blocks of
business where the valuation of liabilities uses scenario testing of future equity returns, the liability would be within a range defined by the average
of the outcomes that are above the 60th percentile of the range of outcomes and the corresponding average for the 80th percentile. In blocks of
business where the valuation of liabilities does not use scenario testing of future equity returns, the margin for adverse deviations on common share
dividends is between 5% and 20%, and the margin for adverse deviations on capital gains would be 20% plus an assumption that those assets reduce
in value by 20% to 50% at the time when the reduction is most adverse. A 30% reduction is appropriate for a diversified portfolio of North American
common shares and, for other portfolios, the appropriate reduction depends on the volatility of the portfolio relative to a diversified portfolio of
North American common shares.
In choosing margins, we ensure that, when taken one at a time, each margin is reasonable with respect to the underlying best estimate assumption
and the extent of uncertainty present in making that assumption, and also that, in aggregate, the cumulative impact of the margins for adverse
deviations is reasonable with respect to the total amount of our insurance contract liabilities. Our margins are generally stable over time and are
generally only revised to reflect changes in the level of uncertainty in the best estimate assumptions. Our margins tend to be at the mid-range, with
the higher range used where there is greater uncertainty. When considering the aggregate impact of margins, the actuary assesses the consistency
of margins for each assumption across each block of business to ensure there is no double counting or omission and to avoid choosing margins that
might be mutually exclusive. In particular, the actuary chooses similar margins for blocks of business with similar characteristics, and also chooses
margins that are consistent with other assumptions, including assumptions about economic factors. The actuary is guided by Canadian actuarial
standards of practice in making these professional judgments about the reasonableness of margins for adverse deviations.
The best estimate assumptions and margins for adverse deviations are reviewed at least annually and revisions are made when
appropriate. The choice of assumptions underlying the valuation of insurance contract liabilities is subject to external actuarial peer
review.
For segregated fund products (including variable annuities), we have implemented hedging programs involving the use of derivative instruments to
mitigate a large portion of the equity market risk associated with the guarantees. The cost of these hedging programs is reflected in the liabilities.
The equity market risk associated with anticipated future fee income is not hedged.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 95
The majority of non-fixed income assets that are designated as FVTPL support our participating and universal life products where investment returns
are passed through to policyholders through routine changes in the amount of dividends declared or in the rate of interest credited. In these cases,
changes in non-fixed income asset values are largely offset by changes in insurance contract liabilities.
Interest Rates
We generally maintain distinct asset portfolios for each major line of business. In the valuation of insurance contract liabilities, the future cash flows
from insurance contracts and the assets that support them are projected under a number of interest rate scenarios, some of which are prescribed
by Canadian actuarial standards of practice. Reinvestments and disinvestments take place according to the specifications of each scenario, and the
liability is set based on the range of possible outcomes.
For certain products, including participating insurance and certain forms of universal life policies and annuities, policyholders share investment
performance through routine changes in the amount of dividends declared or in the rate of interest credited. These products generally have
minimum interest rate guarantees.
Hedging programs are in place to help mitigate the impact of interest rate movements.
Mortality
Mortality refers to the rates at which death occurs for defined groups of people. Life insurance mortality assumptions are generally based on the
past five to ten years of experience. Our experience is combined with industry experience where our own experience is insufficient to be statistically
valid. Assumed mortality rates for life insurance and annuity contracts include assumptions about future mortality improvement based on recent
trends in population mortality and our outlook for future trends.
Morbidity
Morbidity refers to both the rates of accident or sickness and the rates of recovery therefrom. Most of our disability insurance is marketed on a
group basis. We offer critical illness policies on an individual basis in Canada and Asia, long-term care on an individual basis in Canada, and medical
stop-loss insurance is offered on a group basis in the U.S. In Canada, group morbidity assumptions are based on our five-year average experience,
modified to reflect any emerging trend in recovery rates. For long-term care and critical illness insurance, assumptions are developed in
collaboration with our reinsurers and are largely based on their experience. In the U.S., our experience is used for both medical stop-loss and
disability assumptions, with some consideration of industry experience.
Expense
Future policy-related expenses include the costs of premium collection, claims adjudication and processing, actuarial calculations, preparation and
mailing of policy statements, and related indirect expenses and overhead. Expense assumptions are mainly based on our recent experience using an
internal expense allocation methodology. Inflationary increases assumed in future expenses are consistent with the future interest rates used in
scenario testing.
Asset Default
As required by Canadian actuarial standards of practice, insurance contract liabilities include a provision for possible future default of the assets
supporting those liabilities. The amount of the provision for asset default included in the insurance contract liabilities is based on possible reductions
in future investment yield that vary by factors such as type of asset, asset credit quality (rating), duration, and country of origin. The asset default
assumptions are comprised of a best estimate plus a margin for adverse deviations, and are intended to provide for loss of both principal and
income. Best estimate asset default assumptions by asset category and geography are derived from long-term studies of industry experience and
the Company's experience. Margins for adverse deviation are chosen from the standard range (of 25% to 100%) as recommended by Canadian
actuarial standards of practice based on the amount of uncertainty in the choice of best estimate assumption. The credit quality of an asset is based
on external ratings if available (public bonds) and internal ratings if not (mortgages and loans). Any assets without ratings are treated as if they are
rated below investment grade.
In contrast to asset impairment provisions and changes in FVTPL assets arising from impairments, both of which arise from known credit events, the
asset default provision in the insurance contract liabilities covers losses related to possible future (unknown) credit events. Canadian actuarial
standards of practice require the asset default provision to be determined taking into account known impairments that are recognized elsewhere on
the statement of financial position. The asset default provision included in the insurance contract liabilities is reassessed each reporting period in
light of impairments, changes in asset quality ratings, and other events that occurred during the period.
96 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Sensitivities to Best Estimate Assumptions
The sensitivities presented below are forward-looking statements. They include measures of our estimated shareholders' net income sensitivity to
changes in the best estimate assumptions in our insurance contract liabilities based on a starting point and business mix as at December 31, 2021
and as at December 31, 2020, reflecting the update of actuarial method and assumption changes described in this MD&A under the heading
Assumption Changes and Management Actions and, where appropriate, taking into account hedging programs in place as at December 31, 2021 and
December 31, 2020 described in this MD&A under the heading Market Risk. These sensitivities represent the Company's estimate of changes in best
estimate assumptions that are reasonably likely based on the Company's and/or the industry's historical experience and industry standards and best
practices as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
Changes to the starting point for interest rates, equity market prices and business mix will result in different estimated sensitivities. Additional
information regarding equity and interest rate sensitivities, including key assumptions, can be found under the heading J - Risk Management - 9 -
Risk Categories - Market Risk Sensitivities in this document.
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our common shareholders' net income attributable to certain
changes in best estimate assumptions as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:
Critical Accounting Estimate Sensitivity 2021 2020
($ millions, after-tax)
Mortality 2% increase in the best estimate assumption for insurance products (25) (25)
2% decrease in the best estimate assumption for annuity products (150) (150)
Morbidity 5% adverse change in the best estimate assumption (255) (250)
Policy Termination Rates 10% decrease in the termination rate - where fewer terminations would be
financially adverse (270) (295)
10% increase in the termination rate - where more terminations would be
financially adverse (225) (200)
Operating Expenses and Inflation 5% increase in unit maintenance expenses (165) (175)
Real Estate 1% reduction in assumed future real estate returns (505) (495)
Equities 1% reduction in assumed future equity returns (215) (235)
The fair value of government and corporate debt securities is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities.
When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using market standard valuation methodologies, which include
discounted cash flow analysis, consensus pricing from various broker dealers that are typically the market makers, or other similar techniques. The
assumptions and valuation inputs in applying these market standard valuation methodologies are determined primarily using observable market
inputs, which include, but are not limited to, benchmark yields, reported trades of identical or similar instruments, broker-dealer quotes, issuer
spreads, bid prices, and reference data including market research publications. In limited circumstances, non-binding broker quotes are used.
The fair value of asset-backed securities is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities, when available, or
valuation methodologies and valuation inputs similar to those used for government and corporate debt securities. Additional valuation inputs
include structural characteristics of the securities, and the underlying collateral performance, such as prepayment speeds and delinquencies.
Expected prepayment speeds are based primarily on those previously experienced in the market at projected future interest rate levels. In instances
where there is a lack of sufficient observable market data to value the securities, non-binding broker quotes are used.
The fair value of equity securities is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities or similar securities. When quoted
prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using equity valuation models, which include discounted cash flow analysis and
other techniques that involve benchmark comparison. Valuation inputs primarily include projected future operating cash flows and earnings,
dividends, market discount rates, and earnings multiples of comparable companies.
Mortgages and loans are generally carried at amortized cost. The fair value of mortgages and loans, for disclosure purposes, is determined by
discounting the expected future cash flows using a current market interest rate applicable to financial instruments with a similar yield, credit quality
and maturity characteristics. Valuation inputs typically include benchmark yields and risk-adjusted spreads from current lending activities or loan
issuances. The risk-adjusted spreads are determined based on the borrower's credit and liquidity, as well as term and other loan-specific features.
Long-term mortgages and loans are generally categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The significant unobservable input is a portion of
these risk adjusted spreads at or beyond the 20 year point for mortgages and at or beyond the 10 year point for loans.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 97
The fair value of other financial liabilities is determined by using the discounted cash flow methodology at the incremental borrowing rate or the
effective interest rate. Other financial liabilities categorized as Level 3 represent the present value of the estimated price we would pay to acquire
any remaining outstanding shares upon exercise of a put option and any mandatory income distributions. The fair value of the liabilities is based on
the average earnings before income tax, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") for the preceding years before the options’ exercise dates and
EBITDA multiples in accordance with the put agreements as well as the expected amount of any mandatory income distributions. A change in
EBITDA would impact the fair value of other financial liabilities and our net income (loss).
Derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in income unless the derivative is part of a qualifying
hedging relationship for accounting purposes. The fair value of derivative financial instruments depends upon derivative types. The fair value of
exchange-traded futures and options is determined using quoted prices in active markets, while the fair value of OTC derivatives is determined using
pricing models, such as discounted cash flow analysis or other market standard valuation techniques, with primarily observable market inputs.
Valuation inputs used to price OTC derivatives may include swap interest rate curves, foreign exchange spot and forward rates, index prices, the
value of underlying securities, projected dividends, volatility surfaces, and in limited circumstances, counterparty quotes.
The fair value of OTC derivative financial instruments also includes credit valuation adjustments to reflect the credit risk of both the derivative
counterparty and ourselves as well as the impact of contractual factors designed to reduce our credit exposure, such as collateral and legal rights of
offset under master netting agreements. Inputs into determining the appropriate credit valuation adjustments are typically obtained from publicly
available information and include credit default swap spreads when available, credit spreads derived from specific bond yields, or published
cumulative default experience data adjusted for current trends when credit default swap spreads are not available.
The fair value of other invested assets is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities or similar securities. When quoted
prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using equity valuation models, which include discounted cash flow analysis and
other techniques that involve benchmark comparison. Valuation inputs primarily include projected future operating cash flows and earnings,
dividends, market discount rates, and earnings multiples of comparable companies.
Investment properties are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in income. The fair value of investment properties is generally
determined using property valuation models that are based on expected capitalization rates and models that discount expected future net cash
flows at current market interest rates reflective of the characteristics, location, and market of each property. Expected future net cash flows include
contractual and projected cash flows and forecasted operating expenses, and take into account interest, rental and occupancy rates derived from
market surveys. The estimates of future cash inflows, in addition to expected rental income from current leases, include projected income from
future leases based on significant assumptions that are consistent with current market conditions. The future rental rates are estimated based on
the location, type and quality of the properties, and take into account market data and projections at the valuation date. The fair values are typically
compared to market-based information for reasonability, including recent transactions involving comparable assets. The methodologies and inputs
used in these models are in accordance with real estate industry valuation standards. Valuations are prepared externally or internally by
professionally accredited real estate appraisers.
The fair value of short-term securities is approximated by their carrying amount adjusted for credit risk where appropriate.
Due to their nature, the fair value of policy loans and cash are assumed to be equal to their carrying values, which is the amount these assets are
recorded at in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Investments for accounts of segregated fund holders are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) within the segregated fund and are not recorded in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. The fair value of investments for
accounts of segregated fund holders is determined using quoted prices in active markets or independent valuation information provided by
investment managers. The fair value of direct investments within investments for accounts of segregated fund holders, such as short-term securities
and government and corporate debt securities, is determined according to valuation methodologies and inputs described above in the respective
asset type sections. The fair value of the secured borrowings from mortgage securitization is based on the methodologies and assumptions as
described above for asset-backed securities.
The methodologies and assumptions for determining the fair values of investment contract liabilities are included in Note 10.B of our 2021 Annual
Consolidated Financial Statements.
We categorize our assets and liabilities carried at fair value, based on the priority of the inputs to the valuation techniques used to measure fair
value, into a three-level fair value hierarchy as follows:
Level 1: Fair value is based on the unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market. The types of assets and liabilities
classified as Level 1 generally include cash and cash equivalents, certain U.S. government and agency securities, exchange-traded equity securities,
and certain segregated and mutual fund units held for account of segregated fund holders.
Level 2: Fair value is based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities traded in active markets, or prices from valuation techniques that use
significant observable inputs, or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated with observable market data through correlation or other
means. The types of assets and liabilities classified as Level 2 generally include Canadian federal, provincial and municipal government, other foreign
government and corporate debt securities, certain asset-backed securities, OTC derivatives, and certain segregated and mutual fund units held for
account of segregated fund holders.
Level 3: Fair value is based on valuation techniques that require one or more significant inputs that are not based on observable market inputs.
These unobservable inputs reflect our expectations about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The types
of assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 generally include certain corporate bonds, certain other invested assets, and investment properties.
As pricing inputs become more or less observable, assets are transferred between levels in the hierarchy. Total gains and losses in income and OCI
are calculated assuming transfers into or out of Level 3 occur at the beginning of the period. For a financial instrument that transfers into Level 3
98 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
during the reporting period, the entire change in fair value for the period is included in the Level 3 reconciliation schedule in Note 5 of our
2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. For transfers out of Level 3 during the reporting period, the change in fair value for the period is
excluded from the Level 3 reconciliation schedule in Note 5 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. Transfers into Level 3 occur when
the inputs used to price the financial instrument lack observable market data and as a result, no longer meet the Level 1 or 2 criteria at the reporting
date. Transfers out of Level 3 occur when the pricing inputs become more transparent and satisfy the Level 1 or 2 criteria at the reporting date.
Transfers into and out of Level 3 for financial assets were $nil and $140 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, respectively, compared to
$5 million and $89 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2020. The total amount of the net realized/unrealized gains (losses)
related to financial instruments transferred out of Level 3 during the period, which were excluded from the Level 3 reconciliation, was a gain of
$1 million as at December 31, 2021 compared to a loss of $5 million as at December 31, 2020.
Additional information on the fair value measurement of investments can be found in Note 5 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Impairment
Management assesses debt and equity securities, mortgages and loans and other invested assets for objective evidence of impairment at each
reporting date. Financial assets are impaired and impairment losses are incurred if there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or
more loss events that have an impact on the estimated future cash flows that can be reliably estimated. Objective evidence of impairment generally
includes significant financial difficulty of the issuer, including actual or anticipated bankruptcy or defaults and delinquency in payments of interest or
principal or disappearance of an active market for the financial assets. All equity instruments in an unrealized loss position are reviewed to
determine if objective evidence of impairment exists. Objective evidence of impairment for an investment in an equity instrument or other invested
asset also includes, but is not limited to, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, including information about significant
changes with adverse effects that have taken place in the technological, market, economic or legal environment in which the issuer operates, and a
significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an equity instrument or other invested asset below its cost.
Additional information on the impairment of financial assets can be found in Notes 1 and 10 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets of the acquired
businesses. Goodwill is carried at original cost less any impairment subsequently incurred. Goodwill is assessed for impairment annually or more
frequently if events or circumstances occur that may result in the recoverable amount of a cash generating unit ("CGU") falling below its carrying
value. A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of cash inflows from other groups
of assets. The goodwill balances are allocated to either individual or groups of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the business
combination. Goodwill impairment is quantified by comparing a CGU's or a group of CGU's carrying value to its recoverable amount, which is the
higher of fair value less cost to sell and value in use. Impairment losses are recognized immediately and cannot be reversed in future periods.
No impairment charges were recognized in 2021. We had a carrying value of $6,517 million in goodwill as at December 31, 2021. Additional
information on goodwill can be found in Note 9 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of finite life and indefinite life intangible assets. Finite life intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis or using a
units-of-production method, over the useful economic lives which are varying periods of up to 40 years. Amortization is charged through operating
expenses. The useful lives of finite life intangible assets are reviewed annually, and the amortization is adjusted as necessary. Indefinite life
intangibles are not amortized, and are assessed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the
asset may be impaired. Impairment is assessed by comparing the carrying values of the indefinite life intangible assets to their recoverable amounts.
The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. If the carrying values of the indefinite life
intangibles exceed their recoverable amounts, these assets are considered impaired, and a charge for impairment is recognized in our Consolidated
Statements of Operations. The recoverable amount of intangible assets is determined using various valuation models, which require management to
make certain judgments and assumptions that could affect the estimates of the recoverable amount. Impairment charges on intangible assets of
$9 million were recognized in 2021 and there were impairment charges of $11 million in 2020.
As at December 31, 2021, our finite life intangible assets had a carrying value of $2.3 billion, which reflected the value of the field force, asset
administration contracts, and Client relationships acquired as part of the Clarica, CMG Asia, Genworth EBG, Ryan Labs, Prime Advisors, Bentall
Kennedy, and the U.S. employee benefits business acquisitions, the ACB bancassurance partnership, and Crescent, as well as software costs. Our
indefinite life intangible assets had a carrying value of $1.1 billion as at December 31, 2021. The value of the indefinite life intangible assets
reflected fund management contracts of MFS, BGO, InfraRed and Crescent.
Income Taxes
Income tax assets and liabilities for the current and prior periods are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation
authorities. Deferred income tax is provided using the liability method. Our provision for income taxes is calculated based on the tax rates and tax
laws that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the end of the reporting period.
As a multinational organization, we are subject to taxation in numerous jurisdictions. We seek to operate in a tax efficient manner while ensuring
that we are in compliance with all laws and regulations. The determination of the required provision for current and deferred income taxes requires
that we interpret tax legislation in the jurisdictions in which we operate and that we make assumptions about the expected timing of realization of
deferred income tax assets and liabilities. Tax laws are complex and their interpretation requires significant judgment. The provision for income
taxes reflects management's interpretation of the relevant tax laws and its best estimate of the income tax implications of the transactions and
events during the period. We believe that our provisions for uncertain tax positions appropriately reflect the risk of tax positions that are under
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 99
audit, dispute or appeal with tax authorities, or which are otherwise considered to involve uncertainty. The adequacy of our tax provision is
reviewed at the end of each reporting period. To the extent that our interpretations differ from those of tax authorities or the timing of realization is
not as expected, the provision for income taxes may increase or decrease in future periods to reflect actual experience. The amount of any increase
or decrease cannot be reasonably estimated.
Deferred income tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, carry forward of unused tax losses and unused tax credits to the
extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences, unused tax losses and unused tax credits can
be utilized. At each reporting period, we assess all available evidence, both positive and negative, to determine the amount of deferred income tax
assets to be recorded. If it is probable that the benefit of tax losses and tax deductions will not be realized, a deferred income tax asset is not
recognized. The assessment requires significant estimates and judgment about future events based on the information available at the reporting
date.
From time to time, local governments, in countries in which we operate, enact changes to statutory corporate income tax rates. These changes
require us to review and re-measure our deferred tax assets and liabilities as of the date of enactment. As at December 31, 2021, our net deferred
tax asset in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position was $1,526 million, primarily in Canada. Any future tax rate reductions in jurisdictions
where we carry a net deferred tax asset, could result in a reduction in the carrying value of the deferred tax asset and a corresponding income tax
expense at the time of substantial enactment of a rate reduction.
In Canada, since January 1, 2009, all new employees participate in a defined contribution plan, while existing employees continue to accrue future
benefits in the prior plan which provides a defined benefit plan and an optional contributory defined contribution plan.
With the closure of the Canadian defined benefit plans to new entrants, the volatility associated with future service accruals for active members has
been limited and will decline over time. As at December 31, 2021, there are no active members in the UK and no active employees accruing future
service benefits in the U.S. defined benefit plans.
The major risks remaining in relation to past service obligations are increases in liabilities due to a decline in discount rates, greater life expectancy
than assumed and adverse asset returns. We have significantly de-risked the investments of our material defined benefit pension plans Company-
wide by systematically shifting the pension asset mix towards liability matching investments. The target for our significant plans is to minimize
volatility in funded status arising from changes in discount rates and exposure to equity markets.
Due to the long-term nature of these defined benefit plans, the calculation of benefit expenses and accrued benefit obligations depends on various
assumptions, including discount rates, rates of compensation increases, health care cost trend rates, retirement ages, mortality rates and
termination rates. Based upon consultation with external pension actuaries, management determines the assumptions used for these plans on an
annual basis. The discount rate used for our material defined benefit plans is determined with reference to market yields of high-quality corporate
bonds that are denominated in the same currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of
obligations.
Actual experience may differ from that assumed, which would impact the valuation of defined benefit plans and the level of benefit expenses
recognized in future years. Details of our pension and post-retirement benefit plans and the key assumptions used for the valuation these plans are
included in Note 25 of our 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
2.A New and Amended International Financial Reporting Standards Adopted in 2021
We adopted the following amendments on January 1, 2021:
In August 2020, the IASB issued the Interest Rate Benchmark Reform Phase 2, which includes amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39, IFRS 7 Financial
Instruments: Disclosures, IFRS 4 and IFRS 16 Leases (“IFRS 16”). The amendments address issues that arise from the implementation of the reforms,
including the replacement of one benchmark with an alternative one. The adoption of these amendments did not have a material impact on our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
The UK, Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) announced on March 5, 2021 that panel bank submissions for UK London Interbank Offered Rate
(“LIBOR”) will cease after December 31, 2021 and for key U.S. LIBOR tenors, after June 30, 2023. Additionally, the Canadian Alternative Reference
Rate (“CARR”) working group has recommended on December 16, 2021 that the administrator of the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate (“CDOR”),
Refinitiv Benchmark Services (UK) Limited (“RBSL”), cease publication of all of CDOR’s remaining tenors after the end of June 2024. However, this is a
recommendation only and the decision to cease CDOR ultimately lies solely with RBSL.
100 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
We have created an Interbank Offered Rate ("IBOR") Transition Program (“the Program”) to manage the transition to Alternative Reference Rates
("ARR"). The Program is cross-functional in nature and comprises key stakeholders across our organization and operates with executive oversight.
The Program is on track in executing its transition plan, and is mindful of incorporating market developments as they arise. We also actively
participate in industry associations and incorporate best practice guidance from these industry associations, as well as regulatory bodies into the
transition plan, such as reviewing all existing and new U.S. LIBOR contracts for appropriate fallback language in contracts.
Areas of risk relating to the replacement of IBOR include the negotiations with borrowers, updating systems and processes which capture IBOR
referenced contracts, amendments to those contracts, or existing fallback/transition clauses not operating as anticipated. Other transition risks that
may arise because of the new ARRs are predominantly limited to interest rate risk and the risk of losing value or return on existing instruments. In
2020, all our entities exposed to U.S. LIBOR adhered to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association IBOR Fallbacks Protocol facilitating the
transition of legacy derivative contracts. Our entities are also fully ready for the cessation of the publication of GBP LIBOR, having addressed the
transition of all exposures as at December 31, 2021.
Our exposure to interest rate benchmarks subject to IBOR reforms is predominately related to U.S. LIBOR. As at December 31, 2021, non-derivative
financial assets of $3,849, non-derivative financial liabilities of $70, and derivative notional of $9,417 have not yet transitioned to an ARR and
excludes financial instruments maturing by June 30, 2023.
In March 2021, the IASB issued the COVID-19-Related Rent Concessions beyond 30 June 2021 amendment to IFRS 16. The amendment extends the
application period of the practical expedient in IFRS 16 to help lessees account for COVID-19-related rent concessions by one year. The original
amendment was issued in May 2020 by adding a practical expedient to provide relief for lessees from lease modification accounting for COVID-19-
related rent concessions, such as rent holidays and temporary rent reductions. The adoption of this amendment did not have a material impact on
our Consolidated Financial Statements.
2.B New and Amended International Financial Reporting Standards to be Adopted in 2022
The following new and amended IFRS were issued by the IASB and are expected to be adopted by us in 2022. We do not expect the adoption of
these amendments to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements:
In May 2020, the IASB issued Reference to the Conceptual Framework, which includes amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations. The
amendments update an outdated reference to the Conceptual Framework in IFRS 3 without significantly changing the requirements in the standard.
In May 2020, the IASB issued Property, Plant and Equipment - Proceeds before Intended Use, which includes amendments to IAS 16 Property, Plant
and Equipment. The amendments prohibit deducting from the cost of an item of property, plant and equipment any proceeds from selling items
produced while bringing that asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management.
The amendments apply retrospectively to assets ready for use in the comparative period.
In May 2020, the IASB issued Onerous Contracts - Cost of Fulfilling a Contract, which includes amendments to IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities
and Contingent Assets. The amendments specify that the 'cost of fulfilling' a contract comprises the 'costs that relate directly to the contract'. Costs
that relate directly to a contract can either be incremental costs of fulfilling that contract or an allocation of other costs that relate directly to
fulfilling contracts.
In May 2020, the IASB issued Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2018-2020, which includes minor amendments to three IFRS standards
applicable to our Consolidated Financial Statements. The amendments apply prospectively.
In May 2021, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes (“IAS 12”). The amendments, Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising
from a Single Transaction, narrow the scope of the recognition exemption in IAS 12 so that it no longer applies to transactions that, on initial
recognition, give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences. The amendment to IAS 12 will be effective for annual reporting periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2023, with early application permitted.
In February 2021, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (“IAS 1”) and IFRS Practice Statement 2 Making
Materiality Judgments (“IFRS Practice Statement 2”). The amendments to IAS 1 require companies to disclose their material accounting policy
information rather than their significant accounting policies. The amendments to IFRS Practice Statement 2 provide guidance on how to apply the
concept of materiality to accounting policy disclosures. The amendment to IAS 1 will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after
January 1, 2023, with early application permitted.
In February 2021, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors (“IAS 8”). The amendments
clarify how companies should distinguish changes in accounting policies from changes in accounting estimates. The amendment to IAS 8 will be
effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023, with early application permitted.
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts ("IFRS 17"), which replaces IFRS 4. In June 2020, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 17,
which include deferral of the effective date to annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023. The deferral option of IFRS 9 for insurers was
also extended to that same date. In December 2021, the IASB issued an optional amendment for a new transition option relating to comparative
information about financial assets presented on initial application of IFRS 17. IFRS 17 establishes the principles for the recognition, measurement,
presentation, and disclosure of insurance contracts. IFRS 17 requires entities to measure insurance contract liabilities at their current fulfillment
values using one of three measurement models, depending on the nature of the contract. IFRS 17 is to be applied retrospectively to each group of
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 101
insurance contracts unless impracticable. If, and only if, it is impracticable to apply IFRS 17 retrospectively for a group of insurance contracts, an
entity shall apply IFRS 17 using a modified retrospective approach or a fair value approach. IFRS 17 will affect how we account for our insurance
contracts and how we report our financial performance in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We are currently assessing the impact of
IFRS 17. We anticipate it will have an impact on the timing of earnings recognition and the presentation and disclosure of financial results in our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
In July 2014, the IASB issued the final version of IFRS 9, which replaces IAS 39. IFRS 9 includes guidance on the classification and measurement
of financial instruments, impairment of financial assets, and hedge accounting. Financial asset classification is based on the cash flow characteristics
and the business model in which an asset is held. The classification determines how a financial instrument is accounted for and measured. IFRS 9
also introduces an impairment model for financial instruments not measured at fair value through profit or loss that requires recognition of
expected losses at initial recognition of a financial instrument and the recognition of full lifetime expected losses if certain criteria are met. In
addition, a new model for hedge accounting was introduced to achieve better alignment with risk management activities. This standard is effective
for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. In October 2017, the IASB issued narrow-scope amendments to IFRS 9. The amendments
clarify the classification of certain prepayable financial assets and the accounting of financial liabilities following modification. The amendments are
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. However, pursuant to the aforementioned amendments to IFRS 4, we elected the
deferral approach permitted under IFRS 4 to continue to apply IAS 39. We are currently assessing the impact that IFRS 9, along with these
amendments, will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
An evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined under rules adopted by the Canadian securities regulatory
authorities and the SEC, as at December 31, 2021, was carried out under the supervision of and with the participation of the Company's
management, including the CEO and the CFO. Based on our evaluation, the CEO and the CFO concluded that the design and operation of these
disclosure controls and procedures were effective as at December 31, 2021.
Due to its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. Projections of
any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
We conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2021, based on the framework
and criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission. Based on that assessment, we have concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2021.
Our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2021, has been audited by the Company's external auditor, Deloitte LLP,
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, who also audited our Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31,
2021. As stated in the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, they have expressed an unqualified opinion on our internal control
over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021.
Information concerning legal and regulatory matters is provided in our Annual Consolidated Financial Statements, our annual MD&A, and the AIF, in
each case for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Sun Life is subject to regulation and supervision by government authorities in the jurisdictions in which it does business. Various regulators have
introduced new measures or adjustments to respond to the evolving situation with the COVID-19 pandemic. OSFI, which supervises the activities of
Sun Life, has announced various measures to support the resilience of the financial institutions that it regulates. On March 13, 2020, OSFI set an
expectation for all federally regulated financial institutions that dividend increases and share buybacks should be halted for the time being. On
November 4, 2021, OSFI lifted this restriction on the basis that these restrictions were no longer considered necessary. On April 9, 2020, OSFI
announced a smoothing mechanism to LICAT interest rate risk requirements to reduce increased and unwarranted volatility in required capital. In
the U.S., the National Association of Insurance Commissioners issued guidance to U.S. insurers on March 27, 2020 encouraging insurers to work with
borrowers who may be unable to meet obligations because of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and on April 15, 2020 adopted interpretations
of statutory accounting principles applicable to U.S. insurers related to, among other things, direct mortgage loans and Schedule BA mortgages. This
guidance has been extended through December 31, 2021.
102 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
O. Forward-looking Statements
From time to time, the Company makes written or oral forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the “safe
harbour” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-
looking statements contained in this document include statements (i) relating to our strategies, (ii) relating to the increase in our medium-term
financial objectives for underlying return on equity; (iii) relating to our sustainability plan commitments; (iv) relating to our intention to acquire
DentaQuest; (v) relating to the expected impact of the transaction on our U.S. employee benefits revenues and mix of our U.S. product and service
offerings; (vi) relating to our intention to sell our Canadian sponsored markets business to Canadian Premier; (vi) relating to our growth initiatives
and other business objectives; (viii) relating to the plans we have implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic
conditions and their impact on the Company; (ix) relating to our expected tax range for future years; (x) set out in this document under the heading
H - Risk Management - Market Risk Sensitivities - Interest Rate Sensitivities, (xi) that are predictive in nature or that depend upon or refer to future
events or conditions; and (xii) that include words such as “achieve”, “aim”, “ambition”, “anticipate”, “aspiration”, “assumption”, “believe”, “could”,
“estimate”, “expect”, “goal”, “initiatives”, “intend”, “may”, “objective”, “outlook”, “plan”, “project”, “seek”, “should”, “strategy”, “strive”, “target”,
“will”, and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements include the information concerning our possible or assumed future results of operations.
These statements represent our current expectations, estimates, and projections regarding future events and are not historical facts, and remain
subject to change, particularly in light of the ongoing and developing COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the global economy and its uncertain
impact on our business.
Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Future results
and shareholder value may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements due to, among other factors, the impact of
the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic conditions on our operations, liquidity, financial conditions or results and the matters set out in the
Q4 2021 MD&A under the headings D - Profitability - 5 - Income taxes, F - Financial Strength and J - Risk Management and in SLF Inc.’s 2021 AIF
under the heading Risk Factors, and the factors detailed in SLF Inc.’s other filings with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators, which are available for
review at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively.
Our target dividend payout ratio of 40%-50% of our underlying net income assumes that economic conditions and our results will enable us to
maintain our payout ratio in the target range, while maintaining a strong capital position. The declaration, amount and payment of dividends is
subject to the approval of SLF Inc.'s Board of Directors and our compliance with the capital requirements in the Insurance Companies Act (Canada).
Additional information on dividends is provided in the section I - Capital and Liquidity Management - 3 - Shareholder Dividends in this MD&A.
Although considered reasonable by the Company, we may not be able to achieve our medium-term financial objectives as the assumptions on which
these objectives were based may prove to be inaccurate. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our medium-term financial
objectives as described in the section B - Overview - 2 - Financial Objectives in this MD&A. Our medium-term financial objectives do not constitute
guidance.
Risk Factors
Important risk factors that could cause our assumptions and estimates, and expectations and projections to be inaccurate and our actual results or
events to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this document, are set out below. The
realization of our forward-looking statements, essentially depends on our business performance which, in turn, is subject to many risks, which have
been further heightened with the current COVID-19 pandemic given the uncertainty of its duration and impact. Factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially from expectations include, but are not limited to: market risks - related to the performance of equity markets; changes or
volatility in interest rates or credit spreads or swap spreads; real estate investments; and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; insurance
risks - related to policyholder behaviour; mortality experience, morbidity experience and longevity; product design and pricing; the impact of higher-
than-expected future expenses; and the availability, cost and effectiveness of reinsurance; credit risks - related to issuers of securities held in our
investment portfolio, debtors, structured securities, reinsurers, counterparties, other financial institutions and other entities; business and strategic
risks - related to global economic and political conditions; the design and implementation of business strategies; changes in distribution channels or
Client behaviour including risks relating to market conduct by intermediaries and agents; the impact of competition; the performance of our
investments and investment portfolios managed for Clients such as segregated and mutual funds; changes in the legal or regulatory environment,
including capital requirements and tax laws; the environment, environmental laws and regulations; operational risks - related to breaches or failure
of information system security and privacy, including cyber-attacks; our ability to attract and retain employees; legal, regulatory compliance and
market conduct, including the impact of regulatory inquiries and investigations; the execution and integration of mergers, acquisitions, strategic
investments and divestitures; our information technology infrastructure; a failure of information systems and Internet-enabled technology;
dependence on third-party relationships, including outsourcing arrangements; business continuity; model errors; information management;
liquidity risks - the possibility that we will not be able to fund all cash outflow commitments as they fall due; and other risks - COVID-19 matters,
including the severity, duration and spread of COVID-19; its impact on the global economy, and its impact on Sun Life's business, financial condition
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 103
and or results; risks associated with IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts and IFRS 9 Financial Instruments; our international operations, including our joint
ventures; market conditions that affect our capital position or ability to raise capital; downgrades in financial strength or credit ratings; and tax
matters, including estimates and judgements used in calculating taxes.
The following risk factors are related to our intention to purchase DentaQuest and our intention to sell our Canadian sponsored markets business to
Canadian Premier that could have a material adverse effect on our forward-looking statements: (1) the ability of the parties to complete the
transaction; (2) failure of the parties to obtain necessary consents and approvals or to otherwise satisfy the conditions to the completion of the
transaction in a timely manner, or at all; (3) our ability to realize the financial and strategic benefits of the transaction; (4) the dedication of our
resources to the completion of the transaction and the effect of the Canadian Premier transaction on our continuing operations in Canada; (5) the
impact of the announcement of the relevant transaction on us and DentaQuest and us and Canadian Premier, and (6) the sponsored markets
business' net asset value on close. These risks all could have an impact on our business relationships (including with future and prospective
employees, Clients, distributors and partners) and could have a material adverse effect on our current and future operations, financial conditions
and prospects.
The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the
date of this document or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.
104 Annual Report 2021 Sun Life Financial Inc. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
C O N S O L I D A T E D
F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
A N D N O T E S
FINANCIAL REPORTING RESPONSIBILITIES 106
Total Invested Assets and Related Net Investment Income Note 5 135
Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 105
Management is responsible for preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements. This responsibility includes selecting appropriate accounting
policies and making estimates and other judgments consistent with International Financial Reporting Standards. The financial information presented
elsewhere in the annual report to shareholders is consistent with these Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Board of Directors ("Board") oversees management’s responsibilities for financial reporting. An Audit Committee of non-management directors
is appointed by the Board to review the Consolidated Financial Statements and report to the Board prior to their approval of the Consolidated
Financial Statements for issuance to shareholders. Other key responsibilities of the Audit Committee include reviewing the Company’s existing
internal control procedures and planned revisions to those procedures, and advising the Board on auditing matters and financial reporting issues.
Management is also responsible for maintaining systems of internal control that provide reasonable assurance that financial information is reliable,
that all financial transactions are properly authorized, that assets are safeguarded, and that Sun Life Financial Inc. and its subsidiaries, collectively
referred to as "the Company", adhere to legislative and regulatory requirements. These systems include the communication of policies and the
Company’s Code of Business Conduct throughout the organization. Internal controls are reviewed and evaluated by the Company’s internal
auditors.
Management conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2021,
based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that assessment, management has concluded that the Company’s internal control over
financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2021.
The Audit Committee also conducts such review and inquiry of management and the internal and external auditors as it deems necessary towards
establishing that the Company is employing appropriate systems of internal control, is adhering to legislative and regulatory requirements and is
applying the Company’s Code of Business Conduct. Both the internal and external auditors and the Company’s Appointed Actuary have full and
unrestricted access to the Audit Committee with and without the presence of management.
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, Canada conducts periodic examinations of the Company. These examinations are designed
to evaluate compliance with provisions of the Insurance Companies Act (Canada) and to ensure that the interests of policyholders, depositors, and
the public are safeguarded. The Company’s foreign operations and foreign subsidiaries are examined by regulators in their local jurisdictions.
The Company’s Appointed Actuary, who is a member of management, is appointed by the Board to discharge the various actuarial responsibilities
required under the Insurance Companies Act (Canada), and conducts the valuation of the Company’s actuarial liabilities. The role of the Appointed
Actuary is described in more detail in Note 10. The report of the Appointed Actuary accompanies these Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company’s external auditor, Deloitte LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, has audited the Company’s internal control over
financial reporting as of December 31, 2021, in addition to auditing the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for the years ended
December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. Its reports to the Board and shareholders express unqualified opinions and accompany these
Consolidated Financial Statements. Deloitte LLP meets separately with both management and the Audit Committee to discuss the results of its audit.
106 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements
Appointed Actuary’s Report
In my opinion, the amount of policy liabilities net of reinsurance recoverables makes appropriate provision for all policy obligations and the
Consolidated Financial Statements fairly present the results of the valuation.
Kevin Morrissey
Fellow, Canadian Institute of Actuaries
Appointed Actuary's Report Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 107
Independent Auditor’s Report
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc.
Opinion
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Sun Life Financial Inc. (the “Company”), which comprise the consolidated statements of
financial position as at December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in
equity and cash flows for the years then ended, and notes to the consolidated financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting
policies (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”).
In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as at December
31, 2021 and 2020, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting
Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IFRS”).
While there are many assumptions which management makes, the assumptions with the greatest uncertainty are those related to mortality,
including the impact, if any, of the COVID-19 pandemic and lapse and other policyholder behaviour (“policyholder behaviour”). These assumptions
required subjective and complex auditor judgment in certain circumstances including where (i) there is limited Company and industry experience
data, (ii) the historical experience may not be a good indicator of the future, and (iii) the policyholder behaviour may be irrational. Auditing of
certain actuarial models and mortality and policyholder behaviour assumptions required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent
of audit effort, including the need for the integral involvement of actuarial specialists.
The assumptions with the greatest uncertainty are the discount rates, terminal capitalization rates and future rental rates. Performing audit
procedures to assess inputs required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of audit effort, including the need for the integral
involvement of fair value specialists.
108 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Independent Auditor's Report
How the Key Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to valuation models and assumptions including discount rates, terminal capitalization rates, and future rental rates
included the following, among others:
• We evaluated and tested the effectiveness of controls over the fair value process for investment properties. These controls include an
assessment and approval by senior management of the discount rates, terminal capitalization rates, and future rental rates assumptions used
in the determination of the valuation of investment properties and the valuation conclusions relative to comparable properties.
• With the assistance of fair value specialists, we evaluated on a sample basis the reasonableness of management’s discount rates, terminal
capitalization rates, and future rental rates assumptions and valuation conclusions by comparing them to the discount rates, terminal
capitalization rates and future rental rates of market surveys and transactions in comparable properties.
Other Information
Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises:
• Management’s Discussion and Analysis
• The information, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s reports thereon, in the Annual Report.
Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not and will not express any form of assurance conclusion
thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information identified above and, in doing
so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or
otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
We obtained Management’s Discussion and Analysis prior to the date of this auditor’s report. If, based on the work we have performed on this other
information, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact in this auditor’s report.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
The Annual Report is expected to be made available to us after the date of the auditor’s report. If, based on the work we will perform on this other
information, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact to those charged with
governance.
Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with IFRS, and for such internal
control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement,
whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as
applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the
Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Company’s financial reporting process.
Independent Auditor's Report Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 109
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether
due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a
guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian GAAS will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can
arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the
economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian GAAS, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the
audit. We also:
• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit
procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of
not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery,
intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances,
but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control.
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by
management.
• Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained,
whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company’s ability to continue as a
going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related
disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit
evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as
a going concern.
• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial
statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
• Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Company to
express an opinion on the financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group audit. We
remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant
audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding
independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence,
and where applicable, related safeguards.
From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of
the consolidated financial statements of the current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor's
report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter
should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public
interest benefits of such communication.
The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Margaret Tang.
110 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Independent Auditor's Report
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013)
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 9, 2022, expressed an unqualified
opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included
performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing
procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as
evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
While there are many assumptions which management makes, the assumptions with the greatest uncertainty are those related to mortality,
including the impact, if any, of the COVID-19 pandemic, and lapse and other policyholder behaviour (“policyholder behaviour”). These assumptions
required subjective and complex auditor judgment in certain circumstances, including where (i) there is limited Company and industry experience
data, (ii) the historical experience may not be a good indicator of the future, and (iii) the policyholder behaviour may be irrational. Auditing of
certain actuarial models and mortality and policyholder behaviour assumptions required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent
of audit effort, including the need for the integral involvement of actuarial specialists.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 111
Valuation of Investment Properties - Refer to Notes 1 and 5 to the Financial Statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
Investment properties are accounted for at fair value. The fair values of investment properties are generally determined using property valuation
models and are based on expected capitalization rates and models that discount expected future net cash flows at current market expected rates of
return reflective of the characteristics, location, and market of each property. Expected future net cash flows include contractual and projected cash
flows and forecasted operating expenses, and take into account discount, rental, and occupancy rates derived from market surveys. The estimates
of future cash inflows in addition to expected rental income from current leases, include projected income from future leases based on significant
assumptions that are consistent with current market conditions.
The assumptions with the greatest uncertainty are the discount rates, terminal capitalization rates and future rental rates. Performing audit
procedures to assess inputs required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of audit effort, including the need for the integral
involvement of fair value specialists.
112 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States (PCAOB, the
consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2021, of the Company and our report dated February 9, 2022,
expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included
obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the
design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary
in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that
the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 113
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars, except for per share amounts) 2021 2020
Revenue
Premiums
Gross $ 25,506 $ 26,190
Less: Ceded 2,453 2,452
Net premiums 23,053 23,738
Net investment income (loss):
Interest and other investment income (Note 5) 6,272 5,407
Fair value and foreign currency changes on assets and liabilities (Note 5) (1,785) 6,860
Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale assets 146 451
Net investment income (loss) 4,633 12,718
Fee income (Note 17) 8,002 6,881
Total revenue 35,688 43,337
Average exchange rates during the reporting periods: U.S. dollars 1.25 1.34
114 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2021 2020
Total net income (loss) $ 4,370 $ 2,792
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to income:
Change in unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses):
Unrealized gains (losses) (202) (204)
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale assets:
Unrealized gains (losses) (236) 658
Reclassifications to net income (loss) (130) (339)
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Unrealized gains (losses) 25 (15)
Reclassifications to net income (loss) (19) 9
Share of other comprehensive income (loss) in joint ventures and associates:
Unrealized gains (losses) (14) (9)
Reclassifications to net income (loss) upon change in ownership interest (Note 16) 9 —
Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to income (567) 100
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income:
Remeasurement of defined benefit plans (39) 22
Total items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income (39) 22
Total other comprehensive income (loss) (606) 122
Total comprehensive income (loss) 3,764 2,914
Less: Participating policyholders’ comprehensive income (loss) (Note 21) 332 277
Non-controlling interests’ comprehensive income (loss) (Note 21) — 11
Shareholders’ comprehensive income (loss) $ 3,432 $ 2,626
Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 115
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Assets
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities (Note 5) $ 12,278 $ 13,527
Debt securities (Notes 5 and 6) 88,727 89,089
Equity securities (Notes 5 and 6) 9,113 6,631
Mortgages and loans (Notes 5 and 6) 51,692 49,946
Derivative assets (Notes 5 and 6) 1,583 2,160
Other invested assets (Note 5) 8,759 5,778
Policy loans (Note 5) 3,261 3,265
Investment properties (Note 5) 9,109 7,516
Invested assets 184,522 177,912
Other assets (Note 8) 5,434 5,152
Reinsurance assets (Note 10 and 11) 3,683 3,843
Deferred tax assets (Note 20) 1,848 1,634
Intangible assets (Note 9) 3,370 2,477
Goodwill (Note 9) 6,517 6,072
Total general fund assets 205,374 197,090
Investments for account of segregated fund holders (Note 22) 139,996 125,921
Total assets $ 345,370 $ 323,011
Exchange rates at the end of the reporting periods: U.S. dollars 1.26 1.27
116 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2021 2020
Shareholders:
Preferred shares and other equity instruments (Note 15)
Balance, beginning of year $ 2,257 $ 2,257
Issued during the year 1,000 —
Issuance costs, net of tax 7 —
Redeemed during the year (1,025) —
Balance, end of year 2,239 2,257
Common shares (Note 15)
Balance, beginning of year 8,262 8,289
Stock options exercised 43 23
Common shares purchased for cancellation — (50)
Balance, end of year 8,305 8,262
Contributed surplus
Balance, beginning of year 72 73
Share-based payments 6 4
Stock options exercised (7) (5)
Balance, end of year 71 72
Retained earnings
Balance, beginning of year 12,289 11,318
Net income (loss) 4,035 2,498
Redemption of preferred shares (20) —
Dividends on common shares (1,351) (1,283)
Dividends on preferred shares and distributions on other equity instruments (101) (94)
Common shares purchased for cancellation (Note 15) — (150)
Changes attributable to acquisition (Note 3) (139) —
Balance, end of year 14,713 12,289
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes (Note 27)
Balance, beginning of year 1,589 1,461
Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the year (603) 128
Balance, end of year 986 1,589
Total shareholders’ equity, end of year $ 26,314 $ 24,469
Participating policyholders:
Balance, beginning of year $ 1,368 $ 1,091
Net income (loss) (Note 21) 335 283
Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the year (Note 27) (3) (6)
Total participating policyholders’ equity, end of year $ 1,700 $ 1,368
Non-controlling interests:
Balance, beginning of year $ 25 $ 19
Changes attributable to acquisition (Note 3) 15 —
Net income (loss) — 11
Additional contribution 37 13
Distribution to non-controlling interests (18) (18)
Total non-controlling interests’ equity, end of year $ 59 $ 25
Total equity $ 28,073 $ 25,862
Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 117
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2021 2020
118 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(Amounts in millions of Canadian dollars, except for per share amounts and where otherwise stated. All amounts stated in U.S. dollars are in millions.)
Description of Business
Sun Life Financial Inc. ("SLF Inc.") is a publicly traded company domiciled in Canada and is the holding company of Sun Life Assurance Company of
Canada ("Sun Life Assurance"). Both companies are incorporated under the Insurance Companies Act (Canada), and are regulated by the Office of
the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, Canada ("OSFI"). SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries are collectively referred to as "us", "our", "ours", "we", or
"the Company". We are an internationally diversified financial services organization providing savings, retirement and pension products, and life and
health insurance to individuals and groups through our operations in Canada, the United States ("U.S."), Asia, and the United Kingdom ("UK"). We
also operate mutual fund and investment management businesses, primarily in Canada, the U.S., and Asia.
Statement of Compliance
We prepared our Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as issued and adopted
by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB"). Our accounting policies have been applied consistently within our Consolidated Financial
Statements.
Basis of Presentation
Our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position are presented in the order of liquidity and each statement of financial position line item includes
both current and non-current balances, as applicable.
We have defined our reportable business segments and the amounts disclosed for those segments based on our management structure and the
manner in which our internal financial reporting is conducted. Transactions between segments are executed and priced on an arm’s-length basis in a
manner similar to transactions with third parties.
The significant accounting policies used in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements are summarized below and are applied
consistently.
Judgments
In preparation of these Consolidated Financial Statements, we use judgments to select assumptions and determine estimates as described above.
We also use judgment when applying accounting policies and when determining the classification of insurance contracts, investment contracts and
service contracts; the substance of whether our relationship with a structured entity, subsidiary, joint venture or associate constitutes control, joint
control or significant influence; functional currencies; contingencies; acquisitions; deferred income tax assets; and the determination of cash
generating unit ("CGU").
The application of our accounting policies requires estimates, assumptions and judgments as they relate to matters that are inherently uncertain.
We have established procedures to ensure that our accounting policies are applied consistently and that the processes for changing methodologies
for determining estimates are controlled and occur in an appropriate and systematic manner. For our insurance contract liabilities, no material
COVID-19 specific provisions or adjustments to our long-term assumptions have been made, and we continue to monitor our experience and
exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 119
Significant estimates and judgments have been made in the following areas and are discussed as noted:
Insurance contract and investment contract assumptions Note 1 Insurance Contract Liabilities and Investment Contract Liabilities
and measurement
Note 10 Insurance Contract Liabilities and Investment Contract Liabilities
Determination of fair value Note 1 Basis of Consolidation
Note 1 Determination of Fair Value
Note 3 Acquisitions and Other
Note 5 Total Invested Assets and Related Net Investment Income
Impairment of financial instruments Note 1 Financial Assets Excluding Derivative Financial Instruments
Note 6 Financial Instrument Risk Management
Income taxes Note 1 Income Taxes
Note 20 Income Taxes
Pension plans Note 1 Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits
Note 25 Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits
Goodwill and intangible assets on acquisition and Note 1 Goodwill
impairment
Note 1 Intangible Assets
Note 3 Acquisitions and Other
Note 9 Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Determination of control for purpose of consolidation Note 1 Basis of Consolidation
Note 16 Interests in Other Entities
Share-based payments Note 19 Share-Based Payments
Basis of Consolidation
Our Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of operations and the financial position of subsidiaries, which includes structured entities
controlled by us, after intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date we obtain
control, and deconsolidated on the date control ceases. The acquisition method is used to account for the acquisition of a subsidiary from an
unrelated party at the date that control is obtained, with the difference between the consideration transferred and the fair value of the subsidiary’s
net identifiable assets acquired recorded as goodwill. Judgment is required to determine fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired in a
business combination. Interests in controlled entities held by external parties are reported as non-controlling interests ("NCI").
We control an entity when we have power over an entity, exposure to or rights to variable returns from our involvement with an entity, and the
ability to affect our returns through our power over an entity. Power exists when we have rights that give us the ability to direct the relevant
activities, which are those activities that could significantly affect the entity’s returns. Power can be obtained through voting rights or other
contractual arrangements. Judgment is required to determine the relevant activities and which party has power over these activities. When we have
power over and variable returns from an entity, including an investment fund that we manage, we also apply significant judgment in determining
whether we are acting as a principal or agent. To make this determination, we consider factors such as how much discretion we have regarding the
management of the investment fund and the magnitude and extent of variability associated with our interests in the fund. If we determine we are
the principal rather than the agent, we would consolidate the assets and liabilities of the fund. Interests held by external parties in investment funds
that we consolidate are recorded as third-party interest in consolidated investment funds in Other liabilities. If we lose control of an entity, the
assets and liabilities of that entity are derecognized from our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position at the date at which control is lost and
any investment retained is remeasured to fair value.
A joint venture exists when SLF Inc., or one of its subsidiaries, has joint control of a joint arrangement and has rights to the net assets of the
arrangement. Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control and exists only when the decisions about the relevant activities require the
unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. Associates are entities over which SLF Inc. or its subsidiaries are able to exercise significant
influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of an investee but not have control or joint
control over those decisions. Significant influence is generally presumed to exist when SLF Inc. or its subsidiaries holds greater than 20% of the
voting power of the investee but does not have control or joint control. The equity method is used to account for our interests in joint ventures and
associates. A joint operation exists when SLF Inc., or one of its subsidiaries, has joint control of an arrangement that gives it rights to the assets and
obligations for the liabilities of the operation, rather than the net assets of the arrangement. For joint operations, we record our share of the assets,
liabilities, revenue and expenses of the joint operation. Judgment is required to determine whether contractual arrangements between multiple
parties results in control, joint control or significant influence, with consideration of the relevant activities of the entity, voting rights, representation
on boards of directors and other decision-making factors. Judgment is also required to determine if a joint arrangement is a joint venture or joint
operation, with consideration of our rights and obligations and the structure and legal form of the arrangement.
120 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Foreign Currency Translation
Translation of Transactions in Foreign Currencies
The financial results of SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are prepared in the currency in which they conduct their ordinary
course of business, which is referred to as functional currency. Transactions occurring in currencies other than the functional currency are translated
to the functional currency using the spot exchange rates at the dates of the transactions.
Monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency at the exchange rate at the statement of financial
position date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currencies that are held at fair value are translated using the exchange rate at the
statement of financial position date, while non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured at historical cost are translated using the exchange
rate at the date of the transaction.
The resulting exchange differences from the translation of monetary items and non-monetary items held at fair value, with changes in fair value
recorded to income, are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. For monetary assets classified as available-for-sale ("AFS"),
translation differences calculated on amortized cost are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and other changes in carrying
amount are recognized in other comprehensive income ("OCI"). The exchange differences from the translation of non-monetary items classified as
AFS are recognized in OCI.
Invested Assets
Financial Assets Excluding Derivative Financial Instruments
Financial assets include cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities, debt securities, equity securities, mortgages and loans, financial assets
included in other invested assets and policy loans. Financial assets are designated as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss ("FVTPL") or
AFS assets, or are classified as loans and receivables at initial recognition.
The following table summarizes the financial assets included in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and the asset classifications
applicable to these assets:
Generally, debt securities, equity securities and other invested assets supporting insurance contract liabilities or investment contract liabilities
measured at fair value have been designated as FVTPL. This designation has been made to eliminate or significantly reduce the measurement
inconsistency that would arise due to the measurement of the insurance contract or investment contract liabilities, which are based on the carrying
value of the assets supporting those liabilities. Because the carrying value of insurance contract liabilities is determined by reference to the assets
supporting those liabilities, changes in the insurance contract liabilities generally offset changes in the fair value of debt securities classified as
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 121
FVTPL, except for changes that are due to impairment. The majority of equity securities and other invested assets classified as FVTPL are held to
support products where investment returns are passed through to policyholders and therefore, changes in the fair value of those assets are
significantly offset by changes in insurance contract liabilities.
Financial assets classified as FVTPL are recorded at fair value in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and transaction costs are
expensed immediately. Changes in fair value as well as realized gains and losses on sale are recorded in Fair value and foreign currency changes on
assets and liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Interest income earned and dividends received are recorded in Interest and
other investment income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
To enable a comparison to entities applying IFRS 9 we disclose those invested assets that pass the SPPI test, excluding any that are managed and
whose performance is evaluated on a fair value basis. Except for Debt securities designated as AFS and Mortgages and loans, our financial assets are
managed and their performance is evaluated on a fair value basis. Please refer to Note 5.A.i for the related disclosure as at December 31, 2021 and
2020.
Financial assets that pass the SPPI test are assets with contractual terms that give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of
principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.
ii) Derecognition
Financial assets are derecognized when our rights to contractual cash flows expire, when we transfer substantially all our risks and rewards of
ownership, or when we no longer retain control.
iii) Impairment
Financial assets are assessed for impairment on a quarterly basis. Financial assets are impaired and impairment losses are incurred if there is
objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more loss events and that event has an impact on the estimated future cash flows that can be
reliably estimated. Objective evidence of impairment generally includes significant financial difficulty of the issuer, including actual or anticipated
bankruptcy or defaults and delinquency in payments of interest or principal or disappearance of an active market for that financial asset. Objective
evidence of impairment for an investment in an equity instrument or other invested asset also includes, but is not limited to, the financial condition
and near-term prospects of the issuer, including information about significant changes with adverse effects that have taken place in the
technological, market, economic, or legal environment in which the issuer operates that may indicate that the carrying amount will not be
recovered, and a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an equity instrument or other invested asset below its cost. Management
exercises considerable judgment in assessing for objective evidence of impairment. Due to the inherent risks and uncertainties in our evaluation of
assets or groups of assets for objective evidence of impairment, the actual impairment amount and the timing of the recognition of impairment may
differ from management assessment. The impairment assessment process is discussed in Note 6.
122 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Loans and Receivables
If an impairment loss on an individual mortgage or loan has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s
carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. For collateralized
financial assets, the present value of the estimated future cash flows reflects the cash flows that may result from foreclosure less costs to sell,
whether or not foreclosure is probable. If no evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed mortgage or loan, it is included in a group of
loans with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assessed for impairment.
When an impairment loss has been incurred, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account, and the amount
of the loss is recognized in income. If the impairment loss subsequently decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring
after the initial impairment charge was recognized, the previous impairment charge is reversed by adjusting the allowance account and the reversal
is recognized in income. Interest income is recognized on impaired mortgages and loans using the effective interest rate method and it is based on
the estimated future cash flows used to measure the impairment loss. Changes in the allowance account, other than write-offs net of recoveries, are
charged against Interest and other investment income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Write-offs, net of recoveries, are deducted
from the allowance account when there is no realistic prospect of recovery, which is typically not before derecognition of the asset through
foreclosure or sale.
Collateral
Cash received (pledged) as collateral is recognized (derecognized) in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position with corresponding amounts
recognized in Other liabilities (Other assets), respectively. All other types of assets received (pledged) as collateral are not recognized (derecognized)
in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
The accounting for the changes in fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether or not it is designated as a hedging instrument for hedge
accounting purposes. Changes in (i) fair value of derivatives that are not designated for hedge accounting purposes, which are defined as derivative
investments, and (ii) embedded derivatives that are bifurcated, are recorded in Fair value and foreign currency changes on assets and liabilities in
our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Income earned or paid on these derivatives is recorded in Interest and other investment income in our
Consolidated Statements of Operations. Hedge accounting is applied to certain derivatives to reduce income statement volatility. When certain
qualification criteria are met, hedge accounting recognizes the offsetting effects of hedging instruments and hedged items in income or defers the
effective portion of changes in fair value of hedging instruments in OCI until there is a recognition event, such as the occurrence of a forecasted
transaction or the disposal of an investment in a foreign operation, or hedge accounting is discontinued. All hedging relationships are documented
at inception and hedge effectiveness is assessed at inception and on a quarterly basis to determine whether the hedging instruments are highly
effective in offsetting changes attributable to the hedged risk in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items.
Embedded Derivatives
An embedded derivative is a component of a host contract that modifies the cash flows of the host contract in a manner similar to a derivative,
according to a specified interest rate, financial instrument price, foreign exchange rate, underlying index or other variable. We are required to
separate embedded derivatives from the host contract, if an embedded derivative has economic and risk characteristics that are not closely related
to the host contract, meets the definition of a derivative, and the combined contract is not measured at fair value with changes recognized in
income. If an embedded derivative is bifurcated for accounting purposes from the host contract, it will be accounted for as a derivative. For further
details on embedded derivatives in insurance contracts, see the Insurance Contract Liabilities accounting policy in this Note.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 123
Investment Properties
Investment properties are real estate held to earn rental income, for capital appreciation, or both. Properties held to earn rental income or for
capital appreciation that have an insignificant portion that is owner-occupied are classified as investment properties. Properties that do not meet
these criteria are classified as property and equipment, included in Other assets as described below. Expenditures related to ongoing maintenance
of properties incurred subsequent to acquisition are expensed. Investment properties are initially recognized at cost in our Consolidated Statements
of Financial Position. Various costs incurred associated with the acquisition of an investment property are either capitalized or expensed depending
on whether or not the acquisition is considered a business combination. Investment properties are subsequently measured at fair value with
changes in value recorded to Fair value and foreign currency changes on assets and liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
When the use of a property changes from owner-occupied to investment property, any gain arising on the remeasurement of the property to fair
value at the date of transfer is recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations to the extent that it reverses a previous impairment loss.
Any remaining increase is recognized in OCI.
Other Assets
Other assets, which are measured at amortized cost, include accounts receivable, investment income due and accrued, deferred acquisition costs,
property and equipment, and lessee’s right-of-use assets. Deferred acquisition costs arising from service contracts or from service components of
investment contracts are amortized over the expected life of the contracts based on the future expected fees. Owner-occupied properties are
amortized to their residual value over 25 to 49 years. Furniture, computers, other office equipment, and leasehold improvements are amortized to
their residual value over 2 to 20 years. The right-of-use asset is subsequently depreciated on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Reinsurance Assets
In the normal course of business, we use reinsurance to limit exposure to large losses. We have a retention policy that requires that such
arrangements be placed with well-established, highly-rated reinsurers. Reinsurance assets are measured consistently with the amounts associated
with the underlying insurance contracts and in accordance with the terms of each reinsurance contract. Amounts due to or from reinsurers with
respect to premiums received or paid claims are included in Other assets and Other liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Premiums for reinsurance ceded are presented as premiums ceded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Reinsurance expenses
(recoveries), as presented in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, represent reinsurance expenses and expense recoveries resulting from
reinsurance agreements.
Reinsurance assets are subject to impairment testing. If impaired, the carrying value is reduced, and an impairment loss is recognized in Reinsurance
expenses (recoveries) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Impairment occurs when objective evidence exists (as a result of an event)
after the initial recognition of the reinsurance asset indicating that not all amounts due under the terms of the contract will be received, and the
impairment can be reliably measured.
Reinsurance assumed is accounted for as an insurance, investment or service contract depending on the underlying nature of the agreement and if
it meets the definition of an insurance, investment or service contract. For the accounting for these types of contracts, see the respective policy
section in this Note.
Leases
At inception of a contract, we assess whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to
control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. For leases where we act as the lessee, we recognize a right-
of-use asset and a lease liability at the commencement date of the lease. For leases where we act as the lessor, we assess whether the leases should
be classified as finance or operating leases. Our leases are classified as operating leases. Operating leases are recognized into income on a straight-
line basis.
The right-of-use asset is initially measured at cost, which is comprised of the initial amount of the lease liability with certain adjustments, and
subsequently depreciated using the straight-line method, with depreciation expense included in Operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements
of Operations. The right-of-use asset is depreciated to the earlier of the lease term and its useful life. The right-of-use asset is assessed for
impairment under IAS 36 Impairment of Assets. Right-of-use assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting period. If there is an
indication that a right-of-use asset may be impaired, an impairment test is performed by comparing the asset’s carrying amount to its recoverable
amount. If an impairment loss has been incurred, the carrying value of the right-of-use asset is reduced with the corresponding amount recognized
in income.
124 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of lease payments over the term of the lease using a discount rate that is based on our
incremental borrowing rate. The discount rate is specific to each lease and is determined by various factors, such as the lease term and currency.
The lease term includes the non-cancellable period and the optional period where it is reasonably certain we will exercise an extension or
termination option, considering various factors that create an economic incentive to do so. Subsequently, the lease liability is measured at
amortized cost using the effective interest method, with interest charged to Interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Lease
liabilities and right-of-use assets are remeasured upon lease modifications. A lease modification is considered as a change in the scope of a lease, or
the consideration for a lease, that was not part of the original terms and conditions of the lease.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of finite life and indefinite life intangible assets. Finite life intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis or using a
units-of-production method, over the useful economic lives which are varying periods of up to 40 years. Amortization is charged through Operating
expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operation. The useful lives of finite life intangible assets are reviewed annually, and the amortization is
adjusted as necessary. Indefinite life intangibles are not amortized, and are assessed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or
changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. Impairment is assessed by comparing the carrying values of the indefinite life
intangible assets to their recoverable amounts. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. If
the carrying values of the indefinite life intangibles exceed their recoverable amounts, these assets are considered impaired, and a charge for
impairment is recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. The recoverable amount of intangible assets is determined using various
valuation models, which require management to make certain judgments and assumptions that could affect the estimates of the recoverable
amount.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets of the acquired
businesses. It is carried at original cost less any impairment subsequently incurred. Goodwill is assessed for impairment annually or more frequently
if events or circumstances occur that may result in the recoverable amount of a CGU or a group of CGUs falling below its carrying value. A CGU is the
smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of cash inflows from other groups of assets. We
exercise significant judgment in determining our CGUs. The factors considered in determining our CGUs include product cash inflows, product
distribution, target markets, and how management monitors and evaluates the operations.
The goodwill balances are allocated to either individual or groups of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the business
combination. Goodwill impairment is quantified by comparing a CGU’s or a group of CGUs’ carrying value to its recoverable amount, which is the
higher of fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. Impairment losses are recognized immediately and cannot be reversed in future periods.
Significant judgment is involved in estimating the model inputs used to determine the recoverable amount of our CGUs or group of CGUs, including
those for discount rates, capital, the value of new business, expenses, cash flow projections, and market multiples, due to the uncertainty and the
forward-looking nature of these inputs. The assumptions may differ from the actual experience, and estimates may change from period to period
based on future events or revisions of assumptions. These key assumptions are discussed in Note 9.
As discussed in the Segregated Funds section of this Note, certain insurance contracts under which the policyholder bears the risks associated with
the underlying investments are classified as Insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders in our Consolidated Statements of Financial
Position.
Insurance contract liabilities, including policy benefits payable and provisions for policyholder dividends, are determined in accordance with
Canadian accepted actuarial practice and any requirements of OSFI. As confirmed by guidance provided by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries
("CIA"), the current Canadian Asset Liability Method ("CALM") of valuation of insurance contract liabilities satisfies the IFRS 4 requirements for
eligibility for use under IFRS. Under CALM, liabilities are set equal to the statement of financial position value of the assets required to support them.
Some insurance contracts contain discretionary participation features ("DPF"), whereby the policyholder has the right to receive potentially
significant additional benefits based on the actual investments and other experience on a block of similar contracts. IFRS allows the non-guaranteed,
or participating, elements of such contracts to be classified as either a liability or as equity, depending on the nature of our obligation to the
policyholder. The contracts issued by us contain constructive obligations to the policyholder with respect to the DPF of the contracts. We have
therefore elected to classify these features as a liability, consistent with accounting treatment under CALM, and in accordance with guidance
provided by the CIA.
Derivatives embedded in insurance contracts are treated as separate derivatives and measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in
income, except when the embedded derivative itself meets the definition of an insurance contract under IFRS, or when the risks and characteristics
are closely related to those of the host contracts or when the derivative is the policyholder’s option to surrender an insurance contract for a fixed
amount or an amount based on a fixed amount and an interest rate. The derivatives that have not been separated are accounted for as insurance
contract liabilities.
Significant judgment is required in determining our liabilities for insurance contracts including the assumptions required for their determination.
Application of different assumptions may result in different measurement of the insurance contract liabilities. Actual experience may differ from
assumptions, and estimates may change from period to period based on future events or revisions of assumptions. Key assumptions and
considerations in choosing assumptions are discussed in Note 10 and sensitivities are discussed in Note 7.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 125
Financial Liabilities
Investment Contract Liabilities
Contracts issued by us that do not transfer significant insurance risk, but do transfer financial risk from the policyholder to us, are financial liabilities
and are accounted for as investment contracts. Service components of investment contracts are treated as service contracts. For further details on
how service components of investment contracts are treated, see the Service Contracts accounting policy in this Note.
Liabilities for investment contracts without DPF are measured at FVTPL or amortized cost. Contracts recorded at FVTPL are measured at fair value at
inception and each subsequent reporting period. Contracts recorded at amortized cost are initially recognized at fair value, less transaction costs
directly attributable to the issue of the contract. At each subsequent period, the contracts are measured at amortized cost using the effective
interest method. Changes in fair value of investment contract liabilities recorded at FVTPL and amortization on contracts recorded at amortized cost
are recorded as an Increase (decrease) in investment contract liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Deposits collected from and
payments made to contract holders are recorded as an increase and decrease in Investment contract liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of
Financial Position. These liabilities are derecognized when the obligation of the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired.
As discussed in the Segregated Funds section of this Note, certain investment contracts under which the policyholder bears the risks associated with
the underlying investments are classified as Investment contracts for account of segregated fund holders in the Consolidated Statements of
Financial Position. The accounting for investment contracts that contain DPF is described in the Insurance Contract Liabilities section of this Note.
Other Liabilities
Other liabilities which are measured at amortized cost, include accounts payable, lines of credit, repurchase agreements, accrued expenses and
taxes, senior financing, provisions, lessee’s lease liabilities and a deferred payment liability. Liabilities for provisions, other than insurance contract
liabilities and investment contract liabilities, are recognized for present legal or constructive obligations as a result of a past event if it is probable
that they will result in an outflow of economic resources and the amount can be reliably estimated. The amounts recognized for these provisions are
the best estimates of the expenditures required to settle the present obligations or to transfer them to a third party at the statement of financial
position date, considering all the inherent risks and uncertainties, as well as the time value of money. These provisions are reviewed as relevant
facts and circumstances change.
The lease liabilities are initially measured at the present value of lease payments over the term of the lease using a discount rate that is based on
our incremental borrowing rate. Subsequently, the lease liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
Other financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value, which is the present value of the expected cash outflow of the obligations, using our
incremental borrowing rate. Subsequently, other financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost. If there is a change to the expected timing or
amount of cash outflows, the carrying amount will be adjusted to reflect the revised estimates and will be recognized in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations.
Further details on other financial liabilities, the put option and the deferred payment liability are included in Note 3.
Service Contracts
Contracts issued by us to customers that do not transfer significant insurance risk and do not transfer financial risk from the customer to us,
including contracts for investment management service, are classified as service contracts. Service components of investment contracts are also
accounted for as service contracts. Fee income earned from these contracts is described in the Premium and Fee Income Recognition accounting
policy section of this Note. Deferred acquisition costs are described under the Other Assets accounting policy section of this Note. Where the cost of
meeting the obligations of the contract exceed the economic benefits expected to be received under it, a provision is recognized in Other liabilities.
Segregated Funds
Segregated funds are products for which we issue a contract where the benefit amount is directly linked to the fair value of the investments held in
the particular segregated fund. Although the underlying assets are registered in our name and the segregated fund contract holder has no direct
access to the specific assets, the contractual arrangements are such that the segregated fund policyholder bears the risks and rewards of the fund’s
investment performance. In addition, certain contracts include guarantees from us. We derive fee income from segregated funds, which is included
in Fee income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Policyholder transfers between general funds and segregated funds are included in Net
transfer to (from) segregated funds in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Deposits to segregated funds are reported as increases in
segregated funds liabilities and are not reported as revenues in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
126 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Insurance and Investment Contracts for Account of Segregated Fund Holders
Insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders are recorded separately from the Total general fund liabilities in our Consolidated
Statements of Financial Position. Insurance contracts under which the segregated fund holders bear the risks associated with the underlying
investments are classified as Insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders. The liabilities reported as Insurance contracts for account
of segregated fund holders are measured at the aggregate of the policyholder account balances. Changes in the fair value of the invested assets of
the segregated funds are recorded in net realized and unrealized gains (losses) within the segregated fund and are not recorded in our Consolidated
Statements of Operations.
Other assets and liabilities associated with these insurance contracts, such as origination costs and the liabilities associated with guarantees
provided by us, are included in general fund liabilities in Insurance contract liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Investment contracts for account of segregated fund holders are recorded separately from the Total general fund liabilities in our Consolidated
Statements of Financial Position. Investment contracts under which the segregated fund holders bear the risks associated with the underlying
investments are classified as Investment contracts for account of segregated fund holders. The liabilities reported as Investment contracts for
account of segregated fund holders are measured at the aggregate of the policyholder account balances.
Other liabilities associated with these investment contracts, such as onerous contract provisions required for service components, are included in
general fund liabilities in Investment contract liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Income Taxes
Current income tax assets and liabilities for the current and prior periods are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the
taxation authorities. Deferred income tax is provided using the liability method on temporary differences at the statement of financial position date
between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes. Current and deferred income tax relating
to items recognized in the current or previous period in OCI or directly in equity is accordingly recognized in OCI or equity and not in our
Consolidated Statements of Operations. Interest and penalties payable to taxation authorities are recorded in Interest expense and Operating
expenses, respectively, in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are calculated based on income tax rates and laws that are expected to apply when the liability is settled or
the asset is realized, which are normally those enacted or considered substantively enacted at our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
dates. Deferred income tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses
to the extent of the probability that future taxable profit will be available against which these assets can be utilized. At each reporting period, we
assess all available evidence, both positive and negative, to determine the amount of deferred income tax assets to be recognized. The recognition
of deferred income tax assets requires estimates and significant judgment about future events, such as projections of future taxable profits, based
on the information available at the reporting date.
The determination of the required provision for current and deferred income taxes requires that we interpret tax legislation in the jurisdictions in
which we operate. For each reporting period, our income tax provision reflects our best estimate, based on the information available at the
reporting date, of tax positions that are under audit or appeal by relevant tax authorities. To the extent that our estimate of tax positions or the
timing of realization of deferred income tax assets or liabilities are not as expected, the provision for income taxes may increase or decrease in the
future to reflect the actual experience.
Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, except where we
control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is apparent that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable
future. No deferred income tax asset or liability is recognized in relation to temporary differences that arise from the initial recognition of an asset
or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, did not affect either the accounting profit or
taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities are offset if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current
tax assets against current tax liabilities, the deferred income taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority and we intend
either to settle on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
In determining the impact of taxes, we are required to comply with Canadian accepted actuarial practice and IFRS. CALM requires that all projected
cash flows associated with insurance contract liabilities, including income taxes, be included in the determination of insurance contract liabilities.
The insurance contract liabilities are therefore determined including all policy-related income tax effects on a discounted basis, and then adjusted
for any related deferred income tax assets and liabilities held in accordance with IFRS. The net result of this adjustment is to leave the discounting
effect of the deferred income taxes associated with temporary differences on policy-related tax items in the insurance contract liabilities.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 127
Costs charged to our Consolidated Statements of Operations include current service cost, any past service costs, any gains or losses from
curtailments or settlements, and interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset). Remeasurement of the net defined benefit liability (asset),
which includes the impact of changes to the actuarial assumption underlying the liability calculations, liability experience gains or losses, the
difference between the return on plan assets and the amount included in the interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset), is reflected
immediately in OCI. The calculation of the defined benefit expenses and obligations requires judgment as the recognition is dependent on various
actuarial assumptions such as discount rates, health care cost trend rates and projected compensation increases. These key assumptions are
discussed in Note 25.
Dividends
Dividends payable to holders of shares of SLF Inc. are recognized in the period in which they are authorized or approved. Dividends that have been
reinvested in additional common shares under the Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan ("DRIP") are also reflected as dividends within
retained earnings. Where SLF Inc. has issued common shares from treasury under the DRIP, the additional shares have been reflected in common
shares.
Fee income from insurance contracts includes fees from segregated fund contracts, guarantee fees and other fees associated with insurance
contracts and is typically recognized as revenue when services are rendered.
Fee income from service contracts represents fees associated with non-insurance contracts with customers and includes Distribution fees, Fund
management and other asset-based fees, and Administrative services and other fees. Distribution fees includes fees earned from the distribution of
investment products and other intermediary activities. Fund management and other asset-based fees includes fees earned from investment
management services. Administrative services and other fees includes fees earned from contract administration and other management services.
Fee income from service contracts is typically recognized as revenue when services are rendered at either a point in time or over time. The majority
of fee income from service contracts is comprised of variable consideration which is based on a percentage of assets under management or another
variable metric and is recognized as revenue when it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the amount of the revenue recognized will not
occur.
Share-Based Payments
Stock options of SLF Inc. granted to employees are accounted for as equity-settled share-based payment transactions. The total compensation
expense for stock options is computed based on the fair value of the stock option at the date of grant and the estimated number of options
expected to vest at the end of the vesting period. The expense is recognized over the vesting period as compensation expense in Operating
expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, with an offset to contributed surplus in our Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity.
When options are exercised, new common shares are issued, contributed surplus is reversed and the common shares issued are credited to
common shares in our Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity.
Other share-based payment plans based on the value of SLF Inc.’s common shares are accounted for as cash-settled share-based payment
transactions. The total liabilities for these plans are computed based on the estimated number of awards expected to vest at the end of the vesting
period. The liabilities are recomputed at the end of each reporting period and are measured at the fair value of the award at that reporting date.
The liabilities are accrued and expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting periods. The liabilities are settled in cash at the end of the vesting
period.
Share-based payment awards within MFS Investment Management ("MFS"), which are based on their own shares, are accounted for as cash-settled
share-based payment awards. The vested and unvested awards, as well as the shares that have been issued under these plans, are recognized as
liabilities because MFS has a practice of purchasing the issued shares from employees after a specified holding period. The total liabilities for these
plans are computed based on the estimated number of awards expected to vest at the end of the vesting period. The liabilities are accrued over the
vesting period and are measured at fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recognized as compensation expense in
Operating expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. The liabilities are settled in cash when the shares are purchased from the
employees.
Diluted EPS adjusts common shareholders’ net income and the weighted average number of common shares for the effects of all dilutive potential
common shares under the assumption that convertible instruments are converted and that outstanding options are exercised. Diluted EPS is
calculated by dividing the adjusted common shareholders’ net income by the adjusted weighted average number of common shares outstanding.
For convertible instruments, common shareholders’ net income is increased by the after-tax expense on the convertible instrument while the
weighted average common shares are increased by the number of common shares that would be issued at conversion. For stock options, it is
assumed that the proceeds from the exercise of options whose exercise price is less than the average market price of common shares during the
period are used to repurchase common shares at the average market price for the period. The difference between the number of common shares
issued for the exercise of the dilutive options and the number of common shares that would have been repurchased at the average market price of
the common shares during the period is adjusted to the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.
128 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
2. Changes in Accounting Policies
2.A New and Amended International Financial Reporting Standards Adopted in 2021
We adopted the following amendments on January 1, 2021:
In August 2020, the IASB issued the Interest Rate Benchmark Reform Phase 2, which includes amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39, IFRS 7 Financial
Instruments: Disclosures, IFRS 4 and IFRS 16 Leases (“IFRS 16”). The amendments address issues that arise from the implementation of the reforms,
including the replacement of one benchmark with an alternative one. The adoption of these amendments did not have a material impact on our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
The UK, Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) announced on March 5, 2021 that panel bank submissions for UK London Interbank Offered Rate
(“LIBOR”) will cease after December 31, 2021 and for key U.S. LIBOR tenors, after June 30, 2023. Additionally, the Canadian Alternative Reference
Rate (“CARR”) working group has recommended on December 16, 2021 that the administrator of the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate (“CDOR”),
Refinitiv Benchmark Services (UK) Limited (“RBSL”), cease publication of all of CDOR’s remaining tenors after the end of June 2024. However, this is a
recommendation only and the decision to cease CDOR ultimately lies solely with RBSL.
We have created an Interbank Offered Rate ("IBOR") Transition Program (“the Program”) to manage the transition to Alternative Reference Rates
("ARR"). The Program is cross-functional in nature and comprises key stakeholders across our organization and operates with executive oversight.
The Program is on track in executing its transition plan, and is mindful of incorporating market developments as they arise. We also actively
participate in industry associations and incorporate best practice guidance from these industry associations, as well as regulatory bodies into the
transition plan, such as reviewing all existing and new U.S. LIBOR contracts for appropriate fallback language in contracts.
Areas of risk relating to the replacement of IBOR include the negotiations with borrowers, updating systems and processes which capture IBOR
referenced contracts, amendments to those contracts, or existing fallback/transition clauses not operating as anticipated. Other transition risks that
may arise because of the new ARRs are predominantly limited to interest rate risk and the risk of losing value or return on existing instruments. In
2020, all our entities exposed to U.S. LIBOR adhered to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association IBOR Fallbacks Protocol facilitating the
transition of legacy derivative contracts. Our entities are also fully ready for the cessation of the publication of GBP LIBOR, having addressed the
transition of all exposures as at December 31, 2021.
Our exposure to interest rate benchmarks subject to IBOR reforms is predominately related to U.S. LIBOR. As at December 31, 2021, non-derivative
financial assets of $3,849, non-derivative financial liabilities of $70, and derivative notional of $9,417 have not yet transitioned to an ARR and
excludes financial instruments maturing by June 30, 2023.
In March 2021, the IASB issued the COVID-19-Related Rent Concessions beyond 30 June 2021 amendment to IFRS 16. The amendment extends the
application period of the practical expedient in IFRS 16 to help lessees account for COVID-19-related rent concessions by one year. The original
amendment was issued in May 2020 by adding a practical expedient to provide relief for lessees from lease modification accounting for COVID-19-
related rent concessions, such as rent holidays and temporary rent reductions. The adoption of this amendment did not have a material impact on
our Consolidated Financial Statements.
2.B New and Amended International Financial Reporting Standards to be Adopted in 2022
The following new and amended IFRS were issued by the IASB and are expected to be adopted by us in 2022. We do not expect the adoption of
these amendments to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements:
In May 2020, the IASB issued Reference to the Conceptual Framework, which includes amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations. The
amendments update an outdated reference to the Conceptual Framework in IFRS 3 without significantly changing the requirements in the standard.
In May 2020, the IASB issued Property, Plant and Equipment - Proceeds before Intended Use, which includes amendments to IAS 16 Property, Plant
and Equipment. The amendments prohibit deducting from the cost of an item of property, plant and equipment any proceeds from selling items
produced while bringing that asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management.
The amendments apply retrospectively to assets ready for use in the comparative period.
In May 2020, the IASB issued Onerous Contracts - Cost of Fulfilling a Contract, which includes amendments to IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities
and Contingent Assets. The amendments specify that the 'cost of fulfilling' a contract comprises the 'costs that relate directly to the contract'. Costs
that relate directly to a contract can either be incremental costs of fulfilling that contract or an allocation of other costs that relate directly to
fulfilling contracts.
In May 2020, the IASB issued Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2018-2020, which includes minor amendments to three IFRS standards
applicable to our Consolidated Financial Statements. The amendments apply prospectively.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 129
2.C Amended International Financial Reporting Standards to be Adopted in 2023 or Later
We are currently assessing the impact that these amendments will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements:
In May 2021, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes (“IAS 12”). The amendments, Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising
from a Single Transaction, narrow the scope of the recognition exemption in IAS 12 so that it no longer applies to transactions that, on initial
recognition, give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences. The amendment to IAS 12 will be effective for annual reporting periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2023, with early application permitted.
In February 2021, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (“IAS 1”) and IFRS Practice Statement 2 Making
Materiality Judgments (“IFRS Practice Statement 2”). The amendments to IAS 1 require companies to disclose their material accounting policy
information rather than their significant accounting policies. The amendments to IFRS Practice Statement 2 provide guidance on how to apply the
concept of materiality to accounting policy disclosures. The amendment to IAS 1 will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after
January 1, 2023, with early application permitted.
In February 2021, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors (“IAS 8”). The amendments
clarify how companies should distinguish changes in accounting policies from changes in accounting estimates. The amendment to IAS 8 will be
effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023, with early application permitted.
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts ("IFRS 17"), which replaces IFRS 4. In June 2020, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 17,
which include deferral of the effective date to annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023. The deferral option of IFRS 9 for insurers was
also extended to that same date. In December 2021, the IASB issued an optional amendment for a new transition option relating to comparative
information about financial assets presented on initial application of IFRS 17. IFRS 17 establishes the principles for the recognition, measurement,
presentation, and disclosure of insurance contracts. IFRS 17 requires entities to measure insurance contract liabilities at their current fulfillment
values using one of three measurement models, depending on the nature of the contract. IFRS 17 is to be applied retrospectively to each group of
insurance contracts unless impracticable. If, and only if, it is impracticable to apply IFRS 17 retrospectively for a group of insurance contracts, an
entity shall apply IFRS 17 using a modified retrospective approach or a fair value approach. IFRS 17 will affect how we account for our insurance
contracts and how we report our financial performance in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We are currently assessing the impact of
IFRS 17. We anticipate it will have an impact on the timing of earnings recognition and the presentation and disclosure of financial results in our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
In July 2014, the IASB issued the final version of IFRS 9, which replaces IAS 39. IFRS 9 includes guidance on the classification and measurement
of financial instruments, impairment of financial assets, and hedge accounting. Financial asset classification is based on the cash flow characteristics
and the business model in which an asset is held. The classification determines how a financial instrument is accounted for and measured. IFRS 9
also introduces an impairment model for financial instruments not measured at fair value through profit or loss that requires recognition of
expected losses at initial recognition of a financial instrument and the recognition of full lifetime expected losses if certain criteria are met. In
addition, a new model for hedge accounting was introduced to achieve better alignment with risk management activities. This standard is effective
for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. In October 2017, the IASB issued narrow-scope amendments to IFRS 9. The amendments
clarify the classification of certain prepayable financial assets and the accounting of financial liabilities following modification. The amendments are
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. However, pursuant to the aforementioned amendments to IFRS 4, we elected the
deferral approach permitted under IFRS 4 to continue to apply IAS 39. We are currently assessing the impact that IFRS 9, along with these
amendments, will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
PinnacleCare is a U.S. health-care navigation and medical intelligence service which expands our medical stop-loss business. The acquisition now
forms part of our U.S. Group Benefits business. This acquisition will expand our medical stop-loss business by improving the care experience, costs
and outcomes for both the employee and employer.
The fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities are subject to refinement and may be retroactively adjusted to reflect new information
obtained about facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date during the measurement period.
130 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Crescent Capital Group LP
On January 5, 2021, we purchased 51% of Crescent Capital Group LP (“Crescent”), a U.S.-based global alternative credit investment manager, as well
as the ability to acquire the remaining interest in the future. Crescent is reported in the SLC Management business unit within our Asset
Management business segment. Consideration included $308 in cash and $6 of contingent consideration to the former owners of Crescent. The
acquisition will extend SLC Management's solutions in alternative credit.
The fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were:
As at January 5, 2021
Intangible assets $ 341
Net liabilities (119)
Total identifiable net assets at fair value 222
Non-controlling interest(1) (317)
Goodwill arising on acquisition 409
Total consideration $ 314
(1)
We have elected to measure NCI at fair value for this acquisition. The fair value was determined by calculating the proportionate share of the present value
of future cash flows relating to NCI. Significant assumptions inherent in the valuation of NCI include the estimated after-tax cash flows expected to be
received and an assessment of the appropriate discount rate.
The fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities are subject to refinement and have been retroactively adjusted to reflect new information
obtained about facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date during the measurement period.
Crescent minority shareholders also have the option to require us to purchase their shares (“put option”) in 2026. We have a call option to acquire
the remaining outstanding shares held by these minority shareholders commencing in 2026. The fair value of the put option liability was recognized
in Other financial liabilities and any excess over the carrying amounts arising from transactions relating to non-controlling shareholders was
recorded as a reduction to Retained earnings. Any changes to the carrying value of the financial liability after the acquisition date will be recognized
in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The agreement also includes a contingent payment based on the achievement of certain milestones.
At the date of acquisition, the impact to our assets, liabilities and equity is as follows:
Put option
As at January 5, 2021 Share purchase adjustments Total
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 131
The fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were:
As at July 1, 2020
Intangible assets $ 357
Net assets 97
Deferred tax liabilities (67)
Total identifiable net assets at fair value 387
Financial liability (129)
Goodwill arising on acquisition(1) 288
Total consideration(2) $ 546
(1)
Goodwill of $288 reflects InfraRed’s non-contractual customer relationships.
(2)
Amount includes $29 of contingent consideration.
The NCI of 20% will be recognized as a financial liability initially measured at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost. Any changes
to the carrying value of the financial liability will be recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. As part of the transaction, InfraRed
minority shareholders have the option to require us to purchase their shares in 2024. We have a call option to acquire the remaining outstanding
shares in InfraRed commencing in 2025.
On October 3, 2021, we entered into an agreement to acquire DentaQuest Group, Inc. ("DentaQuest"), a U.S.-based dental benefits provider, for
approximately $3,100 (US$2,475). Upon close of the transaction, DentaQuest will become part of the Sun Life U.S. business segment. The
transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2022, subject to receipt of regulatory approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
On February 1, 2021, the second stage of our acquisition of the pension business of FWD Life Insurance Company (Bermuda) Limited ("FWD") was
completed for net proceeds of $17. Included in the acquisition were $480 in Invested assets and $480 of Investment contract liabilities.
On November 18, 2020, we entered into a 15-year exclusive bancassurance partnership with Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank ("ACB") effective
January 1, 2021. The partnership significantly expands our distribution capabilities in Asia. An initial payment of $471 was made in January 2021,
based on the contractual terms of the agreement. The initial payment was capitalized as an intangible asset and will be amortized over the life of
the contract based on a units-of-production method.
4. Segmented Information
We have five reportable business segments: Canada, U.S., Asset Management, Asia and Corporate. These business segments operate in the financial
services industry and reflect our management structure and internal financial reporting. Asset Management includes the results of our MFS and SLC
Management business units. Corporate includes the results of our UK business unit and our Corporate Support operations, which include run-off
reinsurance operations, as well as investment income, expenses, capital and other items not allocated to our other business groups. Revenues from
our business segments are derived primarily from life and health insurance, investment management and annuities, and mutual funds. Revenues
not attributed to the strategic business units are derived primarily from Corporate investments and earnings on capital. Transactions between
segments are executed and priced at an arm's-length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties.
The expenses in each business segment may include costs or services directly incurred or provided on their behalf at the enterprise level. For other
costs not directly attributable to one of our business segments, we use a management reporting framework that uses assumptions, judgments, and
methodologies for allocating overhead costs and indirect expenses to our business segments.
Intersegment transactions consist primarily of internal financing agreements which are measured at fair values prevailing when the arrangements
are negotiated. Intersegment investment income consists primarily of interest paid by U.S. to Corporate. Intersegment fee income is primarily asset
management fees paid by our business segments to Asset Management. SLC Management collects fee income and incurs the operational expenses
associated with the management of the general fund assets. Intersegment transactions are eliminated in the Consolidation adjustments column in
the following tables.
Management considers its external Clients to be individuals and corporations. We are not reliant on any individual Client as none is individually
significant to our operations.
132 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Results by segment for the years ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are as follows:
Asset Consolidation
Canada U.S. Management Asia Corporate adjustments Total
2021
Gross premiums:
Annuities $ 3,874 $ — $ — $ 29 $ 14 $ — $ 3,917
Life insurance 5,848 1,452 — 3,542 83 — 10,925
Health insurance 5,989 4,624 — 24 27 — 10,664
Total gross premiums 15,711 6,076 — 3,595 124 — 25,506
Less: Ceded premiums 1,533 705 — 201 14 — 2,453
Net investment income (loss) 3,069 546 20 1,060 37 (99) 4,633
Fee income 1,611 81 5,835 642 111 (278) 8,002
Total revenue 18,858 5,998 5,855 5,096 258 (377) 35,688
Less:
Total benefits and expenses 16,651 5,375 4,591 3,838 513 (377) 30,591
Income tax expense (benefit) 384 124 372 113 (266) — 727
Total net income (loss) $ 1,823 $ 499 $ 892 $ 1,145 $ 11 $ — $ 4,370
Less:
Net income (loss) attributable to
participating policyholders 265 — — 70 — — 335
Shareholders’ net income (loss) $ 1,558 $ 499 $ 892 $ 1,075 $ 11 $ — $ 4,035
2020
Gross premiums:
Annuities $ 3,594 $ — $ — $ 108 $ 27 $ — $ 3,729
Life insurance 5,358 1,548 — 4,821 85 — 11,812
Health insurance 6,011 4,583 — 33 22 — 10,649
Total gross premiums 14,963 6,131 — 4,962 134 — 26,190
Less: Ceded premiums 1,530 695 — 212 15 — 2,452
Net investment income (loss) 6,823 2,610 23 2,550 758 (46) 12,718
Fee income 1,376 92 5,014 572 103 (276) 6,881
Total revenue 21,632 8,138 5,037 7,872 980 (322) 43,337
Less:
Total benefits and expenses 20,669 7,825 3,712 7,137 1,029 (322) 40,050
Income tax expense (benefit) 50 56 334 54 1 — 495
Total net income (loss) $ 913 $ 257 $ 991 $ 681 $ (50) $ — $ 2,792
Less:
Net income (loss) attributable to
participating policyholders 196 — — 87 — — 283
Net income (loss) attributable to
non-controlling interests — — 11 — — — 11
Shareholders’ net income (loss) $ 717 $ 257 $ 980 $ 594 $ (50) $ — $ 2,498
The revenue and assets of our business segments differ from geographic segments primarily due to the geographic segmenting of our Asset
Management and Corporate segments.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 133
The following table shows revenue by country for Asset Management and Corporate:
Asset Management Corporate
For the years ended December 31, 2021 2020 2021 2020
Revenue:
United States $ 5,299 $ 4,505 $ 112 $ 169
United Kingdom 289 174 74 725
Canada 233 311 75 79
Other countries 34 47 (3) 7
Total revenue $ 5,855 $ 5,037 $ 258 $ 980
The following table shows total assets by country for Asset Management and Corporate:
Asset Management Corporate
As at December 31, 2021 2020 2021 2020
134 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
5. Total Invested Assets and Related Net Investment Income
Assets
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities $ 12,278 $ 12,278 $ 13,527 $ 13,527
Debt securities - fair value through profit or loss 75,998 75,998 77,834 77,834
Debt securities - available-for-sale(1) 12,729 12,729 11,255 11,255
Equity securities - fair value through profit or loss 7,538 7,538 6,369 6,369
Equity securities - available-for-sale 1,575 1,575 262 262
Mortgages and loans(1) 51,692 55,756 49,946 56,231
Derivative assets 1,583 1,583 2,160 2,160
Other invested assets - fair value through profit or loss(2) 4,435 4,435 3,339 3,339
Other invested assets - available-for-sale(2) 781 781 828 828
Other invested assets - Collateralized Loan Obligations 1,865 1,855 — —
Policy loans 3,261 3,261 3,265 3,265
Total financial assets(3) $ 173,735 $ 177,789 $ 168,785 $ 175,070
(1)
As at December 31, 2021, the fair value of invested assets that have contractual cash flows that qualify as SPPI include $12,604 of Debt securities - AFS
($11,159 as at December 31, 2020), $51,249 of Mortgages and loans supporting insurance contract liabilities ($51,480 as at December 31, 2020), and
$4,499 of Mortgages and loans not supporting insurance contract liabilities ($4,741 as at December 31, 2020).
(2)
Other invested assets (FVTPL and AFS) include our investments in segregated funds, mutual funds and limited partnerships.
(3)
Invested assets on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position of $184,522 ($177,912 as at December 31, 2020) includes Total financial assets in this
table, Investment properties of $9,109 ($7,516 as at December 31, 2020), Other invested assets - non-financial assets of $1,678 ($1,611 as at
December 31, 2020).
Our mortgages and loans are generally carried at amortized cost. The fair value of mortgages and loans, for disclosure purposes, is determined
based on the methodology and assumptions described in Note 5.A.ii. As at December 31, 2021, $43,488 and $12,268 are categorized in Level 2 and
Level 3, respectively, of the fair value hierarchy described in this Note ($43,904 and $12,327, respectively, as at December 31, 2020).
Financial Liabilities
Other financial liabilities are carried at amortized cost. The fair value of Other financial liabilities, for disclosure purposes, is determined based on
the methodology and assumptions described in Note 5.A.ii. As at December 31, 2021, carrying value of $1,810 and fair value of $1,865 are
categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy described in this Note ($1,136 and $1,233, respectively, as at December 31, 2020).
Derivative liabilities with a fair value of $1,392 ($1,744 as at December 31, 2020) are also included on the Consolidated Statements of Financial
Position.
Policy loans are carried at their unpaid principal balances. The fair value of policy loans, for disclosure purposes, is approximated by their carrying
value, as policy loans are fully secured by policy values on which the loans are made and are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
As at December 31, 2021, the carrying value of the assets supporting the CLOs are $1,865, which consists of cash and accounts receivable of $319
and loans of $1,546 ($nil as at December 31, 2020). Loans are measured at amortized cost. These underlying loans are mainly below investment
grade. Our maximum contractual exposure to loss related to the CLOs is limited to our investment of $104 ($nil as at December 31, 2020) in the
most subordinated tranche.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 135
5.A.ii Fair Value Methodologies and Assumptions
The fair value of government and corporate debt securities is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities.
When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using market standard valuation methodologies, which include
discounted cash flow analysis, consensus pricing from various broker dealers that are typically the market makers, or other similar techniques. The
assumptions and valuation inputs in applying these market standard valuation methodologies are determined primarily using observable market
inputs, which include, but are not limited to, benchmark yields, reported trades of identical or similar instruments, broker-dealer quotes, issuer
spreads, bid prices, and reference data including market research publications. In limited circumstances, non-binding broker quotes are used.
The fair value of asset-backed securities is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities, when available, or
valuation methodologies and valuation inputs similar to those used for government and corporate debt securities. Additional valuation inputs
include structural characteristics of the securities, and the underlying collateral performance, such as prepayment speeds and delinquencies.
Expected prepayment speeds are based primarily on those previously experienced in the market at projected future interest rate levels. In instances
where there is a lack of sufficient observable market data to value the securities, non-binding broker quotes are used.
The fair value of equity securities is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities or similar securities. When quoted
prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using equity valuation models, which include discounted cash flow analysis and
other techniques that involve benchmark comparison. Valuation inputs primarily include projected future operating cash flows and earnings,
dividends, market discount rates, and earnings multiples of comparable companies.
The fair value of mortgages and loans is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows using a current market interest rate applicable to
financial instruments with a similar yield, credit quality, and maturity characteristics. Valuation inputs typically include benchmark yields and risk-
adjusted spreads from current lending activities or loan issuances. The risk-adjusted spreads are determined based on the borrower’s credit and
liquidity, as well as term and other loan-specific features. Long-term mortgages and loans are generally categorized in Level 3 of the fair value
hierarchy. The significant unobservable input is a portion of these risk-adjusted spreads at or beyond the 20-year point for mortgages and at or
beyond the 10-year point for loans.
The fair value of other financial liabilities is determined by using the discounted cash flow methodology at the incremental borrowing rate or the
effective interest rate. Other financial liabilities categorized as Level 3 represent the present value of the estimated price we would pay to acquire
any remaining outstanding shares upon exercise of a put option and any mandatory income distributions. The fair value of the liabilities is based on
the average earnings before income tax, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") for the preceding years before the options’ exercise dates and
EBITDA multiples in accordance with the put agreements as well as the expected amount of any mandatory income distributions. A change in
EBITDA would impact the fair value of other financial liabilities and our net income (loss).
The fair value of derivative financial instruments depends upon derivative types. The fair value of exchange-traded futures and options is
determined using quoted prices in active markets, while the fair value of over-the-counter ("OTC") derivatives is determined using pricing models,
such as discounted cash flow analysis or other market standard valuation techniques, with primarily observable market inputs. Valuation inputs
used to price OTC derivatives may include swap interest rate curves, foreign exchange spot and forward rates, index prices, the value of underlying
securities, projected dividends, volatility surfaces, and in limited circumstances, counterparty quotes. The fair value of OTC derivative financial
instruments also includes credit valuation adjustments to reflect the credit risk of both the derivative counterparty and ourselves as well as the
impact of contractual factors designed to reduce our credit exposure, such as collateral and legal rights of offset under master netting agreements.
Inputs into determining the appropriate credit valuation adjustments are typically obtained from publicly available information and include credit
default swap spreads when available, credit spreads derived from specific bond yields, or published cumulative default experience data adjusted for
current trends when credit default swap spreads are not available.
The fair value of other invested assets is determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities or similar securities. When quoted
prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using equity valuation models, which include discounted cash flow analysis and
other techniques that involve benchmark comparison. Valuation inputs primarily include projected future operating cash flows and earnings,
dividends, market discount rates, and earnings multiples of comparable companies.
The fair value of investment properties is generally determined using property valuation models that are based on expected capitalization rates and
models that discount expected future net cash flows at current market interest rates reflective of the characteristics, location, and market of each
property. Expected future net cash flows include contractual and projected cash flows and forecasted operating expenses, and take into account
interest, rental, and occupancy rates derived from market surveys. The estimates of future cash inflows in addition to expected rental income from
current leases, include projected income from future leases based on significant assumptions that are consistent with current market conditions.
The future rental rates are estimated based on the location, type, and quality of the properties, and take into account market data and projections
at the valuation date. The fair values are typically compared to market-based information for reasonability, including recent transactions involving
comparable assets. The methodologies and inputs used in these models are in accordance with real estate industry valuation standards. Valuations
are prepared externally or internally by professionally accredited real estate appraisers.
The fair value of short-term securities is approximated by their carrying amount, adjusted for credit risk where appropriate.
The fair value of investments for account of segregated fund holders is determined using quoted prices in active markets or independent valuation
information provided by investment managers. The fair value of direct investments within investments for account of segregated fund holders, such
as short-term securities and government and corporate debt securities, is determined according to valuation methodologies and inputs described
above in the respective asset type sections.
136 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
The fair value of obligations for securities borrowing is based on the fair value of the underlying borrowed debt securities. As these obligations are
fully collateralized, the method used to determine fair value would be the same as that used for the relevant underlying debt securities.
The methodologies and assumptions for determining the fair values of investment contract liabilities are included in Note 10.B.
Level 1: Fair value is based on the unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market. The types of assets and liabilities
classified as Level 1 generally include cash and cash equivalents, certain U.S. government and agency securities, exchange-traded equity securities,
and certain segregated and mutual fund units held for account of segregated fund holders.
Level 2: Fair value is based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities traded in active markets, or prices from valuation techniques that use
significant observable inputs, or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated with observable market data through correlation or other
means. The types of assets and liabilities classified as Level 2 generally include Canadian federal, provincial and municipal government, other foreign
government and corporate debt securities, certain asset-backed securities, OTC derivatives, and certain segregated and mutual fund units held for
account of segregated fund holders.
Level 3: Fair value is based on valuation techniques that require one or more significant inputs that are not based on observable market inputs.
These unobservable inputs reflect our expectations about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The types
of assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 generally include certain corporate bonds, certain other invested assets and investment properties.
Our assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value on a recurring basis by hierarchy level are as follows:
Assets
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities $ 10,923 $
1,355 $ — $ 12,278 $ 12,428 $ 1,099
$ — $ 13,527
Debt securities – fair value through profit or loss 1,503
74,333 162 75,998 1,537 76,072
225 77,834
Debt securities – available-for-sale 770
11,916 43 12,729 796 10,392
67 11,255
Equity securities – fair value through profit or loss 4,429
3,013 96 7,538 3,777 2,411
181 6,369
Equity securities – available-for-sale 1,414 87 74 1,575 144 71 47 262
Derivative assets 26
1,557 — 1,583 36 2,124 — 2,160
Other invested assets 1,189 377 3,650 5,216 1,094 428
2,645 4,167
Investment properties — — 9,109 9,109 — —
7,516 7,516
Total invested assets measured at fair value $ 20,254 $ 92,638 $ 13,134 $ 126,026 $ 19,812 $ 92,597 $ 10,681 $ 123,090
Investments for account of segregated fund holders 28,637 110,748 611 139,996 26,832 98,539 550 125,921
Total assets measured at fair value $ 48,891 $ 203,386 $ 13,745 $ 266,022 $ 46,644 $ 191,136 $ 11,231 $ 249,011
Liabilities
Investment contract liabilities $ — $ — $ 9 $ 9 $ — $ — $ 2 $ 2
Derivative liabilities 9 1,383 — 1,392 13 1,731 — 1,744
Other liabilities – obligations for securities borrowing — 51 — 51 — — — —
Total liabilities measured at fair value $ 9 $ 1,434 $ 9 $ 1,452 $ 13 $ 1,731 $ 2 $ 1,746
Debt securities - fair value through profit or loss consist of the following:
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 137
Debt securities - available-for-sale consist of the following:
During 2021 and 2020, we did not have any significant transfers between Level 1 and Level 2.
138 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for assets and liabilities that are categorized in Level 3:
The fair value of Investment properties is determined by using the discounted cash flow methodology as described in Note 5.A.ii. The key
unobservable inputs used in the valuation of investment properties as at December 31, 2021 include the following:
• Estimated rental value: The estimated rental value is based on contractual rent and other local market lease transactions, net of reimbursable
operating expenses. An increase (decrease) in the estimated rental value would result in a higher (lower) fair value. The estimated rental value
varies depending on the property types, which include retail, office, and industrial properties. The estimated rental value (in dollars, per square
foot, per annum) ranges from $12.00 to $76.00 for retail and office properties and from $3.00 to $21.50 for industrial properties.
• Rental growth rate: The rental growth rate is typically estimated based on expected market behaviour, which is influenced by the type of
property and geographic region of the property. An increase (decrease) in the rental growth rate would result in a higher (lower) fair value. The
rental growth rate (per annum) ranges from 0.00% to 3.00%, however the one- to two-year short-term rent curve is either below or above this
range for select properties.
• Long-term vacancy rate: The long-term vacancy rate is typically estimated based on expected market behaviour, which is influenced by the
type of property and geographic region of the property. An increase (decrease) in the long-term vacancy rate would result in a lower (higher)
fair value. The long-term vacancy rate ranges from 2.00% to 10.00%.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 139
• Discount rate: The discount rate is derived from market activity across various property types and geographic regions and is a reflection of the
expected rate of return to be realized on the investment over the next 10 years. An increase (decrease) in the discount rate would result in a
lower (higher) fair value. The discount rate ranges from 4.75% to 9.50%.
• Terminal capitalization rate: The terminal capitalization rate is derived from market activity across various property types and geographic
regions and is a reflection of the expected rate of return to be realized on the investment over the remainder of its life after the 10-year period.
An increase (decrease) in the terminal capitalization rate would result in a lower (higher) fair value. The terminal capitalization rate ranges from
4.00% to 7.75%.
Changes in the estimated rental value are positively correlated with changes in the rental growth rate. Changes in the estimated rental value are
negatively correlated with changes in the long-term vacancy rate, the discount rate, and the terminal capitalization rate.
Our Debt securities categorized in Level 3, which are included in Debt securities - FVTPL and Debt securities - AFS in the Level 3 roll forward table,
consist primarily of corporate bonds. The fair value of these corporate bonds is generally determined using broker quotes that cannot be
corroborated with observable market transactions. Significant unobservable inputs for these corporate bonds would include issuer spreads, which
are comprised of credit, liquidity, and other security-specific features of the bonds. An increase (decrease) in these issuer spreads would result in a
lower (higher) fair value. Due to the unobservable nature of these broker quotes, we do not assess whether applying reasonably possible alternative
assumptions would have an impact on the fair value of the Level 3 corporate bonds. The majority of our debt securities categorized in Level 3 are
FVTPL assets supporting insurance contract liabilities. Changes in the fair value of these assets supporting insurance contract liabilities are largely
offset by changes in the corresponding insurance contract liabilities under CALM. As a result, though using reasonably possible alternative
assumptions may have an impact on the fair value of the Level 3 debt securities, it would not have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial
Statements.
The Other invested assets categorized in Level 3, which are included in Other invested assets - FVTPL and Other invested assets - AFS in the Level 3
roll forward table, consists primarily of limited partnership investments. The fair value of our limited partnership investments is based on net asset
value ("NAV") provided by management of the limited partnership investments. Based on the unobservable nature of these NAVs, we do not assess
whether applying reasonably possible alternative assumptions would have an impact on the fair value of the Level 3 limited partnership
investments.
The fair value of investment properties are based on the results of appraisals performed annually and reviewed quarterly for material changes. The
valuation methodology used to determine the fair value is in accordance with the standards of the Appraisal Institute of Canada, the U.S., and the
UK. Investment properties are appraised externally at least once every three years. Investment properties not appraised externally in a given year
are reviewed by qualified appraisers. A management committee, including investment professionals, reviews the fair value of investment properties
for overall reasonability.
The fair value of Debt securities is generally obtained by external pricing services. We obtain an understanding of inputs and valuation methods used
by external pricing services. When fair value cannot be obtained from external pricing services, broker quotes, or internal models subject to detailed
review and validation processes are used. The fair value of debt securities is subject to price validation and review procedures to ensure overall
reasonability.
The fair value of limited partnership investments, included in Other invested assets, is based on NAV. The financial statements used in calculating
the NAV are generally audited annually. We review the NAV of the limited partnership investments and perform analytical and other procedures to
ensure the fair value is reasonable.
140 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
5.B Interest and Other Investment Income
Interest and other investment income presented in our Consolidated Statements of Operations consist of the following:
Interest income:
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities $ 25 $ 71
Debt securities - fair value through profit or loss 2,429 2,485
Debt securities - available-for-sale 256 317
Mortgages and loans 2,117 2,189
Derivative investments 107 46
Policy loans 160 188
Total interest income 5,094 5,296
Equity securities - dividends on fair value through profit or loss 209 165
Equity securities - dividends on available-for-sale 5 4
Investment properties rental income(1) 543 551
Investment properties expenses (235) (243)
Other income 922 (154)
Investment expenses and taxes (266) (212)
Total interest and other investment income $ 6,272 $ 5,407
(1)
Includes operating lease rental income from investment properties.
5.C Fair Value and Foreign Currency Changes on Assets and Liabilities
Fair value and foreign currency changes on assets and liabilities presented in our Consolidated Statements of Operations consist of the following:
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 141
5.E Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities
The fair values of derivative financial instruments by major class of derivatives are as follows:
The following table presents the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities categorized by type of hedge for accounting purposes and derivative
investments:
As at December 31, 2021 2020
Total notional Fair value Total notional Fair value
amount Assets Liabilities amount Assets Liabilities
Hedge ineffectiveness recognized in Interest and other investment income consists of the following:
Gains (losses) on the hedged items attributable to the hedged risk $ (6) $ (209)
Gains (losses) on the hedging derivatives 8 207
Net ineffectiveness on fair value hedges $ 2 $ (2)
For cash flow hedges, we had hedge ineffectiveness of $2 in 2021 ($1 in 2020). We expect to reclassify a gain of $7 ($6 in 2020) from accumulated
OCI to net income within the next 12 months that relates to cash flow hedges of anticipated award payments under certain share-based payment
plans that are expected to occur in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and cash flow hedges which hedge against foreign exchange exposure. The reclassification
of accumulated OCI to income relating to these foreign currency forwards occurs upon disposal or impairment of the foreign operation.
Mortgage-Backed Securities ("NHA MBS") Program sponsored by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation ("CMHC"). The NHA MBS are then
sold to Canada Housing Trust, a government-sponsored security trust that issues securities to third-party investors under the Canadian Mortgage
Bond ("CMB") program. The securitization of these assets does not qualify for derecognition as we have not transferred substantially all of the risks
and rewards of ownership. Specifically, we continue to be exposed to pre-payment and interest rate risk associated with these assets. There are no
expected credit losses on the securitized mortgages, as the mortgages were already insured by the CMHC prior to securitization. These assets
continue to be recognized as Mortgages and loans in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Proceeds from securitization transactions
are recognized as secured borrowings and included in Other liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Receipts of principal on the securitized mortgages are deposited into a principal reinvestment account ("PRA") to meet our repayment obligation
upon maturity under the CMB program. The assets in the PRA are typically comprised of cash and cash equivalents and certain asset-backed
securities. We are exposed to reinvestment risk due to the amortizing nature of the securitized mortgages relative to our repayment obligation for
the full principal amount due at maturity. We mitigate this reinvestment risk using interest rate swaps.
The carrying value and fair value of the securitized mortgages as at December 31, 2021 are $1,856 and $1,882, respectively ($1,781 and $1,873,
respectively, as at December 31, 2020). The carrying value and fair value of the associated liabilities as at December 31, 2021 are $2,007 and $2,043,
respectively ($1,912 and $2,032, respectively, as at December 31, 2020). The carrying value of asset-backed securities in the PRA as at
December 31, 2021 is $164 ($145 as at December 31, 2020). There are $4 cash and cash equivalents in the PRA as at December 31, 2021 ($nil as at
142 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
The fair value of the secured borrowings from mortgage securitization is based on the methodologies and assumptions for asset-backed securities
described in Note 5A.ii. The fair value of these liabilities is categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy as at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
The significant risks related to financial instruments are credit risk, market risk (including equity risk, interest rate and spread risk, and foreign
currency risk) and liquidity risk. The following sections describe how we manage these risks.
Some of our financial instruments risk management policies and procedures are described in our Annual Management’s Discussion and Analysis
("MD&A") for the year ended December 31, 2021. The shaded text and tables in the Risk Management section of the MD&A represent part of our
disclosures on credit, market and liquidity risks and include a description of how we measure our risk and our objectives, policies and methodologies
for managing these risks. Therefore, the shaded text and tables in our MD&A are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
We use derivative instruments to manage market risks related to equity market, interest rate and currency fluctuations and in replication strategies
for permissible investments. We do not engage in speculative investment in derivatives. The gap in market sensitivities or exposures between
liabilities and supporting assets is monitored and managed within defined tolerance limits, by using derivative instruments, where appropriate. We
use models and techniques to measure the effectiveness of our risk management strategies.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 143
• Stress-testing techniques, such as Financial Condition Testing ("FCT"), are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse credit
developments.
• Insurance contract liabilities are established in accordance with Canadian actuarial standards of practice.
• Internal capital targets are established at an enterprise level to cover all risks and are above minimum regulatory and supervisory levels. Actual
capital levels are monitored to ensure they exceed internal targets.
The positive fair value of derivative assets is used to determine the credit risk exposure if the counterparties were to default. The credit risk
exposure is the cost of replacing, at current market rates, all derivative contracts with a positive fair value. Additionally, we have credit exposure to
items not on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as follows:
(1)
Loan commitments include commitments to extend credit under commercial and multi-family residential mortgages and private debt securities not quoted
in an active market. Commitments on debt securities contain provisions that allow for withdrawal of the commitment if there is deterioration in the credit
quality of the borrower.
For OTC derivatives, collateral is collected from and pledged to counterparties to manage credit exposure according to the Credit Support Annex
("CSA"), which forms part of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association's ("ISDA") master agreements. It is common practice to execute a
CSA in conjunction with an ISDA master agreement. Under the ISDA master agreements for OTC derivatives, we have a right of offset in the event of
default, insolvency, bankruptcy, or other early termination. In the ordinary course of business, bilateral OTC exposures under these agreements are
substantially mitigated through associated collateral agreements with a majority of our counterparties.
For exchange-traded derivatives subject to derivative clearing agreements with the exchanges and clearinghouses, there is no provision for set-off at
default. Initial margin is excluded from the table below as it would become part of a pooled settlement process.
For repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements, assets are sold or purchased with a commitment to resell or repurchase at a future
date. Additional collateral may be pledged to or collected from counterparties to manage credit exposure according to bilateral repurchase or
reverse repurchase agreements. In the event of default by a counterparty, we are entitled to liquidate the assets we hold as collateral to offset
against obligations to the same counterparty.
In the case of securities lending or borrowing, assets are lent or borrowed with a commitment from or to the counterparty to return at a future
date. For securities lending, cash or securities are received as collateral from the counterparty; for securities borrowing, debt securities are pledged
as collateral to the counterparty. In the event of default by the counterparty, we are entitled to liquidate the assets we hold as collateral to offset
against obligations to the same counterparty.
144 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
We do not offset financial instruments in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, as our rights of offset are conditional. The following
tables present the effect of conditional netting and similar arrangements. Similar arrangements include global master repurchase agreements,
security lending agreements, and any related rights to financial collateral.
The carrying value of debt securities by geographic location is shown in the following table. The geographic location is based on the country of the
creditor's parent.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 145
The carrying value of debt securities by issuer and industry sector is shown in the following table:
The carrying value of mortgages and loans by geographic location and type is shown in the following tables. The geographic location for mortgages is
based on location of property, while for corporate loans it is based on the country of the creditor's parent.
As at December 31, 2021 Canada United States United Kingdom Other Total
Mortgages:
Retail $ 1,765 $ 1,623 $ — $ — $ 3,388
Office 1,892 1,639 — — 3,531
Multi-family residential 4,138 1,589 — — 5,727
Industrial and land 1,094 941 — — 2,035
Other 680 115 9 — 804
Total mortgages(1) $ 9,569 $ 5,907 $ 9 $ — $ 15,485
Loans $ 12,885 $ 14,596 $ 4,111 $ 4,615 $ 36,207
Total mortgages and loans $ 22,454 $ 20,503 $ 4,120 $ 4,615 $ 51,692
(1)
$4,218 of mortgages in Canada are insured by the CMHC.
As at December 31, 2020 Canada United States United Kingdom Other Total
Mortgages:
Retail $ 1,963 $ 1,747 $ — $ — $ 3,710
Office 1,635 1,846 — — 3,481
Multi-family residential 3,950 1,681 — — 5,631
Industrial and land 996 949 — — 1,945
Other 575 86 — — 661
Total mortgages(1) $ 9,119 $ 6,309 $ — $ — $ 15,428
Loans $ 13,107 $ 13,773 $ 3,798 $ 3,840 $ 34,518
Total mortgages and loans $ 22,226 $ 20,082 $ 3,798 $ 3,840 $ 49,946
(1)
$4,008 of mortgages in Canada are insured by the CMHC.
146 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
6.A.iv Contractual Maturities
The contractual maturities of debt securities are shown in the following table. Actual maturities could differ from contractual maturities because of
the borrower's right to call or extend or right to prepay obligations, with or without prepayment penalties.
The carrying value of mortgages by scheduled maturity, before allowances for losses, is as follows:
The carrying value of loans by scheduled maturity, before allowances for losses, is as follows:
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 147
Notional amounts of derivative financial instruments are the basis for calculating payments and are generally not the actual amounts exchanged.
The following table provides the notional amounts of derivative instruments outstanding by type of derivative and term to maturity:
Over-the-counter contracts:
Interest rate contracts:
Forward contracts $ 94 $ 6 $ — $ 100 $ — $ 6 $ — $ 6
Swap contracts 1,273 3,434 13,042 17,749 1,010 3,363 13,302 17,675
Options purchased 878 3,297 1,674 5,849 757 3,246 2,285 6,288
Options written(1) — 461 — 461 — 465 — 465
Foreign exchange contracts:
Forward contracts 10,824 3,097 — 13,921 12,205 31 — 12,236
Swap contracts 725 2,654 16,494 19,873 1,260 2,797 14,467 18,524
Other contracts:
Options purchased 271 8 — 279 119 8 — 127
Forward contracts 154 163 — 317 132 175 — 307
Swap contracts 446 — — 446 170 1 — 171
Credit derivatives 322 513 — 835 175 737 — 912
Exchange-traded contracts:
Interest rate contracts:
Futures contracts 3,818 — — 3,818 3,389 — — 3,389
Equity contracts:
Futures contracts 2,105 — — 2,105 2,553 — — 2,553
Options purchased 213 — — 213 127 — — 127
Options written — — — — 12 — — 12
Total notional amount $ 21,123 $ 13,633 $ 31,210 $ 65,966 $ 21,909 $ 10,829 $ 30,054 $ 62,792
(1)
These are covered short derivative positions that may include interest rate options, swaptions, or floors.
The following table provides the fair value of derivative instruments outstanding by term to maturity:
Derivative assets $ 139 $ 249 $ 1,195 $ 1,583 $ 329 $ 223 $ 1,608 $ 2,160
Derivative liabilities $ (97) $ (184) $ (1,111) $ (1,392) $ (215) $ (245) $ (1,284) $ (1,744)
148 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
6.A.v Asset Quality
The following sections describe our assessment of the credit quality of our financial assets. We monitor credit quality based on internal risk ratings
as well as ratings assigned by external rating agencies where available.
The following tables summarize our mortgages and loans by credit quality indicator:
We pledge and hold assets as collateral under CSAs for bilateral OTC derivative contracts. The collateral is realized in the event of early termination
as defined in the agreements. The assets held and pledged are primarily cash and debt securities issued by the Canadian federal government and
U.S. government and agencies. While we are generally permitted to sell or re-pledge the assets held as collateral, we have not sold or re-pledged
any assets. Exchange-traded and cleared OTC derivatives require the posting of initial margin, as well as daily cash settlement of variation margin.
The terms and conditions related to the use of the collateral are consistent with industry practice.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 149
Further details on collateral held and pledged as well as the impact of netting arrangements are included in Note 6.A.ii.
The following table shows the OTC derivative financial instruments with a positive fair value split by counterparty credit rating:
Over-the-counter contracts:
AA $ 402 $ (219) $ 183 $ 596 $ (293) $ 303
A 1,080 (598) 482 1,430 (575) 855
BBB 74 (11) 63 98 (15) 83
Total over-the-counter derivatives(1) $ 1,556 $ (828) $ 728 $ 2,124 $ (883) $ 1,241
(1)
Exchange-traded derivatives with a positive fair value of $27 in 2021 ($36 in 2020) are excluded from the table above, as they are subject to daily
margining requirements. Our credit exposure on these derivatives is with the exchanges and clearinghouses.
(2)
Used to determine the credit risk exposure if the counterparties were to default. The credit risk exposure is the cost of replacing, at current market rates,
all contracts with a positive fair value.
(3)
The credit risk associated with derivative assets subject to master netting arrangements is reduced by derivative liabilities due to the same counterparty in
the event of default or early termination. Our overall exposure to credit risk reduced through master netting arrangements may change substantially
following the reporting date as the exposure is affected by each transaction subject to the arrangement.
(4)
Net replacement cost is positive replacement cost less the impact of master netting agreements.
The following table provides a summary of the credit default swap protection sold by credit rating of the underlying reference security:
150 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
6.A.vi Impairment of Assets
Management assesses debt and equity securities, mortgages and loans, and other invested assets for objective evidence of impairment at each
reporting date. We employ a portfolio monitoring process to identify assets or groups of assets that have objective evidence of impairment, having
experienced a loss event or events that have an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the asset or group of assets. There are inherent risks
and uncertainties in our evaluation of assets or groups of assets for objective evidence of impairment, including both internal and external factors
such as general economic conditions, issuers' financial conditions and prospects for economic recovery, market interest rates, unforeseen events
which affect one or more issuers or industry sectors, and portfolio management parameters, including asset mix, interest rate risk, portfolio
diversification, duration matching, and greater than expected liquidity needs. All of these factors could impact our evaluation of an asset or group of
assets for objective evidence of impairment.
Management exercises considerable judgment in assessing for objective evidence of impairment and, based on its assessment, classifies specific
assets as either performing or into one of the following credit quality lists:
"Monitor List" - the timely collection of all contractually specified cash flows is reasonably assured, but changes in issuer-specific facts and
circumstances require monitoring. No impairment charge is recorded for unrealized losses on assets related to these debtors.
"Watch List" - the timely collection of all contractually specified cash flows is reasonably assured, but changes in issuer-specific facts and
circumstances require heightened monitoring. An asset is moved from the Monitor List to the Watch List when changes in issuer-specific facts and
circumstances increase the possibility that a security may experience a loss event on an imminent basis. No impairment charge is recorded for
unrealized losses on assets related to these debtors.
"Impaired List" - the timely collection of all contractually specified cash flows is no longer reasonably assured. For these investments that are
classified as AFS or amortized cost, an impairment charge is recorded or the asset is sold and a realized loss is recorded as a charge to income.
Impairment charges and realized losses are recorded on assets related to these debtors.
Our approach to determining whether there is objective evidence of impairment varies by asset type. However, we have a process to ensure that in
all instances where a decision has been made to sell an asset at a loss, the asset is impaired.
Debt Securities
Objective evidence of impairment on debt securities involves an assessment of the issuer's ability to meet current and future contractual interest
and principal payments. In determining whether debt securities have objective evidence of impairment, we employ a screening process. The process
identifies securities in an unrealized loss position, with particular attention paid to those securities whose fair value to amortized cost percentages
have been less than 80% for an extended period of time. Discrete credit events, such as a ratings downgrade, are also used to identify securities that
may have objective evidence of impairment. The securities identified are then evaluated based on issuer-specific facts and circumstances, including
an evaluation of the issuer's financial condition and prospects for economic recovery, evidence of difficulty being experienced by the issuer's parent
or affiliate, and management's assessment of the outlook for the issuer's industry sector.
Management also assesses previously impaired debt securities whose fair value has recovered to determine whether the recovery is objectively
related to an event occurring subsequent to the impairment loss that has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the asset.
Asset-backed securities are assessed for objective evidence of impairment. Specifically, we periodically update our best estimate of cash flows over
the life of the security. In the event that there is an adverse change in the expected cash flows, the asset is impaired. Estimating future cash flows is
a quantitative and qualitative process that incorporates information received from third parties, along with assumptions and judgments about the
future performance of the underlying collateral. Losses incurred on the respective mortgage-backed securities portfolios are based on loss models
using assumptions about key systematic risks, such as unemployment rates and housing prices, and loan-specific information such as delinquency
rates and loan-to-value ratios.
We apply presumptive impairment tests to determine whether there has been a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an instrument
below its cost, and unless extenuating circumstances exist, the instrument is considered to be impaired.
Mortgages and loans causing concern are monitored closely and evaluated for objective evidence of impairment. For these mortgages and loans, we
review information that is appropriate to the circumstances, including recent operating developments, strategy review, timelines for remediation,
financial position of the borrower and, for collateral-dependent mortgages and loans, the value of security as well as occupancy and cash flow
considerations.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 151
In addition to specific allowances, circumstances may warrant a collective allowance based on objective evidence of impairment for a group of
mortgages and loans. We consider regional economic conditions, developments for various property types, and significant exposure to struggling
tenants in determining whether there is objective evidence of impairment for certain collateral dependent mortgages and loans, even though it is
not possible to identify specific mortgages and loans that are likely to become impaired on an individual basis.
Management also assesses previously impaired mortgages and loans to determine whether a recovery is objectively related to an event occurring
subsequent to the impairment loss that has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the asset.
We did not reverse any impairment on AFS debt securities during 2021 and 2020.
Past Due and Impaired Mortgages and Loans
The distribution of mortgages and loans past due or impaired is shown in the following tables:
152 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Market Risk Management Governance and Control
We employ a wide range of market risk management practices and controls as outlined below:
• Market risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Risk
Committee.
• Risk appetite limits have been established for equity, interest rate, real estate and foreign currency risks.
• Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed and reported against pre-established risk limits.
• Comprehensive asset-liability management and hedging policies, programs and practices are in place.
• Regulatory solvency requirements include risk-based capital requirements and are monitored regularly.
• Product Design and Pricing Policy requires a detailed risk assessment and pricing provisions for material risks.
• Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse market movements.
• Insurance contract liabilities are established in accordance with Canadian actuarial standards of practice.
• Internal capital targets are established at an enterprise level to cover all risks and are above minimum regulatory and supervisory levels. Actual
capital levels are monitored to ensure they exceed internal targets.
Specific market risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail.
We generate revenue in our asset management businesses and from certain insurance and annuity contracts where fees are levied on account
balances that are affected directly by equity market levels. Accordingly, we have further exposure to equity risk as adverse fluctuations in the
market value of such assets will result in corresponding adverse impacts on our revenue and net income. In addition, declining and volatile equity
markets may have a negative impact on sales and redemptions (surrenders) in these businesses, and this may result in further adverse impacts on
our net income and financial position.
We also have direct exposure to equity markets from the investments supporting other general account liabilities, surplus, and employee benefit
plans. These exposures fall within our risk-taking philosophy and appetite, and are therefore generally not hedged.
The carrying value of equities by issuer country is shown in the following table:
A significant market risk exposure from embedded derivatives arises in connection with the benefit guarantees on segregated fund contracts. These
benefit guarantees are linked to underlying fund performance and may be triggered upon death, maturity, withdrawal, or annuitization. We have
implemented hedging programs to mitigate a portion of this market risk exposure.
We are also exposed to significant interest rate risk or equity market risk from embedded derivatives in certain general account products and
segregated fund contracts, which contain explicit or implicit investment guarantees in the form of minimum crediting rates, guaranteed premium
rates, settlement options, and benefit guarantees. If investment returns fall below guaranteed levels, we may be required to increase liabilities or
capital in respect of these contracts. The guarantees attached to these products may be applicable to both past premiums collected and future
premiums not yet received. Segregated fund contracts provide benefit guarantees that are linked to underlying fund performance and may be
triggered upon death, maturity, withdrawal, or annuitization. These products are included in our asset-liability management program and the
residual interest rate exposure is managed within our risk appetite limits.
We are also exposed to interest rate risk through guaranteed annuitization options included primarily in retirement contracts and pension plans.
These embedded options give policyholders the right to convert their investment into a pension on a guaranteed basis, thereby exposing us to
declining long-term interest rates as the annuity guarantee rates come into effect. Embedded options on unit-linked pension contracts give
policyholders the right to convert their fund at retirement into pensions on a guaranteed basis, thereby exposing us to declining interest rates and
increasing equity market returns (increasing the size of the fund which is eligible for the guaranteed conversion basis). Guaranteed annuity options
are included in our asset-liability management program and most of the interest rate and equity exposure is mitigated through hedging.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 153
Significant changes or volatility in interest rates or spreads could have a negative impact on sales of certain insurance and annuity products, and
adversely impact the expected pattern of redemptions (surrenders) on existing policies. Increases in interest rates or widening spreads may increase
the risk that policyholders will surrender their contracts, potentially forcing us to liquidate assets at a loss and accelerate recognition of certain
acquisition expenses. While we have established hedging programs in place and our insurance and annuity products often contain surrender
mitigation features, these may not be sufficient to fully offset the adverse impact of the underlying losses.
Certain annuity and long-term disability contracts contain embedded derivatives as benefits are linked to the Consumer Price Index; however most
of this exposure is hedged through the Company’s ongoing asset-liability management program.
We are subject to various regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. The ability of SLF Inc.'s subsidiaries to pay dividends and transfer
funds is regulated in certain jurisdictions and may require local regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of specific conditions in certain
circumstances. Through effective cash management and capital planning, SLF Inc. ensures that its subsidiaries, as a whole and on a stand-alone
basis, are properly funded and maintain adequate liquidity to meet obligations, both individually and in aggregate.
Based on our historical cash flows and liquidity management processes, we believe that the cash flows from our operating activities will continue to
provide sufficient liquidity for us to satisfy debt service obligations and to pay other expenses as they fall due.
154 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
• Detailed procedures, including criteria for approval of risks and for claims adjudication are established and monitored for each business
segment.
• Underwriting and risk selection standards and procedures are established and overseen by the corporate underwriting and claims risk
management function.
• Diversification and risk pooling is managed by aggregation of exposures across product lines, geography and distribution channels.
• We use reinsurance to limit losses, minimize exposure to significant risks and to provide additional capacity for growth.
• The Insurance Risk Policy and Investment & Credit Risk Policy establish acceptance criteria and protocols to monitor the level of reinsurance
ceded to any single reinsurer or group of reinsurers.
• Reinsurance counterparty risk is monitored, including annual reporting of reinsurance exposure to the Risk Committee.
• Concentration risk exposure is monitored on group policies in a single location to avoid a catastrophic event occurrence resulting in a
significant impact.
• Various limits, restrictions and fee structures are introduced into plan designs in order to establish a more homogeneous policy risk profile and
limit potential for anti-selection.
• Regulatory solvency requirements include risk-based capital requirements and are monitored regularly.
• The Product Design and Pricing Policy requires detailed risk assessment and pricing provision for material risks.
• Company specific and industry level experience studies and sources of earnings analysis are monitored and factored into valuation, renewal
and new business pricing processes.
• Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse movements in insurance risk factors.
• Insurance contract liabilities are established in accordance with Canadian actuarial standards of practice.
• Internal capital targets are established at an enterprise level to cover all risks and are above minimum regulatory and supervisory levels. Actual
capital levels are monitored to ensure they exceed internal targets.
Our Insurance Risk Policy sets maximum global retention limits and related management standards and practices that are applied to reduce our
exposure to large claims. Amounts in excess of the Board-approved maximum retention limits are reinsured. On a single life or joint-first-to-die basis
retention limit is $40 in Canada and US$40 outside of Canada. For survivorship life insurance, our maximum global retention limit is $50 in Canada
and US$50 outside of Canada. In certain markets and jurisdictions, retention levels below the maximum are applied. Reinsurance is utilized for
numerous products in most business segments, and placement is done on an automatic basis for defined insurance portfolios and on a facultative
basis for individual risks with certain characteristics.
Our reinsurance coverage is well diversified and controls are in place to manage exposure to reinsurance counterparties. Reinsurance exposures are
monitored to ensure that no single reinsurer represents an undue level of credit risk. This includes performing periodic due diligence on our
reinsurance counterparties as well as internal credit assessments on counterparties with which we have material exposure. While reinsurance
arrangements provide for the recovery of claims arising from the liabilities ceded, we retain primary responsibility to the policyholders.
Specific insurance risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail. The sensitivities provided below reflect the
impact of any applicable ceded reinsurance arrangements.
Uncertainty in policyholder behaviour can arise from several sources including unexpected events in the policyholder's life circumstances, the
general level of economic activity (whether higher or lower than expected), changes in the financial and capital markets, changes in pricing and
availability of current products, the introduction of new products, changes in underwriting technology and standards, as well as changes in our
financial strength or reputation. Uncertainty in future cash flows affected by policyholder behaviour can be further exacerbated by irrational
behaviour during times of economic turbulence or at key option exercise points in the life of an insurance contract.
For individual life insurance products where fewer terminations would be financially adverse to us, shareholders' net income and equity would be
decreased by about $270 ($295 in 2020) if the termination rate assumption were reduced by 10%. For products where more terminations would be
financially adverse to us, shareholders' net income and equity would be decreased by about $225 ($200 in 2020) if the termination rate assumption
were increased by 10%. These sensitivities reflect the impact of any applicable ceded reinsurance arrangements.
Internal experience studies are used to monitor, review and update policyholder behaviour assumptions as needed, which could result in updates
to policy liabilities.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 155
a result of a pandemic, or in association with other risk factors such as product development and pricing or model risk. Adverse mortality and
morbidity experience could also occur through systemic anti-selection, which could arise due to poor plan design, or underwriting process failure or
the development of investor-owned and secondary markets for life insurance policies.
External factors could adversely affect our life insurance, health insurance, critical illness, disability, long-term care insurance and annuity
businesses. Morbidity experience could be unfavourably impacted by external events, such as pandemics, increases in disability claims during
economic slowdowns and increases in high medical treatment costs and growth in utilization of specialty drugs. This introduces the potential for
adverse financial volatility in our financial results.
For life insurance products, a 2% increase in the best estimate assumption would decrease shareholders' net income and equity by about $25 ($25
in 2020). This sensitivity reflects the impact of any applicable ceded reinsurance arrangements.
For products where morbidity is a significant assumption, a 5% adverse change in the assumptions would reduce shareholders' net income and
equity by about $255 ($250 in 2020). This sensitivity reflects the impact of any applicable ceded reinsurance arrangements.
We do not have a high degree of concentration risk to single individuals or groups due to our well-diversified geographic and business mix. The
largest portion of mortality risk within the Company is in North America. Individual and group insurance policies are underwritten prior to initial
issue and renewals, based on risk selection, plan design, and rating techniques.
The Insurance Risk Policy approved by the Risk Committee includes limits on the maximum amount of insurance that may be issued under one policy
and the maximum amount that may be retained. These limits vary by geographic region and amounts in excess of limits are reinsured to ensure
there is no exposure to unreasonable concentration of risk.
For annuities products for which lower mortality would be financially adverse to us, a 2% decrease in the mortality assumption would decrease
shareholders' net income and equity by about $150 ($150 in 2020). These sensitivities reflect the impact of any applicable ceded reinsurance
arrangements.
156 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Product Design and Pricing Governance and Control
Our Product Design and Pricing Policy, approved by the Risk Committee, establishes the framework governing our product design and pricing
practices and is designed to align our product offerings with our strategic objectives and risk-taking philosophy. Consistent with this policy, product
development, design and pricing processes have been implemented throughout the Company. New products follow a stage-gate process with
defined management approvals based on the significance of the initiative. Each initiative is subject to a risk assessment process to identify key risks
and risk mitigation requirements, and is reviewed by multiple stakeholders. Additional governance and control procedures are listed below:
• Pricing models, methods, and assumptions are subject to periodic internal peer reviews.
• Experience studies, sources of earnings analysis, and product dashboards are used to monitor actual experience against those assumed in
pricing and valuation.
• On experience rated, participating, and adjustable products, emerging experience is reflected through changes in policyholder dividend scales
as well as other policy adjustment mechanisms such as premium and benefit levels.
• Limits and restrictions may be introduced into the design of products to mitigate adverse policyholder behaviour or apply upper thresholds on
certain benefits.
The sensitivity of liabilities for insurance contracts to a 5% increase in unit expenses would result in a decrease in shareholders' net income and
equity of about $165 ($175 in 2020). These sensitivities reflect the impact of any applicable ceded reinsurance arrangements.
Changes in reinsurance market conditions, including actions taken by reinsurers to increase rates on existing and new coverage and our ability
to obtain appropriate reinsurance, may adversely impact the availability or cost of maintaining existing or securing new reinsurance capacity,
with adverse impacts on our business strategies, profitability and financial position. There is a possibility of rate increases or renegotiation of
some of the legacy reinsurance contracts by a few of our reinsurers, as they continue to review and optimize their business models. In addition,
changes to the regulatory treatment of reinsurance arrangements could have an adverse impact on our capital position.
New sales of our products can be discontinued or changed to reflect developments in the reinsurance markets. Rates for our in-force
reinsurance treaties can be either guaranteed or adjustable for the life of the ceded policy. In order to diversify reinsurance risk, there is
generally more than one reinsurer supporting a reinsurance pool.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 157
8. Other Assets
9.A Goodwill
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill acquired through business combinations by reportable business segment are as follows:
Asset
Canada U.S. Asia Management Corporate Total
Goodwill was not impaired in 2021 or 2020. The carrying amounts of goodwill allocated to our CGUs or groups of CGUs are as follows:
Goodwill acquired in business combinations is allocated to the CGUs or groups of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the
particular acquisition.
Goodwill is assessed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or circumstances occur that may result in the recoverable amount of a
CGU falling below its carrying value. The recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. We use fair value less
costs of disposal as the recoverable amount.
We use the best evidence of fair value less costs of disposal as the price obtainable for the sale of a CGU, or group of CGUs. Fair value less costs of
disposal is initially assessed by looking at recently completed market comparable transactions. In the absence of such comparables, we use either an
appraisal methodology (with market assumptions commonly used in the valuation of insurance companies or asset management companies) or a
valuation multiples methodology. The fair value measurements are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
158 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
The most recent calculations from 2018 for certain CGUs and groups of CGUs were carried forward and used in the impairment test in the current
period as: (i) the recoverable amount for these CGUs and groups of CGUs exceeded the carrying amount by a substantial margin, (ii) the assets and
liabilities making up the CGUs and groups of CGUs had not changed significantly, and (iii) the likelihood that the carrying value would exceed the
recoverable amount was remote, based on an analysis of events that have occurred and circumstances that have changed. The key drivers impacting
the recoverable amount from 2018 are consistent with the key assumptions below.
Under the appraisal methodology, fair value is assessed based on best estimates of future income, expenses, level and cost of capital over the
lifetime of the policies and, where appropriate, adjusted for items such as transaction costs. The value ascribed to new business is based on sales
anticipated in our business plans, sales projections for the valuation period based on reasonable growth assumptions, and anticipated levels of
profitability of that new business. In calculating the value of new business, future sales are projected for 10 to 15 years. In some instances, market
multiples are used to approximate the explicit projection of new business.
The discount rates applied reflect the nature of the environment for that CGU. The discount rates used range from 9.25% to 12.50% (after tax).
More established CGUs with a stronger brand and competitive market position use discount rates at the low end of the range and CGUs with a
weaker competitive position use discount rates at the high end of the range. The capital levels used are aligned with our business objectives.
Under the valuation multiples methodology, fair value is assessed with reference to multiples or ratios of comparable businesses. For life insurers
and asset managers, these valuation multiples and ratios may include price-to-earnings or price-to-assets-under-management measures. This
assessment takes into consideration a variety of relevant factors and assumptions, including expected growth, risk, and market conditions among
others. The price-to-earnings multiples used range from 10.5 to 11.5. The price-to-assets-under-management ratios used range from 0.8% to 2.0%.
Judgment is used in estimating the recoverable amounts of CGUs and the use of different assumptions and estimates could result in material
adjustments to the valuation of CGUs and the size of any impairment. Any material change in the key assumptions including those for capital,
discount rates, the value of new business, and expenses, as well as cash flow projections used in the determination of recoverable amounts, may
result in impairment charges, which could be material.
In considering the sensitivity of the key assumptions above, management determined that there is no reasonably possible change in any of the
above that would result in the recoverable amount of any of the CGUs to be less than its carrying amount.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 159
The components of the intangible assets are as follows:
In determining our liabilities for insurance contracts, assumptions must be made about mortality and morbidity rates, lapse and other policyholder
behaviour ("policyholder behaviour"), interest rates, equity market performance, asset default, inflation, expenses, and other factors over the life of
our products. Most of these assumptions relate to events that are anticipated to occur many years in the future. Assumptions require significant
judgment and regular review and, where appropriate, revision.
We use best estimate assumptions for expected future experience and apply margins for adverse deviations to provide for uncertainty in the choice
of the best estimate assumptions. The amount of insurance contract liabilities related to the application of margins for adverse deviations to best
estimate assumptions is called a provision for adverse deviations.
Provisions for adverse deviations in future interest rates are included by testing a number of scenarios of future interest rates, some of which are
prescribed by Canadian actuarial standards of practice, and determining the liability based on the range of possible outcomes. A scenario of future
interest rates includes, for each forecast period between the statement of financial position date and the last liability cash flow, interest rates for
risk-free assets, premiums for asset default, rates of inflation, and an investment strategy consistent with the Company's investment policy. The
starting point for all future interest rate scenarios is consistent with the current market environment. If few scenarios are tested, the liability would
be at least as great as the largest of the outcomes. If many scenarios are tested, the liability would be within a range defined by the average of the
outcomes that are above the 60th percentile of the range of outcomes and the corresponding average for the 80th percentile.
160 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Provisions for adverse deviations in future equity returns are included by scenario testing or by applying margins for adverse deviations. In blocks of
business where the valuation of liabilities uses scenario testing of future equity returns, the liability would be within a range defined by the average
of the outcomes that are above the 60th percentile of the range of outcomes and the corresponding average for the 80th percentile. In blocks of
business where the valuation of liabilities does not use scenario testing of future equity returns, the margin for adverse deviations on common share
dividends is between 5% and 20%, and the margin for adverse deviations on capital gains would be 20% plus an assumption that those assets reduce
in value by 20% to 50% at the time when the reduction is most adverse. A 30% reduction is appropriate for a diversified portfolio of North American
common shares and, for other portfolios, the appropriate reduction depends on the volatility of the portfolio relative to a diversified portfolio of
North American common shares.
In choosing margins, we ensure that, when taken one at a time, each margin is reasonable with respect to the underlying best estimate assumption
and the extent of uncertainty present in making that assumption, and also that, in aggregate, the cumulative impact of the margins for adverse
deviations is reasonable with respect to the total amount of our insurance contract liabilities. Our margins are generally stable over time and are
generally only revised to reflect changes in the level of uncertainty in the best estimate assumptions. Our margins tend to be at the mid-range, with
the higher range used where there is greater uncertainty. When considering the aggregate impact of margins, the actuary assesses the consistency
of margins for each assumption across each block of business to ensure there is no double counting or omission and to avoid choosing margins that
might be mutually exclusive. In particular, the actuary chooses similar margins for blocks of business with similar characteristics, and also chooses
margins that are consistent with other assumptions, including assumptions about economic factors. The actuary is guided by Canadian actuarial
standards of practice in making these professional judgments about the reasonableness of margins for adverse deviations.
The best estimate assumptions and margins for adverse deviations are reviewed at least annually and revisions are made when appropriate. The
choice of assumptions underlying the valuation of insurance contract liabilities is subject to external actuarial peer review.
Mortality
Mortality refers to the rates at which death occurs for defined groups of people. Life insurance mortality assumptions are generally based on the
past five to ten years of experience. Our experience is combined with industry experience where our own experience is insufficient to be statistically
valid. Assumed mortality rates for life insurance and annuity contracts include assumptions about future mortality improvement based on recent
trends in population mortality and our outlook for future trends.
Morbidity
Morbidity refers to both the rates of accident or sickness and the rates of recovery therefrom. Most of our disability insurance is marketed on a
group basis. We offer critical illness policies on an individual basis in Canada and Asia, long-term care on an individual basis in Canada, and medical
stop-loss insurance is offered on a group basis in the U.S. In Canada, group morbidity assumptions are based on our five-year average experience,
modified to reflect any emerging trend in recovery rates. For long-term care and critical illness insurance, assumptions are developed in
collaboration with our reinsurers and are largely based on their experience. In the U.S., our experience is used for both medical stop-loss and
disability assumptions, with some consideration of industry experience.
Policyholder Behaviour
Lapse
Policyholders may allow their policies to lapse prior to the end of the contractual coverage period by choosing not to continue to pay premiums or
by surrendering their policy for the cash surrender value. Assumptions for lapse experience on life insurance are generally based on our five-year
average experience. Lapse rates vary by plan, age at issue, method of premium payment, and policy duration.
Expense
Future policy-related expenses include the costs of premium collection, claims adjudication and processing, actuarial calculations, preparation and
mailing of policy statements, and related indirect expenses and overhead. Expense assumptions are mainly based on our recent experience using an
internal expense allocation methodology. Inflationary increases assumed in future expenses are consistent with the future interest rates used in
scenario testing.
Investment Returns
Interest Rates
We generally maintain distinct asset portfolios for each major line of business. In the valuation of insurance contract liabilities, the future cash flows
from insurance contracts and the assets that support them are projected under a number of interest rate scenarios, some of which are prescribed
by Canadian actuarial standards of practice. Reinvestments and disinvestments take place according to the specifications of each scenario, and the
liability is set based on the range of possible outcomes.
For segregated fund products (including variable annuities), we have implemented hedging programs involving the use of derivative instruments to
mitigate a large portion of the equity market risk associated with the guarantees. The cost of these hedging programs is reflected in the liabilities.
The equity market risk associated with anticipated future fee income is not hedged.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 161
The majority of non-fixed income assets that are designated as FVTPL support our participating and universal life products where investment returns
are passed through to policyholders through routine changes in the amount of dividends declared or in the rate of interest credited. In these cases,
changes in non-fixed income asset values are largely offset by changes in insurance contract liabilities.
Asset Default
As required by Canadian actuarial standards of practice, insurance contract liabilities include a provision for possible future default of the assets
supporting those liabilities. The amount of the provision for asset default included in the insurance contract liabilities is based on possible reductions
in future investment yield that vary by factors such as type of asset, asset credit quality (rating), duration, and country of origin. The asset default
assumptions are comprised of a best estimate plus a margin for adverse deviations, and are intended to provide for loss of both principal and
income. Best estimate asset default assumptions by asset category and geography are derived from long-term studies of industry experience and
the Company's experience. Margins for adverse deviation are chosen from the standard range (of 25% to 100%) as recommended by Canadian
actuarial standards of practice based on the amount of uncertainty in the choice of best estimate assumption. The credit quality of an asset is based
on external ratings if available (public bonds) and internal ratings if not (mortgages and loans). Any assets without ratings are treated as if they are
rated below investment grade.
In contrast to asset impairment provisions and changes in FVTPL assets arising from impairments, both of which arise from known credit events, the
asset default provision in the insurance contract liabilities covers losses related to possible future (unknown) credit events. Canadian actuarial
standards of practice require the asset default provision to be determined taking into account known impairments that are recognized elsewhere on
the statement of financial position. The asset default provision included in the insurance contract liabilities is reassessed each reporting period in
light of impairments, changes in asset quality ratings, and other events that occurred during the period.
162 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
10.A.iv Changes in Insurance Contract Liabilities and Reinsurance Assets
Changes in Insurance contract liabilities and Reinsurance assets are as follows:
For the years ended December 31, 2021 2020
Insurance Insurance
contract Reinsurance contract Reinsurance
liabilities assets Net liabilities assets Net
Balances before Other policy liabilities and
assets as at January 1, $ 137,733 $ 3,126 $ 134,607 $ 123,894 $ 3,395 $ 120,499
Change in balances on in-force policies (1,642) (18) (1,624) 9,919 (107) 10,026
Balances arising from new policies 3,948 74 3,874 5,004 82 4,922
Method and assumption changes 131 (142) 273 (63) (179) 116
Increase (decrease) in Insurance contract
liabilities and Reinsurance assets 2,437 (86) 2,523 14,860 (204) 15,064
Other (1) — (109) 109 — — —
Foreign exchange rate movements (499) (26) (473) (1,021) (65) (956)
Balances before Other policy liabilities and
assets 139,671 2,905 136,766 137,733 3,126 134,607
Other policy liabilities and assets 8,140 778 7,362 8,040 717 7,323
Total Insurance contract liabilities and
Reinsurance assets, December 31 $ 147,811 $ 3,683 $ 144,128 $ 145,773 $ 3,843 $ 141,930
(1)
Recapture of reinsurance contracts.
For the year ended December 31, 2021 before income taxes Description
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 163
10.B Investment Contract Liabilities
10.B.i Description of Business
The following are the types of investment contracts in-force:
• Term certain payout annuities in Canada
• Guaranteed Investment Contracts in Canada
• Unit-linked products issued in the UK and Hong Kong
• Non-unit-linked pensions contracts issued in the UK and Hong Kong
The fair value liability is measured through the use of prospective discounted cash-flow techniques. For unit-linked contracts, the fair value liability is
equal to the current unit fund value, plus additional non-unit liability amounts on a fair value basis if required. For non-unit-linked contracts, the fair
value liability is equal to the present value of cash flows.
Amortized cost is measured at the date of initial recognition as the fair value of consideration received, less the net effect of principal payments
such as transaction costs and front-end fees. At each reporting date, the amortized cost liability is measured as the present value of future cash
flows discounted at the effective interest rate where the effective interest rate is the rate that equates the discounted cash flows to the liability at
the date of initial recognition.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, Investment contract liabilities of $3,368 are comprised of investment contracts with DPF of $872,
investment contracts without DPF measured at amortized cost of $2,487, and for investment contracts without DPF measured at fair value of $9.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, Investment contract liabilities of $3,189 are comprised of investment contracts with DPF of $497,
investment contracts without DPF measured at amortized cost of $2,690, and investment contracts without DPF measured at fair value of $2.
164 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
10.B.iv Changes in Investment Contract Liabilities
Changes in investment contract liabilities without “DPF” are as follows:
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 165
10.E Changes in Insurance Contract Liabilities, Investment Contract Liabilities and Reinsurance
Assets
Changes in the balances of our insurance contract liabilities and investment contract liabilities, including the net transfers to (from) segregated
funds, as well as changes in our reinsurance assets, consist of the following:
For the years ended December 31, 2021 2020
Increase (decrease) in insurance contract liabilities $ 2,437 $ 14,860
Decrease (increase) in reinsurance assets 86 204
Increase (decrease) in investment contract liabilities (22) 61
Net transfer to (from) segregated funds (351) (1,825)
Total changes in insurance contract liabilities, investment contract liabilities and reinsurance assets $ 2,150 $ 13,300
The Appointed Actuary is required to provide an opinion regarding the appropriateness of the policy liabilities, net of reinsurance recoverables, at
the statement dates to meet all policy obligations of the Company. Examination of supporting data for accuracy and completeness and analysis of
our assets for their ability to support the amount of policy liabilities, net of reinsurance recoverables, are important elements of the work required
to form this opinion.
The Appointed Actuary is required each year to investigate the financial condition of the Company and prepare a report for the Board. The 2021
analysis tested our capital adequacy until December 31, 2025, under various adverse economic and business conditions. The Appointed Actuary
reviews the calculation of our Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test ("LICAT") Ratios.
11. Reinsurance
Reinsurance is used primarily to limit exposure to large losses. We have a retention policy that requires that such arrangements be placed with well-
established, highly-rated reinsurers. Coverage is well-diversified and controls are in place to manage exposure to reinsurance counterparties. While
reinsurance arrangements provide for the recovery of claims arising from the liabilities ceded, we retain primary responsibility to the policyholders.
166 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
As at December 31, 2020 Canada U.S. Asia Corporate(1) Total
There was no impairment of Reinsurance assets in 2021 or 2020. Changes in Reinsurance assets are included in Note 10.A.iv.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 167
Other financial liabilities include contingent consideration payments and obligations to purchase remaining outstanding shares of certain SLC
Management subsidiaries. These amounts are initially measured at fair value. For obligations to purchase remaining outstanding shares, the fair
value is based on the expected average EBITDA using multiples in accordance with contractual terms as described in Note 5.A.ii. During the year,
these amounts were revised to reflect the change in expected cash flows, resulting in an increase in our liability of $187, which has been recognized
in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Interest expense for the borrowed funds was $22 and $22 for 2021 and 2020, respectively. The aggregate maturities of borrowed funds are included
in Note 6.
As at September 30, 2020, we repaid the $2,020 (US$1,515) variable principal floating rate certificates to the Lender. Pursuant to the letter of
understanding with the Lender, the Certificates have been repaid and all additional agreements have been terminated. The repayment was funded
from sale of bonds, existing cash and other liquid assets, resulting in Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale assets of $282. As part of this
transaction, we also unwound the fair value hedges related to the structure, which resulted in a loss of $342 in Interest and other investment
income. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we recorded $nil of interest expense relating to this obligation ($28 in 2020).
Fair value is determined based on quoted market prices for identical or similar instruments. When quoted market prices are not available, fair value
is determined from observable market data by dealers that are typically the market makers. The fair value is categorized in Level 2 of the fair value
hierarchy.
Interest expense for senior debentures was $23 and $28 for 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The senior debentures issued by SLF Inc. are direct senior unsecured obligations and rank equally with other unsecured and unsubordinated
indebtedness of SLF Inc.
168 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
13.B Innovative Capital Instruments
Innovative capital instruments consist of Sun Life ExchangEable Capital Securities ("SLEECS"), which were issued by SLCT I, established as a trust
under the laws of Ontario. SLCT I issued Sun Life ExchangEable Capital Securities - Series B ("SLEECS B"), which are units representing an undivided
beneficial ownership interest in the assets of that trust. SLEECS B are non-voting except in certain limited circumstances. Holders of the SLEECS B are
eligible to receive semi-annual non-cumulative fixed cash distributions.
The proceeds of the issuance of the SLEECS B were used by SLCT I to purchase senior debentures of Sun Life Assurance. SLCT I is not consolidated by
us. As a result, the innovative capital instruments are not reported on our Consolidated Financial Statements. However, the senior debentures
issued by Sun Life Assurance to SLCT I are reported on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
The SLEECS B are structured to achieve Tier 1 regulatory capital treatment for SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance and, as such, have features of equity
capital. No interest payments or distributions will be paid in cash by SLCT I on the SLEECS B if Sun Life Assurance fails to declare regular dividends
(i) on its Class B Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares Series A, or (ii) on its public preferred shares, if any are outstanding (each, a "Missed Dividend
Event"). If a Missed Dividend Event occurs, the net distributable funds of SLCT I will be distributed to Sun Life Assurance as the holder of Special
Trust Securities of that trust.
If SLCT I fails to pay in cash the semi-annual interest payments or distributions on the SLEECS B in full for any reason other than a Missed Dividend
Event, then, for a specified period of time, Sun Life Assurance will not declare dividends of any kind on any of its public preferred shares, and if no
such public preferred shares are outstanding, SLF Inc. will not declare dividends of any kind on any of its preferred shares or common shares.
Each SLEECS B unit will be automatically exchanged for 40 non-cumulative perpetual preferred shares of Sun Life Assurance if any one of the
following events occurs: (i) proceedings are commenced or an order is made for the winding-up of Sun Life Assurance; (ii) OSFI takes control of Sun
Life Assurance or its assets; (iii) Sun Life Assurance’s capital ratios fall below applicable thresholds; or (iv) OSFI directs Sun Life Assurance to increase
its capital or provide additional liquidity and Sun Life Assurance either fails to comply with such direction or elects to have the SLEECS B
automatically exchanged ("Automatic Exchange Event"). Upon an Automatic Exchange Event, former holders of the SLEECS B will cease to have any
claim or entitlement to distributions, interest or principal against SLCT I and will rank as preferred shareholders of Sun Life Assurance in a liquidation
of Sun Life Assurance.
The table below presents additional significant terms and conditions of the SLEECS:
Distribution or interest Annual Redemption date at Conversion date at Principal
Issuer Issuance date payment dates yield the issuer’s option the holder’s option amount
(1)(2)(3)(4)
Sun Life Capital Trust ("SLCT I")
SLEECS B June 25, 2002 June 30, December 31 7.093 % June 30, 2007 Any time $ 200
(1)
Subject to regulatory approval, SLCT I may (i) redeem any outstanding SLEECS, in whole or in part, on the redemption date specified above or on any
distribution date thereafter and (ii) may redeem all, but not part of any class of SLEECS upon occurrence of a Regulatory Event or a Tax Event, prior to the
redemption date specified above.
(2)
The SLEECS B may be redeemed for cash equivalent to (i) the greater of the Early Redemption Price or the Redemption Price if the redemption occurs prior
to June 30, 2032 or (ii) the Redemption Price if the redemption occurs on or after June 30, 2032. Redemption Price is equal to one thousand dollars plus
the unpaid distributions, other than unpaid distributions resulting from a Missed Dividend Event, to the redemption date. Early Redemption Price for the
SLEECS B is the price calculated to provide an annual yield, equal to the yield of a Government of Canada bond issued on the redemption date that has a
maturity date of June 30, 2032, plus 32 basis points, plus the unpaid distributions, other than unpaid distributions resulting from a Missed Dividend Event,
to the redemption date.
(3)
The non-cumulative perpetual preferred shares of Sun Life Assurance issued upon an Automatic Exchange Event in respect of the SLEECS B will become
convertible, at the option of the holder, into a variable number of common shares of SLF Inc. on distribution dates on or after December 31, 2032.
(4)
Holders of SLEECS B may exchange, at any time, all or part of their SLEECS B units for non-cumulative perpetual preferred shares of Sun Life Assurance at
an exchange rate for each SLEECS of 40 non-cumulative perpetual preferred shares of Sun Life Assurance. SLCT I will have the right, at any time before the
exchange is completed, to arrange for a substituted purchaser to purchase SLEECS tendered for surrender to SLCT I so long as the holder of the SLEECS so
tendered has not withheld consent to the purchase of its SLEECS. Any non-cumulative perpetual preferred shares issued in respect of an exchange by the
holders of SLEECS B will become convertible, at the option of the holder, into a variable number of common shares of SLF Inc. on distribution dates on or
after December 31, 2032.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 169
14. Subordinated Debt
The following obligations are included in Subordinated debt as at December 31, and qualify as capital for Canadian regulatory purposes:
Fair value is determined based on quoted market prices for identical or similar instruments. When quoted market prices are not available, fair value
is determined from observable market data by dealers that are typically the market makers. The fair value is categorized in Level 2 of the fair value
hierarchy.
Interest expense on subordinated debt was $141 and $131 for 2021 and 2020, respectively.
170 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
15. Share Capital
The common and preferred shares of SLF Inc. qualify as capital for Canadian regulatory purposes. See Note 21.
SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance have each covenanted that, if a distribution is not paid when due on any outstanding SLEECS issued by SLCT I,
then (i) Sun Life Assurance will not pay dividends on its public preferred shares, if any are outstanding, and (ii) if Sun Life Assurance does not have
any public preferred shares outstanding, then SLF Inc. will not pay dividends on its preferred shares or common shares, in each case, until the 12th
month following the failure to pay the required distribution in full, unless the required distribution is paid to the holders of SLEECS. Public preferred
shares means preferred shares issued by Sun Life Assurance which: (a) have been issued to the public (excluding any preferred shares held
beneficially by affiliates of Sun Life Assurance); (b) are listed on a recognized stock exchange; and (c) have an aggregate liquidation entitlement of at
least $200. As at December 31, 2021, Sun Life Assurance did not have outstanding any shares that qualify as public preferred shares.
The terms of SLF Inc.’s outstanding preferred shares provide that for so long as Sun Life Assurance is a subsidiary of SLF Inc., no dividends on such
preferred shares are to be declared or paid if Sun Life Assurance’s minimum regulatory capital ratio falls below the applicable threshold.
In addition, under the terms of SLF Inc.’s outstanding preferred shares, SLF Inc. cannot pay dividends on its common shares without the approval of
the holders of those preferred shares unless all dividends on the preferred shares for the last completed period for which dividends are payable
have been declared and paid or set apart for payment.
Currently, the above limitations do not restrict the payment of dividends on SLF Inc.’s preferred or common shares.
The declaration and payment of dividends on SLF Inc.’s shares are at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors and will be dependent upon our
earnings, financial condition and capital requirements. Dividends may be adjusted or eliminated at the discretion of the Board on the basis of these
or other considerations.
On August 14, 2019, SLF Inc. launched a normal course issuer bid to purchase and cancel up to 15 million common shares of SLF Inc.
("common shares") between August 14, 2019 and August 13, 2020 (the "2019 NCIB") and implemented an automatic repurchase plan with its
designated broker in order to facilitate purchases of common shares under such bid.
On March 13, 2020, OSFI set the expectation for all federally regulated financial institutions that dividend increases and share buybacks should be
halted until further notice. On November 4, 2021, OSFI lifted the restriction to halt dividend increases and share buy backs.
On August 13, 2020, the 2019 NCIB expired and was not renewed. Under this program, SLF Inc. purchased and cancelled approximately 3.5 million
common shares at an average price per share of $56.86 for a total amount of $200. The total amount paid to purchase the shares is allocated to
Common shares based on the average cost per common share and amounts paid above the average cost are allocated to Retained earnings.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 171
15.B Preferred Shares and Other Equity Instruments
On June 30, 2021, SLF Inc. issued $1,000 principal amount of 3.60% Limited Recourse Capital Notes Series 2021-1 Subordinated Debentures ("Series
2021-1 Notes"), maturing on June 30, 2081. The Series 2021-1 Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.60% payable semi-annually, until June 30,
2026. On June 30, 2026 and every five years thereafter until June 30, 2076, the interest rate on the Series 2021-1 Notes will be reset at an interest
rate equal to the five-year Government of Canada yield as defined in the prospectus, plus 2.604%. The net proceeds will be used for general
corporate purposes, which may include investments in subsidiaries, repayment of indebtedness and other strategic investments.
In connection with the issuance of the Series 2021-1 Notes, SLF Inc. issued 1 million Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 14
(the "Series 14 Shares") to be held by Computershare Trust Company of Canada as trustee of a newly formed trust (the "Limited Recourse Trust").
The Series 14 Shares are eliminated on SLF Inc.'s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position while being held within the Limited Recourse Trust.
In case of non-payment of interest on or principal of the Series 2021-1 Notes when due, the recourse of each noteholder will be limited to that
holder's proportionate share of the Limited Recourse Trust's assets, which will consist of Series 14 Shares except in limited circumstances. Holders of
Series 14 Shares are entitled to receive non-cumulative preferential cash dividends on a semi-annual basis, as and when declared by the Board of
Directors.
On September 29, 2021, SLF Inc. redeemed all of the $400 principal amount of Class A Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares Series 1 issued on February
25, 2005 and all of the $325 principal amount of Class A Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares Series 2 issued on July
15, 2005, in accordance with the
terms attached to the two series of preferred shares. The redemptions were funded from existing cash and other liquid assets in SLF Inc.
On September 30, 2021, 0.5 million of the 6.9 million Class A Non-cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 10R (the "Series 10R Shares") were
converted into Class A Non-cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares 11QR (the "Series 11QR Shares") on a one-for-one basis and 0.4 million of the
1.1 million Series 11QR were converted into Series 10R on a one-for-one basis. As a result, as of September 30, 2021, SLF Inc. has approximately
6.8 million Series 10R Shares and 1.2 million Series 11QR Shares issued and outstanding.
On December 31, 2021, SLF Inc. redeemed all of the $300 Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 12R issued on November 10,
2011, in accordance with the terms attached to the series of preferred shares. The redemptions were funded from existing cash and other liquid
assets in SLF Inc.
On June 30, 2020, 0.1 million of the 5.2 million Class A Non-cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 8R (the "Series 8R Shares") were
converted into Class A Non-cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares Series 9QR (the "Series 9QR Shares") on a one-for-one basis and 1.1 million of
the 6.0 million Series 9QR Shares were converted into Series 8R Shares on a one-for-one basis. As a result, as of June 30, 2020, SLF Inc. has
approximately 6.2 million Series 8R Shares and 5.0 million Series 9QR Shares issued and outstanding.
Further information on the preferred shares outstanding, as at December 31, 2021, is as follows:
172 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
16. Interests in Other Entities
16.A Subsidiaries
Our principal subsidiaries are Sun Life Assurance and Sun Life Global Investments Inc. Sun Life Assurance is our principal operating insurance
company and holds our insurance operations in Canada, the U.S., the UK, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Vietnam. These insurance
operations are operated directly by Sun Life Assurance or through other subsidiaries. Sun Life Global Investments Inc. is a non-operating holding
company that holds our asset management businesses, including MFS and the group of companies under SLC Management.
We are required to comply with various regulatory capital and solvency requirements in the jurisdictions in which we operate that may restrict our
ability to access or use the assets of the group and to pay dividends. Further details on these restrictions are included in Notes 15 and 21.
On October 12, 2021, our India joint venture, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited (“ABSLAMC”) completed an Initial Public Offering (“IPO”). As a result
of the IPO, our ownership interest was reduced by 12.5% and we generated gross proceeds of $430, which included a realized gain of $362 (post-tax
$297). After the IPO, we retained ownership of the listed entity of 36.5%. We also reclassified $9 of accumulated OCI to net income as part of this
transaction.
In 2021, we increased our investment in our joint ventures and associates by $29 ($1 in 2020), primarily in Canada. During 2021, we received
dividends and other proceeds relating to our joint ventures and associates of $382, which includes the net cash proceeds from the ABSLAMC
transaction ($29 of dividends in 2020). We also incurred rental expenses of $17 ($17 in 2020) related to leases with our joint ventures and
associates, with the remaining future rental payments payable to our joint ventures and associates totaling $182 over 11 years.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 173
Information on our interests in unconsolidated structured entities is as follows:
As at December 31, 2021 2020
Consolidated Statements Maximum Maximum
of Financial Position Carrying exposure to Carrying exposure to
Type of structured entity Type of investment held line item amount loss(1) amount loss(1)
Securitization entities - third- Debt securities Debt securities $ 9,057 $ 9,057 $ 8,805 $ 8,805
party managed
Securitization entities - third- Short-term securities Cash, cash equivalents $ 1,084 $ 1,084 $ 1,115 $ 1,115
party managed and short-term
securities
Investment funds - third-party Investment fund units Equity securities $ 7,411 $ 7,411 $ 5,102 $ 5,102
managed
Investment funds - company Investment fund units and Equity securities and $ 2,978 $ 2,978 $ 2,299 $ 2,299
managed(2) Limited partnership units Other invested assets
Limited partnerships - third- Limited partnership units Other invested assets $ 2,391 $ 2,391 $ 1,842 $ 1,842
party managed
(1)
The maximum exposure to loss is the maximum loss that we could record through comprehensive income as a result of our involvement with these
entities.
(2)
Includes investments in funds managed by our joint ventures with a carrying amount of $156 ($155 in 2020).
Company Managed
We provide collateral management services to various securitization entities, primarily CDOs, from which we earn a fee for our services. The
financial support provided to these entities is limited to the carrying amount of our investment in these entities. We provide no guarantees or other
contingent support to these entities. We have not consolidated these entities since we do not have significant variability from our interests in these
entities and we do not have any investment in these entities.
Third-Party Managed
We hold units in investment funds and limited partnerships managed by third-party asset managers. Our investments in fund units and limited
partnership units generally give us an undivided interest in the investment performance of a portfolio of underlying assets managed or tracked to a
specific investment mandate for investment purposes. We do not have control over investment funds or limited partnerships that are structured
entities since we do not have power to direct their relevant activities.
Company Managed
We hold units in Company managed investment funds and limited partnerships. We generally have power over Company managed investment
funds and limited partnerships that are structured entities since we have power to direct the relevant activities of the funds and limited
partnerships. However, we have not consolidated these funds and limited partnerships since we do not have significant variability from our interests
in these funds and limited partnerships. We earn management fees from the management of these investment funds and limited partnerships that
are commensurate with the services provided and are reported in Fee income. Management fees are generally based on the value of the assets
under management. Therefore, the fees earned are impacted by the composition of the assets under management and fluctuations in financial
markets. The fee income earned is included in Fund management and other asset based fees in Note 17. We also hold units in investment funds and
limited partnerships managed by our joint ventures. Our share of the management fees earned is included as part of the Net income (loss) reported
in Note 16.B.
174 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
17. Fee Income
Fee income for the years ended December 31 consists of the following:
2021 2020
Distribution fees and Fund management and other asset-based fees are primarily earned in the Asset Management segment. Administrative service
and other fees are primarily earned in the Canada segment. The fee income by business segment is presented in Note 4.
Operating expenses:
Employee expenses(2) $ 5,102 $ 4,445
Premises and equipment 182 158
Capital asset depreciation 245 250
Service fees 1,101 946
Amortization of intangible assets (Note 9) 193 156
Impairment of intangible assets (Note 9) 9 11
Other expenses 1,747 1,435
Operating expenses $ 8,579 $ 7,401
Commissions 2,809 2,612
Premium taxes 429 428
Total operating expenses, commissions and premium taxes $ 11,817 $ 10,441
(1)
Reflects a change in presentation to aggregate total operating expenses, commissions and premium taxes. We have updated the prior period to reflect this
change in presentation.
(2)
See table below for further details.
Employee expenses for the years ended December 31 consist of the following:
2021 2020
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 175
The activities in the stock option plans for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2021 2020
Number of Weighted Number of Weighted
stock options average stock options average
(thousands) exercise price (thousands) exercise price
The average share price at the date of exercise of stock options for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $64.86 ($57.21 for 2020).
Compensation expense for stock options was $6 for the year ended December 31, 2021 ($4 for 2020).
The stock options outstanding as at December 31, 2021, by exercise price, are as follows:
Weighted
average
Number of stock remaining Weighted
options contractual life average exercise
Range of exercise prices (thousands) (years) price
The weighted average fair values of the stock options, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, granted during the year ended
December 31, 2021 was $8.73 ($5.99 for 2020). The Black-Scholes option pricing model used the following assumptions to determine the fair value
of options granted during the years ending December 31:
Expected volatility is based on historical volatility of the common shares, implied volatilities from traded options on the common shares, and other
factors. The expected term of options granted is derived based on historical employee exercise behaviour and employee termination experience.
The risk-free rate for periods within the expected term of the option is based on the Canadian government bond yield curve in effect at the time of
grant.
In the U.S., the Sun Life Financial U.S. Employee Stock Purchase Plan allows eligible employees to buy shares of SLF Inc. at a 10% discount at the end
of six-month offering periods. Under this plan, employees who enroll can contribute from 1% to 10% of their base salary. At the end of each period,
accumulated employee amounts are used to purchase stock, with the Company financing the 10% discount. The total annual contribution, including
the company discount, is limited to U.S. twenty-five thousand dollars based on its fair market value on the offering date.
We recorded an expense of $9 for the year ended December 31, 2021 ($9 for 2020).
176 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Details of these plans are as follows:
Senior Executives’ Deferred Share Unit ("DSU") Plan: Under the DSU plan, designated executives may elect to receive all or a portion of their short-
term incentive award in the form of DSUs. Each DSU is equivalent in value to one common share and earns dividend equivalents in the form of
additional DSUs at the same rate as the dividends on common shares. The designated executives must elect to participate in the plan prior to the
beginning of the plan year and this election is irrevocable. Awards generally vest immediately; however, participants are not permitted to redeem
the DSUs until after termination, death, or retirement. The value at the time of redemption will be based on the fair value of the common shares
immediately before their redemption.
Sun Share Unit ("Sun Share") Plan: Under the Sun Share plan, participants are granted units that are equivalent in value to one common share and
have a grant price equal to the average of the closing price of a common share on the TSX on the five trading days immediately prior to the date of
grant. Participants generally hold units for up to 36 months from the date of grant. The units earn dividend equivalents in the form of additional
units at the same rate as the dividends on common shares. Under this plan, some units are performance-based that may vest or become payable if
we meet specified threshold performance targets. The plan provides for performance factors to motivate participants to achieve a higher return for
shareholders (performance factors are determined through a multiplier that can be as low as zero or as high as two times the number of units that
vest). Payments to participants are based on the number of units vested multiplied by the average closing price of a common share on the TSX on
the five trading days immediately prior to the vesting date.
Additional information for other share-based payment plans: The units outstanding under these plans and the liabilities recognized for these units
in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position are summarized in the following table:
Compensation expense and the Income tax expense (benefit) for other share-based payment plans for the years ended December 31 are shown in
the following table. Since expenses for the DSUs are accrued as part of incentive compensation in the year awarded, the expenses below do not
include these accruals. The expenses presented in the following table include increases in the liabilities for Sun Shares and DSUs due to changes in
the fair value of the common shares and the accruals of the Sun Shares liabilities over the vesting period, and exclude any adjustment in expenses
due to the impact of hedging.
Although restricted share awards and stock option awards are settled in shares, all of the MFS share-based awards, including outstanding MFS
shares, are accounted for as cash-settled share-based payment awards due to the fact that MFS has a practice of repurchasing its outstanding shares
after a specified holding period.
The fair value of stock option awards is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, while the fair value of restricted share awards,
restricted stock unit awards, and outstanding MFS shares are estimated using a market consistent share valuation model. The amount of periodic
compensation expense recognized is impacted by grants of new awards, vesting, exercise, and forfeiture of unvested awards, share repurchases,
changes in fair value of awards, and outstanding MFS shares. The total liability accrued attributable to all MFS share-based payment plans as at
December 31, 2021 was $1,088 ($902 as at December 31, 2020) which includes a liability of $848 ($713 as at December 31, 2020) for the restricted
shares and outstanding MFS shares. There were no stock options outstanding at December 31, 2021 and
December 31, 2020.
Compensation expense and the Income tax expense (benefit) for these awards for the years ended December 31 are shown in the following table:
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 177
20. Income Taxes
The movement in net deferred tax assets for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
Losses Pension
Policy Deferred available and other
acquisition for carry employee
Investments liabilities(1) costs forward benefits Other(2) Total
We have accumulated non-capital tax losses, primarily in Canada, the UK, Indonesia and Vietnam, totaling $3,758 ($3,382 in 2020). The benefit of
these tax losses has been recognized to the extent that it is probable that the benefit will be realized. In addition, we have net capital losses of $7
($19 in 2020) in the U.S. and $13 in Canada ($nil in 2020) for which a deferred tax asset of $3 ($4 in 2020) has been recognized. Unused tax losses for
which a deferred tax asset has not been recognized amount to $499 as of December 31, 2021 ($587 in 2020) primarily in the UK, Indonesia and
Vietnam. We also have capital losses of $452 in the UK ($460 in 2020) and $178 in Canada ($169 in 2020) for which a deferred tax asset of $137
($110 in 2020) has not been recognized.
We will realize the benefit of tax losses carried forward in future years through a reduction in current income taxes as and when the losses are
utilized. These tax losses are subject to examination by various tax authorities and could be reduced as a result of the adjustments to tax returns.
Furthermore, legislative, business or other changes may limit our ability to utilize these losses.
Included in the deferred tax asset related to losses available for carry forward are tax benefits that have been recognized on losses incurred in either
the current or the preceding year. In determining if it is appropriate to recognize these tax benefits, we rely on projections of future taxable profits,
and we also consider tax planning opportunities that will create taxable income in the period in which the unused tax losses can be utilized.
The non-capital losses carried forward in Canada expire beginning in 2030 and the capital losses can be carried forward indefinitely. The operating
and capital losses in the UK can be carried forward indefinitely. The non-capital losses in Indonesia and Vietnam can be carried forward five years.
The capital losses in the U.S. can be carried forward five years and expire beginning in 2024.
We recognize a deferred tax liability on all temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches, joint ventures and
associates unless we are able to control the timing of the reversal of these differences and it is probable that these differences will not reverse in the
178 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
foreseeable future. As at December 31, 2021, temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches, joint ventures and
associates for which a deferred tax liability has not been recognized amount to $5,452 ($5,299 in 2020).
2021 2020
20.B.ii Income tax benefit (expense) recognized directly in equity for the years ended December 31:
2021 2020
20.B.iii Our effective income tax rate differs from the combined Canadian federal and provincial statutory income tax rate as follows:
Taxes at the combined Canadian federal and provincial statutory income tax rate $ 1,338
26.3 $ 871
26.5
Increase (decrease) in rate resulting from:
Higher (lower) effective rates on income subject to taxation in foreign jurisdictions (231) ( 4.5) (218) ( 6.6)
Tax-exempt investment (income) loss (345) ( 6.8) (253) ( 7.7)
Adjustments in respect of prior periods, including resolution of tax disputes (49) (1.0) 55 1.7
Tax (benefit) cost of unrecognized tax losses and tax credits 6 0.1 15 0.5
Tax rate and other legislative changes 10 0.2 1 —
Other (2) — 24 0.7
Total income tax expense (benefit) and effective income tax rate $ 727 14.3 $ 495 15.1
Due to an enacted corporate tax rate change in the province of Alberta, our statutory tax rate decreased from 26.5% to 26.25% (rounded to 26.3% in
the table above) on January 1, 2021.
Tax-exempt investment (income) loss includes tax rate differences related to various types of investment income or losses that are taxed at rates
lower than our statutory income tax rate. Examples include, but are not limited to, dividend income, capital gains arising in Canada and changes in
market values including those resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
Statutory income tax rates in other jurisdictions in which we conduct business range from 0% to 25%, which creates a tax rate differential and
corresponding tax provision difference compared to the Canadian federal and provincial statutory rate when applied to foreign income not subject
to tax in Canada. Generally, higher earnings in jurisdictions with higher statutory tax rates result in an increase of our tax expense, while earnings
arising in tax jurisdictions with statutory rates lower than 26.25% reduce our tax expense. These differences are reported in Higher (lower) effective
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 179
rates on income subject to taxation in foreign jurisdictions. The benefit reported in 2021 included higher income in jurisdictions with low statutory
income tax rates compared to 2020.
Adjustments in respect of prior periods, including the resolution of tax disputes, relate mainly to the resolution of Canadian tax matters and the
finalization of the prior year’s Canadian and U.S. tax filings in 2021. In 2020, it related to the finalization of the prior year's Canadian and U.S. tax
filings.
Tax (benefit) cost of unrecognized tax losses and tax credits reflects unrecognized losses in Asia.
Tax rate and other legislative changes includes a remeasurement of our deferred tax balances in the UK due to an enacted corporate tax rate
increase from 19% to 25%, which takes effect April 1, 2023. In 2020, Tax rate and other legislative changes included a remeasurement of our
deferred tax balances in the UK due to the reversal of an enacted future corporate tax rate reduction, which was partially offset by the
remeasurement of our deferred tax balances in Canada due to an enacted corporate tax rate reduction in the province of Alberta.
Other primarily reflects withholding taxes on distributions from our foreign subsidiaries, the benefit relating to investments in joint ventures in Asia,
and the impact of taxable income attributable to NCI.
Our capital base is structured to exceed minimum regulatory and internal capital targets and maintain strong credit and financial strength ratings,
while maintaining a capital efficient structure. We strive to achieve an optimal capital structure by balancing the use of debt and equity financing.
Capital is managed both on a consolidated basis under the principles that consider all the risks associated with the business, as well as at the
business group level under the principles appropriate to the jurisdiction in which each operates. We manage the capital for all of our international
subsidiaries on a local statutory basis in a manner commensurate with their individual risk profiles.
The Board of Directors of SLF Inc. is responsible for the annual review and approval of the Company’s capital plan and capital risk policy.
Management oversight of our capital programs and position is provided by the Company’s Executive Risk Committee, the membership of which
includes senior management from the finance, actuarial, and risk management functions.
We engage in a capital planning process annually in which capital deployment options, fundraising, and dividend recommendations are presented to
the Risk Committee of the Board of Directors. Capital reviews are regularly conducted which consider the potential impacts under various business,
interest rate, and equity market scenarios. Relevant components of these capital reviews, including dividend recommendations, are presented to
the Risk Committee on a quarterly basis. The Board of Directors is responsible for the approval of the dividend recommendations.
The capital risk policy is designed to ensure that adequate capital is maintained to provide the flexibility necessary to take advantage of growth
opportunities, to support the risks associated with our businesses and to optimize return to our shareholders. This policy is also intended to provide
an appropriate level of risk management over capital adequacy risk, which is defined as the risk that capital is not or will not be sufficient to
withstand adverse economic conditions, to maintain financial strength or to allow us and our subsidiaries to support ongoing operations and to take
advantage of opportunities for expansion. SLF Inc. manages its capital in a manner commensurate with its risk profile and control environment.
SLF Inc. is a non-operating insurance company and is subject to the LICAT guideline. As at December 31, 2021, SLF Inc.’s LICAT ratio exceeded the
regulatory minimum target as set out by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (“OSFI”).
Sun Life Assurance, SLF Inc.’s principal operating life insurance subsidiary in Canada, is also subject to the LICAT guideline. With a LICAT Ratio of
124% as at December 31, 2021, Sun Life Assurance's LICAT Ratio is above OSFI's Supervisory Target Total Ratio of 100% and minimum Total Ratio of
90%.
OSFI may intervene and assume control of a Canadian life insurance company if it deems the amount of available capital insufficient. Capital
requirements may be adjusted by OSFI in the future, as experience develops or the risk profile of Canadian life insurers changes or to reflect other
risks. Sun Life Assurance exceeded levels that would require regulatory or corrective action as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
The Company’s regulated subsidiaries must comply with the capital adequacy requirements imposed in the jurisdictions in which they operate. In
certain jurisdictions, the payment of dividends from our subsidiaries is subject to maintaining capital levels exceeding regulatory targets and/or
receiving regulatory approval. We maintained capital levels above minimum local requirements as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
In the U.S., Sun Life Assurance operates through a branch which is subject to U.S. regulatory supervision and it exceeded the levels under which
regulatory action would be required as at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. In the U.S., we use captive reinsurance arrangements to
provide efficient financing of U.S. statutory reserve requirements in excess of those required under IFRS. Under two such arrangements, the funding
of these reserve requirements is supported by a guarantee from SLF Inc.
180 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Our capital base consists mainly of common shareholders’ equity, preferred shareholders’ equity, participating policyholders’ equity, non-controlling
interests’ equity and certain other capital securities that qualify as regulatory capital. For regulatory reporting purposes under the LICAT framework,
there were further adjustments, including goodwill, non-life investments, and others as was prescribed by OSFI, to the total capital figure presented
in the table below:
We have segregated fund products, including variable annuities, unit-linked products and universal life insurance policies, in Canada, the U.S., the
UK, and Asia. Under these contracts, the benefit amount is contractually linked to the fair value of the investments in the particular segregated fund.
Policyholders can select from a variety of categories of segregated fund investments. Although the underlying assets are registered in our name and
the segregated fund contract holder has no direct access to the specific assets, the contractual arrangements are such that the segregated fund
policyholder bears the risk and rewards of the funds’ investment performance. Therefore, net realized gains and losses, other net investment
income earned, and expenses incurred on the segregated funds are attributable to policyholders and not to us. However, certain contracts include
guarantees from us. We are exposed to equity market risk and interest rate risk as a result of these guarantees. Further details on these guarantees
and our risk management activities related to these guarantees are included in the Risk Management section of the MD&A.
We derive fee income from segregated funds. Market value movements in the investments held for segregated fund holders impact the
management fees earned on these funds.
The segregated fund types offered, by percentage of total investments for account of segregated fund holders, were within the following ranges as
at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Type of fund %
Money market 1 to 5
Fixed income 5 to 10
Balanced 40 to 45
Equity 45 to 50
Money market funds include investments that have a term to maturity of less than one year. Fixed income funds are funds that invest primarily in
investment grade fixed income securities and where less than 25% can be invested in diversified equities or high-yield bonds. Balanced funds are a
combination of fixed income securities with a larger equity component. The fixed income component is greater than 25% of the portfolio. Equity
consists primarily of broad-based diversified funds that invest in a well-diversified mix of Canadian, U.S. or global equities. Other funds in this
category include low volatility funds, intermediate volatility funds, and high volatility funds.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 181
22.A Investments for Account of Segregated Fund Holders
The carrying value of investments held for segregated fund holders are as follows:
22.B Changes in Insurance Contracts and Investment Contracts for Account of Segregated Fund
Holders
Changes in insurance contracts and investment contracts for account of segregated fund holders are as follows:
182 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
23. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies
In the normal course of our business, we have entered into purchase and sale agreements that include indemnities in favour of third parties. These
agreements may require us to compensate the counterparties for damages, losses, or costs incurred by the counterparties as a result of breaches in
representation. As at December 31, 2021, we are not aware of any breaches in representations that would result in any payment required under
these indemnities that would have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
23.F Guarantees of Sun Life Assurance Preferred Shares and Subordinated Debentures
SLF Inc. has provided a guarantee on the $150 of 6.30% subordinated debentures due 2028 issued by Sun Life Assurance. Claims under this
guarantee will rank equally with all other subordinated indebtedness of SLF Inc. SLF Inc. has also provided a subordinated guarantee of the preferred
shares issued by Sun Life Assurance from time to time, other than such preferred shares which are held by SLF Inc. and its affiliates. Sun Life
Assurance has no outstanding preferred shares subject to the guarantee. As a result of these guarantees, Sun Life Assurance is entitled to rely on
exemptive relief from most continuous disclosure and the certification requirements of Canadian securities laws.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 183
The following tables set forth certain consolidating summary financial information for SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance (consolidated):
Other
Sun Life subsidiaries of
SLF Inc. Assurance SLF Inc. Consolidation SLF Inc.
Results for the years ended (unconsolidated) (consolidated) (combined) adjustments (consolidated)
Other
Sun Life subsidiaries of
SLF Inc. Assurance SLF Inc. Consolidation SLF Inc.
Assets and liabilities as at (unconsolidated) (consolidated) (combined) adjustments (consolidated)
Provisions for legal proceedings related to insurance contracts, such as for disability and life insurance claims and the cost of litigation, are included
in Insurance contract liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Other provisions are established outside of the Insurance
contract liabilities if, in the opinion of management, it is both probable that a payment will be required and a reliable estimate can be made of the
amount of the obligation. Management reviews the status of all proceedings on an ongoing basis and exercises judgment in resolving them in such
manner as management believes to be in our best interest.
Two class action lawsuits have been filed against Sun Life Assurance in connection with sales practices relating to, and the administration of,
individual policies issued by the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company ("MLIC"). These policies were assumed by Clarica when Clarica acquired the
bulk of MLIC’s Canadian operations in 1998 and subsequently assumed by Sun Life Assurance as a result of its amalgamation with Clarica. One of the
lawsuits (Fehr et al v Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada) is issued in Ontario and the other (Alamwala v Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada)
is in British Columbia. The Fehr action has been certified as a class action and notice has been made to class members. Sun Life Assurance has
brought a motion for summary judgment seeking to dismiss all of the claims. The other action (Alamwala v Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada)
has remained largely dormant since it was commenced in 2011 and has not been certified. We will continue to vigorously defend against the claims
in these actions. In connection with the acquisition of the Canadian operations of MLIC, MLIC agreed to indemnify Clarica for certain losses,
including those incurred relating to the sales of its policies. Should either of the Fehr or the Alamwala lawsuits result in a loss, Sun Life Assurance will
seek recourse against MLIC under that indemnity through arbitration.
Management does not believe that the probable conclusion of any current legal or regulatory matter, either individually or in the aggregate, will
have a material adverse effect on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position or the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
184 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
24. Related Party Transactions
SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates transact business worldwide. All transactions between SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries have
been eliminated on consolidation. Transactions with joint ventures and associates, which are also related parties, are disclosed in Note 16.
Transactions between the Company and related parties are executed and priced on an arm’s-length basis in a manner similar to transactions with
third parties.
24.A Transactions with Key Management Personnel, Remuneration and Other Compensation
Key management personnel refers to the executive team and Board of Directors of SLF Inc. These individuals have the authority and responsibility
for planning, directing, and controlling the activities of the Company. The aggregate compensation to the executive team and directors are as
follows:
Number of individuals 14 13 12 10
Base salary and annual incentive compensation $ 22 $ — $ 18 $ —
Additional short-term benefits and other $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 1
Share-based long-term incentive compensation $ 36 $ 2 $ 23 $ 2
Value of pension and post-retirement benefits $ 6 $ — $ 2 $ —
Severance $ 6 $ — $ — $ —
We sponsor defined benefit pension plans and defined contribution plans for eligible employees. All of our material defined benefit plans worldwide
are closed to new entrants with new hires participating in defined contribution plans. Material defined benefit plans are located in Canada, the U.S.,
and the UK. The defined benefit pension plans offer benefits based on length of service and final average earnings and certain plans offer some
indexation of benefits. The specific features of these plans vary in accordance with the employee group and countries in which employees are
located. In addition, we maintain supplementary non-contributory defined benefit pension arrangements for eligible employees, which are primarily
for benefits which are in excess of local tax limits. As at December 31, 2014, there are no active members in the UK and the U.S. defined benefit
plans continuing to accrue future service benefits. On January 1, 2009, the Canadian defined benefit plans were closed to new employees. Canadian
employees hired before January 1, 2009 continue to earn future service benefits in the previous plans, which includes both defined benefit and
defined contribution components, while new hires since then are eligible to join a defined contribution plan. In addition, one small defined benefit
plan in the Philippines remains open to new hires.
Our funding policy for defined benefit pension plans is to make at least the minimum annual contributions required by regulations in the countries
in which the plans are offered. Our UK defined benefit pension scheme is governed by pension trustees. In other countries in which we operate, the
defined benefit pension arrangements are governed by local pension committees. Significant plan changes require the approval of the Board of
Directors of the sponsoring subsidiary of SLF Inc.
We also established defined contribution plans for eligible employees. Our contributions to these defined contribution pension plans may be subject
to certain vesting requirements. Generally, our contributions are a set percentage of employees’ annual income and may be a set percentage of
employee contributions, up to specified levels.
In addition to our pension plans, in Canada and the U.S., we provide certain post-retirement health care and life insurance benefits to eligible
employees and to their dependents upon meeting certain requirements. Eligible retirees may be required to pay a portion of the premiums for
these benefits and, in general, deductible amounts and co-insurance percentages apply to benefit payments. These post-retirement benefits are not
pre-funded. In Canada, certain post-retirement health care and life insurance benefits are provided for eligible employees who retired before
December 31, 2015. Eligible employees in Canada who retire after December 31, 2015 will have access to voluntary retiree-paid health care
coverage. In the U.S., certain post-retirement health care and life insurance benefits are provided to eligible retirees. In the U.S., employees who
were not age 50 with 10 years of service as of December 31, 2015 only have access to subsidized retiree health care coverage until eligible for
Medicare. Eligible existing and future retirees and covered dependents eligible for Medicare receive an annual contribution to a health
reimbursement account to be applied against individual coverage and other eligible expenses.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 185
25.A Risks Associated with Employee Defined Benefit Plans
With the closure of the material defined benefit pension and retiree benefit plans to new entrants, the volatility associated with future service
accruals for active members has been limited and will decline over time.
The major risks remaining in relation to past service obligations are increases in liabilities due to a decline in discount rates, greater life expectancy
than assumed and adverse asset returns. We have significantly de-risked the investments of our material defined benefit pension plans Company-
wide by shifting the pension asset mix away from equities and into more fixed income and liability-matching investments. In 2018 and 2021, the risk
in our UK pension plan was reduced through buy-in insurance contracts protecting the majority of pensioner benefits. The target for our material
funded defined benefit plans is to minimize volatility in funded status arising from changes in discount rates and exposure to equity markets.
186 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
25.B Defined Benefit Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefit Plans
The following tables set forth the status of the defined benefit pension and other post-retirement benefit plans:
2021 2020
Other post- Other post-
Pension retirement Total Pension retirement Total
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 187
25.C Principal Assumptions for Significant Plans
2021 2020
Canada % UK % U.S. % Canada % UK % U.S. %
2021 2020
Canada UK U.S. Canada UK U.S.
Mortality rates:
Life expectancy (in years) for individuals
currently at age 65:
Male 23 23 22 23 23 22
Female 25 25 23 25 25 23
Life expectancy (in years) at 65 for individuals
currently at age 45:
Male 24 24 23 24 25 23
Female 26 27 25 26 27 25
Average duration (in years) of pension obligation 16.9 17.4 12.2 17.2 17.7 12.7
The discount rate assumption used for material plans is determined by reference to the market yields, as of December 31, of high-quality corporate
bonds that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related obligation. In countries where a deep corporate market does not exist,
government bonds are used. Compensation and health care trend assumptions are based on expected long-term trend assumptions which may
differ from actual results.
188 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
25.E Fair Value of Plan Assets
Composition of fair value of plan assets, December 31:
2021 2020
Equity investments 3%
3%
Fixed income investments 64%
73%
Real estate investments 9%
7%
Qualifying insurance contract 19%
8%
Other 5%
9%
Total composition of fair value of plan assets 100%
100%
The fair value of our equity investments in 2021 and 2020 are consistent with Level 1 or Level 2 fair value hierarchy. In 2021, 4% of our fixed income
investments (2% in 2020) are determined based on valuation techniques consistent with Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
The assets of the defined benefit pension plans are primarily held in trust for plan members, and are managed within the provisions of each plan’s
investment policies and procedures. Diversification of the investments is used to limit credit, market, and foreign currency risks. We have
significantly de-risked the investments of our material defined benefit pension plans by shifting the pension asset mix away from equities and into
more fixed income and liability-matching investments. In 2018 and in 2021, the risk in our UK pension plan was reduced through buy-in insurance
contracts, protecting the majority of pensioner benefits. The long-term investment objectives of the defined benefit pension plans are to equal or
exceed the rate of growth of the liabilities. Over shorter periods, the objective of the defined benefit pension plan investment strategy is to
minimize volatility in the funded status. Liquidity is managed with consideration to the cash flow requirements of the liabilities.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 189
26. Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Details of the calculation of the net income (loss) and the weighted average number of shares used in the earnings per share computations are as
follows:
For the years ended December 31, 2021 2020
Common shareholders' net income (loss) for basic earnings per share $ 3,934 $ 2,404
Add: Increase in income due to convertible instruments(1) 10 10
Common shareholders’ net income (loss) on a diluted basis $ 3,944 $ 2,414
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding for basic earnings per share (in millions) 586 585
Add: Dilutive impact of stock options(2) (in millions) — —
Dilutive impact of convertible instruments(2) (in millions) 4 4
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding on a diluted basis (in millions) 590 589
Basic earnings (loss) per share $ 6.72 $ 4.11
Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ 6.69 $ 4.10
(1)
The convertible instruments are the SLEECS B issued by SLCT I.
(2)
Excludes the impact of 1 million stock options for the year ended December 31, 2021 (1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020) because these
stock options were anti-dilutive for the year.
190 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Sources of Earnings
The following is provided in accordance with the OSFI guideline requiring Sources of Earnings (SOE) disclosure. SOE is a non-International Financial
Reporting Standard (IFRS) financial measure. There is no standard SOE methodology. The calculation of SOE is dependent on, and sensitive to, the
methodology, estimates, and assumptions used.
SOE identifies various sources of IFRS net income. It provides an analysis of the difference between actual net income and expected net income
based on business in-force and assumptions made at the beginning of the reporting period. The terminology used in the discussion of sources of
earnings is described below:
Effective January 1, 2021, expected profit for U.S. group policies includes previously classified impact of new business, aligning group business
sources of earnings reporting across business groups. We have updated prior period amounts to reflect this change.
Other
Impact on pre-tax net income not addressed under the previous categories. Examples include acquisition, integration, restructuring, and other
related costs.
Earnings on Surplus
Pre-tax net income earned on a company’s surplus funds. Earnings on Surplus is comprised of realized gains on available-for-sale assets, as well as
net investment returns on surplus, such as investment income, gains (losses) on seed investments, investment properties mark-to-market, and
interest on debt.
Sources of Earnings Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 191
For the Year Ended December 31, 2021 Sun Life Sun Life Sun Life Sun Life
(in millions of Canadian dollars) Canada U.S.* Asset Mgmt Asia Corporate Total
Expected Profit on In-force Business 1,225 494 1,815 612 (179) 3,967
Impact of New Business 119 — — (46) — 73
Experience Gains and Losses 876 199 — 45 (133) 987
Assumption Changes and Management Actions 52 (126) — 135 5 66
Other (118) (14) (551) 352 (70) (401)
Earnings on Operations (pre-tax) 2,154 553 1,264 1,098 (377) 4,692
Earnings on Surplus 53 70 — 164 122 409
Earnings before Income Taxes 2,207 623 1,264 1,262 (255) 5,101
Income Taxes (384) (124) (372) (117) 266 (731)
Earnings before Non-controlling Interests, Participating
Policyholders’ Net Income and Preferred Share Dividends 1,823 499 892 1,145 11 4,370
Less:
Non-controlling Interests — — — — — —
Participating Policyholders' Net Income 265 — — 70 — 335
Preferred Share Dividends — — — — 101 101
Common Shareholders’ Net Income (Loss) 1,558 499 892 1,075 (90) 3,934
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 Sun Life Sun Life Sun Life Sun Life
(in millions of Canadian dollars) Canada U.S.* Asset Mgmt Asia Corporate Total
Expected Profit on In-force Business 1,107 554 1,541 558 (147) 3,613
Impact of New Business 105 — — (77) — 28
Experience Gains and Losses (401) 74 — 14 (27) (340)
Assumption Changes and Management Actions 43 (397) — 99 41 (214)
Other 4 (6) (216) (8) (64) (290)
Earnings on Operations (pre-tax) 858 225 1,325 586 (197) 2,797
Earnings on Surplus 105 88 — 139 149 481
Earnings before Income Taxes 963 313 1,325 725 (48) 3,278
Income Taxes (50) (56) (334) (44) (2) (486)
Earnings before Non-controlling Interests, Participating
Policyholders’ Net Income and Preferred Share Dividends 913 257 991 681 (50) 2,792
Less:
Non-controlling Interests — — 11 — — 11
Participating Policyholders' Net Income 196 — — 87 — 283
Preferred Share Dividends — — — — 94 94
Common Shareholders’ Net Income (Loss) 717 257 980 594 (144) 2,404
*The 2021 and 2020 SOE reflect the change in 2021 to the presentation of expected profit on in-force business and impact of new business for U.S.
businesses. Amounts in expected profit on in-force business and impact of new business were previously $537 and $17 for U.S. and $3,596 and $45
for Total for 2020.
192 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Sources of Earnings
Analysis of results
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the pre-tax expected profit on in-force business of $3,967 million was $354 million higher than 2020, driven
by broad-based business growth across our pillars, with particular strength in asset management and wealth, reflecting higher asset values.
The new business gain in 2021 was $73 million, $45 million higher than 2020, driven by higher new business gains in Asia Local Markets.
The 2021 experience gain of $983 million pre-tax was primarily due to higher equity markets, an increase in the value of our real estate investments,
investing activity gains across the insurance businesses, interest rate impacts, and favourable credit experience in insurance businesses. This is
partially offset by losses from expenses, mortality experience, and other experience.
For the year 2021, assumption changes and management actions resulted in a pre-tax gain of $66 million. In Canada, the pre-tax gain of $52 million
reflected a reduction to expense margins and the favourable impact of increased investment in non-fixed income assets in Canada Individual
Insurance & Wealth, offset partially by a reduction to the best estimate real estate assumption and net updates to promulgated Ultimate
Reinvestment Rate (URR) and promulgated maximum net credit spreads. In the U.S., the pre-tax loss of $126 million reflected updates to lapse and
policyholder behaviour in In-force Management offset partially a reduction to expense margins and increased investment in non-fixed income
assets. In Asia, the pre-tax gain of $135 million reflected a reduction to expense margins and favourable model enhancements.
Other in 2021 resulted in a pre-tax loss of $401 million. The loss includes higher fair value adjustments on MFS's share-based payment awards, an
increase in SLC Management’s acquisition-related liabilities(1), and a par allocation adjustment(2). These losses are partially offset by a gain on the
Initial Public Offering (IPO)(3) of our India joint venture, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited.
Net pre-tax earnings on surplus of $409 million in 2021 was $72 million lower than a year ago.
(1)
Reflects the changes in estimated future payments for acquisition-related contingent considerations and options to purchase remaining ownership
interests of SLC Management affiliates.
(2)
Reflects an adjustment of investment income and expense allocations between participating policyholders and shareholders for prior years.
(3)
As a result of the initial public offering ("IPO"), our holding of ABSLAMC was reduced by 12.5%. After the IPO, we retained indirect ownership of the listed
entity of 36.5%. Shares of ABSLAMC began trading on the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited on October 11, 2021.
Sources of Earnings Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 193
Board of Directors and Executive Team
Board of Directors
All directors of Sun Life Financial Inc. are also directors of Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. The Board has determined that all directors other
than Kevin D. Strain are independent directors.
William D. Anderson, FCPA, FCA Ashok K. Gupta, FFA(3)(4) Marie-Lucie Morin, CM, PC(3)(4)
Chair of the Board, Sun Life Corporate Director Corporate Director
Additional information on the directors and a report on the Board’s corporate governance processes and practices are available in the 2022
Management Information Circular, on sunlife.com and on www.sedar.com.
Executive Team
As of March 1, 2022
194 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Board of Directors and Executive Team
Sun Life Financial Inc. – Subsidiaries and Associates
The following table lists the direct and indirect subsidiaries of Sun Life Financial Inc. (“SLF Inc.”) as at December 31, 2021 and provides the book
values (in millions of Canadian dollars, based on the equity method) of the shares of those subsidiaries that are principal operating subsidiaries. The
table also lists significant joint venture entities in which SLF Inc. directly or indirectly holds 50% or less of the issued and outstanding voting
securities. Subsidiaries which are inactive or which have been set up for the sole purpose of holding investments are not listed in the table.
Per cent of
Voting Shares
Jurisdiction of Book Value Owned by
Company Formation of Shares Owned SLF Inc.
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada Canada 23,819
100%
2475 Eglinton Ave W (Skyrise 2) Canada Inc. Canada
100%
25 Nicholas Avenue (Evolv) Canada Inc. Canada
100%
Annemasse Boisbriand Holdings L.P. Manitoba, Canada
100%
BestServe Financial Limited Hong Kong 118
100%
Country Lane Enterprises Ltd. British Columbia, Canada
100%
Dental Health Alliance, L.L.C. Delaware, USA
100%
Denticare of Alabama, Inc. Alabama, USA 100%
PT. Sun Life Financial Indonesia Indonesia 186 100%
PT. Sun Life Indonesia Services Indonesia 100%
SL Insurance (Hungary) Finance No. 2 Kft Hungary 100%
SLA US Real Estate Holdings, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
SLF of Canada UK Limited England and Wales 100%
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.K.) Limited England and Wales 703 100%
Barnwood Properties Limited England and Wales 100%
Sun Life of Canada UK Holdings Limited England and Wales 100%
Laurtrust Limited England and Wales 100%
SLFC Services Company (UK) Limited England and Wales 100%
Solidify Software, LLC Kansas, USA 100%
Sun Life (Bermuda) Finance No. 2 LLC Bermuda 100%
Sun Life (Luxembourg) Finance No. 2 SARL Luxembourg 100%
Sun Life (India) AMC Investments Inc. Canada 100%
Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited India 36.49%
Sun Life and Health Insurance Company (U.S.) Michigan, USA 504 100%
Sun Life Capital Trust Ontario, Canada 100%
Sun Life Everbright Life Insurance Company Limited Tianjin, People's Republic 24.99%
of China
Sun Life Financial (India) Insurance Investments Inc. Canada 100%
Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited India 49%
Sun Life Financial Asia Services Limited Hong Kong 100%
Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Canada 7 100%
Sun Life Financial International Holdings (MC), LLC Delaware, USA 100%
Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Canada 70 100%
Sun Life Financial Investments (Bermuda) Ltd. Bermuda 100%
Sun Life Financial of Canada (U.K.) Overseas Investments Limited England and Wales 100%
Sun Life of Canada (Netherlands) B.V. Netherlands 100%
Sun Life Financial Philippine Holding Company, Inc. Philippines 100%
Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. Philippines 49%
Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation Philippines 100%
Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. Philippines 1,413 100%
Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. Philippines 100%
Sun Life Financial Plans, Inc. Philippines 100%
Sun Life Financial Trust Inc. Canada 99 100%
Sun Life Hong Kong Limited Bermuda 2,354 100%
Sun Life Asset Management (HK) Limited Hong Kong 100%
Sun Life Financial Holdings (HK) Limited Hong Kong 100%
Sun Life Hong Kong Services Limited Hong Kong 100%
Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies of Sun Life Financial Inc. Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 195
Per cent of
Voting Shares
Jurisdiction of Book Value Owned by
Company Formation of Shares Owned SLF Inc.
Sun Life Investment Holdings (HK) Limited Hong Kong
100%
Sun Life Management Holdings (HK) Limited Hong Kong
100%
Sun Life Pension Trust Limited Hong Kong
100%
Sun Life Trustee Company Limited Hong Kong
100%
Sun Life India Service Centre Private Limited India
100%
Sun Life Information Services Canada, Inc. Canada
100%
Sun Life Information Services Ireland Limited Republic of Ireland
100%
Sun Life Insurance (Canada) Limited Canada 2,250
100%
SLI General Partner Limited Canada
100%
SLI Investments LP Manitoba, Canada
100%
6425411 Canada Inc. Canada
100%
Sun Life Investments LLC Delaware, USA 100%
SLI US Real Estate Holdings, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
Sun Life Malaysia Assurance Berhad Malaysia
49%
Sun Life Malaysia Takaful Berhad Malaysia 49%
Sun Life Vietnam Insurance Company Limited Vietnam 876 100%
UDC Dental California, Inc. California, USA 100%
UDC Ohio, Inc. Ohio, USA 100%
Union Security DentalCare of Georgia, Inc. Georgia, USA 100%
Union Security DentalCare of New Jersey, Inc. New Jersey, USA 100%
United Dental Care of Arizona, Inc. Arizona, USA 100%
United Dental Care of Colorado, Inc. Colorado, USA 100%
United Dental Care of Missouri, Inc. Missouri, USA 100%
United Dental Care of New Mexico, Inc. New Mexico, USA 100%
United Dental Care of Texas, Inc. Texas, USA 100%
United Dental Care of Utah, Inc. Utah, USA 100%
10851744 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
11096800 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
6965083 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
7037457 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
7647913 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
7647930 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
Sun Life Global Investments Inc. Canada 100%
BK Canada Holdings Inc. Canada 100%
BentallGreenOak (Canada) GP Ltd. Canada 100%
BentallGreenOak (Canada) Limited Partnership British Columbia, Canada 382 56%
Bentall Property Services (Ontario) Ltd. Ontario, Canada 56%
BGO Canada Holdings Inc. Canada 56%
BGO Capital (Canada) Inc. Canada 56%
BGO Holdings (Cayman), LP Cayman Islands 62 56%
BentallGreenOak Advisors (Hong Kong) Limited Hong Kong
56%
BentallGreenOak Advisors (Korea) Limited Republic of Korea
56%
BentallGreenOak China Holdings Limited Guernsey
56%
BentallGreenOak Capital Partners (HK) Limited Hong Kong
56%
BentallGreenOak China Investment Advisers Limited Hong Kong 56 %
BentallGreenOak Investment Advisers Limited Hong Kong 56%
BentallGreenOak K.K. Japan
56%
BentallGreenOak Real Estate Advisors (Jersey) Limited Jersey, Channel Islands
56%
BentallGreenOak Real Estate Services Ltd. England and Wales
56%
BentallGreenOak Advisors (UK) LLP England and Wales
56%
BentallGreenOak Advisors (Italy) S.r.l. Italy
56%
BentallGreenOak Asset Management (Germany) GmbH Germany 56%
BentallGreenOak Management Services S.à.r.l. Luxembourg 56%
196 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies of Sun Life Financial Inc.
Per cent of
Voting Shares
Jurisdiction of Book Value Owned by
Company Formation of Shares Owned SLF Inc.
GreenOak Real Estate Advisors (Spain) S.L. Madrid, Spain
56%
GreenOak India Investment Advisors Private Limited Mumbai, India
56%
BGO Luxembourg Holdings Ltd. Canada 56%
BGO Prime GP Holdco Inc. Canada 56%
BentallGreenOak Prime Investments Trustee Inc. Canada 56%
BGO Real Property Services (Canada) Inc. Canada 56%
SynchroSERV Inc. Canada 56%
SynchroSERV Limited Partnership British Columbia, Canada 56%
0936543 BC Ltd. British Columbia, Canada 56%
SLGI Asset Management Inc. Canada 101 100%
Sun Life 2007-1 Financing Corp. Canada 100%
Sun Life (Bermuda) Finance No. 1 Ltd. Bermuda 100%
Sun Life (Hungary) Finance No. 1 Kft Hungary 100%
Sun Life (Luxembourg) Finance No. 1 SARL Luxembourg 100%
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada - U.S. Operations Holdings, Inc. Delaware, USA 100 %
DQ Acquisition Corp. Delaware, USA 100%
SL Finance 2007-1, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
SL Investment 2007-1 ULC Nova Scotia, Canada 100%
Sun Life (U.S.) HoldCo 2020, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
Crescent Capital Group GP LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Capital Group LP Delaware, USA 51%
Atlas Asset Advisors LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Atlas CLO Funding I LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Atlas CLO Funding II LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Atlas MOA Holdings LLC Delaware, USA 51%
CCAP Administration LLC Delaware, USA
51%
CDL Fund II GP, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
CDL Fund III GP LLC Delaware, USA 51%
CPCP General Partner LLC Delaware, USA 51%
CPCP General Partner Limited Republic of Ireland 51%
Crescent (TX) Direct Lending, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Cap Advisors, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Capital Group High Income B LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Capital Group High Income LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent CLO Funding GP, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Credit Europe Group Ltd England and Wales 51%
Crescent Credit Europe LLP England and Wales 51%
Crescent Credit Opportunities, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Credit Opportunities GP, S.a.r.l. Luxembourg 51%
Crescent Credit Solutions VIII, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Direct Lending Levered, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Direct Lending SBIC, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Direct Lending, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent European Specialty Lending II LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent European Specialty Loan II S.à r.l. Luxembourg 51%
Crescent European Specialty Lending LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent European Specialty Loan S.A.R.L Luxembourg 51%
Crescent Mezzanine VI, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Mezzanine VII (PA), LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Mezzanine VII, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Mezzanine VII (Chengdong GP), Ltd. Cayman Islands 51%
Crescent Senior Secured Loan Management LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent Special Situations, L.P. Cayman Islands 5 1%
Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies of Sun Life Financial Inc. Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 197
Per cent of
Voting Shares
Jurisdiction of Book Value Owned by
Company Formation of Shares Owned SLF Inc.
Crescent Syndicated Credit Solutions LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent/Aegis SMA Partners, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Crescent/K Schools SMA Partners, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
NPS/Crescent SMA Partners II, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
NPS/Crescent SMA Partners, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Sepulveda Distributors, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
Sepulveda Funding, LLC Delaware, USA 51%
InfraRed (UK) Holdco 2020 Ltd. England and Wales 100%
InfraRed Partners LLP England and Wales 92 80%
InfraRed Capital Partners (Holdco) Limited England and Wales 80%
Agincourt (2) GP LLP England and Wales 80%
InfraRed (Infrastructure) Capital Partners Limited England and Wales 80%
Infrastructure Investments General Partner Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed Capital Partners (Australia) Pty Limited Victoria, Australia 80%
InfraRed Capital Partners (GP Holdco) Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed Capital Partners (US) LLC Delaware, USA 80%
InfraRed Capital Partners Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed Capital Partners México S de RL de CV Mexico 80%
InfraRed Environmental Infrastructure GP Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed ETF GPLP Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed ETF UGP Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed European Active Real Estate Fund Trustee Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed European Infrastructure Income 4 General Partner LLP England and Wales 80%
InfraRed European Infrastructure Income 4 General Partner S.à.r.l. Luxembourg 80%
InfraRed Infrastructure (Colombia) GP Limited Scotland 80%
InfraRed Infrastructure III General Partner Limited England and Wales 80%
InfraRed Infrastructure RAM GP Limited Scotland 80%
InfraRed Infrastructure V General Partner LLP England and Wales 80%
InfraRed Infrastructure Yield General Partner Limited England and Wales 80%
Paternoster General Partner LLP Scotland 80%
Paternoster Intermediate (GP) Limited England and Wales 80%
Paternoster IRAFIII CI GP Limited Guernsey 80%
Paternoster IRAFIV CI GP Limited Guernsey 80%
Paternoster IRIFV CI GP Limited Guernsey 80%
Waterloo Place (1) GP LLP England and Wales 80%
Waterloo Place (2) GP LLP England and Wales 80%
Waterloo Place (3) GP LLP England and Wales 80%
Sun Life (UK) Designated Member Ltd. England and Wales 100%
Sun Life Financial (Bermuda) Reinsurance Ltd. Bermuda 100%
Sun Life Financial (Japan), Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Holdings, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Investments LLC Delaware, USA 100%
Sun Life Institutional Distributors (U.S.) LLC Delaware, USA 1 100%
Sun Life Investment Management U.S., Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
BentallGreenOak (U.S.) GP LLC Delaware, USA 100%
GO Equity GP LLC Delaware, USA 100%
GO Europe Advisor LP Cayman Islands 100%
GreenOak Japan GP Ltd. Cayman Islands 100%
GreenOak Asia Advisor LP Cayman Islands 100%
SL Investment US-RE Holdings 2009-1, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
BentallGreenOak (U.S.) Limited Partnership Delaware, USA 456 56%
BGO Corporate Holdings (US) LLC Delaware, USA 56%
BGO US Mortgages Inc. California, USA 56%
198 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies of Sun Life Financial Inc.
Per cent of
Voting Shares
Jurisdiction of Book Value Owned by
Company Formation of Shares Owned SLF Inc.
SLCAL, Inc. Delaware, USA 56%
Rushmore Partners LLC Delaware, USA 56%
NewTower Trust Company Maryland, USA 56%
NewTower Management GP LLC Delaware, USA 56%
NewTower Management LLC Delaware, USA 56%
BGO US Real Estate LP Delaware, USA 56%
BentallGreenOak Real Estate Advisors LP Delaware, USA 56%
BentallGreenOak Real Estate GP LLC Delaware, USA 56%
BentallGreenOak Real Estate US LLC Delaware, USA 56%
BKUS Institutional Logistics Coinvestment LLC California, USA 56%
Sun Life Capital Management (U.S.) LLC Delaware, USA 118 100%
SLC Management TIPS Partners Management, LLC Delaware, USA 100%
SLC Management U.S. Private Credit GP, LLC Delaware, USA 100%
Sun Life of Canada (U.S.) Financial Services Holdings, Inc. Delaware, USA 99.93%
Massachusetts Financial Services Company Delaware, USA 688 95.45%
MFS Development Funds, LLC Delaware, USA 95.45%
MFS Exchange LLC Delaware, USA 95.45%
MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. Delaware, USA 95.45%
MFS Heritage Trust Company New Hampshire, USA 95.45%
MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc. Delaware, USA 95.45%
MFS Investment Management Canada Limited Canada 95.45%
3060097 Nova Scotia Company Nova Scotia, Canada 95.45%
MFS International Ltd. Bermuda 95.45%
MFS do Brasil Desenvolvimento de Mercado Ltda. Brazil 95.45%
MFS International (Chile) SpA Chile 95.45%
MFS International (Hong Kong) Limited Hong Kong 95.45%
MFS International Holdings Pty Ltd Sydney, Australia 95.45%
MFS Financial Management Consulting (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Shanghai, People's 95.45%
Republic of China
MFS International (U.K.) Limited England and Wales 95.45%
MFS International Switzerland GmbH Switzerland 95.45%
MFS International Australia Pty Ltd Victoria, Australia 95.45%
MFS International Singapore Pte. Ltd. Singapore 95.45%
MFS Investment Management Company (LUX) S.à.r.l. Luxembourg 95.45%
MFS Investment Management K.K. Japan 95.45%
MFS Service Center, Inc. Delaware, USA 95.45%
Sun Life of Canada (U.S.) Holdings, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
DailyFeats, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
Disability Reinsurance Management Services, Inc. Delaware, USA 100%
Independence Life and Annuity Company Delaware, USA 381 100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Reinsurance Company II Delaware, USA 100%
Pinnacle Care International, Inc. Maryland, USA 100%
Pinnacle Care International, LLC Delaware, USA
100%
Professional Insurance Company Texas, USA 66
100%
Sun Canada Financial Co. Delaware, USA
100%
Sun Life Administrators (U.S.), Inc. Delaware, USA
100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Delaware Finance 2020, LLC Delaware, USA
100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Delaware Finance, LLC Delaware, USA
100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Reinsurance Company Michigan, USA
100%
Sun Life Financial (U.S.) Services Company, Inc. Delaware, USA 100
100%
The Premier Dental Group, Inc. Minnesota, USA
100%
Landmark Dental Alliance, Inc. Minnesota, USA
100%
Sun Life Financial Distributors, Inc. Delaware, USA
100%
Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies of Sun Life Financial Inc. Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 199
Per cent of
Voting Shares
Jurisdiction of Book Value Owned by
Company Formation of Shares Owned SLF Inc.
Sun Life Capital Management (Canada) Inc. Canada 25 100%
BGO Mortgage Services Canada Inc. Canada 100%
Sun Life LRCN Trust Manitoba, Canada 100%
12172364 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
13437485 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
13437531 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
6324983 Canada Inc. Canada 100%
200 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies of Sun Life Financial Inc.
Major Offices
The following is contact information for Sun Life’s major offices and affiliates around the world. For inquiries and customer service, please contact
the appropriate office in your area.
Major Offices Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 201
MFS Investment Management
111 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
02199 USA
Tel: 617-954-5000
Toll-free in Canada and U.S.:
1-800-343-2829
Website: mfs.com
SLC Management
Canadian Headquarters
1 York Street, Suite 1100
Toronto, Ontario
M5J 0B6 Canada
Website: slcmanagement.com
U.S. Headquarters
One Sun Life Executive Park
Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts
02481 USA
Website: slcmanagement.com
BentallGreenOak
Canadian Headquarters
1 York Street, Suite 1100
Toronto, Ontario
M5J 0B6 Canada
Tel: 416-681-3400
Website: bentallgreenoak.com
U.S. Headquarters
399 Park Avenue, 18th floor
New York, New York
10022 USA
Tel: 212-359-7800
Website: bentallgreenoak.com
202 Sun Life Financial Inc. Annual Report 2021 Major Offices
Notes
1
All figures as of December 31, 2021. 2Underlying net income, underlying return on equity (ROE), underlying earnings per share, financial leverage ratio, dividend payout ratio, value of new
business, sales, and assets under management described on pages 1-8 of this Annual Report represent non-IFRS financial measures. For additional information see section L – Non-IFRS
Financial Measures in our 2021 Annual Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”). 3Wealth & Asset Management includes Canada individual wealth, Group Retirement Services and
Sun Life Global Investments (SLGI), Asia wealth, and Asset Management; Group & shorter duration insurance includes Canada Sun Life Health and U.S. Group Benefits, UK, and Asia insurance
(excluding International). Refer to the reconciliation of underlying to reported net income below. 4Percentage results are 5-year compound annual growth rates (CAGR) from 2016 to 2021.
5
Value of new business represents the present value of our best estimate of future distributable earnings, net of the cost of capital, from new business contracts written in a particular time
period, except new business in our Asset Management pillar. Value of new business was restated back to 2018, reflecting a change in the timing of recognition of U.S. group policies sold or
renewed with an effective date of January 1, which will recognize Value of new business for these policies in the prior year rather than the first quarter, to align with the timing of U.S. renewals
and reported insurance sales 6Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test (“LICAT”) ratio of SLF Inc. and of Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (“SLA”). Our LICAT ratios are calculated in accordance
with OSFI-mandated guideline, Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test. 7Although considered reasonable, we may not be able to achieve our medium-term financial objectives as our assumptions
may prove to be inaccurate. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our medium-term financial objectives as described on the slide. Our medium-term financial objectives do
not constitute guidance. Our medium-term financial objectives are forward-looking non-IFRS financial measures and additional information is provided in section O - Forward-looking Statements
- Medium-Term Financial Objectives in our 2021 Annual MD&A. 8Underlying dividend payout ratio represents the ratio of common shareholders’ dividends to diluted underlying EPS. See section
I - Capital and Liquidity Management - 3 - Shareholder Dividends in our 2021 Annual MD&A for further information regarding dividends. 9Underlying EPS growth is calculated using a compound
annual growth rate. Underlying ROE and underlying dividend payout ratio are calculated using an average. 2021 reported net income by business pillar (excludes Corporate reported net income
of $(90)M): Asset Management 22%, Canada 39%, Asia 27%, U.S. 12%.
Items excluded from underlying net income 416 (67) 95 444 (43) 401
Underlying net income (loss) 727 1,946 1,118 3,791 (258) 3,533
Percentage of underlying net income (excluding other) 19% 51% 30% 100%
*
Includes Corporate Support and Business Group support functions
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