40-F
SUN LIFE FINANCIAL INC (SLF)
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 40-F
| ☐ | REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
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OR
| ☒ | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13(a) OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
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For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025
Commission File Number 001-15014
Sun Life Financial Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Canada
(Province or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
52411
(Primary Standard Industrial Classification Code Number (if applicable))
Not Applicable
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number (if applicable))
1 York Street, 31st Floor, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5J 0B6 (416) 979-9966
(Address and telephone number of Registrant’s principal executive offices)
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada – U.S. Operations Holdings, Inc.
One Sun Life Executive Park
Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts 02481
(781) 237-6030
(Name, address (including zip code) and telephone number (including area code) of agent for service in the United States)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered |
|---|---|---|
| Common Shares | SLF | New York Stock Exchange |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.
Not Applicable
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.
Not Applicable
(Title of Class)
For annual reports, indicate by check mark the information filed with this Form:
| ☒ Annual information form | ☒ Audited annual financial statements |
|---|
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.
| Common Shares | 553,799,595 | |
|---|---|---|
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 3 | 10,000,000 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 4 | 12,000,000 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 5 | 10,000,000 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 8R | 8,880,847 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 9QR | 2,319,153 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 10R | 6,838,672 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 11QR | 1,161,328 | |
| Class A Preferred Shares Series 14 | 1,000,000 | 1 |
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).
Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Emerging growth company | ☐ |
|---|
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
† The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.
1 In connection with the issuance of $1 billion principal amount of 3.60% Limited Recourse Capital Notes (LRCN) Series 2021-1 (Subordinated Indebtedness) on June 30, 2021, the Registrant issued 1 million class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 14 (Series 14) at a price of $1,000 per Series 14 share. The Series 14 shares were issued to a consolidated trust to be held as trust assets in connection with the LRCN structure.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
The following information is incorporated by reference in this annual report on Form 40-F:
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The information under the heading “Accounting and Control Matters – Disclosure Controls and Procedures” in Sun Life Financial Inc.’s (the “Company”) Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the “2025 Annual MD&A”) is incorporated by reference herein.
A copy of the Company’s 2025 Annual MD&A is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The information under the heading “Accounting and Control Matters – Disclosure Controls and Procedures – Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting” in the Company’s 2025 Annual MD&A and the information in the management report titled “Financial Reporting Responsibilities”, attached to the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the “2025 Annual Financial Statements”) is incorporated by reference herein.
A copy of the Company’s 2025 Annual MD&A is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1. A copy of the Company’s 2025 Annual Financial Statements are attached hereto as Exhibit 99.2.
Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
The “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” with respect to the audit of the internal control over financial reporting of the Company, which accompanies the Company’s 2025 Annual Financial Statements is incorporated by reference herein.
The Company’s 2025 Annual Financial Statements are attached hereto as Exhibit 99.2.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The information under the heading “Accounting and Control Matters – Disclosure Controls and Procedures – Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting” in the Company’s 2025 Annual MD&A is incorporated by reference herein.
A copy of the Company’s 2025 Annual MD&A is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1.
Identification of Audit Committee
The information under the heading “Directors and Executive Officers – Audit Committee” in the Company’s annual information form dated February 11, 2026 (the “2025 AIF”) is incorporated by reference herein.
A copy of the Company’s 2025 AIF is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.3.
Audit Committee Financial Expert
The Company's Board of Directors (the “Board”) has determined that Deepak Chopra, Laurie G. Hylton and Helen M. Mallovy Hicks are Audit Committee Financial Experts as defined by the SEC. The SEC has indicated that the designation of a person as an Audit Committee Financial Expert does not make that person an "expert" for any purpose, or impose any duties, obligations or liabilities on that person that are greater than those imposed on members of the Audit Committee and the Board who do not carry this designation or affect the duties, obligations or liabilities of any other member of the Audit Committee or the Board. Each of Mr. Chopra, Ms. Hylton and Ms. Mallovy Hicks is "independent" within the meaning of the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and Rule 10A-3 of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Code of Ethics
The information under the heading “Code of Conduct” in the Company’s 2025 AIF is incorporated by reference herein.
A copy of the Company’s 2025 AIF is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.3.
A copy of the current Sun Life Financial Code of Conduct is available on our website at www.sunlife.com under “About Us”.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information about aggregate fees billed to us by our principal accountant, Deloitte LLP, under the headings “Principal Accountant Fees and Services” in the Company’s 2025 AIF is incorporated by reference herein.
A copy of the Company’s 2025 AIF is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.3.
Comparison with New York Stock Exchange Governance Rules
The Company’s governance processes and practices are consistent with the New York Stock Exchange corporate governance rules for U.S. publicly-listed companies.
UNDERTAKING
Registrant undertakes to make available, in person or by telephone, representatives to respond to inquiries made by the Commission staff, and to furnish promptly, when requested to do so by the Commission staff, information relating to: the securities registered pursuant to Form 40-F; the securities in relation to which the obligation to file an annual report on Form 40-F arises; or transactions in said securities.
CONSENT TO SERVICE OF PROCESS
The Company has previously filed a Form F-X in connection with the class of securities in relation to which the obligation to file this annual report on Form 40-F arises. Any change to the name or address of the Company’s agent for service of process shall be communicated promptly to the Securities and Exchange Commission by an amendment to the Form F-X referencing the file number of the relevant registration statement of the Company.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 40-F and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereto duly authorized.
| Sun Life Financial Inc. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| By: | /s/ Melissa J. Kennedy | ||
| Melissa J. Kennedy | |||
| Executive Vice-President, Chief Legal | |||
| & Public Policy Officer | Dated: February 11, 2026 | ||
| --- | |||
| EXHIBITS: | |||
| --- | --- | ||
| 97.1 | Clawback Policy | ||
| 99.1 | Annual Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2025 | ||
| 99.2 | Consolidated Annual Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2025 | ||
| 99.3 | Annual Information Form dated February 11, 2026 for the year ended December 31, 2025 | ||
| 99.4 | Certifications required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | ||
| 99.5 | Certifications required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of United States Code, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | ||
| 99.6 | Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID No. 01208) | ||
| 99.7 | Consent of Appointed Actuary | ||
| 101 | Interactive Data File | ||
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101). |
Document
Exhibit 97.1

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| APPROVAL | |
|---|---|
| Approved By: | Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc. |
| Date approved by Board/ Board Committee: | November 5, 2025 |
| Next scheduled review and approval by Board/ Board Committee: | November 5, 2028 |
| Effective Date: | November 5, 2025 |
| Sponsor: | Helena Pagano, EVP, Chief People and Culture Officer |
| Responsible Person/Contact: | Chantal Wade, AVP, Executive Compensation |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| 1.0 | PURPOSE AND APPLICATION………………………………………………………………………………………… | 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Purpose………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. | 2 | |
| 1.2 | Application……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. | 2 | |
| 2.0 | POLICY………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... | 2-6 | |
| 3.0 | ACCOUNTABILITIES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... | 6 | |
| 4.0 | TRANSITION | 6 | |
| 5.0 | GLOSSARY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. | 7-8 | |
| 6.0 | REFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… | 8 | |
| 7.0 | APPENDICES……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. | 9 | |
| Appendix A – Modification History………………………………………………………………………….. | 9 |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 1.0 | PURPOSE AND APPLICATION | |
|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Purpose<br><br>This clawback policy is designed to allow Sun Life to reclaim or “claw back” incentive compensation in situations where employees received excessive or undeserved compensation. This includes instances of Misconduct (all employees) or financial restatements (Executives described in this policy). | |
| 1.2 | Application<br><br>This Policy is an Enterprise Policy. It applies uniformly across the Corporation, Business Groups, Subsidiaries, and Business Units, unless they have comparable frameworks, policies and procedures in place.<br><br>This Policy is intended to apply directly to entities over which Sun Life has control. Joint Ventures under Sun Life management control are expected to adopt the Policy or have comparable policies and/or procedures in place as applicable.<br><br><br><br>In the case of Misconduct, it applies to all current and former employees. In the case of financial restatements, it applies to current and former "Executive Officers", which are Executive Team Members of the Company, and any other individuals determined by the Board in its sole discretion to be subject to this Policy. | |
| 2.0 | POLICY | |
| 2.1 | All current and former employees covered by this Policy are required upon demand by the Board to repay any or all Incentive Compensation received or realized by such employee during the three completed fiscal years immediately prior to a determination by the Board that the employee engaged in Misconduct. |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 2.2 | All Executive Officers are required upon demand by the Board to repay any excess Incentive Compensation received or realized by them during the three completed fiscal years immediately preceding the relevant Restatement Date (as well as during any transition period specified in Rule 10D-1(b)(1)(i)(D) under the Exchange Act), other than any Incentive Compensation that was received prior to such Executive Officer’s service as an Executive Officer or prior to the effective date of the U.S. Stock Exchange rules implementing Rule 10D-1 under the Exchange Act, if the Incentive Compensation received or realized by such Executive Officer during such period would have been less had the results of the Accounting Restatement been known (such excess Incentive Compensation, as computed without regard to any taxes paid thereon, the “Erroneously Awarded Compensation”). |
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| 2.3 | For purposes of this Clawback Policy, “Accounting Restatement” means any accounting restatement of the Company’s financial statements due to material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirement under the securities laws, including (i) a restatement required to correct a material error in previously-issued financial statements and/or (ii) a restatement required in the current period merely to avoid material misstatements resulting from either an uncorrected error or the recognition of a corrected error in the current period, which may include a restatement to avoid cumulative effects of an error over several reporting periods. Clawbacks do not apply to out-of-period adjustments that are not Accounting Restatements or to retrospective applications of changes in accounting principles, retrospective reclassifications due to discontinued operations or other retrospective revisions or adjustments that do not represent error corrections. |
| 2.4 | Erroneously Awarded Compensation will be “clawed back” (i.e., recovered from, or repaid by, the applicable Executive Officer) regardless of whether the Executive Officer was party to or aware of the misstatement, and applies to former Executive Officers who were employed in that capacity during the above three-fiscal-year period (or relevant transition period) (such recovery or repayment of Erroneously Awarded Compensation, a “Clawback”). Neither Executive Officers, former Executive Officers, nor the Company may insure or indemnify Executive Officers against a Clawback. The Company may decide not to attempt to recover funds in situations only as allowable under applicable legislation, in particular the Exchange Act (as discussed further below). If the Board determines that an Executive Officer received any Erroneously Awarded Compensation in connection with an Accounting Restatement, the Board shall, reasonably promptly after the Restatement Date, seek recoupment from such Executive Officer of all such Erroneously Awarded Compensation, subject to the Impracticality Exceptions. |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 2.5 | A Clawback will not be triggered by the following changes to the Company’s financial statements: retrospective application of a change in accounting principle, retrospective revision to reportable segment information due to a change in organization structure, retrospective reclassification due to a discontinued operation, retrospective application of a change in reporting entity, or retrospective adjustment to provisional amounts in connection with a prior business combination and retrospective revision for stock splits, reverse stock splits, stock dividends or other changes to the capital structure. |
|---|---|
| 2.6 | For Incentive Compensation based on the Company’s stock price or total shareholder return, where the amount of Erroneously Awarded Compensation is not subject to mathematical recalculation directly from the information in an Accounting Restatement: (i) the amount of Erroneously Awarded Compensation must be based on a reasonable estimate of the effect of the Accounting Restatement on the Company’s stock price or total shareholder return upon which the Incentive Compensation was received; and (ii) the Company must maintain documentation of the determination of that reasonable estimate and provide such documentation to the applicable U.S. Stock Exchange. Reference is further made to Rule 10D-1(b)(1)(iii) under the Exchange Act and the rules of the applicable U.S. Stock Exchange used for calculating Erroneously Awarded Compensation. |
| 2.7 | Prior to making a demand for payment related to financial restatements, the Board will conduct an appropriate investigation of relevant facts in compliance with relevant regulations in Canada, the United States or other competent jurisdiction. |
| 2.8 | The Board may retain a financial advisor to provide an opinion on the fair market value of a common share of Sun Life Financial Inc. on the date that a payment of Incentive Compensation was calculated or that an option was exercised had the Misconduct and/or Accounting Restatement not occurred. |
| 2.9 | The Board may take into account a variety of factors in its sole discretion in determining whether to demand repayment for Misconduct. |
| 2.10 | The Board shall not, under this Clawback Policy, demand payment of an amount in excess of (i) the pre-tax amount of Incentive Compensation received or realized by the Executive Officer or former Executive Officer in situations of Misconduct or (ii) the amount of Erroneously Awarded Compensation received or realized by the Executive Officer or former Executive Officer attributable to an Accounting Restatement. |
| 2.11 | A demand for payment under this Clawback Policy shall be on such terms as the Board specifies in compliance with applicable legislation and related regulations and rules (including the U.S. Clawback Rules). |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 2.12 | The Company will take any action authorized by law to enforce a demand for repayment by the Board that is not promptly complied with by a current or former employee. | |
|---|---|---|
| 2.13 | This Clawback Policy does not in any way detract from the requirements of section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and does not prevent the Company from taking any other appropriate action against an employee who is determined to have engaged in Misconduct, up to and including termination of employment. | |
| 2.14 | The Board will determine, in its sole discretion, the method for recouping amounts hereunder which may include, without limitation: | |
| 2.14.1 | • requiring reimbursement of cash amounts previously paid (on a pre-tax basis); | |
| 2.14.2 | • seeking recovery of any gain realized on the vesting, exercise, settlement, sale, transfer, or other disposition of any Incentive Compensation; | |
| 2.14.3 | • offsetting the amount of the Erroneously Awarded Compensation, or Incentive Compensation, as applicable, otherwise owed by the Company to the Executive Officer as of the Restatement Date; | |
| 2.14.4 | • cancelling outstanding vested or unvested Incentive Compensation; | |
| 2.14.5 | • taking any other remedial and recovery action permitted by law, as determined by the Board; or | |
| 2.14.6 | • any combination of the foregoing, as determined by the Board. | |
| 2.15 | The Company must recover any Erroneously Awarded Compensation unless the Management Resources Committee of the Board determines that any of the impracticality exceptions set forth in Rule 10D-1(b)(1)(iv) under the Exchange Act and/or the rules of the applicable U.S. Stock Exchange are available, as set forth below (the “Impracticality Exceptions”): | |
| 2.15.1 | • The direct expense paid to a third party to assist in enforcing this Clawback Policy would exceed the amount of Erroneously Awarded Compensation to be recovered. Before concluding that it would be impracticable to recover any amount of Erroneously Awarded Compensation pursuant to this clause, the Company must make a reasonable attempt to recover such Erroneously Awarded Compensation, document (in writing) such reasonable attempt(s) to recover and provide that documentation to the applicable U.S. Stock Exchange |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 2.15.2 | • Recovery would violate applicable Canadian law where that law was adopted prior to November 28, 2022. | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.15.3 | • Recovery would likely cause an otherwise tax-qualified retirement plan of the Company, under which benefits are broadly available to employees of the Company, to fail to meet the requirements of 26 U.S.C. 401(a)(13) or 26 U.S.C. 411(a) and regulations thereunder. | ||
| 2.16 | The Company’s obligation to recover Erroneously Awarded Compensation is not dependent on if or when the restated financial statements for the Accounting Restatement have been filed. | ||
| 2.17 | Recoupment of Erroneously Awarded Compensation under section 2.2 of this Clawback Policy is made on a “no fault” basis, without regard to whether any misconduct occurred or whether any Executive Officer is responsible for the noncompliance that resulted in the Accounting Restatement. | ||
| 2.18 | This Clawback Policy is qualified by reference to applicable SEC rules (including Rule 10D-1 under the Exchange Act) and, when adopted, the rules of the applicable U.S. Stock Exchange (collectively, the “U.S. Clawback Rules”). To the extent there is a conflict between this Clawback Policy and the U.S. Clawback Rules, or any interpretive question arises hereunder, the U.S. Clawback Rules will prevail. | ||
| 3.0 | ACCOUNTABILITIES<br><br>The Board of Directors:<br><br>•Approving this Policy<br><br>•Determination that employee engaged in Misconduct such that the Clawback Policy is triggered<br><br>•Conducting an appropriate investigation of relevant facts in compliance with relevant regulations in Canada, the United States or other competent jurisdiction prior to making a demand for payment related to financial restatements<br><br>•Determining the method for recouping amounts | ||
| Management Resources Committee<br><br>•Determining any impracticality exceptions | |||
| 4.0 | TRANSITION<br><br><br><br>Subsidiaries which were previously not covered by this Policy will have a transition period to comply. |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 5.0 | GLOSSARY<br><br>“Company” means each of Sun Life Financial Inc. and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. Reference to the terms “Sun Life”, “we”, “our”, and “us” within this document refers to each of Sun Life Financial Inc. and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. |
|---|---|
| “Exchange Act” means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time. | |
| “Financial Reporting Measure” means a measure that is determined and presented in accordance with the accounting principles used in preparing the Company’s financial statements, and any measure that is derived wholly or in part from such measure, including stock price and total shareholder return. | |
| “Incentive Compensation” means any incentive compensation paid or realized that can increase or decrease from the target amount based on actual performance. Incentive Compensation includes, with respect to any employee covered by this Clawback Policy, (i) any compensation that is granted, earned, or vested based wholly or in part upon the attainment of a Financial Reporting Measure, (ii) any amount paid to an employee of the Company under an incentive or deferred compensation plan sponsored or administered by the Company and (iii) the difference between the exercise price of an option to purchase a common share of Sun Life Financial Inc. and the closing price of such a share on the Toronto Stock Exchange on the date such an option was exercised. | |
| “Joint Venture” means corporation or other entity in which the company has a substantial interest. A joint venture is considered to be under management control where Sun Life has supervision over and authority to direct the day-to-day business and operations of the joint venture in the ordinary course of business. The following joint ventures are under management control as of the date of this policy approval: Sun Life Malaysia Assurance Berhad, Sun Life Malaysia Takaful Berhad and Sun Life Grepa Financial Inc. | |
| “Misconduct” means fraud, dishonesty, material and intentional non-compliance with legal requirements or the Company’s policies or procedures (including the Code of Conduct) or, any other act or omission that would permit the lawful termination of employment or summary dismissal from employment without notice or payment whatsoever, and includes a failure to report or take action to stop Misconduct of another employee that an employee knew, or ought to have known, about. | |
| “Restatement Date” means the date on which the Company is required to prepare an Accounting Restatement (as determined by Rule 10D-1(b)(1)(ii) under the Exchange Act). |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| “Subsidiary” means a corporation whereby more than 50 per cent of each of the total voting power and total value of the shares (other than preferred shares) are owned, directly or indirectly, by the Corporation and/or a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries. Thus, where a joint venture does not meet the said “more than 50%” test, it is not a Subsidiary. For the purposes of this Framework, “Subsidiary” excludes Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| “U.S. Stock Exchange” means the New York Stock Exchange and/or any other U.S. national securities exchange on which the Company’s securities are listed. | |||
| 6.0 | REFERENCES | ||
| 6.1 | Policies | ||
| 6.1.1 | Compensation and Appointment Policy | ||
| 6.2 | Operating Guidelines | ||
| 6.2.1 | For clarity, in cases of discrepancy between this Clawback Policy and the Compensation & Appointment Policy, this Clawback Policy will govern. | ||
| 6.2.2 | With the exception of impracticality exceptions, which the Management Resources Committee determines, the Board has full and final authority to make all determinations under this Clawback Policy including whether the Clawback Policy applies and, if so, the amount of compensation to be repaid or forfeited by an Employee or Executive Officer. All determinations and decisions made by the Board under this Clawback Policy will be final and binding. | ||
| 6.2.3 | This Clawback Policy supersedes and replaces any previous clawback (or “compensation recovery”) provisions in existing policies. |

Clawback Policy
Total Rewards, Human Resources
| 7.0 | APPENDICES | |
|---|---|---|
| Appendix A – Modification History | ||
| Approvals/Amendments | Date | |
| Approved by Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc. | Nov 5, 2025 |
9
Document
MANAGEMENT'S
DISCUSSION
AND ANALYSIS
| 2 | A. HOW WE REPORT OUR RESULTS | 46 | J. CAPITAL AND LIQUIDITY MANAGEMENT |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46 | 1. Capital | ||
| 4 | B. OVERVIEW | 48 | 2. Capital Adequacy |
| 4 | 1. Strategy | 49 | 3. Shareholder Dividends |
| 7 | 2. Financial Objectives | 50 | 4. Principal Sources and Uses of Funds |
| 7 | 3. Acquisitions and Other | 51 | 5. Liquidity |
| 8 | C. FINANCIAL SUMMARY | 52 | K. RISK MANAGEMENT |
| 52 | 1. Risk Management Framework | ||
| 9 | D. PROFITABILITY | 53 | 2. Risk Governance |
| 54 | 3. Risk Universe | ||
| 12 | E. GROWTH | 54 | 4. Risk Appetite |
| 12 | 1. Sales, Gross Flows and Value of New Business | 55 | 5. Risk Management Policies |
| 13 | 2. Assets Under Management | 55 | 6. Risk Management Process |
| 56 | 7. Three Lines of Defence | ||
| 14 | F. CONTRACTUAL SERVICE MARGIN | 56 | 8. Culture and Managing Risk |
| 58 | 9. Risk Categories | ||
| 16 | G. FINANCIAL STRENGTH | ||
| 82 | L. ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE | ||
| 19 | H. PERFORMANCE BY BUSINESS GROUP | 82 | 1. Selected Annual Information |
| 20 | 1. Asset Management | 83 | 2. Items related to Statement of Operations |
| 25 | 2. Canada | 85 | 3. Items related to Statement of Financial Position |
| 29 | 3. U.S. | 86 | 4. Fourth Quarter 2025 Profitability |
| 34 | 4. Asia | 88 | 5. Fourth Quarter 2025 Growth |
| 39 | 5. Corporate | 89 | 6. Previous Quarters |
| 40 | I. INVESTMENTS | 92 | M. NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES |
| 40 | 1. Investment Profile | ||
| 40 | 2. Debt Securities | 101 | N. ACCOUNTING AND CONTROL MATTERS |
| 42 | 3. Equities | 101 | 1. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates |
| 42 | 4. Mortgages and Loans | 108 | 2. Changes in Accounting Policies |
| 44 | 5. Derivatives | 108 | 3. Disclosure Controls and Procedures |
| 45 | 6. Investment Properties | ||
| 45 | 7. Loss Allowance and Provision for Credit Loss | 109 | O. LEGAL AND REGULATORY PROCEEDINGS |
| 109 | P. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS | ||
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Management's Discussion and Analysis | |||
| --- |
February 11, 2026
| A. How We Report Our Results |
|---|
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, 2025, Sun Life had total assets under management ("AUM") of $1.60 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, 2025 and the information contained in this document is in Canadian dollars. Amounts in this document may be impacted by rounding.
Where information at and for the year ended December 31, 2025 is not available, information available for the latest period before December 31, 2025 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: Asset Management, Canada, United States ("U.S."), 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.
Underlying net income by Business Types
Sun Life has a diversified mix of businesses and our earnings by business type supports the analysis of our results:
•Asset management & wealth(1): Sun Life’s asset management & wealth businesses generate fee income and/or spread on investment products.
•Group - Health & Protection: Group businesses provide health and protection benefits to employer and government plan members. The products generally have shorter-term coverage periods, and more frequent repricing. The revenues are driven by premiums for coverage provided as well as fee-based earnings (i.e., Administrative Services Only plans, and dental fees).
•Individual - Protection: Generally, individual protection businesses have a longer-term profitability profile and are more sensitive to experience trends. The premiums include a margin for providing protection and are invested to earn a return over the expected amounts required to fulfill insurance liabilities.
The following provides an overview of the business types in Sun Life's business segments/business groups:

(1)Effective Q1'25, the Wealth & asset management business type was renamed to Asset management & wealth.
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- Use of Non-IFRS Financial Measures
We report certain financial information using non-IFRS financial measures, as we believe that these measures provide information that is useful to investors in understanding our performance and facilitate a comparison of our quarterly and full year results from period to period. These non-IFRS financial measures do not have any standardized meaning and may not be comparable with similar measures used by other companies. For certain non-IFRS financial measures, there are no directly comparable amounts under IFRS. These non-IFRS financial measures should not be viewed in isolation from or as alternatives to measures of financial performance determined in accordance with IFRS. Additional information concerning non-IFRS financial measures and, if applicable, reconciliations to the closest IFRS measures are available in section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document and the Supplementary Financial Information package on www.sunlife.com under Investors - Financial results and reports.
- 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 P - Forward-looking Statements in this document.
- 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, 2025. These documents are filed with securities regulators in Canada and are available at www.sedarplus.ca. 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.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 3 |
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| 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.
- Strategy
Our strategy places the Client at the centre of everything we do. Our enterprise strategy, as described below, reflects our priorities and our diversified business mix. We believe by effectively executing on our strategy, we can fulfill our Purpose, create a positive impact for our Clients, and achieve our goal to be a leader in each of our four pillars.

Purpose and Ambition
Our Purpose is to help our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. Our Purpose shapes our strategy, structure, and people and culture.
We seek to provide outstanding value and impact for our Clients in three ways:
Driving positive financial actions by:
•Helping Clients build wealth and provide lifetime financial security.
•Providing quality products and solutions that meet the needs of our Clients.
•Delivering timely and expert advice through consistently superior Client experiences.
Delivering solid long-term Client investment returns by:
•Leveraging our collective expertise to make better investment decisions.
•Sourcing broad investment capabilities to serve global Client needs.
•Delivering on investment objectives of Clients.
Driving positive health actions by:
•Being a trusted provider of a broad range of health and wellness coverages.
•Helping Clients access, navigate, and afford the care they need.
•Improving health outcomes, including physical and mental well-being, by providing health solutions and empowering Clients to manage their health.
While our Purpose guides us, our values; caring, authentic, bold, inspiring, and impactful, align how we deliver every day to create impact.
Our Ambition is "to be the best asset management and insurance company in the world". We define this as delivering strong return on equity ("ROE") for shareholders, while creating exceptional Client Impact and digital experience, deriving value from integrating insurance and asset management businesses, and being Purpose-driven for Clients, while also focusing on strong execution to meet our medium-term financial objectives(1):
•Underlying Earnings Per Share ("EPS") growth: 10%.
•Underlying ROE: 20%.
•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 EPS, underlying ROE and underlying dividend payout ratio are Non-IFRS financial measures. See section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
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Our Four Pillars
Our four pillars define the businesses and markets in which we operate. In each of these pillars, we focus on creating value and positively impacting our Clients through businesses that meet Client needs and have strong growth prospects, favourable ROE and strong capital generation in attractive global markets. We are well-positioned across each of our pillars.
Asset Management: A global leader in asset management
We deliver value and drive positive Client impact through our offering of quality investment products:
•MFS Investment Management ("MFS") is a long-standing premier active investment manager offering a comprehensive set of asset management products and services to retail and institutional investors around the world.
•SLC Management is a global investment manager delivering alternative fixed income, private credit, infrastructure, and real estate solutions to institutional investors and High-Net-Worth ("HNW") and retail Clients.
Canada: A leader in health, wealth, and insurance
We deliver value and impact to approximately 1 in 3 Canadians via our group and individual businesses by:
•Providing a wide range of asset management, wealth, health and protection solutions to retail Clients.
•Helping Canadians live healthy lives, both as a major provider of group benefits and through a growing focus on innovative products and services that lead to better health outcomes.
•Remaining a market leader in group retirement services in the workplace, including defined contribution pensions, and defined benefit pension de-risking.
U.S.: A leader in health and benefits
We have deep expertise in the health and benefits market, and help our Clients access the care and coverage they need while improving health outcomes. We are:
•The largest independent medical stop-loss provider in the U.S., offering protection against large medical claims for employers who self-insure their employee health plans, as well as programs for complex conditions and health care navigation services to help members improve outcomes.
•One of the largest dental benefits provider in the U.S. based on membership(1) with some of the largest nationwide networks of dentists. The U.S. Dental business serves approximately 32 million members(2) through government programs and commercial group dental and vision solutions for employers of all sizes.
•A top ten group life and disability provider in the U.S., offering a broad portfolio of group insurance products and services, as well as turnkey risk management solutions for health plans and other insurance carriers.
Asia: A regional leader focused on fast-growing markets
We are well-positioned in Asia to achieve our growth aspirations, through our portfolio of distinct businesses in the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, China, India, Malaysia, and High Net Worth including Singapore, Bermuda, and Dubai. These markets account for approximately 72% of Asia’s Gross domestic product ("GDP") with high potential for future growth(3). We are:
•A provider of individual life and health insurance that delivers Client value across all of our markets.
•A provider, in select markets, of asset management and group retirement products and services.
•Among the global leaders in providing life insurance solutions to HNW Clients.
Our Client Impact Strategy
Our Client Impact strategy has seven areas of focus that we are pursuing across our four pillars. These areas of focus define how we compete in our markets, extend our competitive advantages, fulfill our Purpose and support our Ambition to be the best asset management and insurance company in the world. We are committed to advancing our leadership position through a relentless focus on execution excellence, digital leadership, and cultivating strong talent and a culture that enables high performance.
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 positive impact we have on our Clients' lives. We believe this allows us to develop and offer the right solutions and experiences, build lasting and trusted Client relationships, and create value for Clients that also deliver better business outcomes for Sun Life. We are committed to helping Clients by driving positive health and financial actions, and delivering solid long-term investment returns.
Trusted Brand: Preserving our long standing reputation of being a trusted brand is paramount in an increasingly complex and digitized world. For more than 160 years, we have built and enjoyed strong, trusted relationships with our Clients in all Sun Life markets and through our distribution partnerships. Our brand reflects the differentiated Sun Life experiences we create, the products and service experiences we deliver, and the culture we live by, to achieve our Purpose. Our forward-looking brand strategy remains focused on delivering Client Impact and we will work to build our future competitive advantage and brand appeal with both new and existing Clients.
Execution Excellence: We have a refreshed focus to deepen financial discipline and execution excellence through clear prioritization and alignment across the business, transparent metrics and milestones, effectively resourced programs with clear ownership, and adaptability in response to changing conditions. Our approach aims to fully realize the value of our investments, unlock new opportunities, and strengthen organizational adaptability.
(1)Based on membership as of December 31, 2025, for plans provided or administered by a Sun Life company. Ranking compiled by Sun Life and based on data disclosed by competitors.
(2)Includes members who also have a Sun Life Group coverage.
(3)World Bank, 2024.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 5 |
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Distribution Excellence: We have established an omni-channel approach to distribution that makes it easier for 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 provide seamless Client experiences.
Digital Leadership: We are focused on enabling our businesses to create meaningful, digitally-enabled connections with Clients to generate the greatest Client and Business impact:
•Delivering exceptional and personalized digital experiences for Clients, employees, advisors and partners.
•Leveraging digital capabilities and ways of working to drive speed and cost-effectiveness in everything we do.
•Unlocking the potential of new technologies such as generative artificial intelligence ("GenAI") while continuing to invest in a modern technology stack that powers the best Client experiences and overall business productivity.
•Maintaining brand trust by keeping Sun Life resilient and secure.
Financial Discipline: Our strategy is underpinned by a continued commitment to strong financial performance and risk management, coupled with a focus on capital management. Sustained focus across these areas supports our medium-term financial objectives through:
•Delivering strong, stable earnings growth and disciplined expense management.
•Managing our capital to protect our policyholders and to maintain financial flexibility, to generate shareholder value.
•Disciplined organic investments and a programmatic M&A(1) approach.
Long-Term, Sustainable and Resilient: We embed long-term, sustainable and resilient thinking into our strategy, culture, and operations, to drive meaningful social and economic outcomes for our Clients, employees, advisors, investors and communities. We aspire to be a responsibly-managed business that is Client-focused, Purpose-driven, competitive, forward-thinking, sustainable and resilient for the long-term.
Purpose-Driven People and Culture: Delivering on our strategy is supported by our ability to attract, retain, and develop the best talent, and to empower our people to drive results. We are focused on preserving and strengthening our Client focus, integrity, collaboration and inclusivity. Specifically, our focus is to:
•Be the employer of choice for top talent.
•Develop talent that combines strong leadership skills with technological savvy, to support our transformation to a leading digital organization.
•Empower all employees and advisors to take action, make decisions, and be accountable.
•Continue to build a high-performing, inclusive environment that demonstrates diversity of thought and attracts top talent.
•Offer employees flexibility in how and where we work.
Key Strategic Priorities
Together with the strong foundation of our four pillars and key medium-term strategic areas of focus, our strategy emphasizes four key strategic priorities:
1.Scale a leading global asset and wealth management platform: We aim to establish ourselves as a global leader in asset management by growing SLC Management, upholding our leadership in MFS, and unlocking further growth opportunities between our asset management, insurance and wealth businesses.
2.Accelerate our momentum in Asia: Our objective is to become a regional leader in fast-growing markets by strengthening distribution channels, accelerating our speed-to-value through digital advancements, broadening our wealth management services, and emphasizing execution excellence.
3.Navigate and grow in U.S. health and benefits: We strive to be a trusted health partner, enhancing access to care, improving affordability, and empowering members. We're committed to supporting the care needs of our most complex members, leveraging digital capabilities to make health and benefits easier, and strengthening our position in dental care while navigating market dynamics.
4.Operate as a digital company to drive business and Client outcomes: We are dedicated to being a digital leader by integrating digital capabilities throughout the organization, embedding a digital mindset, modernizing our technology infrastructure, leveraging Client insights, and leading the charge in GenAI to drive measurable business and Client outcomes while managing risk, supported by solid and secure foundations.
We believe we are well-positioned to execute on each of these strategic priorities and that by doing so we will accelerate growth, improve competitive positioning, and create positive Client Impact.
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 the best asset management and insurance company in the world.
(1)Mergers & Acquisitions ("M&A").
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- Financial Objectives
Following the adoption of IFRS 17 and IFRS 9, progress against our medium-term financial objectives are measured on a four-year basis. Our medium-term financial objectives are outlined as follows:
| IFRS 17 and IFRS 9 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Measure(1) | Medium-term<br><br>financial objectives(2) | 4-Year(3)(4) | 2025 Results |
| Underlying EPS growth<br><br>Growth in EPS reflects the Company's focus on generating sustainable earnings for shareholders. | 10% | 9% | 12% |
| Underlying ROE<br><br>ROE is a significant driver of shareholder value and is a major focus for management across all businesses. | 20% | 17.6% | 18.2% |
| Underlying dividend payout ratio<br><br>Payout of capital versus shareholder value, based on underlying net income. | 40%-50% | 48% | 47% |
(1)Underlying EPS, underlying ROE and underlying dividend payout ratio are non-IFRS financial measures. See section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. Underlying dividend payout ratio represents the ratio of common shareholders' dividends to diluted underlying EPS. See section J - Capital and Liquidity Management - 3 - Shareholder Dividends in this document for further information regarding dividends.
(2)Our medium-term financial objectives are forward-looking non-IFRS financial measures and do not constitute guidance. Additional information is provided in this MD&A in section P - Forward-looking Statements - Medium-Term Financial Objectives.
(3)2022 results have been restated for the adoption of IFRS 17 and the related IFRS 9 classification overlay (“the new standards”). The restated results may not be fully representative of our future earnings profile, as we were not managing our asset and liability portfolios under the new standards. The majority of the actions taken to re-balance asset portfolios and transition asset-liability management execution to an IFRS 17 basis occurred in Q1'23. Accordingly, analysis based on 2022 comparative results may not necessarily be indicative of future trends, and should be interpreted with this context.
(4)Underlying EPS growth is calculated using a three-year compound annual growth rate. Underlying ROE and dividend payout ratio are calculated using a four-year average of 2022-2025. These calculations reflect data available under the new standards. As we continue to report under the new standards in future periods, an additional year will be added until we reach a five-year period, consistent with disclosures in 2022 and prior.
In the year and over the medium-term, we have solid performance against our medium-term financial objectives.
- Acquisitions and Other
The following developments occurred since January 1, 2025. Additional information concerning acquisitions and dispositions is provided in Note 3 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
On July 15, 2025, we invested $55 million cash in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Our previously held interest in Bowtie was remeasured to its fair value, which resulted in a gain of $176 million recognized in reported net income in Q3'25. The investment reinforces Sun Life's long-term partnership with Bowtie, and our shared goal to make health insurance simple, accessible and affordable. Bowtie is Hong Kong's first virtual insurer and the market leader in the direct sales channel(1).
On December 17, 2025, we signed an implementation agreement to increase our existing ownership interest in our Malaysia joint ventures to a majority stake for approximately $240 million. The transaction requires regulatory approval and is expected to close in late 2026.
(1)According to Insurance Authority's Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business 2024, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Bowtie Life ranked first in number of new individual non-single premium policies sold through Direct channel in Hong Kong.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 7 |
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| C. Financial Summary | |||
| --- | |||
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | |||
| --- | |||
| Profitability | 2024 | ||
| 3,856 | |||
| 3,049 | |||
| 6.66 | |||
| 5.26 | |||
| 17.2% | |||
| 13.6% | |||
| Growth | 2024 | ||
| 196,074 | |||
| 2,737 | |||
| 2,983 | |||
| 1,542.6 | |||
| 1,473 | |||
| Financial Strength | 2024 | ||
| 152% | |||
| 146% | |||
| 20.1% | |||
| 40.63 | |||
| 579 | |||
| 574 |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)Prior period amounts have been updated.
(3)Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test ("LICAT") ratio. Our LICAT ratios are calculated in accordance with the OSFI-mandated guideline, Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test.
(4)Sun Life Assurance is SLF Inc.’s principal operating life insurance subsidiary.
(5)The calculation for the financial leverage ratio includes the CSM balance (net of taxes) in the denominator. The CSM (net of taxes) was $11.3 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $10.3 billion).
| 8 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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| D. Profitability | |||
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The following table reconciles our Common shareholders' net income ("reported net income") and underlying net income. All factors discussed in this document that impact underlying net income are also applicable to reported net income. Certain adjustments and notable items also impact the CSM, such as mortality experience and assumption changes; see section F - Contractual Service Margin in this document for more information.
| ($ millions, after-tax) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying net income (loss) by business type(1): | ||
| Asset management & wealth | 1,976 | 1,823 |
| Group - Health & Protection | 1,248 | 1,196 |
| Individual - Protection(2) | 1,347 | 1,201 |
| Corporate expenses & other(2) | (370) | (364) |
| Underlying net income(1) | 4,201 | 3,856 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (381) | (373) |
| Assumption changes and management actions ("ACMA") | (45) | 56 |
| Other adjustments | (303) | (490) |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 3,472 | 3,049 |
| Underlying ROE(1) | 18.2% | 17.2% |
| Reported ROE(1) | 15.1% | 13.6% |
| Notable items attributable to reported and underlying net income(1): | ||
| Mortality | 119 | 43 |
| Morbidity | (14) | 30 |
| Lapse and other policyholder behaviour ("policyholder behaviour") | (12) | (25) |
| Expenses | (114) | (70) |
| Net credit(3) | 12 | (15) |
| Other(4) | 126 | 91 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
(2)Effective Q1'25, Regional Office in Asia was moved from the Corporate expenses & other business type to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
(3)Credit includes rating changes on assets measured at Fair value through profit or loss ("FVTPL"), and the Expected credit loss ("ECL") impact for assets measured at Fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI"). Effective Q1'25, the release of credit risk adjustments, which are reported in Expected Investment Earnings in the Driver of Earnings analysis, are included in this balance. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
(4)Other notable items are recorded in Net Insurance Service Result and Net Investment Result in the Drivers of Earnings analysis. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
2025 vs. 2024
Underlying net income(1) of $4,201 million increased $345 million or 9%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth(1) up $153 million: Higher fee-related earnings and strong performance of net seed investment income in SLC Management, higher fee income in Canada, MFS, and Asia, and improved credit experience in Canada wealth, partially offset by a decease in net investment income in MFS.
•Group - Health & Protection(1) up $52 million: Business growth and favourable mortality experience in Canada, and higher U.S. Dental results, partially offset by lower U.S. Group Benefits results.
•Individual - Protection(1)(2) up $146 million: Business growth and higher contributions from joint ventures in Asia, and higher investment earnings in Asia and Canada, partially offset by unfavourable credit experience in Asia.
•Corporate expenses & other(1)(2) $(6) million increase in net loss primarily reflecting higher financing costs supporting the acquisition of our remaining interests in SLC Management affiliates.
(1)Refer to section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a reconciliation between reported net income and underlying net income.
(2)Effective Q1'25, Regional Office in Asia was moved from the Corporate expenses & other business type to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 9 |
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Reported net income of $3,472 million increased $423 million or 14%, driven by:
•The increase in underlying net income;
•Changes in tax-exempt investment income primarily in Corporate(1) reflecting higher losses in the prior year;
•A gain from increased ownership interest in Bowtie(2); and
•The prior year impacts from an impairment charge of $186 million on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam, restructuring charge of $108 million in Corporate(3), and a provision in U.S. Dental; partially offset by
•Unfavourable ACMA(4) impacts;
•An impairment charge of $61 million on a customer relationship intangible asset from the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract; and
•The prior year decrease in SLC Management's acquisition-related liabilities(5) and gains on partial sale of ABSLAMC(6) and the early termination of a distribution agreement in Asset Management.
•Market-related impacts were in line with the prior year as favourable interest rate impacts and improved real estate experience(7) were offset by unfavourable other market-related impacts driven primarily across Asia and Canada, and unfavourable equity market impacts.
Underlying ROE was 18.2% and reported ROE was 15.1% (2024 - 17.2% and 13.6%, respectively).
1.Market-related impacts
Market-related impacts represent the difference between actual versus expected market movements(8). Market-related impacts resulted in a decrease of $381 million to reported net income, reflecting unfavourable real estate experience and unfavourable other market-related impacts primarily from Asia and Canada, partially offset by favourable interest rate impacts.
2.Assumption changes and management actions
The net impact of assumption changes and management actions was a decrease of $45 million to reported net income and includes methods and assumptions changes on insurance contracts as well as related impacts. These included unfavourable impacts from model refinements across all business groups, expense updates mainly in Asia, and policyholder behaviour updates in Canada, partially offset by favourable financial updates in Canada and Asia, and mortality updates in Canada. For additional details refer to "Assumption Changes and Management Actions by Type" in section F - Contractual Service Margin in this document.
3.Other adjustments
Other adjustments decreased reported net income by $303 million, driven by:
•DentaQuest acquisition, integration and restructuring costs and amortization of acquired intangible assets;
•Changes in SLC Management's acquisition-related liabilities(9);
•An impairment charge of $61 million on a customer relationship intangible asset from the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract; and
•Lower than expected tax-exempt investment income primarily in Corporate(1); partially offset by
•A gain from increased ownership interest in Bowtie.
- Experience-related items
Notable experience items in the current year included:
•Favourable mortality experience primarily in Canada, Asia and the U.S.;
•Unfavourable morbidity experience in the U.S. largely offset by favourable morbidity experience in Canada;
•Unfavourable expense experience largely in the U.S., Canada and Asia; and
•Other experience was favourable primarily from the U.S., Canada, and Asia.
(1)Q4'25 results reflect lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $49 million (Q4'24 - lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $234 million).
(2)On July 15, 2025, we acquired an additional interest in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Total consideration was cash of $55 million. Our previously held interest in Bowtie was remeasured to its fair value, which resulted in a gain of $176 million recognized in reported net income in Q3'25 ("gain from increased ownership interest in Bowtie"). For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(3)A restructuring charge of $108 million (pre-tax $138 million) recorded in Q2'24 reflecting actions taken to improve financial discipline and productivity, consistent with our Client Impact Strategy, supporting our Medium-Term Financial Objective for underlying EPS growth ("prior year restructuring charge in Corporate"). We expect these actions to result in annual savings of approximately $200 million (pre-tax) by 2026.
(4)Assumption Changes and Management Actions ("ACMA").
(5)An increase of $4 million in estimated future payments for options to purchase the remaining ownership interests of SLC Management affiliates in 2025 (2024 - a decrease of $344 million). For additional information, refer to Note 5 and Note 11 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(6)To meet regulatory obligations, on March 21, 2024, we sold 6.3% of our ownership interest in Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited (“partial sale of ABSLAMC”), generating a gain of $84 million. As a result of this transaction, our ownership interest in ABSLAMC was reduced from 36.5% to 30.2% for gross proceeds of $136 million. Subsequently, on May 31, 2024, we sold an additional 0.2% of our ownership interest.
(7)Real estate experience reflects the difference between the actual value of real estate investments compared to management's longer-term expected returns supporting insurance contract liabilities ("real estate experience").
(8)Except for risk free rates which are based on current rates, expected market movements are based on our medium-term outlook which is reviewed annually.
(9)Amounts primarily relate to acquisition costs for our SLC Management affiliates, BentallGreenOak, Crescent Capital Group LP and Advisors Asset Management, Inc, which include the unwinding of the discount for Other financial liabilities.
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5.Income taxes
The statutory tax rate is impacted by various items, such as lower taxes on income subject to tax in foreign jurisdictions, tax-exempt or low-taxed investment income, and other sustainable tax benefits.
Global Minimum Tax ("GMT") rules applied to Sun Life effective January 1, 2024:
•Canadian GMT legislation requires the ultimate parent entity of a group to pay top-up tax, on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis, on profits of its subsidiaries that are taxed below 15%. Some jurisdictions have enacted a Qualifying Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax ("QDMTT") which requires the GMT top-up tax to be paid locally rather than to the ultimate parent entity's jurisdiction.
•In response to the GMT rules, Bermuda enacted a Corporate Income Tax ("CIT") regime, including a corporate income tax rate of 15%, which applies to Sun Life effective January 1, 2025. The Bermuda CIT is not a QDMTT for the purposes of GMT. Top-up tax may still be payable by the ultimate parent entity under the Income Inclusion Rule ("IIR"), depending on the effective tax rate in Bermuda.
•Other Sun Life subsidiaries that are currently subject to a statutory tax rate or to a tax regime that could result in taxing profits at a rate below 15% include those in Hong Kong and Ireland, which have both enacted a QDMTT.
•For additional information, refer to Note 19 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
The 2025 Canadian Federal Budget, which was announced on November 4, 2025, proposed changes clarifying that investment income supporting Canadian insurance risks is taxable in Canada, even when derived from assets held by a foreign affiliate of a Canadian insurance company. This proposed legislation would apply to Sun Life effective January 1, 2026 and is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements when it becomes enacted.
On July 4, 2025, the United States Congress enacted the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Act, which introduced several tax provisions, including amendments to the Internal Revenue Code section governing the deductibility of executive compensation. Certain provisions apply to Sun Life, however they are not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
The effective income tax rate(1) for the current year on underlying net income and reported net income was 19.5% and 21.2%, respectively.
- Impacts of foreign exchange translation
We operate in many 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, and generate revenues and incur expenses in local currencies in these jurisdictions, which are translated to Canadian dollars.
Items impacting a reporting period, such as Revenue, 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 Assets and Liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, as well as the AUM and certain components of the Drivers of Earnings disclosure, period-end rates are used for currency translation purposes.
The following table provides the foreign exchange rates for the U.S. dollar, which generates the most significant impact of foreign exchange translation, over the past four quarters and two years.
| Exchange rate | Quarterly results | Full year | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q4'25 | Q3'25 | Q2'25 | Q1'25 | 2025 | 2024 | |
| U.S. Dollar - Average | 1.394 | 1.377 | 1.384 | 1.435 | 1.398 | 1.370 |
| U.S. Dollar - Period end | 1.372 | 1.392 | 1.361 | 1.439 | 1.372 | 1.438 |
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. In general, 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. We generally express the impacts of foreign exchange translation on net income on a year-over-year basis.
For the full year 2025, foreign exchange translation led to an increase of $50 million in underlying net income and an increase of $56 million in reported net income.
(1)Our effective income tax rate on reported net income is calculated using Total income (loss) before income taxes, as detailed in Note 19 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. Our effective income tax rate on underlying net income is calculated using pre-tax underlying net income, as detailed in section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document, and the associated income tax expense.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|
| E. Growth | |||
| --- |
- Sales and Gross Flows
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Asset management gross flows & wealth sales by business segment(1) | ||
| Asset Management gross flows | 204,286 | 169,867 |
| Canada asset management gross flows & wealth sales | 22,531 | 18,144 |
| Asia asset management gross flows & wealth sales | 10,094 | 8,063 |
| Total asset management gross flows & wealth sales(1) | 236,911 | 196,074 |
| Group - Health & Protection sales by business segment(1) | ||
| Canada | 769 | 666 |
| U.S. | 2,546 | 1,984 |
| Asia(2) | 101 | 87 |
| Total group sales(1) | 3,416 | 2,737 |
| Individual - Protection sales by business segment(1) | ||
| Canada | 538 | 551 |
| Asia | 3,213 | 2,432 |
| Total individual sales(1) | 3,751 | 2,983 |
| CSM - Impact of new insurance business ("New business CSM")(1) | 1,727 | 1,473 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)In underlying net income by business type, Group businesses in Asia have been included with Individual - Protection. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
Total asset management gross flows & wealth sales increased $40.8 billion or 21% year-over-year ($37.0 billion(1) or 19%(1), excluding foreign exchange translation).
•Asset Management gross flows increased $30.6 billion(1) or 18%(1) from prior year, driven by higher gross flows in MFS and SLC Management.
•Canada asset management gross flows & wealth sales increased $4.4 billion or 24%, driven by Group Retirement Services ("GRS") and higher mutual fund sales in Individual Wealth. GRS sales reflect higher defined contribution sales from large case sales, and increased rollover volumes, partially offset by lower defined benefit solution sales reflecting a slower market for pension risk transfer transactions.
•Asia asset management gross flows & wealth sales increased $2.1 billion(1) or 26%(1), driven by higher fixed income fund sales in India.
Total group health & protection sales increased $679 million or 25% from prior year ($668 million(1) or 24%(1), excluding foreign exchange translation).
•Canada group sales increased $103 million or 15%, driven by higher large case sales.
•U.S. group sales increased $551 million(1) or 27%(1), driven by medical stop-loss and large case employee benefits sales in Group Benefits and higher Medicare and Medicaid sales in Dental.
Total individual protection sales increased $768 million or 26% from prior year ($726 million(1) or 24%(1), excluding foreign exchange translation).
•Canada individual sales decreased $13 million or 2%, reflecting a combination of lower participating life sales and strong non-participating life sales.
•Asia individual sales increased $739 million(1) or 30%(1), driven by:
◦Higher sales in Hong Kong from growth across all channels; and
◦Higher sales in India and Indonesia reflecting growth primarily in the bancassurance channel; partially offset by
◦Lower sales in High Net Worth from the broker channel.
New business CSM represents growth derived from sales activity in the period. The impact of new insurance business resulted in a $1,727 million increase in CSM, compared to $1,473 million in the prior year, driven by higher sales and profit margins partially offset by unfavourable business mix in Asia, primarily in Hong Kong.
(1)This change excludes the impacts of foreign exchange translation. For more information about these non-IFRS financial measures, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
| 12 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|
- Assets Under Management
AUM consists of general funds, the investments for segregated fund holders ("segregated funds") and third-party assets managed by the Company. Third-party AUM is comprised of institutional and managed funds, as well as other AUM related to our joint ventures.
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Assets under management(1)(2) | ||
| General fund assets | 231,889 | 221,935 |
| Segregated funds | 166,566 | 148,786 |
| Third-party assets under management(1) | ||
| Retail | 666,852 | 648,515 |
| Institutional, managed funds and other | 591,829 | 568,437 |
| Total third-party AUM(1) | 1,258,681 | 1,216,952 |
| Consolidation adjustments(2) | (52,272) | (45,057) |
| Total assets under management(1)(2) | 1,604,864 | 1,542,616 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)Prior period amounts have been updated.
AUM increased $62.2 billion or 4% from December 31, 2024, primarily driven by:
(i)favourable market movements on the value of segregated, retail, institutional and managed funds of $141.0 billion;
(ii)an increase in AUM of general fund assets of $10.0 billion, primarily driven by net fair value growth from changes in interest rates and credit spreads, and business growth and capital activities, partially offset by unfavourable impacts from foreign exchange translation; and
(iii)an increase of $5.0 billion primarily from business growth; partially offset by
(iv)a decrease of $49.2 billion from foreign exchange translation (excluding the impacts of general fund assets);
(v)net outflows from segregated funds and third-party AUM of $36.9 billion; and
(vi)Client distributions of $7.6 billion.
Segregated fund and third-party AUM net outflows of $36.9 billion for the year were comprised of:
| ($ billions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Net flows for Segregated fund and Third-party AUM: | ||
| MFS | (58.1) | (79.4) |
| SLC Management | 18.2 | 16.6 |
| Canada, Asia and other | 3.0 | 2.1 |
| Total net flows for Segregated fund and Third-party AUM | (36.9) | (60.7) |
Third-Party AUM increased by $41.7 billion or 3% from December 31, 2024, primarily driven by:
(i)favourable market movements of $132.2 billion; and
(ii)an increase of $5.0 billion primarily from business growth; partially offset by
(iii)foreign exchange translation of $50.8 billion;
(iv)net outflows of $37.0 billion; and
(v)Client distributions of $7.6 billion.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 13 |
|---|---|---|---|
| F. Contractual Service Margin | |||
| --- |
Contractual Service Margin represents a source of stored value for future insurance profits and qualifies as available capital for LICAT purposes. CSM is a component of insurance contract liabilities. The following table shows the change in CSM including its recognition into net income in the period, as well as the growth from new insurance sales activity.
| For the full year ended | For the full year ended | |
|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 |
| Beginning of Period | 13,366 | 11,786 |
| Impact of new insurance business(1) | 1,727 | 1,473 |
| Expected movements from asset returns & locked-in rates(1) | 774 | 703 |
| Insurance experience gains/losses(1) | (88) | (77) |
| CSM recognized for services provided | (1,263) | (1,135) |
| Organic CSM Movement(1)(2) | 1,150 | 964 |
| Impact of markets & other(1) | 275 | 124 |
| Impact of change in assumptions(1) | 49 | 30 |
| Currency impact | (348) | 462 |
| Total CSM Movement | 1,126 | 1,580 |
| Contractual Service Margin, End of Period(3) | 14,492 | 13,366 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)Organic CSM movement is a component of both total CSM movement and organic capital generation.
(3)Total company CSM presented above is comprised of CSM on Insurance contracts issued of $14,166 million (December 31, 2024 - $13,028 million), net of CSM Reinsurance contracts held of $(326) million (December 31, 2024 - $(338) million).
Total CSM ended Q4'25 at $14.5 billion, an increase of $1.1 billion or 8% from December 31, 2024.
•Organic CSM movement was driven by the impact of new insurance business, reflecting strong sales and profit margins in Asia, primarily in Hong Kong, and individual protection sales in Canada.
•Unfavourable insurance experience in Canada and the U.S.
•Favourable impact of markets and other driven by interest and equity experience.
•Impact of change in assumptions include the favourable impact of mortality updates in Canada and model refinements across all business groups, partially offset by unfavourable policyholder behaviour and expense updates.
•Unfavourable currency impacts primarily in Asia.
| 14 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Assumption Changes and Management Actions by Type
The impact on CSM of ACMA is attributable to insurance contracts and related impacts under the general measurement approach ("GMA") and variable fee approach ("VFA"). For insurance contracts measured under the GMA, the impacts flow through the CSM at locked-in discount rates. For insurance contracts measured under the VFA, the impact flows through the CSM at current discount rates.
The following table sets out the impacts of ACMA on our reported net income and CSM in 2025.
| At and For the Year Ended December 31, 2025 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Reported net income impacts (After-tax)(1)(2) | Deferred in CSM (Pre-tax)(2)(3) | Comments |
| Mortality/morbidity | 14 | 266 | Updates to reflect mortality and morbidity experience in all jurisdictions. The largest item was a favourable mortality update mainly to GRS and Individual Wealth in Canada. |
| Policyholder behaviour | (13) | (145) | Updates to reflect lapse and policyholder behaviour in all jurisdictions. The largest item was an adverse lapse and policyholder behaviour impact in Individual Insurance in Canada. |
| Expense | (29) | (95) | Updates to expenses in all jurisdictions. |
| Financial | 31 | 7 | Updates to various financial-related assumptions. |
| Modelling enhancement and other | (48) | 16 | Various enhancements and methodology changes. The largest items were the unfavourable impact of a new reinsurance treaty in Individual Insurance in Canada, partially offset by favourable refinements in Hong Kong and High Net Worth in Asia. |
| Total impact of change in assumptions | (45) | 49 |
(1)In this document, the reported net income impact of ACMA is shown in aggregate for Net insurance service result and Net investment result, and excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
(2)CSM is shown on a pre-tax basis as it reflects the changes in our insurance contract liabilities, while reported net income is shown on a post-tax basis to reflect the impact on capital.
(3)Total impact of change in assumptions represents a non-IFRS financial measure for amounts deferred in CSM. For more details, see section
M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 15 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G. Financial Strength | ||||
| --- | ($ millions, unless otherwise stated) | 2025 | 2024 | |
| --- | --- | --- | ||
| LICAT ratio(1) | ||||
| Sun Life Financial Inc. | 157% | 152% | ||
| Sun Life Assurance | 140% | 146% | ||
| Capital | ||||
| Subordinated debt | 8,171 | 6,179 | ||
| Innovative capital instruments(2) | 200 | 200 | ||
| Equity in the participating account | 696 | 496 | ||
| Non-controlling interests | 264 | 76 | ||
| Preferred shares and other equity instruments | 2,239 | 2,239 | ||
| Common shareholders' equity(3) | 22,293 | 23,318 | ||
| Contractual Service Margin(4) | 14,492 | 13,366 | ||
| Total capital | 48,355 | 45,874 | ||
| Financial leverage ratio(4)(5) | 23.5% | 20.1% | ||
| Dividend | ||||
| Underlying dividend payout ratio(5) | 47% | 49% | ||
| Dividends per common share ($) | 3.520 | 3.240 | ||
| Book value per common share ($) | 40.25 | 40.63 |
(1)Our LICAT ratios are calculated in accordance with the OSFI-mandated guideline, Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test.
(2)Innovative capital instruments consist of Sun Life ExchangEable Capital Securities ("SLEECS"), For more details, see section J - Capital and Liquidity Management in this document.
(3)Common shareholders’ equity is equal to Total shareholders’ equity less Preferred shares and other equity instruments.
(4)The calculation for the financial leverage ratio includes the CSM balance (net of taxes) in the denominator. The CSM (net of taxes) was $11.3 billion as at December 31, 2025 ( December 31, 2024 - $10.3 billion).
(5)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
- Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions has developed the regulatory capital framework referred to as the Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test for Canada. LICAT measures the capital adequacy of an insurer using a risk-based approach and includes elements that contribute to financial strength through periods when an insurer is under stress as well as elements that contribute to policyholder and creditor protection wind-up.
SLF Inc. is a non-operating insurance company and is subject to the LICAT guideline. Sun Life Assurance, SLF Inc.'s principal operating life insurance subsidiary, is also subject to the LICAT guideline.
SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio of 157% as at December 31, 2025 increased five percentage points compared to December 31, 2024, driven by organic capital generation and subordinated debt issuance, partially offset by shareholder dividend payments, share buybacks, M&A activity, and scenario switches.
Sun Life Assurance's LICAT ratio of 140% as at December 31, 2025 decreased six percentage points compared to December 31, 2024, driven by organic capital generation more than offset by dividend payments to SLF Inc., M&A activity, and scenario switches.
The Sun Life Assurance LICAT ratios in both periods are well above OSFI's supervisory ratio of 100% and regulatory minimum ratio of 90%.
| 16 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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- Capital
Our total capital consists of subordinated debt and other capital instruments, CSM, equity in the participating account and total shareholders' equity which includes common shareholders' equity, preferred shares and other equity instruments, and non-controlling interests ("NCI"). As at December 31, 2025, our total capital was $48.4 billion, an increase of $2.5 billion compared to December 31, 2024. The increase to total capital included reported net income of $3,472 million, an increase of $1,126 million in CSM, the issuance of $1,000 million principal amount of Series 2025-1 Subordinated Unsecured 4.14% Fixed/Floating Debentures and the issuance of $1,000 million principal amount of Series 2025-2 Subordinated Unsecured 4.56% Fixed/Floating Debentures, which are detailed below, net unrealized gains on FVOCI assets of $255 million, and non-controlling interests of $221 million reflecting our increased ownership interest in Bowtie(1). This was partially offset by the payment of $1,975 million of dividends on common shares of SLF Inc. ("common shares"), a decrease of $1,707 million from the repurchase and cancellation of common shares, which is detailed below, and unfavourable impacts from foreign exchange translation of $899 million included in other comprehensive income (loss) ("OCI").
In 2025, organic capital generation(2) was $2,256 million, which measures the change in capital, net of dividends, above LICAT requirements excluding the impacts of markets and other non-recurring items. Organic capital generation was driven by growth in underlying net income and new business CSM, partially offset by shareholder dividend payments.
Our capital and liquidity positions remain strong with a LICAT ratio of 157% at SLF Inc., a financial leverage ratio of 23.5%(2) and $2.4 billion in cash and other liquid assets(2) as at December 31, 2025 in SLF Inc.(3) (December 31, 2024 - $1.4 billion).
Capital Transactions
On June 30, 2025, 2,664,916 of the 4,982,669 Class A Non-cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares Series 9QR (the "Series 9QR Shares") were converted into Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 8R (the "Series 8R Shares") on a one-for-one basis and 1,400 of its 6,217,331 Series 8R Shares were converted into Series 9QR Shares on a one-for-one basis. As a result, as of June 30, 2025, SLF Inc. has 8,880,847 Series 8R Shares and 2,319,153 Series 9QR Shares issued and outstanding.
On September 11, 2025, SLF Inc. issued $1 billion principal amount of Series 2025-1 Subordinated Unsecured 4.14% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2037 (the "September 2025 Debenture Offering"). On December 3, 2025, SLF Inc. issued $1 billion principal amount of Series 2025-2 Subordinated Unsecured 4.56% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2040 (the "December 2025 Debenture Offering"). The net proceeds from the September 2025 Debenture Offering and the December 2025 Debenture Offering will be used for general corporate purposes, which may include supporting the acquisition of SLF Inc.'s remaining interests in the SLC Management affiliates BentallGreenOak and Crescent Capital Group LP, investments in subsidiaries, repayment of indebtedness and other strategic investments.
Normal Course Issuer Bids
On August 29, 2024, SLF Inc. commenced a normal course issuer bid, which was in effect until June 6, 2025 (the "2024 NCIB").
On June 4, 2025, SLF Inc. announced that OSFI and the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) had approved its previously announced early renewal of its normal course issuer bid. As of June 4, 2025, SLF Inc. had purchased on the TSX, other Canadian stock exchanges and/or alternative Canadian trading platforms 14,429,085 of the 15,000,000 common shares that it was authorized to repurchase under the 2024 NCIB. Under SLF Inc.'s renewed normal course issuer bid (the "2025 NCIB"), it is permitted to purchase up to 10,570,915 common shares, being equal to the remaining 570,915 common shares that it had not repurchased under the 2024 NCIB plus an additional 10,000,000 common shares. The 2025 NCIB commenced on June 9, 2025 and will continue until May 21, 2026 or such earlier date as SLF Inc. may determine. Any common shares purchased by SLF Inc. pursuant to the 2025 NCIB will be cancelled or used in connection with certain equity settled incentive arrangements.
Shares purchased and subsequently cancelled under both bids were as follows:
| Quarterly results | Year-to-date | Aggregate(1) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q4'25 | 2025 | |||||
| Common shares purchased<br><br>(millions) | Amount<br><br>($ millions)(2) | Common shares purchased<br><br>(millions) | Amount<br><br>($ millions)(2) | Common shares purchased<br><br>(millions) | Amount<br><br>($ millions)(2) | |
| 2024 NCIB (ended June 6, 2025) | — | — | 10.6 | 863 | 14.4 | 1,172 |
| 2025 NCIB | 4.7 | 392 | 10.1 | 844 | 10.1 | 844 |
| Total | 4.7 | 392 | 20.7 | 1,707 |
(1)Represents the balance of common shares purchased and subsequently cancelled under the life of the normal course issuer bid to-date.
(2)Excludes the impact of excise tax on net repurchases of equity.
(1)On July 15, 2025, we acquired an additional interest in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Total consideration was cash of $55 million. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(3)SLF Inc. (the ultimate parent company) and its wholly-owned holding companies.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 17 |
|---|
Financial Strength Ratings
Independent rating agencies assign credit ratings to securities issued by companies and assign financial strength ratings to financial institutions such as Sun Life Assurance.
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, 2026 and January 31, 2025.
| A.M. Best | DBRS | Moody's | Standard & Poor's | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 31, 2026 | A+ | AA | Aa3 | AA |
| January 31, 2025 | A+ | AA | Aa3 | AA |
Most recent rating agency actions on the financial strength rating of Sun Life Assurance:
•November 19, 2025 - Moody's affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
•October 21, 2025 - DBRS affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
•April 3, 2025 - A.M. Best affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
•March 6, 2025 - Standard and Poor's ("S&P") affirmed the financial strength rating with a stable outlook.
| 18 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|---|---|---|
| H. 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) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying net income (loss)(1) | ||
| Asset Management | 1,371 | 1,293 |
| Canada | 1,594 | 1,453 |
| U.S. | 770 | 773 |
| Asia | 836 | 701 |
| Corporate | (370) | (364) |
| Total underlying net income (loss)(1) | 4,201 | 3,856 |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | ||
| Asset Management | 1,214 | 1,528 |
| Canada | 1,402 | 1,217 |
| U.S. | 520 | 556 |
| Asia | 768 | 429 |
| Corporate | (432) | (681) |
| Total reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 3,472 | 3,049 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - 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.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 19 |
|---|
- Asset Management
| Our Asset Management business group is comprised of MFS and SLC Management. MFS is a premier global asset manager offering a comprehensive selection of financial products and services that deliver superior value, actively managing assets for retail and institutional investors around the world. SLC Management is a global asset manager with capabilities across fixed income and alternative asset classes including public and private fixed income, real estate equity and debt, and infrastructure equity, and manages assets on behalf of institutional investors, and HNW and retail Clients around the world. |
|---|
2025 Highlights
| •We ended 2025 with $1,154.0 billion in assets under management(1) consisting of $894.0 billion (US$651.4 billion) in MFS and<br><br>$260.0 billion in SLC Management.<br><br>•Total Asset Management net outflows(1) of $39.9 billion reflected net outflows of $58.1 billion (US$41.5 billion) from MFS partially offset by SLC Management net inflows of $18.2 billion.<br><br>•Effective January 1, 2026, we extended and formalized our asset management pillar in Sun Life Asset Management. In addition to MFS and SLC Management, Sun Life Asset Management includes Sun Life's stake in Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset Management, previously part of the Asia business segment, as well as Sun Life's pension risk transfer business, previously part of the Canada business segment. This new structure will help accelerate growth between our asset management, insurance, and wealth businesses and drive strategic partnerships to the benefit of our Clients. Effective January 1, 2026, Sun Life's asset management financial results will reflect this new structure. | ||
|---|---|---|
| MFS<br><br>•MFS continued to experience solid fixed income fund performance, generating net inflows(1) of US$5.5 billion for this asset class in the year.<br><br>•MFS remains the 9th largest fund group(2) for the U.S. retail mutual fund industry based on AUM, despite continued challenging market conditions.<br><br>•Active exchange traded funds ("ETFs") experience solid momentum in 2025, with US$1.2 billion in net inflows(1) since the launch in late 2024, ending the year with over US$1.4 billion in AUM(1). MFS expanded its ETF platform with an additional three funds launched in the year, including two funds managed using MFS' proprietary Blended Research® approach, continuing to expand the diverse range of investment products offered to Clients. | ||
| --- | SLC Management<br><br>•SLC Management was named one of Pensions & Investments(3) 2025 Best Places to Work in Money Management. This represents SLC Management's sixth consecutive year of recognition.<br><br>•BentallGreenOak ("BGO") launched BGO DataCenters, its European Hyperscale investment and development platform, focused on delivering customized sustainable, hyperscale, and AI-optimized digital infrastructure across Europe, meeting growing demand in one of real estate’s fastest-growing sectors.<br><br>•Crescent Capital Group ("Crescent") launched GP Financing, which offers sponsors flexible financing solutions to address strategic growth needs, and Bank Capital Solutions, which focuses on credit risk-sharing transactions. These strategies broaden Crescent's private credit offerings.<br><br>•Crescent was recognized by Private Debt Investor in 2025 as the Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Year in Europe for the publication’s 2024 Annual Awards. This award reflects Crescent’s consistent performance, deep market expertise and commitment to providing flexible financial solutions to lower mid-market companies and their sponsors across Europe.<br><br>•SLC Management appointed Richard Familetti to President and Chief Investment Officer, SLC Fixed Income.<br><br>•Advisors Asset Management, Inc. ("AAM") appointed Lindsay DeGrazia as Managing Director, Head of Alternative Investments Distribution, to oversee sales and distribution for private markets investments in U.S. wealth channels.<br><br>•Sonny Kalsi, President and CEO of SLC Management, ranked among one of the top ten Most Influential figures globally in private equity real estate in the 2025 PERE(4) rankings. BGO also ranked fourth among the world’s top private real estate managers in the 2025(5) rankings. The achievement reflects BGO’s strong fundraising over the last five years despite macroeconomic headwinds.<br><br>•Crescent closed its third European specialty lending fund in April, raising approximately €3 billion. This fundraise represents a significant increase from its predecessor fund and continues Crescent’s strategy of investing primarily in a diversified portfolio of private secured debt securities issued by European companies.<br><br>•InfraRed Capital Partners ("InfraRed") announced the formation of a strategic Separately Managed Account ("SMA") with a large European pension services provider. The SMA has been established to provide the company with diversified exposure to social infrastructure investments across Europe.<br><br>•InfraRed entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a large Canadian telecommunications firms' data centre business to expand its footprint in Canada’s digital infrastructure market, capitalizing on rising demand for secure and reliable data centre services. | |
| --- |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)ISS Market Intelligence Simfund.
(3)Pensions & Investments, a global news source of money management.
(4)Private Equity Real Estate ("PERE"). 2025 PERE 100 Most Influential; those who had the biggest impact on the world's private real estate capital markets.
(5)2025 PERE 100 ranking of the world’s largest private real estate companies.
| 20 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Strategy and Outlook
Our strategy is to provide investment products through MFS and SLC Management that will deliver long-term value to our Clients in active asset management as well as fixed income and alternative asset classes. MFS competes primarily in the global institutional, U.S. retail and select non-U.S. retail markets. SLC Management competes primarily in the global institutional market, offering a broad and deep fixed income and real assets platform through affiliate managers. SLC Management leverages Sun Life’s long-standing expertise in private asset class investments, augmented by the specialized alternative capabilities of SLC Management's affiliate managers, to offer customized investment solutions to investors. In addition, with our majority interest in AAM and partnership with Scotia Global Wealth Management, SLC Management is also delivering solutions to the retail HNW market in North America.
| MFS: Continue to deliver superior investment performance while allocating capital responsibly for our Clients<br><br>MFS' active management strategy focuses on delivering value to our Clients over the long-term. Our relative performance provides us with a strong competitive position:<br><br>•MFS is well-positioned to attract flows from all Client sectors that are seeking risk-managed returns 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 risk-adjusted performance through a market cycle.<br><br>•To help our Clients maximize the financial return of their portfolio within appropriate risk parameters, we employ an investment approach that focuses on issuers with durable, long-term competitive advantages. This means we consider all factors that we believe will materially impact the economic value of the issuer in our fundamental investment process.<br><br>•Our strategic focus for long-term success is based on our collaborative and excellence-driven organization.<br><br>•MFS strives to maintain margins in the top quartile of active managers while maintaining our commitment to provide long-term value to Clients.<br><br>•Our people are our greatest investment, and we believe in the power of teamwork, which makes sustaining and enhancing inclusivity a top priority. | | --- || SLC Management: Help investors meet their investment objectives by offering a broad suite of alternative asset classes and fixed income strategies<br><br>We are well-positioned to take advantage of key trends in our target markets:<br><br>•Consolidation of investment manager relationships by institutional investors.<br><br>•Improvement in interest rate environment for risk assets, driven by central banks rate cuts.<br><br>•Likely bottoming of real estate valuations, spurring increased activity.<br><br>•Continued growth and broadening of private credit, supported by the long-term shift from public to private markets, and rising demand from insurance companies.<br><br>•AI and data centre demand driving continued long-term growth in real assets.<br><br>•Wealth as the next big growth area for alternatives, with AUM projected to triple over the next decade(1).<br><br><br><br>Our strategy is to continue to deliver superior investment performance, expand and deepen our distribution relationships, and build out our product lineup, while retaining our top talent. We offer our Clients a compelling suite of investment capabilities to meet their needs, including:<br><br>•Leading public and private fixed income capabilities, spanning both investment grade and alternative credit;<br><br>•Global real estate expertise across both equity and debt investments; and<br><br>•Global infrastructure capabilities. | | --- || Outlook | | --- | | MFS<br><br>We remain cautious on global equity market outlook. While global recession odds appear low due to the significant capital investment underpinning AI, as well as onshoring and electrification, businesses nonetheless face higher input cost pressures against potentially slowing revenues due to rising competitive threats from new industry entrants via AI. At the same time, valuations imply profits will continue to grow. This is a common pattern observed late in market cycles and sets-up for potentially very volatile financial markets when profits disappoint. This could create greater opportunities for active managers to outperform benchmarks. MFS employs an investment philosophy that involves a long-term approach across the complete business cycle. Our scale, proven long-term track record and broad product portfolios, coupled with our investment philosophy, position us well to deliver strong results over a market cycle. Our expense structure leverages significant variable costs, and as a result, a majority of our expense base adjusts with market dynamics. In addition, we will continue to be diligent with discretionary spending while investing in strategic initiatives that help grow the business over the long-term.<br><br><br><br>SLC Management<br><br>We expect private markets activity to continue to rebound through 2026. Real estate valuations appear to be at or near bottom, with activity expected to increase. The interest rate environment, primarily in the U.S., has created a more accommodative environment for private markets, supporting an expected rebound in real estate valuations and accelerating M&A activity, which benefits private credit. Regardless of the rate environment, we expect to see continued demand for yield-oriented fixed income and alternative asset classes, which provide portfolio diversification, a potential hedge against inflation, and a reduction in overall risk exposure across investments. We believe that 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 our ability to leverage global resources. Our majority stake in AAM and partnership with Scotia Global Wealth Management provides further momentum to SLC Management to grow and expand our retail HNW business in North America. Certain investment capabilities we use for our Clients are the same capabilities that we use in managing the general account of Sun Life; 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. |
(1)Bain & Company – Avoiding Wipeout: How to Ride the Wave of Private Markets (Aug, 2024).
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 21 |
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Business Types and Business Units
| Business Type | Business Unit | Description | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asset Management | MFS | • Actively manages assets for retail and institutional investors, including pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, monetary authorities, and endowments and foundations.<br>• Retail products are distributed through financial advisors, brokerages and other professionals.<br><br>• Institutional products are distributed by an internal sales force, which is aided by a network of independent consultants. | |||
| SLC Management | • SLC Management delivers public and private credit, fixed income, real estate and infrastructure solutions to Clients through a group of affiliate managers, including:<br><br>• BentallGreenOak, a global real estate investment manager.<br><br>• InfraRed Capital Partners, a global infrastructure and real estate investment manager headquartered in London, UK.<br><br>• Crescent Capital Group, a U.S.-based global alternative credit investment manager.<br><br>• SLC Fixed Income, a North American institutional asset manager specializing in investment grade public and private fixed income portfolios.<br><br>• Advisors Asset Management, Inc., a turnkey distribution company for U.S. retail.<br><br>• Institutional products are distributed by an internal sales force, which is aided by a network of independent consultants. Our majority stake in AAM provides access to U.S. retail distribution and allows SLC Management to meet the growing demand for alternative assets among U.S. HNW investors. SLC Management's strategic partnership with Scotiabank distributes alternative investment capabilities to the Canadian retail market through Scotia Global Wealth Management. | • 260 billion in AUM• BGO ranked 4th among the world’s top private real estate managers(2) |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1) Based on AUM as at December 31, 2025, ISS Market Intelligence Simfund.
(2) 2025 PERE 100 ranking of the world’s largest private real estate companies.
| 22 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Financial and Business Results
| Asset Management (C millions) | 2024 |
|---|---|
| Underlying net income(1) | 1,293 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (20) |
| MFS shares owned by management | (22) |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring(2)(3) | 255 |
| Intangible asset amortization | (24) |
| Other | 46 |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 1,528 |
| Assets under management (C billions)(1) | 1,121.3 |
| Gross flows (C billions)(1) | 169.9 |
| Net flows (C billions)(1) | (62.8) |
| MFS (C millions) | |
| Underlying net income(1) | 1,117 |
| Add: MFS shares owned by management | (22) |
| Other | — |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 1,095 |
| Assets under management (C billions)(1) | 871.2 |
| Gross flows (C billions)(1) | 136.7 |
| Net flows (C billions)(1) | (79.4) |
| MFS (US millions) | |
| Underlying net income(1) | 817 |
| Add: MFS shares owned by management | (17) |
| Other | — |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 800 |
| Pre-tax net operating margin for MFS(1) | 38.7% |
| Average net assets (US billions)(1) | 621.6 |
| Assets under management (US billions)(1)(4) | 605.9 |
| Gross flows (US billions)(1) | 99.8 |
| Net flows (US billions)(1) | (57.8) |
| Asset appreciation (depreciation) (US billions) | 65.1 |
| SLC Management (C millions) | |
| Underlying net income(1) | 176 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (20) |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring(2)(3) | 255 |
| Intangible asset amortization | (24) |
| Other | 46 |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 433 |
| Fee-related earnings(1) | 285 |
| Pre-tax fee-related earnings margin(1)(5) | 23.0% |
| Pre-tax net operating margin(1)(5) | 21.1% |
| Assets under management (C billions)(1) | 250.1 |
| Gross flows - AUM (C billions)(1) | 33.2 |
| Net flows - AUM (C billions)(1) | 16.6 |
| Fee earning assets under management ("FE AUM") (C billions)(1) | 192.7 |
| Gross flows - FE AUM (C billions)(1) | 29.4 |
| Net flows - FE AUM (C billions)(1) | 14.7 |
| Assets under administration ("AUA") (C billions)(1) | 15.9 |
| Capital raising (C billions)(1) | 23.9 |
| Deployment (C billions)(1) | 22.5 |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)Amounts relate to acquisition costs for our SLC Management affiliates, BentallGreenOak, InfraRed Capital Partners, Crescent Capital Group LP and Advisors Asset Management, Inc, which include the unwinding of the discount for Other financial liabilities of $56 million in 2025 ( 2024 - $76 million).
(3)Reflects an increase of $4 million in estimated future payments for options to purchase the remaining ownership interests of SLC Management affiliates in 2025 (2024 - a decrease of $344 million). For additional information, refer to Note 5 and Note 11 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(4)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' U.S. GAAP assets and liabilities as at December 31, 2025.
(5)Based on a trailing 12-month basis. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 23 |
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Profitability
2025 vs. 2024
Asset Management underlying net income of $1,371 million increased $78 million or 6% driven by:
•MFS up $12 million (down $8 million on a U.S. dollar basis): Higher fee income from higher average net assets ("ANA") and the impacts from favourable foreign exchange translation partially offset by a decrease in net investment income.
•SLC Management up $66 million: Higher fee-related earnings and strong performance of net seed investment income. Fee-related earnings(1) increased 28% driven by strong capital raising, higher property management fees, and higher catch-up fees, partially offset by higher expenses.
Reported net income of $1,214 million decreased $314 million or 21%, reflecting market-related impacts in SLC Management and the prior year impacts from the decrease in SLC Management's estimated acquisition related liabilities(2) and gain on the early termination of a distribution agreement, partially offset by the increase in underlying net income and fair value changes in MFS shares owned by management.
Foreign exchange translation led to an increase of $21 million in underlying net income and an increase of $25 million in reported net income.
Growth
2025 vs. 2024
Asset Management AUM of $1,154.0 billion increased $32.7 billion or 3% from December 31, 2024, driven by:
•Net asset value changes of $80.2 billion; partially offset by
•Net outflows of $39.9 billion; and
•Client distributions of $7.6 billion.
MFS' AUM increased US$45.6 billion or 8% from December 31, 2024, driven by:
•Increase in asset values from higher equity markets of US$87.1 billion, partially offset by net outflows of US$41.5 billion.
SLC Management's AUM increased $9.9 billion or 4% from December 31, 2024, driven by:
•Net inflows of $18.2 billion partially offset by Client distributions of $7.6 billion and asset value changes of $0.7 billion.
•Net inflows were comprised of capital raising and Client contributions, totaling $34.9 billion, partially offset by outflows of $16.7 billion.
SLC Management's FE AUM increased $7.0 billion or 4% from December 31, 2024, driven by:
•Net inflows of $25.8 billion partially offset by Client distributions of $13.4 billion and asset value changes of $5.5 billion.
•Net inflows were comprised of capital deployment and Client contributions, totaling $39.3 billion, partially offset by outflows of
$13.4 billion.
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)Reflects an increase of $4 million in estimated future payments for options to purchase the remaining ownership interests of SLC Management affiliates in 2025 (2024 - a decrease of $344 million). For additional information, refer to Note 5 and Note 11 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
| 24 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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- Canada
| Sun Life Canada is a leading provider of protection, health, wealth solutions and asset management, providing products and services that deliver value to approximately 1 in 3 Canadians. We are focused on helping Canadians achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives through our continuum of distribution channels including workplace, employment transition and retirement services, retail advisors, and digital platforms. Our advisors form the largest dedicated life, health and investment services network in Canada. We have nearly 2,650 Sun Life career salesforce across the country. |
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2025 Highlights
| Expanding our core business through innovation in Capital Accumulation Plans ("CAPs")(1), group benefits, and individual insurance<br><br>•Delivered strong gross sales in group benefits(2) with 15% growth compared to the prior year.<br><br>•Strengthened our leading position(3) in GRS market share with a 130% growth in net sales in CAPs compared to the prior year.<br><br>•Supported more Canadians with their protection needs delivering 10% growth in non-participating individual insurance sales compared to the prior year, improving to first in the market for Critical Illness sales(4). | | --- || Enhancing our distinctive wealth and asset management platform<br><br>•Scaled our wealth business increasing AUMA(5) by 12% compared to the prior year, with strong net inflows(6) of $1.4 billion in 2025.<br><br>•Improved the digital experience for former members of employer-sponsored wealth plans by automating processes to continue retirement wealth support and management after leaving their workplace plan.<br><br>•Diversified investment product portfolio with the launch of Sun Life Canada’s first ETF series serving Canadians’ growing interest in lower-fee investment options.<br><br>•Enhanced SLFD(7) advisor capabilities, capacity, and productivity, driving a 56% increase in net wealth sales and 14% increase in assets under administration compared to the prior year. | | --- || Creating new engines of growth by elevating our health products and serving more Client needs across health, wealth and protection<br><br>•Enhanced Clients’ digital experience creating the My Sun Life app digital storefront to help Clients discover and access health and wealth products and simplify Client navigation.<br><br>•Helped Clients and their families make more informed health decisions with the launch of Medical Second Opinion by Dialogue, a digital-first service that offers expert reviews of diagnoses and treatment plans for physical and mental health conditions.<br><br>•Increased unique users of Sun Life Health products including Lumino Virtual Health Care, Employee Assistance Program, and others by 20% compared to the prior year through improvements in digital experiences and service offerings. | | --- || Institutionalizing an entrepreneurial, digital-first model propelling our organization to deliver outcomes at pace and design, pilot, and build new digital products and experiences<br><br>•Implemented 14 value streams to enable our business units and enabling functions to execute with speed and focus, and organize around prioritized Client and business outcomes.<br><br>•Leveraged AI tools to do more for our Clients including reduced median response times for individual insurance applications for a target segment by close to half (including increasing straight-through underwriting by 50%), increased chatbot containment rate (up 16 percentage points year-over-year) with generative AI tools in the Client Contact Centre, and enhanced advisor productivity using a generative AI-powered Notes Assistant Tool.<br><br>•Increased the share of new Clients who are digitally registered by 12% compared to the prior year with mobile and web enhancements and onboarding journey refinements. | | --- || Creating measurable and sustainable value for all stakeholders<br><br>•Achieved underlying net income of $1,594 million, an increase of 10% compared to the prior year.<br><br>•Delivered underlying ROE of 27.6%, an improvement of five percentage points compared to the prior year.<br><br>•Named Life and Health Insurer of the Year at the tenth annual Insurance Business Canada Awards for our commitment to exemplary Client service and standout achievements in Canada.<br><br>•Strengthened our commitment to Indigenous relations by becoming the first Canadian insurer to be awarded a Bronze certification in the Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations in the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business program.<br><br>•Recognized by Great Place To Work® Canada with four awards in 2025 (Best WorkplacesTM Canada, Best WorkplacesTM with Most Trusted Executive Teams, Best WorkplacesTM in Financial Services & Insurance, and Best WorkplacesTM for Inclusion.<br><br>•Brought no-cost access to virtual healthcare, by Dialogue, to more than 10,000 people in underserved communities across Canada through partnerships with Families Canada, United Way Greater Toronto, and Centraide of Greater Montreal. | | --- |
(1)Sun Life's capital accumulation plans ("CAPs") are retirement savings programs for businesses to offer their employees, including options like defined contribution plans, group RRSPs, and profit-sharing plans.
(2)"Group benefits" refers to group life and health insurance solutions such as health, dental, vision, and extended healthcare; and/or administrative services for employers.
(3)Fraser Pension Universe report, based on assets for the year ended December 31, 2024.
(4)Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association ("LIMRA"). Market Share as of Q3'25, on a year-to-date basis.
(5)Assets under management and administration (“AUMA”) is a non-IFRS measure that consists of both AUM and assets under administration (“AUA”). For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(6)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(7)Sun Life Financial Distribution ("SLFD") is our proprietary career advisory network.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 25 |
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Strategy and Outlook
Sun Life Canada lives our Purpose to help more Canadians achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. Our ambition is to create measurable and sustainable value for all our stakeholders: Clients, People, Shareholders, and Communities. We will continue to invest in our unique Purpose-driven talent and culture and do more for our Clients to earn the right to serve them and their families for life. Sun Life Canada will maintain the track record of sustained profitable growth and strong return on equity by executing on four strategic priorities:
| Expanding our core business through innovation in CAPs(1), group benefits, and individual insurance<br><br>•Deliver best-in-class service to our Clients and offer tailored solutions to meet Canadians’ wealth and insurance needs across digital, face-to-face, hybrid-digital, third-party, and employer-sponsored channels.<br><br>•Innovate insurance to help more Canadians protect themselves and their loved ones.<br><br>•Support small and medium-sized businesses with more targeted value propositions and go-to-market strategies suited to their needs. |
|---|
| Enhancing our distinctive wealth and asset management platform<br><br>•Expand our integrated digital and advisor wealth platform to serve growing needs of digitally minded wealth Clients.<br><br>•Elevate the retirement wealth journey with new and improved offerings, and simplified user navigation.<br><br>•Meet evolving Client and member needs with new and enhanced wealth products by leveraging our leading asset management capabilities (e.g., Sun Life Granite Index+ Target Date funds(2) and Separately Managed Accounts(3)).<br><br>•Leverage our differentiated private asset capabilities (SLC Management and MFS) to continue to innovate our wealth product offerings. |
| --- |
| Creating new engines of growth by elevating our health products and serving more Client needs across health, wealth and protection<br><br>•Integrate our health and wellness offerings to provide a more distinctive and valued digital experience for Clients.<br><br>•Serve more Clients and their health needs by further scaling our health products (e.g., virtual care platform, ePharmacy, chronic disease management programs).<br><br>•Deepen and strengthen Client relationships by expanding engagement and serving additional needs with integrated solutions across lines of business. |
| --- |
| Institutionalizing an entrepreneurial, digital-first model, propelling our organization to deliver outcomes at pace and design, pilot, and build new digital products and experiences<br><br>•Rapidly deliver new direct-to-consumer digital offerings via our dedicated in-house accelerator program, adopting a test-and-learn, iterative approach for high-potential initiatives; expanding our relationships with Canadians.<br><br>•Increase operational efficiency by simplifying and digitizing how we work by deploying more AI tools in the Contact Centre, boosting share of time coding with digital and productivity enhancements, and increasing efficiency through AI-written code; enabling our team to dedicate resources to innovate and help drive earnings growth.<br><br>•Encourage a more integrated, hands-on, and entrepreneurial way of working throughout the organization, driving innovation and further strengthening our competitive position. |
| --- |
| Outlook |
| --- |
| Sun Life Canada is operating from a position of strength. We touch approximately one third of Canadians and have a broad reach in workplaces and communities through sponsors and advisors. We have a differentiated offering across wealth, health, and protection and have sustained strong financial growth underpinned by our Purpose-driven culture and exceptional talent. We have a unique opportunity to leverage our strengths and create new pathways to drive sustainable growth and help more Canadians achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.<br><br><br><br>Health, wealth, and protection will continue to be prominent needs for Canadians – 75% of Canadians cannot access same/next day appointments(4), nearly 60% of Canadians fear they will outlive their retirement savings(5), 21% of Canadians between 18 and 75 years old have an uninsured need(6). We continue to enhance our offerings across these needs, enabled by investments in systems, distribution and digital capabilities. Our approach is digital-first, delivering quickly to strengthen our competitive position, and earning Client loyalty through integrated offerings. We are well positioned to manage through prevailing demographic, healthcare, technological and macroeconomic trends through our diversified Client-centric businesses and prudent financial and risk management. |
(1)Sun Life's capital accumulation plans ("CAPs") are retirement savings programs for businesses to offer their employees, including options like defined contribution plans, group RRSPs, and profit-sharing plans.
(2)Diversified portfolio of index-based funds plus private market investments, that is designed to adjust asset mix over time as Clients approach a specified retirement date.
(3)Personalized investment portfolios managed by a professional.
(4)Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2025.
(5)The Canada Pension Plan ("CPP") Investments Retirement Survey, 2025.
(6)LIMRA 2023 Canadian Insurance Barometer Study.
| 26 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Business Types and Business Units
| Business Type | Business Unit | Description | Market position | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asset management & wealth | Group Retirement Services | • Provides record-keeping solutions for capital accumulation plans (such as defined contribution pension plans) and defined benefit solutions in Canada to employers of all sizes.<br><br>• Leverages our worksite advantage to offer voluntary savings plans, including post-employment plans, to those members exiting their employer-sponsored plans.<br><br>• Offers planning and asset consolidation capabilities for current and former plan members to benefit from a simplified and seamless experience with a single provider.<br><br>• Distributes products through sales representatives in collaboration with a multi-channel distribution network of pension consultants and advisors.<br><br>• Offers an expanding range of innovative derisking solutions for defined benefit pension plans through Defined Benefits Solutions business. Effective January 1, 2026, Defined Benefit Solutions will move from the Canada business group to the Sun Life Asset Management business group. | • 1st in the defined contribution market based on total Capital Accumulation Plan assets for the 23rd consecutive year(1)<br><br>• 3rd in sales in the defined benefit solutions annuity market(2) | |||
| Individual Wealth | • Provides advice to individuals to help them and their families achieve lifetime financial security, leveraging a broad suite of wealth and protection-based wealth solutions.<br><br>• Distributes products via multi-channel distribution model consisting of the SLFD network, third-party channels, including independent brokers and our proprietary broker-dealers, and direct-to-consumer.<br><br>• Manufactures wealth solutions for retail and institutional Clients. | • 3rd in fixed product sales(2) and 5th place market position by total wealth deposits and premiums(2) | ||||
| Group - <br>Health & Protection | Sun Life Health | • Offers group protection products in Canada, including life, dental, extended health care, disability and critical illness, and administrative services to employers of all sizes.<br><br>• Provides employer-market health solutions (e.g., virtual primary care) and direct-to-consumer health products (e.g., online pharmacy).<br><br>• Leverages our worksite advantage to offer voluntary benefits solutions to individual plan members, including post-employment life and health plans.<br><br>• Distributes products by sales representatives in collaboration with independent advisors, benefits consultants and the SLFD network. | • 2nd in the Canada benefits provider market(3), by BIF(4) | |||
| Individual - Protection | Individual Insurance | • Offers comprehensive life and health protection products to individuals to help them and their families achieve lifetime financial security, and live healthier lives.<br><br>• Distributes products via multi-channel distribution model consisting of the SLFD network, third-party channels, including independent brokers and broker-dealers, and direct-to-consumer including Prospr by Sun Life. | • 1st in the individual life and health market, by premiums(2)<br><br>• 2nd in the individual non-participating life premiums for 2025(2) |
(1)Fraser Pension Universe Report, based on year-ended December 2024.
(2)LIMRA Market Share as of Q3'25, on a year-to-date basis.
(3)Fraser Group Life and Health in Canada Report, based on market share for year-ended December 2024. Group benefits industry market share does not account for Sun Life’s Canada Dental Care Plan business and similar plans not reported by other carriers. Our ambition is to extend our group benefits profit share leadership position in Canada.
(4)Business In-Force ("BIF") refers to total premiums and premium-equivalents (for non-insured plans).
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 27 |
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Financial and Business Results
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Asset management & wealth(1) | 499 | 441 |
| Group - Health & Protection(1) | 650 | 591 |
| Individual - Protection(1) | 445 | 421 |
| Underlying net income(1) | 1,594 | 1,453 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (151) | (177) |
| Assumption changes and management actions | — | (34) |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring | (11) | — |
| Intangible asset amortization | (25) | (25) |
| Other | (5) | — |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 1,402 | 1,217 |
| Underlying ROE (%)(1) | 27.6% | 22.4% |
| Reported ROE (%)(1) | 24.2% | 18.8% |
| Asset management gross flows & wealth sales(1) | 22,531 | 18,144 |
| Group - Health & Protection sales(1) | 769 | 666 |
| Individual - Protection sales(1) | 538 | 551 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
Profitability
2025 vs. 2024
Underlying net income of $1,594 million increased $141 million or 10%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $58 million: Improved credit experience and higher fee income driven by higher AUM, partially offset by lower investment earnings.
•Group - Health & Protection up $59 million: Business growth, favourable mortality experience, and improved credit experience.
•Individual - Protection up $24 million: Higher investment earnings and favourable insurance experience.
•Lower earnings on surplus primarily reflecting lower net interest income from lower surplus asset balances and rates.
Reported net income of $1,402 million increased $185 million or 15% driven by the increase in underlying net income, favourable ACMA impacts, and market-related impacts primarily reflecting favourable interest rate impacts partially offset by unfavourable other market-related impacts.
Growth
2025 vs. 2024
Canada's sales included:
•Asset management gross flows & wealth sales of $22.5 billion were up 24%, driven by GRS and higher mutual fund sales in Individual Wealth. GRS sales reflect higher defined contribution sales from large case sales, and increased rollover volumes, partially offset by lower defined benefit solution sales reflecting a slower market for pension risk transfer transactions.
•Group - Health & Protection sales of $769 million were up 15%, driven by higher large case sales.
•Individual - Protection sales of $538 million were down 2%, reflecting a combination of lower participating life sales and strong non-participating life sales.
AUM for wealth businesses, including GRS, was $214.9 billion as at December 31, 2025, an increase of $18.7 billion or 10%, primarily reflecting market movements.
| 28 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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- U.S.
| Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits in the U.S., serving approximately 48 million Americans. We offer dental and vision, medical stop-loss, supplemental health, disability, and life insurance benefits through employers, industry partners and government programs such as Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and the Children's Health Insurance Program ("CHIP"). Services include absence management, dental care, and healthcare navigation. In addition, our U.S. business manages an in-force block of approximately 200,000 individual life insurance and annuity policies as well as a closed block of reinsurance. |
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2025 Highlights
| Growing our business<br><br>•Sun Life U.S. Client revenues grew to US$8.5 billion in 2025, driven by the successful execution of our strategy to help Clients access the care and coverage they need.<br><br>•Sun Life U.S. sales increased by 27% to a record US$1.8 billion, driven by double-digit growth in Health and Risk Solutions, Dental and Employee Benefits.<br><br>•In Dental, our strong sales pipeline generated 15 new government contract wins during the year. We now provide members access to the dental care and coverage they need across 37 states. | | --- || Helping Clients access the care and coverage they need<br><br>•Expanded our Family Leave Insurance product to 17 new states in 2025, making it easier for small and mid-size employers to help their employees meet family care needs. Sun Life now offers family leave products to employers in 31 states through statutory and voluntary programs that represent approximately 67% of the U.S. population.<br><br>•Partnered with Wellthy, a personalized care concierge platform, in Employee Benefits to make it easier for life insurance members and their families to navigate the complex challenges associated with end-of-life care and bereavement. The service offered through this partnership will help our members and their families through some of life's hardest experiences.<br><br>•Launched the Expert Cancer Review service in Health and Risk Solutions, which provides members facing a cancer diagnosis with access to an objective, documented second opinion from an independent oncology specialist through the clinical expertise of Health Navigator, Sun Life’s health care navigation and advocacy service. Second opinions can have significant impact on the patient’s health journey, potentially avoiding misdiagnoses, sparing people from unnecessary treatments, uncovering better-tailored therapies, and reducing medical costs.<br><br>•Extended our TeamSmile partnership through the end of 2027 including support of US$825,000 to help more underserved children get oral health care and education through TeamSmile's flagship free dental clinics and the Dental Home Project, Powered by DentaQuest. In 2025, TeamSmile served more than 5,600 children across 32 programs in 29 cities, delivering more than US$1.6 million in no-cost care, while also helping connect nearly 2,500 children to a dental home. | | --- || Making health and benefits easier through digital solutions<br><br>•Named one of the first strategic Workday Wellness partners and utilized Workday’s AI platform to show a real-time view of the benefits and wellness programs that employers are offering. The partnership will simplify benefits management, streamline enrollment, enhance leave administration, and reduce administrative burdens.<br><br>•Made it easier for Clients to do business with us by launching new and enhanced employer portals, including FullscopeRMS’ new Integrated Absence & Short-Term Disability portal Your Benefit Connect. The portal provides a streamlined claims-filing experience for members, and enhanced reporting tools, including self-service options, for FullscopeRMS partners and employers.<br><br>•Streamlined the Supplemental Health claims process, strengthening straight-through processing and delivering more automated claims integration. These changes improved Client satisfaction(1) by 20 points in 2025 and enabled faster claims payments to members by 55% year-over-year, even as claim volumes rose by more than 70% during the same time period.<br><br>•Collaborated with Pasito, an AI-powered platform that connects with more than 200 payroll providers to deliver personalized benefits guidance. This helps members choose plans that fit their needs, their budgets and best compliment their health coverage, driving better engagement and member decision making. | | --- |
(1)Client satisfaction scores ("CSAT") are sourced from regular monthly surveys of Clients who have recently used our Supplemental Health products. The CSAT score is the overall satisfaction score where claimants were "very satisfied" with their claims experience as of November 2025.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 29 |
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Strategy and Outlook
Our strategy is to be a leader in U.S. health and benefits, helping members access the care and coverage they need. The US$5.6 trillion health and benefits ecosystem(1) is complex. Navigating the ever-changing health ecosystem to get access to care continues to be a challenge for members due to fewer health care professionals, planned reductions in government spending, increased demand as the population ages, and rising health care costs.
Sun Life U.S. is a diversified, higher-growth business with lower capital and strong cash flow generation. We are filling unmet needs and gaps in health insurance, helping members access and navigate care, and improving health outcomes for our members. We have significantly advanced our capabilities with our DentaQuest and PinnacleCare acquisitions, added new capabilities that support the clinical needs of our most medically complex stop-loss members, and expanded our clinical capabilities in the disability business.
We are a differentiated provider whose offerings complement core health insurance offerings from large U.S. health insurers. Our medical stop-loss and dental benefits businesses are leaders in the U.S. market, and our employee benefits business is a top-10 provider. Through our dental business, we are also part of the large government programs market that covers more than 170 million Americans(2). The role we play for our Clients is more important than ever. We will leverage our scale and expertise, be disciplined in pricing and expenses, and continue to leverage technology to enhance Client experiences.
Digital innovation has been key to our success and will drive growth in the future. We have made significant strides, including using application programming interfaces ("APIs") for real-time information and simplifying claims processes. Our digital tools and support services make it easier to do business with us and close coverage gaps. We also continue to leverage our unique partnership capabilities to drive growth by delivering solutions to our more than 100 health plan and insurance company partners to support their members.
We are focused on the following areas and priorities to execute our strategy:
| Helping Clients access the care and coverage they need<br><br>•Expand and enhance the products and services we offer across our businesses to help members access care and improve health outcomes.<br><br>•Extend our leadership position and further differentiate our medical stop-loss business by helping members get the care they need while helping employers reduce costs.<br><br>•Leverage our dental scale and expertise to provide quality oral health care to all, continue to grow our government dental business, and become a leader in commercial dental.<br><br>•Enhance our employee benefits offerings across disability, absence, life, and supplemental health to provide income protection, fill gaps in coverage and provide access to care.<br><br>•Provide more Americans with access to paid family and medical leave and help employers comply with complex regulations.<br><br>•Drive growth in FullscopeRMS by leveraging our expertise, scale, and suite of turnkey solutions for insurance and health plan partners, to improve coverage for their members. | | --- || Making health and benefits easier through digital solutions<br><br>•Continue to connect with major platforms in the health and benefits ecosystem, delivering a seamless Client experience.<br><br>•Drive digital expansion through new capabilities and partnerships to deliver predictive and personalized analytics to help Clients make decisions that are right for them.<br><br>•Continue to develop digital tools to increase Client interactions and engagement and deliver deeper insights for brokers and employers.<br><br>•In non-government relationships, leverage AI responsibly to help employers navigate the complex environment, provide simplified and integrated solutions, and help members understand the value of our products and services. | | --- || Help In-force Management policy-owners achieve lifetime financial security, while effectively managing our operations<br><br>•Continue to provide excellent service to our individual insurance and annuity policy owners.<br><br>•Optimize the value of the business by implementing opportunities to improve profitability, including expense efficiencies and alternative investment strategies.<br><br>•Effectively manage risk and capital through reinsurance and other forms of portfolio restructuring. | | --- |
(1)Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Office of the Actuary, National Health Statistics Group, 2025 projections.
(2)Aggregate for Medicaid, Medicare, Affordable Care Act, and TRICARE. Sources: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
| 30 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outlook | |||
| --- | |||
| The U.S. health and benefits ecosystem is large and growing, with Clients increasingly valuing protection products and health services. These markets remain extremely competitive with rising medical costs and structural changes impacting all health-related insurers. In the Medicaid dental business, higher member utilization and slower than anticipated rate increases are pressuring results, while significant upcoming reductions in government funding and changes in government policy are creating uncertainty in the market. Escalating levels of medical inflation and elevated claims experience is driving higher acuity in medical stop-loss, while concerns rise about potential increases in group disability incidence and reduced recovery rates if the economy worsens.<br><br><br><br>We are taking actions to enhance results as we continue to navigate these industry-wide headwinds. The majority of our group and dental business is repriced every year. In Dental, we are making progress repricing our Medicaid dental contracts. We continue to win new business and are also investing in opportunities to improve operational performance, increase automation, and accelerate the growth of our commercial business, where we have grown revenues and membership by more than 20% since the DentaQuest acquisition. In Health and Risk Solutions, we continue to leverage our scale and expertise as the largest independent stop-loss provider in the U.S., maintaining industry-leading loss ratios. We remain prudent in our pricing and reserving practices and have leading capabilities including our clinical programs and point solutions for managing health conditions and costs, as well as advanced analytics tools and tailored risk selection processes to ensure we appropriately price for the risk we are taking. In Employee Benefits, we are differentiating by making benefits easier through digital connections into the benefits ecosystem, helping employers manage productivity and delivering a broad portfolio of solutions. We continue to focus on revenue growth, disciplined pricing, continuous improvement of claims management, and prudent expense management.<br><br><br><br>Our scale and expertise position us well to adapt to this environment and our diversified business is well-positioned for growth. We are committed to growing profitably and developing new approaches to demonstrate value to our members, helping them to live healthier lives. The underlying fundamentals in all our businesses are strong – we are winning new business, increasing productivity and efficiency, and helping our members get the care and coverage they need. Significant enhancements to our products, systems, and digital capabilities over the past several years have contributed to our growth, as have our recent acquisitions and partnerships. We continue to invest strategically in technology to enhance the Client experience and are leveraging advanced analytics to support our underwriting expertise, enhance operational efficiency, and drive strong sales growth and retention.<br><br><br><br>We continue to work with state and federal officials to increase access to benefits for our Clients. In addition to our focus on paid family and medical leave, which provides employers solutions to help their employees meet family care needs, we have increased our advocacy to maintain and expand dental coverage for beneficiaries of Medicaid and other government programs, and to keep employer-sponsored dental benefits affordable. We continue to monitor possible legislative and regulatory changes to key areas that impact our business, such as Medicaid funding, tax, data security and privacy, the use of AI, minimum loss ratios for employer-sponsored dental insurance plans, state government contractor requirements, and potential changes arising from the new federal administration. | |||
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 31 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Business Types and Business Units
| Business Type | Business Unit | Description | Market position | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group - Health & Protection | Group Benefits | • Employee Benefits provides group insurance products and services, including life, long-term and short-term disability, absence management, and supplemental health insurance such as hospital indemnity, accident and critical illness. Includes our FullscopeRMS business, which provides turnkey risk management solutions for insurers and health plans.<br><br>• Health and Risk Solutions provides protection against large medical claims for employers who self-insure their employee health plans through medical stop-loss, health care navigation and advisory services, and health services through care partners to help members access care and improve health outcomes.<br><br>• Products distributed through more than 32,000 independent brokers and benefits consultants, supported by 160 employed sales representatives.<br><br>• Serves approximately 55,000 employers in small, medium and large workplaces across the U.S. and approximately 18 million members(1). | • Largest independent medical stop-loss provider(2)<br><br>• Top 10 group life and disability benefits provider, including the leading turnkey disability provider(3) | |||
| Dental | •Provides Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare Advantage, and ACA Exchange products and services to government and health plan sponsors and commercial group dental and vision solutions for employers of all sizes.<br><br>•Serves approximately 32 million members(4).<br><br>•Supports preventive dental care through its innovative Preventistry® model, which focuses on early and quality care, access, and measurable outcomes.<br><br>•More than 70 Advantage Dental+ practices, which are located in underserved communities to help increase access to dental care.<br><br>•The commercial Sun Life Dental Network® includes more than 145,000 unique providers and offers easy access to care with in-network cost benefits(5). | •One of the largest dental benefits provider in the U.S. based on membership(6)<br><br>• Largest Medicaid dental benefits provider(7) | ||||
| Individual - Protection | In-force Management | • In-force Management ("IFM") is a run-off block closed to new sales. IFM manages approximately 200,000 policies, including individual life insurance policies, primarily universal life and participating whole life insurance, individual annuity policies that were originally sold in the UK, and a closed block of reinsured policies. |
(1)Includes members who also have a commercial Sun Life Dental and/or Vision coverage.
(2)Ranking compiled by Sun Life based on data contained in the 2024 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.
(3)LIMRA 2024 Annual Sales & In-force Reports for Group Life & Disability. Long-term disability results exclude reserve buy outs. Group Term Life, long-term disability and short-term disability results exclude business sold through associations; includes business in-force managed by Sun Life for insurance carrier partners.
(4)Includes members who also have a Sun Life Group coverage.
(5)Sun Life's dental networks include its affiliate, Dental Health Alliance®, L.L.C. (DHA®), and dentists under access arrangements with other dental networks. Nationwide counts are state level totals.
(6)Based on membership as of December 31, 2025, for plans provided or administered by a Sun Life company. Ranking compiled by Sun Life and based on data disclosed by competitors.
(7)Based on membership as of September 2025. Ranking compiled by Sun Life using publicly available data from the September 2025 Medicaid & CHIP Enrollment Data Highlights, state Medicaid agencies and other sources, and information disclosed by competitors.
| 32 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Financial and Business Results
| (US$ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Group - Health & Protection(1) | 424 | 445 |
| Individual - Protection(1) | 127 | 121 |
| Underlying net income(1) | 551 | 566 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | 21 | (84) |
| Assumption changes and management actions | (43) | 105 |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring(2) | (60) | (60) |
| Intangible asset amortization | (101) | (64) |
| Other | — | (52) |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 368 | 411 |
| Underlying ROE (%)(1) | 11.3% | 12.0% |
| Reported ROE (%)(1) | 7.6% | 8.7% |
| After-tax profit margin for Group Benefits (%)(1)(3) | 7.5% | 8.3% |
| Group - Health & Protection sales(1) | 1,828 | 1,434 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
(2)Includes acquisition, integration and restructuring costs associated with DentaQuest, acquired on June 1, 2022.
(3)Based on underlying net income, on a trailing four-quarter basis. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Profitability
2025 vs. 2024
Underlying net income of US$551 million decreased US$15 million or 3%, driven by:
•Group - Health & Protection down US$21 million: Lower Group Benefits results partially offset by higher Dental results. Group Benefits declined from higher distribution costs, unfavourable long-term disability experience in employee benefits and reserving updates in medical stop-loss. Dental results were driven by Medicaid repricing, prior year impacts, and higher fee income and management actions.
•Individual - Protection up US$6 million: Higher net investment results.
Reported net income of US$368 million decreased US$43 million or 10%, driven by unfavourable ACMA impacts, an impairment charge of US$45 million on a customer relationship intangible asset from the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract, and the decline in underlying net income, partially offset by favourable market-related impacts and a prior year provision in Dental. Market-related impacts were driven by improved real-estate experience and favourable interest rate impacts, partially offset by unfavourable equity market impacts.
Foreign exchange translation led to an increase of $16 million in underlying net income and an increase of $12 million in reported net income.
Growth
2025 vs. 2024
U.S. group sales of US$1,828 million were up 27%, driven by medical stop-loss and large case employee benefits sales in Group Benefits and higher Medicare and Medicaid sales in Dental.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 33 |
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- Asia
| Our pan Asia businesses 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 30 million Clients. ASEAN businesses provide asset management and wealth, protection and health solutions through a multi-channel distribution approach in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The Hong Kong business offers individual protection and wealth products through agency, broker and bancassurance distribution channels. Our Joint Ventures in China, India and Malaysia, provide asset management and wealth, protection and health solutions. The High Net Worth business provides individual protection solutions to HNW families and individuals, with operations in Singapore, Bermuda and Dubai. Regional Office represents Asia’s headquarters based in Hong Kong. |
|---|
2025 Highlights
| Leverage distribution excellence to diversify our mix, build scale and deliver Client Impact<br><br>•Strong protection sales momentum with growth of 30%(1) year-over-year and total weighted premium income ("TWPI") of $9.3 billion up 26%(1), over prior year, driven by higher sales in Hong Kong reflecting expanded distribution capabilities, and in India reflecting growth in bancassurance channels.<br><br>•We continued to grow our distribution in fast-growth markets by launching an expanded 15-year partnership with CIMB Niaga, the second largest private bank in Indonesia, which contributed to Sun Life Indonesia's 51%(1) sales growth in 2025 compared to the prior year. Together, our digital capabilities and strong product offerings will better serve a broader Indonesian customer base.<br><br>•Sun Life Philippines has been recognized as the top Million Dollar Round Table ("MDRT")(2) company in the country for 2025, with 444 advisors qualifying, affirming our leadership in the Philippine life insurance industry and our commitment to excellence through the Most Respected Advisor program.<br><br>•In Hong Kong, we launched a market-first indexed universal life insurance product for eligible professional investors. This product addresses the growing market demand for high-end wealth management solutions and demonstrates our continuous innovation to meet our Clients' evolving needs.<br><br>•We expanded our reach to our HNW Clients by opening an office in the Dubai International Financial Centre. | | --- || Be a digital leader, enhancing the digital experience to transform the Client and advisor experience, and enable greater efficiency and scalability<br><br>•We are dedicated to empowering advisors with digital tools and AI-powered insights and support. In Hong Kong, we launched Advisor Workbench, which streamlines multiple applications into a single, efficient platform, including Advisory Buddy, an integrated GenAI chatbot providing instant support to advisors.<br><br>•We also have made significant investments in digitization and analytics to enhance the Client experience:<br><br>◦In India, our joint venture, Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited, achieved 100% digital adoption for new business, enabling a fully digital onboarding process that added over 200,000 Clients(3).<br><br>◦In Malaysia, Clients benefitted from a faster onboarding experience, with almost two-thirds of our Clients receiving automated underwriting decisions within two hours.<br><br>◦In Indonesia, we introduced automated claims features, delivering a faster and more efficient claims experience for our Clients, with digital submissions rising approximately eight percentage points from the prior year. We also launched Digital Check-In within our Client Service Centres, an online booking service which helps to reduce service centre wait times. | | --- || Embed long-term, sustainable and resilient thinking into our business to drive value creation, positive impact, and align with our Purpose<br><br>•We are creating impact-focused solutions that help our Clients build lasting financial security. In Hong Kong, we launched two new solutions to help Clients save for a comfortable retirement: a constituent fund(4) which provides Clients with stable income and capital appreciation over the medium-to-long-term, and RetireFree Immediate Annuity Insurance, a comprehensive lifelong retirement solution, which together with the RetireFree Booster Rider Insurance, offers first-in-market protection benefits and empowers Clients to customize their retirement plans according to their needs.<br><br>•We are committed to building financial security through financial literacy initiatives across the region. In 2025, we signed a partnership with Aflatoun International to empower underserved communities across Asia with financial knowledge and education.<br><br>•Our Hoops + Health program, in partnership with Beyond Sport(5), has helped more than 48,000 people since 2023 to get active, build healthy lifestyles, and prevent diabetes. This program underscores Sun Life's commitment to community health and wellness.<br><br>•In the Philippines, Sun Life Grepa partnered with ASA Philippines(6) to expand access to insurance for underserved communities through a Microinsurance Program serving the foundation’s more than two million female members. In 2025, this program provided financial protection to more than 240,000 low-income individuals, helping to build financial security throughout the community. | | --- |
(1)This change excludes the impacts of foreign exchange translation. For more information about these non-IFRS financial measures, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
(2)A global independent association of the world's leading life insurance and financial service professionals. Most number of MDRT members in 2025.
(3)Added 294,000 Clients since Q4'24.
(4)Sun Life MPF Income Fund.
(5)Beyond Sport is a global foundation that leverages sport's transformative power to address today's critical social issues. It champions people, programs and communities that use sport to build opportunity and equity, creating a more inclusive and progressive world.
(6)ASA Philippines Foundation, Inc. ("ASA Philippines") is a non-profit, non-stock corporation specializing in microfinance.
| 34 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Risk management capabilities and financial strength<br><br>•On July 15, 2025, we invested $55 million cash in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Our previously held interest in Bowtie was remeasured to its fair value, which resulted in a gain of $176 million recognized in reported net income. The investment reinforces Sun Life's long-term partnership with Bowtie, and our shared goal to make health insurance simple, accessible and affordable. Bowtie is Hong Kong's first virtual insurer and the market leader in the direct sales channel(1). | |||
| --- |
Strategy and Outlook
To achieve our ambitious growth objectives and driving scale in all our markets, we will continue to capitalize on new opportunities. We are dedicated to building distribution excellence and offering a seamless digital experience for Clients and advisors. We will continue to foster our strong and distinctive culture, while attracting, developing and empowering high-calibre talent. We will embed long-term, sustainable and resilient thinking into our business, as we engage Clients along their journeys towards lifetime financial security and healthier lives. Our areas of focus for Asia are to:
| Strengthen brand and differentiated Client value propositions to build and deepen quality Client, advisor, and employee relationships<br><br>•Provide simple, relevant and reliable propositions and experiences for our Clients and partners.<br><br>•Build a distinctive, trusted brand through investing further in high-impact brand campaigns that increase awareness and further builds consideration of Sun Life across Asia.<br><br>•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.<br><br>•Embed greater client-centricity to differentiate Sun Life, become a partner in our Clients' life journeys by offering a wider set of wealth and health solutions and deepen the level of engagement across the Client journey.<br><br>•Build a high-performance mindset and attract, develop and retain top talent. | | --- || Deliver on bancassurance, sustainably grow agency, embed quality and optimize distribution mix<br><br>•Build sustainable scale through a diversified mix of high performing, quality-focused channels that enhance Client impact by offering holistic sales advice delivered through our expanding range of life, wealth and health solutions.<br><br>•Continue to effectively collaborate with existing bancassurance partners to unlock the potential of recent deals, and capture scale by embedding our insurance products into Clients’ bank journeys, integrating digital tools, and engaging with partners.<br><br>•Scale agency and become the partner of choice for advisors to develop active and sustainable agency talent. | | --- || Accelerate on digital to transform Client and advisor experience, capture efficiencies, retain and gain Client and scale markets<br><br>•Deliver digital Client experiences and increase engagement of prospective and existing Clients by being more personal, proactive and predictive to deepen our relationship and improve retention.<br><br>•Empower advisors, including bancassurance distribution, by building best-in-class digital and data capabilities that provide leads generation, enable more engaging experiences, create Client impact, and enhance prospect conversion, advisor productivity, and recruitment and training.<br><br>•Accelerate technology foundation modernization and leverage common tools and technology platforms across the region to enhance advisor and Client experience and deliver unit cost reductions.<br><br>•Deliver digital innovation for our business units that unlocks meaningful growth, efficiencies, scale and distinctiveness. | | --- || Outlook | | --- | | Our diversified business, with a multi-country presence and multi-channel distribution, positions us well to deepen Client relationships, capture opportunities as they arise, and protects against adverse economic cycles and regulatory changes in any one market. In Hong Kong, recent regulatory developments have increased transparency requirements and influenced product competitiveness across the industry. That said, our disciplined product design and pricing positions us well to continue delivering high quality, Client-focused solutions.<br><br><br><br>Competition in Hong Kong and the High Net Worth markets continues to intensify, with competitive product offering and new entrants reshaping market dynamics. Despite this, our strengthened distribution, trusted brand, and market-leading HNW capabilities enable us to compete effectively by offering differentiated, high value protection and wealth solutions anchored by strong risk management and a best-in-class service model.<br><br><br><br>We expect that the region’s economic growth will continue, and rapid wealth creation, coupled with low insurance penetration rates, and an increasing aging population, will support sustained growth across all our markets over the medium-term. In addition, we expect to continue to reach more Clients by expanding our high-quality agency force and diverse network of bancassurance partners and broker partnerships, and enhancing digital tools.<br><br><br><br>Economic and geopolitical uncertainty, as well as intense competition, movements in interest rates and inflation continue to pose challenges to our businesses; however, our steadfast dedication to our Purpose and Clients, strengthening market positions, key strategic relationships, investments in digital and analytics, and ability to leverage Sun Life's global expertise, position us well for the future. As local governments continue to push responsibility down to their people in both the retirement and health spaces, we are well-equipped to offer current and prospective Clients a diverse range of products and solutions. |
(1)According to Insurance Authority's Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business 2024, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Bowtie Life ranked first in number of new individual non-single premium policies sold through Direct channel in Hong Kong.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 35 |
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Business Types and Business Units
| Business Type | Business Unit <br>& Market | Description | Market Position | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asset management & wealth | ASEAN<br><br>Philippines(1) | • Asset management for individual and institutional Clients through agency, brokerage, bancassurance and digital partners. | • #2 mutual fund operation in the country(2) | |||
| Hong Kong | • Mandatory Provident Fund ("MPF") and pension administration to individuals and businesses through agency and brokerage distribution. | • 3rd largest provider based on AUM, 3rd based on net inflows(3) | ||||
| Joint Ventures<br><br>China(4) | • Institutional asset management, passive third-party asset management and debt financing business through direct distribution. | • 15th largest mutual fund provider(5) | ||||
| Joint Ventures<br><br>India(6) | • Asset management for both individual and institutional investors through independent financial advisors, banks, and direct distribution channels. | • 6th largest mutual fund operation in the country(7) | ||||
| Individual - Protection | ASEAN<br><br>Philippines | • Individual and group life and health insurance products to individuals and businesses through a multi-channel distribution network. | • #1 ranked insurance company based on total premium(8) | |||
| Indonesia | • Individual life and health insurance through agency, telco arrangements and banks, including a bancassurance partnership with CIMB Niaga, Indonesia's 2nd largest privately-owned bank. | • 9th ranked insurance company and 7th in bancassurance sales(9) | ||||
| Vietnam | • Individual insurance and pensions distributed through agency, corporate sales, and digital distribution channels and partnerships, including exclusive bancassurance agreements with TPBank(10) and ACB(10). | • 6th in bancassurance sales, 9th ranked insurance company(11) | ||||
| Hong Kong | • Individual and group life and health insurance through agency, bancassurance agreement with Dah Sing(12) and brokerage distribution, including life insurance solutions for HNW Clients. | • 8th ranked insurance company and 1st in broker sales(13) | ||||
| Joint Ventures<br><br>China(4) | • Individual and group life and health insurance and savings products distributed through agency, brokerage, bancassurance and digital channels. | • 13th ranked life insurance company in China among multinationals(14) | ||||
| India(6) | • Individual and group insurance, savings and retirement products through agency, brokerage, bancassurance, and direct-to-consumer channels. | • 7th largest life insurance company in India(15) | ||||
| Malaysia(16) | • Individual and group insurance through banks and telco arrangements, including an exclusive bancassurance agreement with CIMB Bank, Malaysia's 2nd largest bank, and a growing agency force. | • 5th in bancassurance sales, 7th overall(17) | ||||
| High Net Worth | • Individual life insurance solutions for HNW Clients with Bermuda, Singapore, Dubai, and broker branches.<br><br>• Manages a block of International wealth investment products closed to new sales. | • A leader in international HNW life insurance business | ||||
| Regional Office | • Asia's headquarters based in Hong Kong. |
(1)Philippines: Includes a joint venture with the Yuchengco Group - Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. ("Sun Life Grepa") (49%).
(2)Philippine Investment Funds Association, based on November 2025 ending AUM.
(3)Mercer MPF Market Shares Report, Q3'25 year-to-date.
(4)China: Joint ventures with the China Everbright Group: Sun Life Everbright Life Insurance Company Limited (24.99%), Sun Life Everbright Asset Management Co., Ltd (24.74%).
(5)2024, based on total revenue amongst insurance asset management companies.
(6)India: Joint venture with Aditya Birla Group - Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited (49%) and Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset Management Company Limited (30% indirect ownership).
(7)Association of Mutual Funds in India, based on average AUM for the quarter ended December 31, 2025.
(8)Insurance Commission of the Philippines, based on Q3'25 year-to-date total premium income for Sun Life of Canada (Philippines).
(9)Indonesia Life Insurance Association industry report, based on Q3'25 year-to-date first year premiums.
(10)Tien Phong Commercial Bank ("TPBank") and Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank ("ACB").
(11)December 2025 year-to-date annualized first year premiums based on data shared among industry players.
(12)Dah Sing Bank ("Dah Sing").
(13)Insurance Authority of Hong Kong, Provisional Statistics on Hong Kong Long Term Insurance Business, based on Q3'25 year-to-date annualized first year premiums.
(14)China: based on gross premiums for Q3'25 year-to-date (excluding universal life insurance deposits and pension companies) amongst foreign multinationals.
(15)Insurance Regulatory Authority of India, based on November 2025 year-to-date first year premiums among private players.
(16)Malaysia: Joint ventures with Khazanah Nasional Berhad and CIMB Group Holdings Berhad - Sun Life Malaysia Assurance Berhad (49%), Sun Life Malaysia Takaful Berhad (49%).
(17)Life Insurance Association of Malaysia and Insurance Services Malaysia Berhad, based on Q3'25 year-to-date annualized first year premium for conventional and takaful business.
| 36 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Financial and Business Results
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Asset management & wealth(1) | 106 | 89 |
| Individual - Protection(1)(2)(3) | 730 | 612 |
| Underlying net income(1) | 836 | 701 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (210) | (76) |
| Assumption changes and management actions | 13 | (54) |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring | 145 | 66 |
| Intangible asset amortization | (13) | (194) |
| Other | (3) | (14) |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 768 | 429 |
| Underlying ROE (%)(1) | 15.1% | 12.7% |
| Reported ROE (%)(1) | 13.9% | 7.8% |
| Asset management gross flows & wealth sales(1) | 10,094 | 8,063 |
| Individual - Protection sales(1) | 3,213 | 2,432 |
| Group - Health & Protection sales(1)(2) | 101 | 87 |
| New business CSM(1) | 1,194 | 918 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
(2)In underlying net income by business type, Group businesses in Asia have been included with Individual - Protection.
(3)Effective Q1'25, Regional office expenses & other was moved to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
Profitability
2025 vs. 2024
Underlying net income of $836 million increased $135 million or 19%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $17 million: Higher fee income primarily driven by higher AUM.
•Individual - Protection(1) up $118 million: Continued strong sales momentum and in-force business growth across most markets, higher investment earnings and contributions from joint ventures, and favourable mortality experience in High Net Worth, partially offset by unfavourable credit experience, higher expenses primarily reflecting continued investments in the business, and lower earnings on surplus primarily reflecting realized losses.
Reported net income of $768 million increased $339 million or 79%, driven by a gain from increased ownership interest in Bowtie, the increase in underlying net income, favourable ACMA impacts, and the prior year impacts of an impairment charge on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam and a Pillar Two global minimum tax adjustment(2), partially offset by unfavourable market-related impacts and a prior year gain on partial sale of ABSLAMC. The market-related impacts were primarily from unfavourable other market-related and equity market impacts, partially offset by improved interest rate impacts and real estate experience.
Foreign exchange translation led to an increase of $13 million in underlying net income and an increase of $14 million in reported net income.
Growth
2025 vs. 2024
Asia's sales included:
•Individual sales of $3.2 billion were up 30%(3), driven by:
◦Higher sales in Hong Kong from growth across all channels; and
◦Higher sales in India and Indonesia reflecting growth primarily in the bancassurance channel; partially offset by
◦Lower sales in High Net Worth from the broker channel.
•Asset management gross flows & wealth sales of $10.1 billion were up 26%(3), driven by higher fixed income fund sales in India.
New business CSM of $1,194 million was up from $918 million in the prior year, driven by higher sales and profit margins partially offset by unfavourable business mix, primarily in Hong Kong.
(1)Effective Q1'25, Regional office expenses & other was moved to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
(2)For additional information refer to Note 19 of our 2024 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and section D - Profitability in the 2024 Annual MD&A.
(3)This change excludes the impacts of foreign exchange translation. For more information about these non-IFRS financial measures, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 37 |
|---|
Investment in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited
On July 15, 2025, we invested $55 million cash in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Our previously held interest in Bowtie was remeasured to its fair value, which resulted in a gain of $176 million recognized in reported net income in Q3'25. The investment reinforces Sun Life's long-term partnership with Bowtie, and our shared goal to make health insurance simple, accessible and affordable. Bowtie is Hong Kong's first virtual insurer and the market leader in the direct sales channel(1). For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Growth by Business Market - 2025 vs. 2024
We continued to maintain a strong Client focus, build our agency and strengthen bancassurance channels, leverage a more balanced product portfolio and increase productivity.
ASEAN Markets
•Philippines - Mutual and managed fund AUM was $1.3 billion as at December 31, 2025, a decrease of 3%, measured in local currency, reflecting lower money market fund sales. Individual protection sales increased 7% on a local currency basis, reflecting higher sales in agency and bancassurance channels.
•Agency headcount was approximately 23,100 at the end of 2025, 6% lower than 2024.
•Indonesia - Individual protection sales increased 51% on a local currency basis, reflecting higher sales primarily in the bancassurance channel.
•Agency headcount was approximately 1,500 at the end of 2025, 44% lower than 2024, reflecting our focus to build a high-quality agency.
•Vietnam - Individual protection sales decreased 16% on a local currency basis, reflecting lower sales in bancassurance and agency channels.
•Agency headcount was approximately 1,000 at the end of 2025, 74% lower than 2024, reflecting our focus to build a high-quality agency.
Hong Kong
•AUM in the pension business was $30.4 billion as at December 31, 2025, 19% higher than prior year measured on a local currency basis, reflecting pension inflows and favourable equity markets.
•Individual protection sales increased 46% on a local currency basis, driven by expanded distribution capabilities with strong, diversified growth across broker, agency and bancassurance channels.
•Agency headcount was approximately 3,600 at the end of 2025, 24% higher than 2024.
Joint Ventures
•China - Individual protection sales increased 44% on a local currency basis, reflecting higher sales in the bancassurance and broker channels.
•Agency headcount was approximately 1,300 at the end of 2025, in line with 2024.
•India - Gross sales of equity and fixed income funds increased 42% on a local currency basis. Individual protection sales increased 18% on a local currency basis, driven by growth in the bancassurance and agency channels.
•Agency headcount was approximately 65,200 at the end of 2025, 17% higher than 2024.
•Total AUM as at December 31, 2025 was $70.2 billion, of which $21.1 billion is reported in our AUM based on Sun Life's 30.0% share, 20% higher than 2024, on a local currency basis.
•Malaysia - Individual protection sales decreased 7% on a local currency basis, reflecting lower sales in the agency and bancassurance channels.
•Agency headcount was approximately 1,300 at the end of 2025, in line with 2024.
High Net Worth
•Individual protection sales decreased 14% on a local currency basis, due to higher large case sales in the prior year.
(1)According to Insurance Authority's Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business 2024, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Bowtie Life ranked first in number of new individual non-single premium policies sold through Direct channel in Hong Kong.
| 38 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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- Corporate
| Corporate Support operations consist of certain expenses, debt financing, earnings on surplus, and other items. Corporate operations pertain to core enterprise oversight activities such as Finance, Risk and Compliance as well as enterprise enablement capabilities such as Strategy, Marketing and Philanthropy. Corporate Support is included in the 'Corporate expenses and other' business type. |
|---|
Financial and Business Results
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate expenses & other(1) | (370) | (364) |
| Underlying net income (loss)(1) | (370) | (364) |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (14) | 16 |
| Assumption changes and management actions | — | 4 |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring | (4) | (102) |
| Other | (44) | (235) |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | (432) | (681) |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
Profitability
2025 vs. 2024
Underlying net loss was $370 million compared to underlying net loss of $364 million in the prior year, primarily reflecting higher financing costs supporting the acquisition of our remaining interests in SLC Management affiliates.
Reported net loss was $432 million compared to reported net loss of $681 million in the prior year, driven by changes in tax-exempt investment income(1) reflecting higher losses in the prior year, and a prior year restructuring charge of $108 million, partially offset by market-related impacts.
Foreign exchange translation had no significant impact to the change in underlying net income and led to an increase of $3 million in reported net income.
(1)Q4'25 results reflect lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $44 million (Q4'24 - lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $234 million).
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 39 |
|---|---|---|---|
| I. Investments | |||
| --- |
The Company strives to ensure that general fund investments are aligned with business objectives including meeting policyholder obligations and maintaining adequate liquidity at all times. Consideration is given to a wide range of factors in our investment process, including ensuring attractive risk and return profiles, appropriate diversification by asset type, credit exposure and sector and financial condition 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 Governance Committee of the Board of Directors ("Governance 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 Governance Committee. The Governance 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.
- Investment Profile
Total general fund invested assets of $199.2 billion as at December 31, 2025, were up $9.4 billion from December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily from net fair value growth from changes in interest rates and credit spreads, and business growth and capital activities, partially offset by unfavourable impacts from foreign exchange translation. Our general fund invested assets are well-diversified across investment types, geographies and sectors with the majority of our portfolio invested in high quality fixed income assets.
The following table sets out the composition of our general fund invested assets(1):
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Carrying value | % of Total carrying value | Carrying value | % of Total carrying value |
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | 14,841 | 7% | 13,873 | 7% |
| Debt securities | 85,618 | 43% | 81,955 | 43% |
| Equity securities | 12,250 | 6% | 9,974 | 5% |
| Mortgages and loans | 59,433 | 30% | 57,619 | 31% |
| Derivative assets | 1,534 | 1% | 1,971 | 1% |
| Other invested assets | 16,067 | 8% | 15,135 | 8% |
| Investment properties | 9,432 | 5% | 9,290 | 5% |
| Total invested assets | 199,175 | 100% | 189,817 | 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. 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.
- Debt Securities
The 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, 2025, 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.
| 40 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Debt Securities by Issuer and Industry Sector
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | ||
| Debt securities issued or guaranteed by: | ||||||
| Canadian federal government | 7,893 | 9 | % | 7,537 | 9 | % |
| Canadian provincial and municipal government | 16,080 | 19 | % | 15,655 | 20 | % |
| U.S. government and agency | 1,519 | 2 | % | 1,135 | 1 | % |
| Other foreign government | 3,641 | 4 | % | 4,209 | 5 | % |
| Total government issued or guaranteed debt securities | 29,133 | 34 | % | 28,536 | 35 | % |
| Corporate debt securities by industry sector(1): | ||||||
| Financials | 12,363 | 14 | % | 11,552 | 14 | % |
| Utilities | 7,673 | 9 | % | 7,622 | 9 | % |
| Industrials | 5,137 | 6 | % | 5,375 | 7 | % |
| Energy | 3,917 | 5 | % | 3,704 | 5 | % |
| Communication services | 2,842 | 3 | % | 3,020 | 4 | % |
| Real estate | 2,414 | 3 | % | 2,305 | 3 | % |
| Health care | 2,197 | 3 | % | 2,007 | 2 | % |
| Consumer staples | 1,793 | 2 | % | 1,557 | 2 | % |
| Consumer discretionary | 1,760 | 2 | % | 1,758 | 2 | % |
| Information technology | 1,074 | 1 | % | 1,092 | 1 | % |
| Materials | 1,118 | 1 | % | 1,021 | 1 | % |
| Total corporate debt securities | 42,288 | 49 | % | 41,013 | 50 | % |
| Asset-backed securities | 14,197 | 17 | % | 12,406 | 15 | % |
| Total debt securities | 85,618 | 100 | % | 81,955 | 100 | % |
(1) Our grouping of debt securities by sector is based on the Global Industry Classification Standard and S&P Dow Jones Indices.
Debt Securities by Geography
The carrying value of our debt securities by geographic location is presented in the following table.
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | FVTPL debt<br>securities | FVOCI debt securities | Total | % of Total | FVTPL debt<br>securities | FVOCI debt securities | Total | % of Total |
| Debt securities by geography: | ||||||||
| Canada | 35,582 | 3,288 | 38,870 | 45% | 34,472 | 3,614 | 38,086 | 46% |
| United States | 23,389 | 6,060 | 29,449 | 34% | 20,986 | 6,486 | 27,472 | 34% |
| Europe | 4,329 | 1,451 | 5,780 | 7% | 4,145 | 1,664 | 5,809 | 7% |
| Asia | 7,230 | 971 | 8,201 | 10% | 6,891 | 950 | 7,841 | 10% |
| Other | 2,069 | 1,249 | 3,318 | 4% | 1,612 | 1,135 | 2,747 | 3% |
| Total debt securities | 72,599 | 13,019 | 85,618 | 100% | 68,106 | 13,849 | 81,955 | 100% |
Our gross unrealized losses as at December 31, 2025 for FVTPL and FVOCI debt securities were $6,284 million and $241 million, respectively (December 31, 2024 - $6,775 million and $508 million, respectively). The decrease in gross unrealized losses was largely due to the impact from declining interest rates.
Debt Securities by Credit Rating
Debt securities with a credit rating of "A" or higher represented 77% of the total debt securities as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - 75%). Debt securities with a credit rating of "BBB" or higher represented 99% of total debt securities as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - 99%).
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 41 |
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The credit risk ratings in the following table were established in accordance with the internal rating process described in this MD&A under the heading K - Risk Management - 9 - Risk Categories - Credit Risk Management Governance and Control.
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | FVTPL debt<br>securities | FVOCI debt securities | Total | % of Total | FVTPL debt<br>securities | FVOCI debt securities | Total | % of Total | ||
| Debt securities by credit rating: | ||||||||||
| AAA | 11,143 | 2,928 | 14,071 | 17 | % | 13,381 | 4,410 | 17,791 | 22 | % |
| AA | 15,784 | 2,822 | 18,606 | 22 | % | 10,804 | 1,749 | 12,553 | 15 | % |
| A | 28,564 | 4,309 | 32,873 | 38 | % | 26,910 | 4,520 | 31,430 | 38 | % |
| BBB | 16,596 | 2,590 | 19,186 | 22 | % | 16,392 | 2,988 | 19,380 | 24 | % |
| BB and lower | 512 | 370 | 882 | 1 | % | 619 | 182 | 801 | 1 | % |
| Total debt securities | 72,599 | 13,019 | 85,618 | 100 | % | 68,106 | 13,849 | 81,955 | 100 | % |
- Equities
The equity portfolio is well-diversified with approximately 64% of the portfolio invested in exchange-traded funds as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - 67%). Exchange-traded fund holdings are primarily in the S&P 500 and MSCI Emerging Market ETFs. The carrying value of equities by issuer geography as at December 31, 2025 is set out in the following table.
Equities by Issuer Geography
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | FVTPL equities | FVOCI equities | Total | % of Total | FVTPL equities | FVOCI equities | Total | % of Total | ||
| Equity securities: | ||||||||||
| Canada | 4,649 | — | 4,649 | 38 | % | 3,821 | — | 3,821 | 38 | % |
| United States | 2,601 | 71 | 2,672 | 22 | % | 2,600 | 74 | 2,674 | 27 | % |
| Europe | 812 | — | 812 | 7 | % | 373 | — | 373 | 4 | % |
| Asia | 4,091 | — | 4,091 | 33 | % | 3,079 | — | 3,079 | 31 | % |
| Other | 26 | — | 26 | — | % | 27 | — | 27 | — | % |
| Total equity securities | 12,179 | 71 | 12,250 | 100 | % | 9,900 | 74 | 9,974 | 100 | % |
Excluding exchange-traded funds and mutual funds, there were no issuers exceeding 1% of the equity portfolio as at December 31, 2025.
- Mortgages and Loans
Our mortgage portfolio consisted almost entirely of first mortgages and our loan portfolio consisted of private placement loans.
Mortgages and Loans by Geography
The carrying value of mortgages and loans by geographic location is presented in the following table(1).
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Mortgages | Loans | Total | Mortgages | Loans | Total |
| Canada | 9,135 | 12,880 | 22,015 | 9,402 | 12,560 | 21,962 |
| United States | 4,335 | 20,044 | 24,379 | 4,828 | 18,856 | 23,684 |
| Europe | 135 | 9,234 | 9,369 | 208 | 8,488 | 8,696 |
| Asia | — | 678 | 678 | — | 680 | 680 |
| Other | — | 2,992 | 2,992 | — | 2,597 | 2,597 |
| Total mortgages and loans | 13,605 | 45,828 | 59,433 | 14,438 | 43,181 | 57,619 |
| % of Total invested assets | 7% | 23% | 30% | 8% | 23% | 31% |
(1)The geographic location for mortgages is based on the location of the property and for loans it is based on the country of the creditor's parent.
As at December 31, 2025, our impaired mortgages and loans, net of allowances for losses, were $24 million (December 31, 2024 - $30 million).
| 42 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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Mortgage Portfolio
As at December 31, 2025, we held $13.6 billion of mortgages (December 31, 2024 - $14.4 billion). Our mortgage portfolio consists entirely of commercial mortgages, as presented in the following table.
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Insured | Uninsured | Total | Insured | Uninsured | Total |
| Mortgages: | ||||||
| Retail | — | 2,336 | 2,336 | — | 2,567 | 2,567 |
| Office | — | 2,364 | 2,364 | — | 2,633 | 2,633 |
| Multi-family residential | 2,953 | 1,250 | 4,203 | 3,205 | 1,294 | 4,499 |
| Industrial | — | 3,793 | 3,793 | — | 3,683 | 3,683 |
| Other | 408 | 501 | 909 | 425 | 631 | 1,056 |
| Total mortgages | 3,361 | 10,244 | 13,605 | 3,630 | 10,808 | 14,438 |
| % of Total mortgages | 25% | 75% | 100% | 25% | 75% | 100% |
Our mortgage portfolio consists entirely of commercial mortgages, including retail, office, multi-family, and industrial properties. As at December 31, 2025, 31% 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 54% as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - 54%). 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 1.78 times. Of the $3.3 billion of multi-family residential mortgages in the Canadian commercial mortgage portfolio, 91% were insured by the CMHC.
The following tables summarize our mortgages by credit quality indicator:
| ($ millions) | December 31, 2025 | As % of Total<br>Mortgages | December 31, 2024 | As % of Total<br>Mortgages | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mortgages by credit rating: | ||||||
| Insured | 3,361 | 25 | % | 3,630 | 25 | % |
| AA | 2,254 | 17 | % | 2,229 | 15 | % |
| A | 4,929 | 36 | % | 5,007 | 36 | % |
| BBB | 2,475 | 18 | % | 3,084 | 21 | % |
| BB and lower | 573 | 4 | % | 464 | 3 | % |
| Impaired | 13 | — | % | 24 | — | % |
| Total mortgages | 13,605 | 100 | % | 14,438 | 100 | % |
Loan Portfolio
As at December 31, 2025, we held $45.8 billion of loans (December 31, 2024 - $43.2 billion). Private placement loans provide diversification by type of loan, industry segment and borrower credit quality. The private placement loan portfolio consists of senior secured and unsecured loans to large- and mid-market corporate borrowers, securitized lease/loan obligations secured by a variety of assets, and project finance loans in sectors such as power and infrastructure.
The credit risk ratings in the following table were established in accordance with the internal rating process described in this MD&A under the heading K - Risk Management - 9 - Risk Categories - Credit Risk Management Governance and Control. As at December 31, 2025, 96% of our total loan portfolio is investment grade (December 31, 2024 - 95%).
| ($ millions) | December 31, 2025 | As % of Total Loans | December 31, 2024 | As % of Total Loans | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loans by credit rating: | ||||||
| AAA | 180 | — | % | 165 | — | % |
| AA | 7,051 | 16 | % | 6,328 | 15 | % |
| A | 17,968 | 39 | % | 16,236 | 37 | % |
| BBB | 18,681 | 41 | % | 18,457 | 43 | % |
| BB and lower | 1,425 | 3 | % | 1,600 | 4 | % |
| Impaired | 523 | 1 | % | 395 | 1 | % |
| Total loans | 45,828 | 100 | % | 43,181 | 100 | % |
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 43 | |||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
The following tables summarize our loans by sector:
| ($ millions) | December 31, 2025 | As % of Total Loans | December 31, 2024 | As % of Total Loans | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loans by Sector: | ||||||
| Corporate issued loans | 38,381 | 84 | % | 35,780 | 83 | % |
| Canadian provincial & municipal government | 4,182 | 9 | % | 4,206 | 10 | % |
| U.S. government & agency | 2,454 | 5 | % | 2,314 | 5 | % |
| Other foreign government | 771 | 2 | % | 826 | 2 | % |
| Canadian federal government | 40 | — | % | 55 | — | % |
| Total loans | 45,828 | 100 | % | 43,181 | 100 | % |
- Derivatives
The fair value of derivative assets held by the Company was $1,534 million, while the fair value of derivative liabilities was $2,065 million as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $1,971 million and $2,077 million, respectively).
We use derivative instruments to manage risks related to interest rate, equity market and currency fluctuations and in replication strategies to reproduce permissible investments. Use of derivatives in these risk mitigation strategies does not mitigate all risk exposure; rather, they are used to keep us within our risk tolerance limits.
In addition to the general policies and monitoring, we use a variety of tools in counterparty risk management. Over-the-counter ("OTC") derivative transactions are typically executed under an International Swaps and Derivatives Association ("ISDA") Master Agreement, together with a Credit Support Annex which establish requirements for collateral.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The values associated with our derivative instruments are presented in the following table. Notional amounts serve as the basis for payments calculated under derivatives contracts and are generally not exchanged.
| ($ millions) | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Net fair value asset (liability) | (531) | (106) |
| Total notional amount | 83,571 | 74,954 |
| Credit equivalent amount(1) | 1,266 | 1,347 |
| Risk-weighted credit equivalent amount(1) | 27 | 30 |
(1)Amounts presented are net of collateral received.
The net fair value of derivatives was a liability of $531 million as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - liability of $106 million). The decrease in net fair value was driven by a decrease in interest rate contracts primarily due to upward shift in Canadian yield curves for longer maturing deals.
The total notional amount of our derivatives increased to $83.6 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $75.0 billion). The change in notional amount is mainly attributable to an increase in interest rate contracts used for duration matching and replication of fixed income exposure and additional listed options trading for replication of equity exposure.
Certain of our derivatives are designated in qualifying hedging relationships for accounting purposes, and represented $1.0 billion, or 0.6% of the total notional amount. Derivatives are designated in hedging relationships for accounting purposes to minimize accounting mismatches. These hedging relationships are documented at inception and hedge effectiveness is assessed on a quarterly basis.
Derivatives designated in qualifying hedging relationships for accounting purposes include foreign exchange agreements and equity forwards. We designate certain foreign exchange agreements in cash flow hedging relationships to manage foreign currency fluctuations associated with FVOCI assets. Additionally, we designate certain equity forwards in cash flow hedging relationships for anticipated payments of awards under certain stock-based compensation plans.
Credit Equivalent Amount
As the regulator of the Canadian insurance industry, OSFI provides guidelines to quantify the use of derivatives. The credit equivalent amount ("CEA"), a measure used to approximate the potential credit exposure, is determined as the replacement cost of the derivative contracts with a positive fair value plus an amount representing the potential future credit exposure.
| 44 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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The risk-weighted credit equivalent amount is a measure used to determine the amount of capital necessary to support derivative transactions for certain Canadian regulatory purposes. It is determined by weighting the credit equivalent amount according to the nature of the derivative and the creditworthiness of the counterparties.
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Credit equivalent amount ("CEA")(1) | Risk<br><br>weighted CEA(1) | Credit equivalent amount ("CEA")(1) | Risk<br><br>weighted CEA(1) |
| Foreign exchange contracts | 1,205 | 26 | 1,271 | 28 |
| Interest rate contracts | 16 | — | 24 | 1 |
| Equity and other contracts | 45 | 1 | 52 | 1 |
| Total | 1,266 | 27 | 1,347 | 30 |
(1) Amounts presented are net of collateral received.
Credit Default Swaps By Underlying Financial Instrument Credit Rating
Credit default swaps ("CDS") are derivative contracts that transfer credit risk related to an underlying referenced financial instrument from one counterparty to another. The purchaser receives protection against the decline in the value of the referenced financial instrument as a result of specified credit events such as default or bankruptcy. The Company sells credit protection through CDS to replicate credit exposure of an underlying reference security and enhance investment returns. The credit risk ratings of the underlying reference securities for single name contracts were established in accordance with the internal rating process described in section K - Risk Management - 9 - Risk Categories - Credit Risk Management Governance and Control.
The following table provides a summary of the credit default swap protection sold by credit rating of the underlying reference security.
| December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Notional amount | Fair value | Notional amount | Fair value |
| Single name credit default swap contracts | ||||
| A | 676 | 21 | 552 | 7 |
| BBB | 570 | 10 | 499 | 13 |
| Total single name credit default swap contracts | 1,246 | 31 | 1,051 | 20 |
| Credit default swap index contracts | 172 | (3) | 432 | (10) |
| Total credit default swap contracts sold | 1,418 | 28 | 1,483 | 10 |
Additional detail on our derivative portfolio by derivative type is provided in Note 6.A.v of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
- Investment Properties
As at December 31, 2025, we held $9.4 billion of investment properties (December 31, 2024 - $9.3 billion). The increase in our investment property portfolio is predominantly driven by net property purchases in Canada, partially offset by declines in market value and unfavourable impacts from foreign exchange translation.
Investment Properties by Type and Geography
| December 31, 2025 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Office | Industrial | Retail | Multi-family<br>residential | Other | Total | % of Total by Geography |
| Canada | 1,432 | 3,503 | 1,023 | 1,684 | 386 | 8,028 | 85% |
| United States | 354 | 897 | 114 | 37 | 2 | 1,404 | 15% |
| Total | 1,786 | 4,400 | 1,137 | 1,721 | 388 | 9,432 | 100% |
| % of Total by Type | 19% | 47% | 12% | 18% | 4% | 100% | |
| December 31, 2024 | |||||||
| ($ millions) | Office | Industrial | Retail | Multi-family<br>residential | Other | Total | % of Total by Geography |
| Canada | 1,476 | 3,496 | 933 | 1,469 | 448 | 7,822 | 84% |
| United States | 347 | 965 | 118 | 36 | 2 | 1,468 | 16% |
| Total | 1,823 | 4,461 | 1,051 | 1,505 | 450 | 9,290 | 100% |
| % of Total by Type | 20% | 48% | 11% | 16% | 5% | 100% |
- Loss Allowance and Provision for Credit Losses
The balance of the total loss allowance was $93 million(1) as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $88 million) and the provision for credit losses increased by $12 million(1) for the year ended December 31, 2025 (increased by $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024).
(1)For additional information, refer to Note 6 of the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 45 |
|---|---|---|---|
| J. Capital and Liquidity Management | |||
| --- |
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.
- Capital
Our 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 risk 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 take advantage of opportunities for expansion. SLF Inc. manages its capital in a manner commensurate with its risk profile and control environment. 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 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 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 financial, 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 Company's capital base consists mainly of common shareholders' equity. Other sources of capital include preferred shares and other equity instruments, non-controlling interests, equity in the participating account, CSM, 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.
The following table summarizes the sources of our capital and our capital position over the past two years. Notes 12, 13, 14 and 20 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements include additional details on our capital.
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subordinated debt | 8,171 | 6,179 | ||
| Innovative capital instruments(1) | 200 | 200 | ||
| Equity | ||||
| Preferred shares and other equity instruments | 2,239 | 2,239 | ||
| Common shareholders' equity(2) | 22,293 | 23,318 | ||
| Equity in the participating account | 696 | 496 | ||
| Non-controlling interests' equity | 264 | 76 | ||
| Total equity | 25,492 | 26,129 | ||
| Contractual Service Margin(3) | 14,492 | 13,366 | ||
| Total capital | 48,355 | 45,874 | ||
| Financial leverage ratio(3)(4) | 23.5 | % | 20.1 | % |
(1)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 Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)Common shareholders’ equity is equal to Total shareholders’ equity less Preferred shares and other equity instruments.
(3)The calculation for the financial leverage ratio includes the CSM balance (net of taxes) in the denominator. The CSM (net of taxes) was $11.3 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $10.3 billion).
(4)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. See section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Our total capital consists of subordinated debt and other capital instruments, CSM, 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 $22.3 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $23.3 billion), a decrease of $1.0 billion in 2025 primarily reflecting common shareholders' net income more than offset by dividends, a decrease from the repurchase and cancellation of common shares, and other comprehensive loss.
| 46 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|
The table below provides the earliest par call and maturity dates for our subordinated debt, innovative capital instruments, preferred shares and other equity instruments outstanding as at December 31, 2025.
| Description | Interest Rate | Earliest Par Call Date/Redemption Date(1) | Maturity | Principal/ Face Amount ($ 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(2) | 5.40% | May 29, 2037 | 2042 | 400 |
| 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 |
| Series 2022-1 | 4.78% | August 10, 2029 | 2034 | 650 |
| Series 2023-1 | 5.50% | July 4, 2030 | 2035 | 500 |
| Series 2024-1 | 5.12% | May 15, 2031 | 2036 | 750 |
| Series 2025-1 | 4.14% | September 13, 2032 | 2037 | 1,000 |
| Series 2025-2 | 4.56% | December 3, 2035 | 2040 | 1,000 |
| Trust Units Issued by Sun Life Capital Trust | ||||
| SLEECS - Series B | 7.093% | 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(3)(4) | 4.230% | June 30, 2030 | Perpetual | 222 |
| Series 9QR(5) | Floating | June 30, 2030(6) | Perpetual | 58 |
| Series 10R(3)(6) | 2.967% | September 30, 2026 | Perpetual | 171 |
| Series 11QR(7) | Floating | September 30, 2026(8) | Perpetual | 29 |
| Series 2021-1 - LRCN(9) | 3.60% | 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)We are monitoring regulatory and market developments in Canada as it relates to legacy subordinated debt securities which reference the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate (“CDOR”) and may, if necessary, at a future date, take appropriate action to reflect the replacement of CDOR.
(3)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.
(4)The dividend rate was reset on June 30, 2020 to a fixed annual dividend rate of 1.825% until the earliest redemption date of June 30, 2025, subsequently on June 30, 2025 the dividend rate was reset to a fixed annual dividend rate of 4.230% until the earliest redemption date of June 30, 2030.
(5)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, 2030, and on June 30 every five years thereafter.
(6)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.
(7)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, 2026, and on September 30 every five years thereafter.
(8)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.
(9)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%. 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 Limited recourse capital notes ("LRCN"), see Note 14.B of the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 47 |
|---|
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) | 2025 | 2024 |
| Balance, beginning of year | 573.9 | 584.6 |
| Stock options exercised | 0.6 | 0.8 |
| Common shares repurchased and cancelled | (20.7) | (11.5) |
| Balance, end of year | 553.8 | 573.9 |
| Number of Stock Options Outstanding | ||
| (in millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
| Balance, beginning of year | 3.1 | 3.4 |
| Options issued | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Options exercised, forfeited or expired | (0.7) | (0.8) |
| Balance, end of year | 2.9 | 3.1 |
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 30, 2026, SLF Inc. had 553,873,373 common shares, 2,887,502 options to acquire SLF Inc. common shares, and 52,200,000 Class A Shares outstanding.
- 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, 2025. 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, 2025, SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio was 157%. For additional information, refer to section G - Financial Strength in this document.
Sun Life Assurance
Sun Life Assurance, SLF Inc.'s principal operating life insurance subsidiary in Canada, was subject to OSFI's LICAT guideline as at December 31, 2025. With a LICAT ratio of 140% as at December 31, 2025, Sun Life Assurance's capital ratio is well above OSFI's supervisory ratio of 100% and regulatory minimum ratio of 90%.
The LICAT guideline uses a risk-based approach for measuring specific life insurer risks and for aggregating the results to calculate the amount of a life insurer's regulatory required capital to support these risks. Certain of these risk components, along with available capital, are sensitive to changes in equity markets and interest rates as outlined in section K - Risk Management of this document. For additional information, refer to section G - Financial Strength in this document.
| 48 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|
The following table shows the components of SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio for 2025 and 2024.
SLF Inc. LICAT Ratio
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capital resources | ||||
| Adjusted retained earnings and contributed surplus (including contractual service margin) | 28,007 | 26,377 | ||
| Adjusted accumulated other comprehensive income | 1,394 | 2,217 | ||
| Common and preferred shares | 10,139 | 10,431 | ||
| Innovative capital instruments and subordinated debt | 8,281 | 6,318 | ||
| Other | 216 | — | ||
| Less: | ||||
| Goodwill | 4,953 | 4,788 | ||
| Non-life investments and other | 10,995 | 11,283 | ||
| Available capital | 32,089 | 29,272 | ||
| Surplus allowance and eligible deposits | 6,943 | 6,838 | ||
| Total capital resources | 39,032 | 36,110 | ||
| Capital requirements | ||||
| Credit, market and insurance risks | 27,498 | 26,196 | ||
| Less: Diversification and other credits | 6,128 | 5,497 | ||
| Segregated fund guarantee risk | 889 | 706 | ||
| Operational risk | 2,566 | 2,332 | ||
| Base solvency buffer | 24,825 | 23,737 | ||
| LICAT ratio | 157 | % | 152 | % |
Foreign Life Insurance Companies
Foreign subsidiaries and foreign operations of SLF Inc. must comply with local capital or solvency requirements in the jurisdictions in which they operate. Our operations maintained capital levels above the minimum local regulatory requirements during 2025 and 2024. Additional information on capital and regulatory requirements for our foreign subsidiaries and foreign operations is provided in SLF Inc.'s AIF under the heading Regulatory Matters.
As at December 31, 2025, 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.
- 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 2025, our dividend payout ratio to common shareholders based on our underlying EPS basis was 47% and on reported EPS was 57%.
Total common shareholder dividends declared in 2025 were $3.52 per share, compared to $3.24 in 2024.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 49 |
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Dividends declared
| Amount per share | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common shares | 3.52 | 3.24 | 3.00 |
| Class A preferred shares | |||
| 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(1)(2) | 0.756875 | 0.456250 | 0.456250 |
| Series 9QR(3) | 1.078260 | 1.550162 | 1.504236 |
| Series 10R(1)(4) | 0.741750 | 0.741750 | 0.741750 |
| Series 11QR(5) | 1.268258 | 1.740682 | 1.694235 |
(1)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.
(2)The dividend rate was reset on June 30, 2020 to a fixed annual dividend rate of 1.825% until the earliest redemption date of June 30, 2025, subsequently on June 30, 2025 the dividend rate was reset to a fixed annual dividend rate of 4.230% until the earliest redemption date of June 30, 2030.
(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, 2030, and on June 30 every five years thereafter.
(4)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.
(5)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, 2026, and on September 30 every five years thereafter.
- Principal Sources and Uses of Funds
Our primary source of funds is cash provided by operating activities, including premiums, investment management fees and net investment income. These funds are used primarily to pay policy benefits, dividends to policyholders, claims, commissions, operating expenses, interest expenses and shareholder dividends. Excess cash flows generated from operating activities are generally invested to support future payment requirements. We also raise funds from time to time, through borrowing and issuing of securities, to finance growth, acquisitions or other needs.
As at December 31, 2025, we maintained net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities totaling $14.8 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 increased $1.1 billion. The table below outlines our principal sources and uses of cash.
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period | 9,954 | 11,170 | |
| Cash flows provided by (used in): | |||
| Operating activities | 2,799 | 2,532 | |
| Investing activities | (320) | (337) | |
| Financing activities | (2,636) | (3,882) | |
| Changes due to fluctuations in exchange rates | (198) | 471 | |
| Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | (355) | (1,216) | |
| Net cash and cash equivalents, end of period | 9,599 | 9,954 | |
| Short-term securities, end of period | 5,156 | 3,744 | |
| Net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities, end of period | 14,755 | 13,698 | |
| 50 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
- 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. (the ultimate parent company) and its wholly-owned holding companies had $2.4 billion in cash and other liquid assets(1) as at December 31, 2025. See section G - Financial Strength and M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for more information.
We maintain various credit facilities for general corporate purposes, as set out in the table below. Unless otherwise noted, all amounts are in Canadian dollars.
| ($ millions) | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Facility | Amount | Utilized | Expiry | Amount | Utilized | Expiry | ||||||||
| Committed | US | $ | 500 | US | $ | 11 | 2028 | US | $ | 500 | US | $ | 11 | 2028 |
| Committed | US | $ | 1,700 | US | $ | 1,272 | 2026 | US | $ | 1,400 | US | $ | 1,126 | 2025 |
| Committed | $ | — | $ | — | n/a | $ | 500 | $ | 500 | 2025 | ||||
| Uncommitted | US | $ | 100 | US | $ | — | n/a | US | $ | 100 | US | $ | — | n/a |
| Uncommitted | $ | 176 | $ | 62 | n/a | $ | 179 | $ | 103 | n/a | ||||
| Uncommitted | US | $ | 25 | US | $ | — | n/a | US | $ | 25 | US | $ | 1 | 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, 2025. 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 $25.5 billion as at December 31, 2025.
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 M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 51 |
|---|---|---|---|
| K. Risk Management | |||
| --- |
- Risk Management Framework
The Company has an established Risk Management Framework ("Risk Framework") approved by the Board that sets out the components of our risk programs and explains how they operate together in conducting business activities. The risks that arise when providing products and services to Clients, which are in line with our Purpose to help our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, are managed within these protocols and programs. Effective risk management is critical to the overall profitability, competitive market positioning, organizational resilience and long-term financial viability of the Company. While all risks cannot necessarily be eliminated or known with certainty, the Risk Framework seeks to ensure that risks to a business undertaking are appropriately managed to achieve the Company's business objectives over time and are not expected to exceed the pre-established boundaries for risk taking. The Risk Framework, corporate strategy and business objectives are all aligned to each other, and the risk management protocols and programs are embedded within every business segment.

| 52 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
|---|
- 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 and its committees are responsible for ensuring the oversight and governance of all risks across the Enterprise and have primary responsibility for ensuring risk management frameworks, policies, programs and practices are in place. By approving our Risk Management Framework, Risk Appetite Policy, Capital Risk Policy, Capital and Liquidity Management Framework, and Change Management Policy and providing ongoing oversight of the risk management programs, the Board ensures that key risks are appropriately identified and managed. Business, strategic and long-term risks are overseen through review and approval of the Business and Strategic Plans. The Board provides oversight on key themes, issues and risks (including climate) arising 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 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 frameworks and policies and reviews compliance with those frameworks and 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, and 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 joint ventures under the Company's management control and risks posed to the Company through its other joint ventures.
The Governance Committee of the Board is responsible for assisting the Board in overseeing (i) the development of effective corporate governance guidelines and processes, including those addressing the effectiveness of the Board and its committees and director succession planning and recruitment; (ii) the Company's Investment Plan and investment performance, including investment practices, procedures and controls related to the management of the general fund investment portfolio; (iii) sustainability matters including the Company's Sustainability Policy, Sustainability Strategy (including the development of a Climate Transition Plan) and OSFI B-15 Climate Risk Management Report; and (iv) compliance and compliance management programs, including compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the identification and management of compliance risk, and the development of policies and processes to sustain ethical behaviour. The Committee also serves as the conduct review committee of Sun Life and the conduct review committee for certain
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 53 |
|---|
subsidiaries of Sun Life that are federally regulated financial institutions ("FRFIs") in accordance with applicable provisions of the Insurance Companies Act (Canada) and Trust and Loan Companies Act (Canada).
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 Committee also acts as the audit committee for certain subsidiaries of Sun Life that are FRFIs in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Insurance Companies Act (Canada) and the Trust and Loan Companies Act (Canada).
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 agenda to achieve strategic objectives and foster the Company's culture. The 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 people and culture risks pertaining to compensation design and human resources practices. In addition, the Committee reviews compensation matters, including the remuneration of executives who have a material impact on the risk exposure of the Company.
Senior Management Committees
The Executive Risk Committee ("ERC") provides executive management oversight of the Company's enterprise risk management activities. This includes the review and articulation of the risk appetite, overseeing that the risk profile is within the agreed risk appetite, and overseeing that there are policies, processes and controls in place to identify and effectively manage the significant risks, in accordance with the risk appetite and overall objective of promoting a balanced business and product model that will achieve agreed upon risk-adjusted returns and allocate capital accordingly.
The Investment & Credit Risk Committee is responsible for reviewing critical matters related to the on-going management of the Company's General Fund. Accordingly, the Committee is responsible for overseeing, monitoring and reviewing current and potential credit and investment risk exposures, other credit and investment risk management issues and future credit and investment risk management strategies.
The Corporate Asset Liability Management Committee is responsible for providing oversight and input on the Asset Liability Management framework, policies, guidelines, limits, measurement and performance assessment applicable to the management of market and liquidity risks, as well as providing oversight of asset liability management and hedging strategy changes.
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 major 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 emerging insurance risk profile; engaging in review of topical insurance, reinsurance, underwriting, claims and medical risk issues; and reviewing and recommending changes to the insurance risk appetite measurement methodology.
Accountabilities
Primary accountability for risk management is delegated by the Board of Directors to our Chief Executive Officer ("CEO"). 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 risk in the scope of their business accountability is in accordance with the Board approved Risk Framework, Risk Appetite Policy and risk management frameworks and policies.
- Risk Universe
As a large financial services organization operating in a complex industry, the Company encounters a variety of risks. 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. The Risk Framework structures key and emerging risks into a robust, global risk taxonomy comprised of six categories: business and strategic, credit, market, liquidity, insurance and operational risks. The Risk Framework sets out the core processes used to identify, measure, manage, monitor and report risks. 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.
- Risk Appetite
Our Risk Appetite Policy defines, within Risk Capacity, the type and maximum comfortable amount of risk we are willing to assume 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 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 all stakeholders.
Our risk appetite is the primary mechanism for operationalizing our risk philosophy and the boundaries of permissible risk-taking across the enterprise. Our risk appetite supports the objective of maintaining sufficient capital, 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.
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We are generally comfortable accepting diversifiable risks where we are capable of using risk pooling to create liability portfolios with relatively low volatility. We take risk where we have internal expertise such as actuarial, underwriting, claims management, investment, risk management and distribution or where reinsurance partners are able to supplement our internal expertise. We prefer risks that arise across various dimensions, including products, geographies (intra-national and international), distribution channels and asset classes in order to maximize diversification benefits.
Our Risk Appetite Policy sets out multiple 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 revised periodically to reflect the risks and opportunities inherent in our evolving business strategies and operating environment.
- Risk Management Policies
In order to support the effective communication, implementation and governance of our Risk Framework, we have codified our processes and operational requirements into a comprehensive series of underlying risk management frameworks, policies and operating guidelines. These frameworks, policies and guidelines promote the application of a consistent approach to managing risk exposures across our global business platform. The Board and Board Committees regularly review and approve significant changes to risk management frameworks and policies and regularly review management's reporting and attestation on compliance with these frameworks and policies.
- Risk Management Process
All business segments employ a common approach to identify, measure, manage, monitor and report risks. The risk management process as set out in our Risk Framework is described below:
Risk Identification
Business segments have accountability for identifying and managing risks facing their business. We have a process to identify and monitor key and emerging risks that may have a material impact on our finances, operations or reputation. We evaluate potential correlations and inter-connections between various risk events and categories, and monitor key and emerging risks, emerging regulatory and rating agency requirements, or industry developments and various research reports.
Risk Measurement
Risk measurement involves determining and evaluating potential risk exposures and includes a number of techniques, including:
•Monitoring key risk indicators
•Probability-severity assessments
•Stress testing (including sensitivity and scenario analysis)
•Reverse stress testing
•Stochastic modelling
Risk measures are expressed in quantitative and qualitative terms.
A robust stress testing program forms an essential component of the Company's risk management program used to measure, monitor, understand 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. Emerging risks are one of the inputs to determine stress test scenarios.
•Sensitivity testing is conducted on a regular basis and measures the earnings and regulatory capital and liquidity impacts from changes in underlying risk factors, assuming that there are no changes to any of the other 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.
•Financial Condition Testing ("FCT"), as prescribed by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, is used to satisfy requirements under the Canadian insurance Company Act, and OSFI regulations. Through stress testing selected adverse scenarios, the main objectives of FCT are to identify possible threats to our financial condition and determine the corrective management actions to mitigate those threats.
Risk Management
Risk management decisions are formed by evaluating whether the assessed risk for a business activity aligns with our risk appetite and meets the objective of risk-adjusted returns.
Risk Monitoring
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.
Risk Reporting
At least on a quarterly basis, the Senior Management committees, Board Committees and the Board 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 risk management frameworks and policies for the management of risk and review compliance with these frameworks and policies.
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- Three Lines of Defence
The Company’s risk governance allocates accountability and functional responsibilities through the adoptions of the Three Lines of Defence (“LOD”) model to ensure appropriate oversight. This segregation of responsibility helps to establish a robust control framework that promotes transparent and independent challenge of all risk-taking activities, and that encourages all functions to engage in self-critical examination to foster continuous improvement of the management of risk in our business.
The first LOD 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 the risks taken to achieve business results and the resulting impact of those risks; and
•Operating within risk appetite and according to risk management frameworks and policies;
•Cultivating a strong risk culture.
The second LOD includes the Chief Risk Officer ("CRO") and heads of the oversight functions who are responsible for providing independent oversight of our Enterprise-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 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 LOD; and
•Independent reporting to Senior Management committees and the Board of Directors on the level of risk against risk appetite.
The third LOD 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 Senior Management and the Board and/or Board Committees on the design and operational effectiveness of the risk management practices and internal controls carried out by first and second LOD. Internal Audit provides a quarterly opinion on the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management and governance processes to the Audit Committee of the Board. 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.
- Culture and Managing Risk
We have built a strong Purpose-driven culture reflected in our core values; caring, authentic, bold, inspiring and impactful. These values set the tone and guide our high business standards, integrity and ethical behaviour, respect, and commitment to doing the right thing for our Clients.
The Board establishes the "tone from the top" and is accountable to ensure that the CEO and Senior Management create and sustain high standards of integrity throughout the organization. We work together through our focus on sustainability to maximize our positive impact and ensure the resiliency of our organization, in support of our Purpose of helping our Clients to achieve lifetime financial security and to live healthier lives.
A key premise of our Culture Management Framework is that everyone has an important role to play in preserving and enhancing our culture, which includes managing the Company’s risks. In order to support employees in fulfilling their role in managing the Company's risks, 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 elements support our culture:
•Setting core values to guide decision making and behaviour;
•Establishing tone from the top and middle;
•Encouraging transparency in risk-taking;
•Performing effective challenge in conducting business decisions;
•Aligning incentives and risk management practices;
•Effectively communicating culture expectations;
•Establishing clear accountabilities; and
•Promoting ongoing resiliency
Risk Management is embedded in the enterprise'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 approval of incentive compensation plans, design of incentive compensation plans and processes used to support the alignment of compensation and risk management. We continuously reinforce and embed the accountability for risk management through communication and training on risk management at various forums and across various levels through training on the Code of Conduct annually, reinforcing accountability through performance reviews and compensation, continually monitoring processes and outcomes that drive expected behaviours, and through clearly defining roles, responsibilities and expectations in the risk management frameworks and policies.
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The Company's risk philosophy includes the following core principles:
Strategic Alignment
Our corporate strategy and business objectives are required to be established within the boundaries and prescriptions set out in the Risk Framework and the Risk Appetite Policy. This requires us to consider whether a business activity, intended to achieve the business and financial objectives, 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 constraints that we apply to all acceptable 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.
Capital and Liquidity Management
Maintaining adequate capital and liquidity is essential to the continued operations of the Company and Subsidiaries. We assess and forecast capital adequacy on an on-going basis to operate in a safe and sound manner and to maintain adequate capital in relation to the risks associated with our business activities and strategy. Capital adequacy is assessed across all our businesses using the annual strategy and business planning processes and the annual ORSA process and is monitored on a regular basis. The level of capital adequacy risk accepted by the Company and Subsidiaries is required to be prudent and consistent with the principles, frameworks and policies outlined in the Risk Management Framework and Risk Appetite Policy. Capital adequacy risk is mitigated through adherence to risk management frameworks, policies and processes.
Maintaining adequate liquidity is critical to the protection of our policyholders, Clients and creditors and to maintaining ratings and access to capital markets.
Client and Other Stakeholder Interests
Our Risk Appetite Policy considers the interests of a large number of key stakeholders, including Clients, shareholders, debt-holders, employees, regulators, distributors, rating agencies and other capital markets participants. The policy prescribes how to balance the needs, expectations, risk and reward perspectives, and investment horizons of these different stakeholders. The Business Plans and business strategies are independently tested validated 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 validation are reported to the Board.
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. 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.
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 businesses.
Risk-Adjusted Returns
Financial return metrics used to assess business activities 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.
Understanding and Managing Uncertainties
While many risks are relatively well understood and measurable, there are risks that do not lend themselves to traditional metrics. We refer to these as “uncertainties”. These include geopolitical and environmental risks which are difficult to quantify and can have widespread contagion effects. It is important for the organization to not just analyze risks in silos but anticipate and prepare for uncertain events given the potential spillover of impacts onto other related risks. Rigorous and thoughtful table-top exercises should be convened as appropriate to understand the potential impacts and ramifications of plausible risk uncertainties and implement resiliency strategies.
Organizational Resilience
With various external challenges and increasing threats, it is key for the organization to maintain and enhance resiliency as a best practice. The capability to adapt in ever-changing conditions and a commitment to taking a resilient approach, are crucial in managing key vulnerabilities and delivering objectives in the face of business disruptions.
Culture
Culture is a pervasive, interconnected set of declared norms and expectations, beliefs, assumptions, and formal controls that shape decision making and behaviour. An organization's culture impacts its ability to create value and to protect value. Our culture encourages behaviour aligned with our goals for long-term value creation.
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Our culture and values set the tone for how we act, interact and make decisions, underpinning appropriate behaviours, guiding interactions with Clients, and impacting how Employees experience the organization. Our culture has significant potential to impact our risk profile. Maintaining the right balance of risk-taking and risk control activities is a key organizational capability and fundamental to our long-term sustainable success.
Long-Term, Sustainable and Resilient
Our risk philosophy addresses the Company’s material economic, environmental and social impacts, and the opportunities and risks they present in delivering long-term value to the key stakeholders for the Company. Frameworks, policies, processes, and controls are in place to identify and effectively manage risks to which we are exposed while operating within the Risk Management Framework and Risk Appetite Policy.
- Risk Categories
The text and tables in the following section of this MD&A include our disclosure on credit, market and liquidity risks in accordance with IFRS 7 Financial Instruments - Disclosures ("IFRS 7") and IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts, as well as a discussion on how we measure risk and our objectives, policies and methodologies for managing these risks. Disclosures in accordance with IFRS 7 and IFRS 17 are identified by a vertical line in the left margin of the page. The fact that certain text and tables are identified with a vertical line does not imply that these disclosures are of any greater importance than any other text or tables, and the Risk Management disclosure should be read in its entirely.
The disclosures in the Risk Management section of this document should be considered carefully together with other information in this MD&A and in the 2025 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 U.S. IFM.
Our Risk Framework groups all risks into six major risk categories: market, insurance, credit, business and strategic, operational and liquidity risks.
| i. Market Risk<br><br>Risk Description<br><br>We are exposed to market risk, which is defined as the risk that the value or future cash flows of insurance and investment contract liabilities or financial assets will fluctuate because of changes or volatility in market prices. Market risk includes equity, interest rate and spread, real estate, foreign currency, and inflation risks.<br><br><br><br>Market Risk Management Governance and Control<br><br>We employ a wide range of market risk management practices and controls as outlined below:<br><br>•Market risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Risk Committee.<br><br>•Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed, and reported against pre-established risk appetite limits.<br><br>•Comprehensive asset-liability management and hedging policies, programs and practices are in place.<br><br>•Regulatory solvency requirements include risk-based capital requirements and are monitored regularly.<br><br>•Product Design and Pricing Policy requires a detailed risk assessment and pricing provisions for material risks.<br><br>•Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse market movements.<br><br>•Insurance contract liabilities are established in accordance with IFRS.<br><br>•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.<br><br><br><br>Specific market risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail. | |||
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| Equity Risk<br><br>Equity risk is the potential for financial loss arising from declines or volatility in public or private equity market prices. We are exposed to equity risk from a number of sources.<br><br><br><br>We generate revenue in our asset management businesses and from certain protection and wealth 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 revenue, income, the contractual service margin, and capital. 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 net income, the contractual service margin, and capital. | |||
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| A portion of our exposure to equity risk arises in connection with benefit guarantees on segregated fund products, some participating insurance contracts, some adjustable insurance contracts, and some universal life contracts. 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, the contractual service margin, and capital.<br><br><br><br>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. | |||
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| Interest Rate and Spread Risk<br><br>Interest rate and spread risk includes the potential for financial loss arising from changes in the value of insurance and investment contract liabilities and financial assets due to changes or volatility in interest rates or spreads. In practice, when asset cash flows and the policy obligations they support are not matched, this may result in the need to either sell assets to meet policy payments and expenses or reinvest excess asset cash flows in unfavourable interest rate or spread environments. This risk is managed in our asset-liability management program. Details of the asset-liability management program are discussed under the heading "Market Risk Management Strategies" in section K - Risk Management in this document.<br><br><br><br>Our primary exposure to interest rate and spread risk arises from insurance and investment contracts that contain guarantees in the form of minimum crediting rates, maximum premium rates, settlement options, guaranteed annuitization options and minimum benefits. 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. Exposure to guarantees is managed within our risk appetite limits through our asset-liability management program, which may include the use of hedging strategies utilizing interest rate derivatives such as interest rate floors, swaps, forwards, futures and swaptions. The impact of these guarantees on net income, contractual service margin, and capital are included in the disclosed market risk sensitivities.<br><br><br><br>Significant changes or volatility in interest rates or spreads could have a negative impact on sales of certain protection and wealth products, and adversely impact the expected pattern of redemptions (surrenders) on existing policies.<br><br>•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. While we have established hedging programs in place and our protection and wealth products often contain surrender mitigation features, these may not be sufficient to fully offset the adverse impact of changes in interest rates or spreads.<br><br>•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, increased asset calls, mortgage and structured security prepayments, and net reinvestment of positive cash flows at lower yields, and therefore can adversely impact our profitability and financial position.<br><br>•Negative interest rates may additionally result in losses on our cash and short-term deposits and low or negative returns on our fixed income assets impacting our profitability.<br><br>•A sustained low interest rate environment may additionally adversely impact our net income, CSM, capital, and our ability to implement our business strategy and plans. This may be realized through lower sales, less profitable new business, changes in the pattern of redemptions on existing policies, among other impacts.<br><br><br><br>We also have direct exposure to interest rates and spreads from investments supporting other general account liabilities, surplus and employee benefit plans. Higher interest rates or wider spreads will reduce the value of our existing assets. Conversely, lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads will result in reduced investment income on new fixed income asset purchases. These exposures fall within our risk-taking philosophy and appetite and are therefore generally not hedged.<br><br><br><br>Real Estate Risk<br><br>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.<br><br>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.<br><br>We hold real estate investments that support general account liabilities and surplus, and fluctuations in value will affect our net income, CSM, and capital. A material and sustained increase in interest rates may lead to deterioration in real estate values. | |||
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| Foreign Currency Risk<br><br>Foreign currency risk is the result of mismatches in the currency of our assets and liabilities (inclusive of capital), and cash flows. This risk may arise from a variety of sources such as foreign currency transactions and services, foreign currency hedging, investments denominated in foreign currencies, investments in foreign subsidiaries and net income from foreign operations. Changes or volatility in foreign exchange rates, including a change to currencies that are fixed in value to another currency, could adversely affect our net income, contractual service margin and capital.<br><br><br><br>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 liabilities and required capital. 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, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company did not have a material foreign currency risk mismatch exposure.<br><br><br><br>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. | |||
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| Inflation Risk<br><br>Inflation risk is the potential for financial loss arising from changes in inflation rates. This risk results from insurance contract liabilities that are linked to market measures of inflation such as the Consumer Price Index. The primary sources for this risk exposure are from certain group and retail annuity contracts and group long term disability contracts. In these contracts, the annuity and disability benefit payments may be linked to an indexing formula containing an inflation price index. Benefit payments linked to inflation indices may also include various caps, floors and averaging mechanisms that vary across product designs.<br><br><br><br>Exposure to inflation risk is managed within our asset-liability management program, primarily by investing in inflation linked assets to match liability exposures. | |||
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The impact of inflation on general account expenses is discussed under the heading "Expense Risk" in section K - Risk Management in this document.
| Market Risk Sensitivities | |||
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| We utilize a variety of methods and measures to quantify our market risk exposures. These include duration management, key rate duration techniques, convexity measures, cash flow gap analysis, scenario testing, and sensitivity testing of earnings and regulatory capital ratios versus risk appetite limits.<br><br><br><br>The measurement of liabilities and assets are affected by the level of equity market performance, interest rates, credit and swap spreads and other market risk variables. The following sections set out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income(1), contractual service margin, OCI and SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio to certain instantaneous changes in market variables as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.<br><br><br><br>The estimated sensitivities in the tables below reflect the impact of market movements on insurance and investment contracts, assets backing insurance contracts, assets backing investment contracts, assets backing the surplus segment, and seed investments in our asset management subsidiaries.<br><br><br><br>Net income sensitivities to equity and real estate market movements are driven primarily by changes in the value of investments backing general account liabilities and surplus. Net income sensitivities to interest rates and spreads are driven by the net impact on liabilities and the assets backing them. Lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads will typically result in increased liabilities for insurance contracts, offset by increased values of the assets backing general account liabilities. Higher interest rates or a widening of spreads will typically result in decreased liabilities for insurance contracts, offset by decreased values of the assets backing general account liabilities. Further detail on the impact of changes or volatility in market prices on assets and liabilities is provided under the headings "Equity Risk", "Interest Rate and Spread Risk", "Real Estate Risk", and "Foreign Currency Risk" above.<br><br><br><br>OCI sensitivities are impacted by changes in the market value of assets classified as FVOCI. The market value of FVOCI fixed income assets, which are held primarily backing surplus, investment contracts and CSM liabilities, increases with lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads, and decreases with higher interest rates or widening of spreads.<br><br><br><br>As these market risk sensitivities reflect an instantaneous impact on net income, CSM, OCI and SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio, they do not include impacts over time such as the effect on fee income in our asset management businesses.<br><br><br><br>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 K - Risk Management in this document refers to common shareholders' net income. | ||
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Private and Public Equity Market Sensitivities
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income, CSM, OCI and SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio to certain instantaneous changes in public or private equity market prices as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. The sensitivities shown outline the impact of the same percentage increase or decrease applied to each of private equity and public equity.
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2025 | ||||||
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| Change in Private and Public Equity Markets(1)(2)(3) | 25% decrease | 10% decrease | 10% increase | 25% increase | |||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | |||||||
| Private Equity | (325) | (125) | 125 | 325 | |||
| Public Equity | (225) | (100) | 100 | 250 | |||
| Potential impact on CSM (pre-tax) | (900) | (350) | 325 | 825 | |||
| Potential impact on OCI(4) | — | — | — | — | |||
| Potential impact on LICAT ratio(5) | 0.5% point decrease | 0.5% point increase | 0.5% point increase | ||||
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2024 | ||||||
| Change in Private and Public Equity Markets(1)(2)(3) | 25% decrease | 10% decrease | 10% increase | 25% increase | |||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | (550) | (225) | 225 | 575 | |||
| Potential impact on CSM (pre-tax) | (775) | (300) | 275 | 650 | |||
| Potential impact on OCI(4) | — | — | — | — | |||
| Potential impact on LICAT ratio(5) | 0.5% point decrease | 0.5% point increase | 1.0% point increase | ||||
| (1)Represents the respective change across all equity exposures as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. Due to the impact of active management, basis risk, and other factors, realized sensitivities may differ meaningfully from expectations. Sensitivities include the impact of re-balancing equity hedges for hedging programs at 2% intervals (for 10% changes in equity markets) and at 5% intervals (for 25% changes in equity markets).(2)The market risk sensitivities include the estimated impact of our hedging programs in effect as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, and include new business added and product changes implemented prior to such dates.(3)Net income, CSM, and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of 25 million. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India. | |||||||
| (4) The market risk OCI sensitivities exclude the impact of changes in the defined benefit obligations and plan assets.(5)The LICAT sensitivities illustrate the impact on SLF Inc. as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. LICAT ratios are rounded in increments of 0.5%. |
All values are in US Dollars.
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Interest Rate Sensitivities
| The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income, CSM, OCI and SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio to certain instantaneous changes in interest rates as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2024 | ||||||
| Change in Interest Rates(1)(2)(3) | 50 basis point increase | 50 basis point decrease | 50 basis point increase | ||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | — | (25) | (50) | 25 | |||
| Potential impact on CSM (pre-tax) | 175 | (200) | 150 | (150) | |||
| Potential impact on OCI(4) | 200 | (200) | 200 | (200) | |||
| Potential impact on LICAT ratio(5) | 3.0% point decrease | 2.5% point increase | 2.0% point decrease | ||||
| (1)Interest rate sensitivities assume a parallel shift in assumed interest rates across the entire yield curve as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 with no change to the ultimate risk-free rate. 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 hedging programs at 10 basis point intervals (for 50 basis point changes in interest rates).(2)The market risk sensitivities include the estimated impact of our hedging programs in effect as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, and include new business added and product changes implemented prior to such dates.(3)Net income, CSM, and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of 25 million. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.(4)The market risk OCI sensitivities exclude the impact of changes in the defined benefit obligations and plan assets. | |||||||
| (5) The LICAT sensitivities illustrate the impact on SLF Inc. as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. The sensitivities reflect the worst scenario as at December 31, 2025 and 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 10% and 25% changes in our equity markets because we believe that these market shocks were reasonably possible as at December 31, 2025. Significant changes in market variables may result in non-proportional impacts on our sensitivities. |
All values are in US Dollars.
Potential Impact of Change in Ultimate Risk-Free Rate
Interest rate sensitivities do not include any impact from changes to the ultimate risk-free rate. Our estimated sensitivity to a 10 basis point decrease in the ultimate risk-free rate assumed in our insurance contract liabilities is a decrease in reported net income of approximately $50 million after-tax, and a decrease in CSM of approximately $25 million.
| Credit Spread and Swap Spread Sensitivities | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The following tables set out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income, CSM, OCI and SLF Inc.'s LICAT ratio to certain instantaneous changes in credit spreads and our net income, CSM, and OCI to certain changes in swap spreads as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. | |||||||
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2024 | ||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Change in Credit Spreads(1)(2) | 50 basis point increase | 50 basis point decrease | 50 basis point increase | ||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | 125 | (25) | 75 | (50) | |||
| Potential impact on CSM (pre-tax) | 100 | (125) | 125 | (125) | |||
| Potential impact on OCI(3) | 200 | (175) | 200 | (200) | |||
| Potential impact on LICAT ratio(4) | 2.5% point decrease | 2.0% point increase | 2.0% point decrease | ||||
| (1)The credit spread sensitivities assume a parallel shift in the indicated spreads across the entire term structure with no change to the ultimate liquidity premium. The sensitivities reflect a floor of zero on credit spreads where the spreads are not currently negative. 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.(2)Net income, CSM, and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of 25 million. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.(3)The market risk OCI sensitivities exclude the impact of changes in the defined benefit obligations and plan assets. | |||||||
| (4)The LICAT sensitivities illustrate the impact on SLF Inc. as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. The sensitivities reflect the worst scenario as at December 31, 2025 and assume that a scenario switch does not occur in the quarter. LICAT ratios are rounded in increments of 0.5%. |
All values are in US Dollars.
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| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2024 | ||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Change in Swap Spreads(1)(2) | 20 basis point increase | 20 basis point decrease | 20 basis point increase | ||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | — | — | (25) | 25 | |||
| (1)The 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.(2)Net income, CSM, and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of 25 million. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India. |
All values are in US Dollars.
Real Estate Sensitivities
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income, OCI and CSM to certain instantaneous changes in the value of our real estate investments as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2025 | As at December 31, 2024 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in Real Estate Values (1) | 10% increase | 10% decrease | 10% increase | ||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | (475) | 475 | (450) | 450 | |||
| Potential impact on CSM (pre-tax) | (100) | 100 | (100) | 100 | |||
| (1)Net income, CSM, and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of 25 million. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India. |
All values are in US Dollars.
Foreign Currency Sensitivities
We generally match the currency of our assets with the currency of the insurance and investment contract liabilities they support. As at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company did not have a material foreign currency risk mismatch exposure and the majority of the exposure results from income translation impacts.
The following table sets out the estimated impact on net income of a 10% change in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to other key operating currencies for the years of 2025 and 2024.
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | As at December 31, 2025 | As at December 31, 2024 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in CAD relative to and HKD (1) | 10% weakening | 10% strengthening | 10% weakening | ||||
| Estimated impact on net income (after-tax) | (225) | 225 | (250) | 250 |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1)Net income sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25 million.
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 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, with any switching between scenarios having the effect of offsetting the previous impacts over time. It should be noted that switching of the scenario can also change the direction of our sensitivities.
For SLF Inc., assuming no further scenario switches, no additional LICAT ratio impact is expected over the next five quarters on a rounded basis.
For Sun Life Assurance, assuming no further scenario switches, there is an additional one percentage point increase to the LICAT ratio impact expected over the next five quarters on a rounded basis.
Market Risk Management Strategies
Market risk is managed at all stages during the product life cycle including product design and development, ongoing review and positioning of our suite of products, and ongoing asset-liability management and hedge re-balancing. 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.
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 derivatives could impose additional costs and could affect our hedging strategy.
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Our hedging programs may themselves expose us to other risks, including basis risk, volatility risk, 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 (e.g., hedge counterparty credit risk is managed by maintaining broad diversification, dealing primarily with highly-rated counterparties, and transacting through OTC contracts cleared through central clearing houses, exchange-traded contracts or bilateral OTC contracts negotiated directly between counterparties that include credit support annexes), residual risks and potential reported earnings and capital volatility remain.
In general, market risk exposure is mitigated by the assets supporting our products. This includes holdings of fixed income assets such as bonds, mortgages and loans. Derivative instruments may supplement these assets to reduce the risk from interest rate mismatches and mitigate the market risk associated with liability features and optionality.
General Account Protection and Wealth Products
Most of our expected net income sensitivity to changes in interest rates and equity markets is derived from our general account protection and wealth products and we have implemented market risk management strategies to mitigate a portion of the related market risk.
Individual protection products include universal life and other long-term life and health insurance products. Major sources of market risk exposure for individual protection 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 protection products is typically managed on a duration matched 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 liabilities are backed with equities and real estate. For participating insurance products and other protection products with adjustable 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 matched 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 protection and wealth 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.
Indexed universal life products contain features that credit policyholders the return of underlying equity indices, subject to defined caps, floors and participation rates. Hedging strategies utilizing equity derivatives are implemented to replicate the policyholder returns and to limit the potential risk of equity guarantees to within our risk appetite tolerances.
Certain protection and wealth 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.
Segregated Funds Products
Certain segregated fund products provide benefit guarantees, which are linked to underlying fund performance and 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 activities, policyholder behaviour and mortality experience, each of which may result in negative impacts on net income, the contractual service margin and capital.
Our hedging programs use derivative instruments and fixed income assets to mitigate the interest rate, equity market, and foreign currency exposure of our segregated fund contracts. Materially all of our segregated fund contracts, as measured by fund values, are included in a hedging program. While materially all contracts are included in the hedging program, not all of our market risk exposure related to these contracts is hedged. For those segregated fund contracts included in the hedging program, we generally hedge the value of expected future net claims costs and associated risk adjustments for non-financial risk.
Our hedging strategy is applied both at the line of business or product level and at the total company level using a combination of hedging techniques such as 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 sensitivities with risk management objectives.
The impact of segregated fund guarantees and associated hedging programs on net income, contractual service margin and capital are included in the disclosed market risk sensitivities.
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Market Risk Management Applications for Derivative Usage
The primary uses of derivatives are set out in the table below as at December 31, 2025.
| Products/Application | Uses of Derivative | Derivatives Used |
|---|---|---|
| General asset-liability management - interest rate risk exposure for most protection and wealth products | To manage the sensitivity of the duration gap between assets and liabilities to interest rate changes | Interest rate swaps, futures, swaptions, floors and bond forwards |
| Guarantees on protection and wealth contracts - minimum interest rate guarantees, guaranteed surrender values and guaranteed annuitization options | To limit potential financial losses from significant reductions in asset earned rates relative to contract guarantees | Interest rate swaps, futures, swaptions, floors and bond forwards |
| Segregated fund guarantees & indexed universal life | To manage the exposure of product guarantees sensitive to movement in equity market and interest rate levels and currency fluctuations | Put options, call options, futures and swaps on equity indices, interest rate swaps, futures, bond forwards and foreign exchange forwards |
| Currency exposure in relation to asset-liability management | To reduce the sensitivity to currency fluctuations by matching the value and cash flows of specific assets denominated in one currency with the value and cash flows of the corresponding liabilities denominated in another currency | Currency swaps and forwards |
| Credit exposure | To replicate credit exposures and enhance investment returns | Credit default swaps |
| Additional Cautionary Language and Key Assumptions Related to Sensitivities<br><br>Our market risk sensitivities are measures of our estimated change in net income OCI, CSM and LICAT ratio for changes in market risk variables described above, based on market risk variables and business in force as at the reporting date. These sensitivities are calculated independently for each risk factor, generally assuming that all other risk variables stay constant. The sensitivities do not take into account indirect effects such as potential impacts on goodwill impairment or valuation allowances on deferred tax assets. | ||
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We have provided measures of our net income sensitivity to instantaneous changes in equity markets, interest rates, credit spreads, swap spreads, real estate price levels, and capital sensitivities to changes in equity price levels, interest rates and credit spreads. The LICAT ratio and CSM sensitivities are non-IFRS financial measures, and for additional information, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. The cautionary language which appears in this section is applicable to all net income, CSM, OCI and LICAT ratio sensitivities.
| Actual results can differ materially from these estimates for a variety of reasons, including differences in the pattern or distribution of the market shocks, the interaction between these risk factors, model error, or changes in other assumptions such as business mix, effective tax rates, policyholder behaviour, currency exchange rates and other market variables relative to those underlying the calculation of these sensitivities. The extent to which actual results may differ from the indicative ranges will generally increase with larger movements in risk variables. Our sensitivities as at December 31, 2024 have been included for comparative purposes only. |
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| Sensitivities to interest rates and spreads assume a parallel shift in assumed interest rates across the entire yield curve or a parallel shift in the indicated spreads across the entire term structure, with no change to the ultimate risk-free rate or ultimate liquidity premium. Realized sensitivities may be significantly different from those illustrated based on factors such as different terms to maturity, geographies, asset classes and derivative types, and ratings. |
| The sensitivities reflect the composition of our assets and liabilities as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, 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 hedging programs in place as at the respective calculation dates. The actual impact of hedging activity can differ materially from that assumed in the estimated 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. |
| The sensitivities are based on methods and assumptions in effect as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, as applicable. Changes in the regulatory environment, assumptions or methods used to measure assets and liabilities after those dates could result in material changes to the estimated sensitivities. Changes in market risk variables in excess of the changes illustrated may result in other than proportionate impacts. |
| The sensitivities reflect the CSM as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, where the change in the effect of the time value of money and financial risk not arising from the underlying items adjusts the CSM, changes in the CSM balance will affect the sensitivity of income to changes in market risk variables. |
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.
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| For the reasons outlined above, our sensitivities should only be viewed as indicative estimates of the underlying sensitivities of each factor under these specialized assumptions, and should not be viewed as predictors of our future income, OCI, CSM or capital. Given the nature of these calculations, we cannot provide assurance that actual impacts will be consistent with the estimates provided. | |||
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Information related to market risk sensitivities should be read in conjunction with the information contained in section N - Accounting and Control Matters - 1 - Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates in this document. Additional information on market risk can be found in Note 6 of the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
ii. Insurance Risk
| Risk Description<br><br>Insurance risk is the uncertainty of product performance due to actual experience emerging differently than expected in the areas of mortality, morbidity and longevity. In addition, policyholder behaviour, product design and pricing, expense and reinsurance risks impact multiple risk categories, including insurance risk.<br><br><br><br>Insurance Risk Management Governance and Control<br><br>We employ a wide range of insurance risk management practices and controls, as outlined below:<br><br>•Insurance risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Risk Committee.<br><br>•Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed and reported against pre-established risk appetite limits for policyholder behaviour, mortality, morbidity and longevity risks.<br><br>•Comprehensive Insurance Risk Policy, guidelines and practices are in place.<br><br>•The global underwriting manual aligns underwriting practices with our corporate risk management standards and ensures a consistent approach in insurance underwriting.<br><br>•Board-approved maximum retention limits are in place. Amounts issued in excess of these limits are reinsured.<br><br>•Detailed procedures, including criteria for approval of risks and for claims adjudication are established and monitored for each business segment.<br><br>•Underwriting and risk selection standards and procedures are established and overseen by the corporate underwriting and claims risk management function.<br><br>•Diversification and risk pooling is managed by aggregation of exposures across product lines, geography and distribution channels.<br><br>•Reinsurance is used to limit losses, minimize exposure to significant risks and to provide additional capacity for growth.<br><br>•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.<br><br>•Reinsurance counterparty risk is monitored, including annual reporting of reinsurance exposure to the Risk Committee.<br><br>•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.<br><br>•Regulatory solvency requirements include risk-based capital requirements and are monitored regularly.<br><br>•The Product Design and Pricing Policy requires detailed risk assessment and pricing provision for material risks.<br><br>•Company specific and industry level experience studies and drivers of earnings analysis are monitored and factored into valuation, renewal and new business pricing processes.<br><br>•Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse movements in insurance risk factors.<br><br>•Insurance contract liabilities are established in accordance with IFRS.<br><br>•Internal capital targets are established at an enterprise level to cover all risks and are above minimum regulatory and supervisory levels.<br><br><br><br>The concentration for insurance risks is monitored geographically and its adverse effect is mitigated through a diversified product portfolio, product design, underwriting standards and practices, utilizing reinsurance as well as the Company's global operation. Specific to the reinsurance risk, the concentration is measured by aggregating the exposure to each reinsurance counterparty across all Business Groups to ensure it does not exceed a predefined risk level.<br><br><br><br>Specific insurance risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail. |
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Policyholder Behaviour Risk
| Many of our products include some form of embedded policyholder option. We can incur losses due to adverse policyholder behaviour relative to the assumptions used in the pricing and valuation of products regarding lapse of policies or exercise of other embedded policy options.<br><br><br><br>Uncertainty in policyholder behaviour can arise from several sources including:<br><br>•Unexpected events in the policyholder's life circumstances;<br><br>•The general level of economic activity (whether higher or lower than expected);<br><br>•Changes in the financial and capital markets;<br><br>•Changes in pricing and availability of current products;<br><br>•The introduction of new products, changes in underwriting technology and standards;<br><br>•Changes in our financial strength or reputation.<br><br><br><br>Uncertainty in future cash flows affected by policyholder behaviour can be further exacerbated by unexpected behaviour during times of economic turbulence or at key option exercise points in the life of an insurance contract. | |||
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| Various types of provisions are built into many of our products to reduce the impact of uncertain policyholder behaviour. These provisions include:<br><br>•Surrender charges that adjust the payout to the policyholder by taking into account prevailing market conditions.<br><br>•Limits on the amount that policyholders can surrender or borrow.<br><br>•Restrictions on the timing of policyholders' ability to exercise certain options.<br><br>•Restrictions on both the types of funds policyholders can select and the frequency with which they can change funds.<br><br><br><br>Policyholder behaviour risk is also mitigated through reinsurance on some insurance contracts.<br><br><br><br>Internal experience studies are used to monitor, review and update policyholder behaviour assumptions as needed, which could result in updates to policy liabilities. | |||
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Mortality and Morbidity Risk
| Mortality and morbidity risk is the risk that future experience could be unfavourable relative to the assumptions used in the pricing and valuation of products.<br><br><br><br>Mortality and morbidity risk could adversely affect many of our products which introduces the potential for adverse financial results. These risks can arise in the normal course of business through random fluctuation in realized experience, through catastrophes, as a result of a pandemic, or in association with other risk factors such as product development and pricing 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. Adverse morbidity experience could also occur through external events such as increases in disability claims during economic slowdowns, increases in high medical treatment costs and growth in utilization of specialty drugs.<br><br><br><br>Mortality and morbidity concentration risk is the risk of a catastrophic event that could occur in geographic locations where there is significant insurance coverage, 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.<br><br><br><br>Concentration risk exposure is monitored on group policies in a single location. 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.<br><br><br><br>Current legislation in Canada restricts insurers from requiring policyholders to take or release the results of genetic tests. If policyholders have access to the results of genetic tests and we do not, this creates asymmetry of information between policyholders and insurers, which could adversely impact mortality and morbidity experience and policyholder behaviour. This asymmetry of information may increase as genetic testing advances and becomes more accessible, giving rise to better diagnoses of conditions where treatments are expensive or non-existent. The asymmetry of information may lead to increased anti-selection in new business underwriting. There may also be an impact on policy lapse rates where adverse genetic testing results may motivate policyholders to retain their policies resulting in higher claims payouts than assumed in the pricing and valuation of products, as well as increased insurance rates which may result in loss of new and existing policyholders.<br><br><br><br>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. We are committed to paying claims fairly and promptly in accordance with the terms of our policies. Our claims management process is designed to ensure thorough evaluation of claims.<br><br><br><br>The Insurance Risk Policy, which is approved by the Risk Committee, sets out limits on the maximum amount of insurance risk per life that may be retained. Retention limits per life vary by geographic region and amounts in excess of the Board-approved maximum retention limits are reinsured to ensure there is no exposure to unreasonable concentration of risk.<br><br>•On a single life or joint-first-to-die basis our retention limit is $40 million in Canada and US$40 million outside of Canada.<br><br>•For survivorship life insurance, our maximum global retention limit is $50 million in Canada and US$50 million outside of Canada.<br><br>•In certain markets and jurisdictions, retention levels below the maximum are applied.<br><br><br><br>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. | |||
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Longevity Risk
| Longevity risk is the potential for losses arising from adverse changes in mortality improvement rates 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.<br><br><br><br>Longevity risk affects contracts where benefits or costs are based upon the likelihood of survival and higher than expected improvements in insured life expectancy could therefore increase the ultimate cost of these benefits (for example, annuities, pensions, pure endowments, some segregated funds, and specific types of health contracts), thereby requiring strengthening of policyholder liabilities and resulting in reductions in net income and capital.<br><br><br><br>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 protection and wealth products. |
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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:<br><br>•Future investment yields<br><br>•Policyholder behaviour<br><br>•Mortality and morbidity experience<br><br>•Sales levels<br><br>•Mix of business<br><br>•Expenses<br><br>•Taxes<br><br><br><br>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.<br><br><br><br>Products that offer complex features, options or guarantees require increasingly complex pricing models, methods or assumptions, leading to additional levels of uncertainty.<br><br>•The risk of mis-pricing increases with the number and inherent uncertainty of assumptions needed to model a product.<br><br>•Past experience data supplemented with future trend assumptions may be poor predictors of future experience.<br><br>•Lack of experience data on new products or new Client segments increases the risk that future actual experience unfolds differently from expected assumptions.<br><br>•External environmental factors may introduce new risk factors, which were unanticipated during product design, and have an adverse result on the financial performance of the product.<br><br>•Policyholder behaviour in the future may vary from that assumed at the time the product is designed, thereby adversely affecting the product's financial performance.<br><br><br><br>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:<br><br>•Pricing models, methods, and assumptions are subject to periodic peer reviews.<br><br>•Experience studies, drivers of earnings analysis, and product dashboards are used to monitor actual experience against those assumed in pricing and valuation.<br><br>•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.<br><br>•Limits and restrictions may be introduced into the design of products to mitigate adverse policyholder behaviour or apply upper thresholds on certain benefits. | |||
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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:<br><br>•General economic conditions;<br><br>•Unexpected increases in inflation;<br><br>•Slower than anticipated growth;<br><br>•Changes in availability of current products; or<br><br>•Reduction in productivity leading to increases in unit expenses.<br><br><br><br>Expense risk occurs in products where we cannot or will not pass increased costs onto the policyholder and will manifest itself in the form of a liability increase or a reduction in expected future profits.<br><br><br><br>From time to time, certain products or business segments may be closed for new sales (for example, individual protection business in the U.S.). Our ability to effectively manage the run-off of business in these products or business segments introduces additional risks, such as policyholder behaviour and expense risk, that may have an adverse effect on our operations, profitability and financial position.<br><br><br><br>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. |
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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. While reinsurance arrangements provide for the recovery of claims arising from the liabilities ceded, we retain primary responsibility to the policyholders.<br><br>Rates for our in-force reinsurance treaties can be either guaranteed or adjustable for the life of the ceded policy. 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 our reinsurers, as the global reinsurance industry continues 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 approved by the Risk Committee and an Investment & Credit Risk Policy approved by the Governance Committee, which set acceptance criteria and processes to monitor and manage the level of reinsurance ceded to any single reinsurer. These policies are regularly reviewed and approved by the relevant Board Committee to ensure the alignment with our risk appetite levels and reinsurance risk guidelines.<br><br><br><br>The policies set the acceptance criteria which verify if a reinsurer qualifies as a suitable reinsurance counterparty, having the capability, expertise, governance practices and financial capacity to assume the risks being considered. In addition, a periodic due diligence is performed on the existing reinsurance counterparties, including an internal credit assessment for reinsurance counterparties with whom we have material exposure.<br><br><br><br>The exposure to each reinsurance counterparty is monitored closely to ensure that no single reinsurance counterparty represents an undue level of credit risk and does not exceed the predefined limits. In order to diversify our reinsurance risk, there is generally more than one reinsurance counterparty supporting a reinsurance pool. A summary of the reinsurance counterparty credit risk exposures is reported annually to the Risk Committee.<br><br><br><br>To further increase the reinsurance risk control, our reinsurance agreements include provisions to allow actions to be taken, such as recapture of ceded risk (at a potential cost to the Company), in the event that the reinsurance counterparty loses its legal ability to carry on business through insolvency or regulatory action.<br><br><br><br>In case of unfavourable developments in the reinsurance markets, we also have an option to discontinue or implement changes to the new sales of our products to better manage the associated risks. | | --- |
Additional information on insurance risk can be found in Note 7 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
iii. Credit Risk
Risk Description
| Credit risk is the possibility of loss from amounts owed by our borrowers or financial counterparties. We are subject to credit risk in connection with issuers of securities held in our investment portfolio, debtors, structured securities, reinsurers, counterparties (including derivative, repurchase agreement and securities lending counterparties), other financial institutions and other entities. Losses may occur when a counterparty fails to make timely payments pursuant to the terms of the underlying contractual arrangement or when the counterparty's credit rating or risk profile otherwise deteriorates. Credit risk can also arise in connection with deterioration in the value of, or ability to realize, any underlying security that may be used as collateral for the debt obligation. Credit risk can occur as a result of broad economic conditions, challenges within specific sectors of the economy, from issues affecting individual companies or loss given default expectations. Events that result in defaults, impairments or downgrades of the securities in our 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. | | --- || MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 69 | | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Credit Risk Management Governance and Control
| We employ a wide range of credit risk management practices and controls, as outlined below:<br><br>•Credit risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the risk committees.<br><br>•Risk appetite limits have been established for credit risk.<br><br>•Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed and reported against pre-established risk limits.<br><br>•Comprehensive Investment and Credit Risk Management Policy, guidelines and practices are in place.<br><br>•Specific investment diversification requirements are in place, such as defined investment limits for asset class, geography, and industry.<br><br>•Risk-based credit portfolio, counterparty, and sector exposure limits have been established.<br><br>•Mandatory use of credit quality ratings for portfolio investments has been established and is reviewed regularly. These internal rating decisions for new fixed income investments and ongoing review of existing rating decisions are independently adjudicated by Corporate Risk Management.<br><br>•Develop and maintain hedging programs that may employ the use of derivatives. Market conditions determine the availability and cost of the derivative protection.<br><br>•Comprehensive due diligence processes and ongoing credit analyses are conducted.<br><br>•Regulatory solvency requirements include risk-based capital requirements and are monitored regularly.<br><br>•Comprehensive compliance monitoring practices and procedures including reporting against pre-established investment limits are in place.<br><br>•Purchase reinsurance for certain risks underwritten by our various insurance businesses. Reinsurance does not relieve us from our direct liability to policyholders and accordingly, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers. Reinsurance exposures are monitored to ensure that no single reinsurer represents an undue level of credit risk.<br><br>•Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse credit developments.<br><br>•Insurance contract liabilities are established in accordance with IFRS.<br><br>•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. |
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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 and rating methodologies, 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, 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. |
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Additional information on credit risk can be found in Note 6 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
iv. Business and Strategic Risk
Risk Description
Business and strategic risk is the risk of loss from the inability to adequately identify, plan or implement an appropriate strategy to achieve strategic and business objectives or adapt to changes in Client behaviour, the external business, economic, geopolitical, regulatory or environmental (including climate) and social landscape or when assumptions made in strategy are not realized as expected.
Business and Strategic Risk Management Governance and Control
We employ a wide range of business and strategic risk management practices and controls, as outlined below:
•Business and strategic risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring, review and reporting to Senior Management, the Board and the Board Committees.
•Business and strategic risk is managed through our strategic and business planning process and controls over the implementation of these plans. These plans are reviewed and key themes, issues and emerging risks are discussed by our Executive Team and by the Board and/or Board Committees.
•Our Business and Strategic Plans are subject to approval by the Board, which also receives regular reviews of implementation progress against key Business Plan objectives.
•Comprehensive policies including the Risk Framework, Risk Appetite Policy, Product Design and Pricing Policy, Mergers and Acquisition Policy, Change Management Risk - Strategic Execution Policy, Capital and Liquidity Management Framework and Capital Risk Policy are in place.
•Our corporate strategy and business objectives are established within the boundaries set out in the Risk Framework and the Risk Appetite Policy. Our business strategies and plans are designed to align with our risk appetite, our capital position and our financial performance objectives.
•Our risk appetite is periodically assessed, taking into consideration the economic and regulatory environments in which we operate.
•Merger, acquisition, strategic investments and divestiture transactions are governed by a Board-approved Merger and Acquisition Risk Management Policy and significant transactions require the approval of the Board.
•Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse scenarios.
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•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. In the event of capital breaches, a clearly defined escalation process is in place.
We regularly review and adapt our business strategies and plans to take account of changes in the external business, economic, geopolitical 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.
Geopolitical Risk
Geopolitical risk is the wide array of risks associated with political, economic, or social conflict or tensions across borders (generally between nation states) as well as events or trends with global or international dimensions that increase risks for the operations of companies. We operate in various geographies and our business and financial operations are susceptible to regional and global economic, geopolitical and regulatory changes. Geopolitical risk may lead to increased volatility in the global economic outlook, capital and energy markets; difficulty in conducting business in certain geographies; an increased threat of targeted cyber-attacks; and potential reputational risk. The shifting international order and increasing geopolitical instability alongside ongoing US-Canada trade tensions and related tariffs continue to generate uncertainty for the Canadian and US economies, potentially impacting markets, GDP growth, foreign exchange rates, inflation and employment with associated implications for Clients and investments.
Economic Risk
We may be affected by economic and capital markets conditions and economic shocks around the globe as a result of increasingly connected global markets. Factors such as changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, market volatility, housing prices, consumer spending, saving and debt, business investment and inflation around the globe can affect the business and economic environments in which we operate.
Economic risk can also intersect with other risk considerations such as environmental and social risks. The impact of these factors include the possibility of continued low growth, sustained too low or too high interest rates, increases in inflation, increased volatility in interest rates and equity markets, and a continuation of relatively low yet volatile credit spreads. The impact on the economic environment from any of these events may not be consistent with our assumptions and expectations, which may adversely impact our financial results and the ability to implement our business strategy. Market-related impacts from the economic environment, legal, regulatory or policy changes or other governmental actions could continue to place pressure on our earnings, regulatory capital requirements, profitability, liquidity and our ability to implement our business strategies and plans. Low interest rates and increased volatility create a number of challenges for us including increased hedge costs, lower investment yields, adverse policyholder behaviour and lower levels of new business profitability. Other impacts of macro-economic uncertainty and volatility may lead to other financial and non-financial impacts including goodwill impairment, decline in our share price and impact on our credit and financial strength ratings.
Execution Risk
Our business strategies, plans and financial performance are dependent on the successful execution of organizational and strategic initiatives designed to support the growth of our business. Our ability to effectively manage and prioritize the execution of these initiatives, identify and adapt rapidly to new opportunities, and refine our strategies in response to changing economic, regulatory and competitive environment directly affects our ability to execute our strategies. Identifying and implementing the right set of initiatives is critical to achieving our Business Plan targets.
Successful execution of our business strategies and plans impacts a number of factors, including:
•Our ability to generate sufficient earnings to maintain an adequate level of capital;
•Our ability to generate sustained investment performance;
•Our ability to meet regulatory requirements;
•Our ability to manage our risk exposures effectively;
•Our ability to attract and retain Clients and distributors;
•Our ability to have the right set of diverse products and business mix, and
•Our ability to reduce operating expenses while maintaining our ability to hire, retain and motivate key personnel.
There is no certainty that we will be successful in implementing our business strategies or that these strategies will achieve our objectives. If our business strategies are not successful or are not executed effectively, it could lead to cost structure challenges and we may not be able to achieve our growth objectives or react to market opportunities, which may have an adverse impact on our business and financial results.
Distribution Risk
We distribute our products through a variety of distribution channels, including direct sales agents, managing general agents, independent general agents, financial intermediaries, broker-dealers, banks, pension and benefits consultants and other third-party marketing organizations. Competition for these intermediaries and agents is based on products, compensation, support services and financial position.
We face the risk that our key distribution partners may undergo consolidation, change in ownership structure or change their distribution model which could materially impact sales and our growth targets. New distribution channels could emerge that may impact the effectiveness of our current distribution strategy. Distribution channels are growing rapidly in some businesses in certain countries, which may heighten the risks of market conduct and channel conflicts or overlaps. Distribution risk may also be influenced where our distribution or product strategy and related services or technology are not in line with our strategic objectives or in consideration of the changes in Client behaviour or our regulatory environment.
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The capability to reach and retain Clients through use of digital technology and data analytics is becoming increasingly important in the insurance industry. While use of digital-based distribution channels may help us achieve or expand scale, these channels expose us to regulatory compliance and information security related risks.
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 online sales and Client support capabilities and technologies. 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.
Risks Relating to Mergers, Acquisitions, Divestitures and Strategic Investments
We regularly explore opportunities to selectively acquire other businesses or to divest ourselves of all or part of certain businesses, in support of our growth and strategic objectives.
Any transaction carries risks associated with economic, operational, strategic, financial, tax, legal, regulatory, compliance, environmental, social, and other factors, which could adversely impact our ability to achieve our financial and strategic objectives. These may include the risks that:
•We may be unable to make an appropriate acquisition in a desired market or business line;
•We may be unable to realize the financial and strategic benefits of the transactions, including any anticipated cost savings following an acquisition, due to competitive factors, regulatory requirements or other reasons;
•The capital utilized to finance any transaction may limit our ability to deploy further capital to pursue other opportunities and initiatives;
•We may fail to, or are unable to, uncover all material liabilities and/or subsequent asset impairments, despite having conducted extensive due diligence, and;
•The customary indemnifications provided by the seller to the purchaser may not be collectible or sufficient to fully offset losses arising from the acquired business, and the credit risk of the seller that the purchaser may be exposed to if an indemnification provision is triggered.
Our ability to realize the contemplated economic, financial, and strategic benefit of any transaction is contingent on several factors, including:
•The effective separation and/or integration of the transferred businesses, restructure and/or reorganization of related businesses, and retention of key personnel to effectively execute these transactions, and;
•The successful integration of the acquired businesses with our existing operation, and harmonization of any differences in organizational culture, which may require the dedication of significant management resources and distract management’s attention from our day-to-day business.
To mitigate these risks, we have established procedures to govern the evaluation, execution and integration of mergers and acquisitions transactions. Regular updates on execution and integration risks relating to these transactions are provided to the Board, its Committees and senior management teams, 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 trend towards global consolidation of the financial services industry has resulted in competitors with significant market share and established distribution relationships and brands. These larger companies have the ability to heavily invest in fundamental activities for sustained profitable growth and superior Client service such as brand equity, product development, technology, risk management, and distribution capability.
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 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, AI, 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 risk of disruption from changing technology and innovation may 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.
Competitors may offer a greater selection of or lower cost products, which may require us to adapt at a more rapid pace, create margin pressure in some of our businesses and impact our profitability and market share. In the asset management sector, there has been a trend among investors towards lower-fee passive investment products such as index- and other types of exchange-traded funds, which may impact our ability to attract and retain Clients in our actively managed products. Product development and product life cycles have shortened in many product segments, leading to more intense competition with respect to product features. This increases product development and administrative costs and reduces the time frame over which capital expenditures can be recovered. Regulatory and compliance costs also generally rise with increases in the range and complexity of our product portfolio.
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Many of our insurance products, particularly those offered by the group segment, are renewed annually. Given this relatively high frequency of renewal activity, this business may be particularly exposed to adverse persistency through competitive market pressures.
Different accounting bases of reporting and regulatory capital requirements across multiple jurisdictions may cause us to be at a disadvantage compared to some of our competitors due to differences in reported earnings and due to these reporting and regulatory capital requirements.
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.
For our insurance businesses, the performance of our investment portfolio depends in part upon the level of and changes in interest rates, spreads, credit experience, equity prices, real estate values, the performance of the economy in general, the performance of the specific obligors included in these portfolios and other factors that are beyond our control. These changes can affect our net investment income substantially in any period.
In our asset management businesses, portfolio management risk is the risk that an investment strategy is not executed in a prudent manner, such that the mandate significantly fails to fulfill its investment objective and materially falls short of its target returns and relevant benchmark rates of return.
•Not properly executing the investment strategy could cause potential legal or regulatory concern and reputational harm, and we could lose existing and potential Clients.
•We may also see adversely affected sales, increased outflows or reduced level of assets under management, which could lead to a decline in the fee margin and financial losses.
Changes in Legal and Regulatory Environment
Most of our businesses are subject to extensive regulation and supervision. Changes to legislation, regulations or government policies, or the manner in which they are interpreted or enforced, may require that we make significant changes to our strategy and may result in increased implementation costs and diversion of resources to manage the change. These changes could impact financial reporting, accounting processes, capital requirements, the regulatory framework for our products and services, the regulation of selling practices, sales intermediaries and product offerings, solvency requirements, executive compensation, and corporate governance practices and could impose restrictions on our foreign operations (such as limits on foreign ownership of local companies). All of these changes could have an adverse effect on our business and operations. Our failure to comply with existing and evolving regulatory requirements could also result in regulatory sanctions and could affect our relationships with regulatory authorities and our ability to execute our business strategies and plans.
Currently there are a number of regulatory developments in Canada and globally which could impact our business and the way we are regulated or supervised in various jurisdictions, which include the following:
•In Canada, there is a continued focus on enhancing the affordability of and accessibility to prescription drugs, including pressure on the federal government from political parties, some provincial governments, the media and advocacy groups to implement forms of nationalized pharmacare programs. These programs, if expanded, could impact our business in several ways, including premium income, our ability to offer coverage, the price and level of coverage of other benefits we offer or are able to offer through our Canadian group benefits business, which in turn could impact plan renewals and retention of group Clients, plan member interaction and the value of other coverage offered by that business.
•Insurance and securities regulators continue to focus on agent and advisor regulation and oversight including client fairness, advisor conduct and licensing and related practices, assessing product fees, compensation practices, sales practices and conflicts of interest. Regulators are also imposing higher standards that relate to interacting with clients in order to increase disclosure obligations related to fees; impose prohibitions or restrictions on the payment of certain types of commissions and service fees to agents, advisors and third-party distributors; resulting in changes to product features and sales and market practices by agents, advisors, product manufacturers and distributors. Examples of these changes include the Client Focused Reforms released by the Canadian Securities Administrators which fully came into effect on December 31, 2021, and the final rule amendments published by the Canadian Securities Administrators and the Canadian Council of Insurance Regulators in April 2023, and coming into effect on January 1, 2026 to enhance total cost reporting for investment funds and segregated funds.
•In the U.S., significant changes to the federal regulatory and policy environment are in progress, affecting taxation, healthcare, technology, trade, and environmental, social and governance ("ESG"), among other things, and the state landscape remains similarly dynamic. These changes could directly or indirectly impact our business.
•Multiple countries where we do business have applied a number of targeted sanctions, tariffs and trade restrictions on one another in recent years and there may be heightened risks and uncertainties to our business in the impacted jurisdictions as a result of these developments.
•Regulators are increasing their focus on operational risks and resilience. New laws, regulations, guidelines, directives and expectations continue to emerge that will require the Company to enhance its operational risk management and resilience, including its technology and information security programs, upgrade its third-party risk management and data governance and privacy programs. The continued emergence of these legal and regulatory requirements will also increase the Company's regulatory reporting obligations and have an impact on the costs and resources associated with these activities.
•The ESG-related regulatory environment continues to evolve rapidly, with regulators taking divergent approaches to regulation, which could lead to business and strategic risks. We continue to evolve our risk management practices and disclosures to implement existing regulatory requirements. Across the jurisdictions in which we operate, we continue to monitor the development of new regulatory requirements governing the analysis and reporting of ESG risks. In Canada, OSFI Guideline B-15 - Climate Risk Management came into force in fiscal year-end 2024 and sets out OSFI’s expectations related to the management and disclosure of climate-related risks by FRFIs. In May 2025, Sun Life published its inaugural OSFI B-15 Climate Risk Management Report and has established implementation plans for compliance with subsequent phases of the guideline, including additional disclosure expectations for fiscal year-end 2025. In the U.S., we continue to monitor the fragmented ESG-related regulatory landscape. Federal climate disclosure rules have stalled, while state governments and regulators are taking divergent approaches and conflicting actions as they continue to focus on the ESG
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practices of financial institutions, asset managers, and large U.S. entities conducting business in their states reflecting the differing views surrounding ESG matters in the U.S. In addition, we are monitoring the development and enforcement of anti-greenwashing laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate.
See the heading Regulatory Matters in the AIF for a description of our regulatory environment in Canada, the U.S., Asia and Bermuda and other examples of changes in regulation that may affect our business and operations.
Environmental and Social Risk
Our financial performance, operations, and reputation may be adversely affected if we do not adequately prepare for the direct or indirect impacts of environmental and social risks. Environmental and social risks include but are not limited to environmental damage on properties occupied, owned or managed by us; physical and transition risks; as well as public health and inequality risks. These risks may impact our direct operations, investing activities or other areas of our value chain.
Environmental and social risks can arise as a direct result of the increased frequency and severity of environmental disasters, extreme weather events, related emerging regulatory and public policy developments, and their impacts on our operations, invested assets, suppliers, Clients and reputation. They can also arise indirectly through heightened stakeholder expectations around environmental and social performance, resource constraints, costs associated with mitigation and adaptation, and Clients and suppliers negatively impacted by the aforementioned. Environmental and social risks are considered in our risk assessment processes.
As an owner/lessor of and investor in real estate, we may be impacted where environmental events damage or disrupt our underlying properties. Our businesses and the properties underlying our investments are subject to environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Consequently, we may experience environmental impacts or liabilities that could adversely affect the value of those businesses and properties, their ability to generate income, and costs related to any compliance requirements or remediation. Through other invested assets, such as loans, bonds or equity investments, we could be subject to these impacts and negative consequences from environmental issues arising at the level of the issuer and/or specific asset. Our reputation and operations may be adversely affected if we or our tenants, borrowers, or other associated parties violate environmental regulations or best practices.
Environmental risks could also harm the financial position of our reinsurers and insurers of property which we own, lease, have invested in, or manage. In turn, this may increase the risk of default on recoveries from these reinsurers and insurers, may increase the cost of reinsuring our business or the cost of insurance, and may result in reinsurance or insurance coverage being unavailable.
Significant environmental changes and disasters may also reduce the overall level of economic activity in affected areas which could hurt our businesses, the value of our investments, our ability to offer products and services, or service our existing Clients. As noted above under Insurance Risk - Mortality and Morbidity Risk, environmental risks have implications in areas such as the concentration risk presented by environmental disasters. As these events increase, they may impact our mortality and morbidity experience and our pricing and modelling assumptions.
If our Clients, shareholder groups, or other key stakeholders deem that our environmental and social practices are inadequate or inappropriate, our business could be negatively affected. Failure to comply with an existing or potential Client's environmental or social policies (or not meeting their minimum requirements) could disqualify us from the opportunity to bid on, earn, or retain business. We may also experience reduced access to capital markets if certain indices find that our practices fall short of their criteria and we are removed as an index constituent.
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.
Operational Risk Management Governance and Control
We employ a wide range of operational risk management practices and controls, as outlined below:
•Operational risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Board Committees.
•Risk appetite limits have been established in Operational Risk.
•Comprehensive Operational Risk Management Framework, Policies, guidelines and practices are in place.
•Our governance practices, corporate values, Code of Conduct and Company-wide approach to managing risk set the foundation for mitigating operational risks.
•Our Code of Conduct sets the tone for our high standards of ethical behaviour, and we regularly review and update the Code of Conduct to ensure that it continues to meet the expectations of regulators and other stakeholders. All our directors and employees must reconfirm annually their understanding of and commitment to comply with the Code of Conduct.
•We have established appropriate internal controls and systems for talent acquisition, rewards and development programs that attract, build and retain top talent and create strong succession plans as well as compensation programs, and we provide ongoing training to our people.
•We conduct regular monitoring of employee engagement to ensure we create and maintain a work environment where all employees are welcome and able to contribute effectively.
•Stress-testing techniques, such as FCT, are used to measure the effects of large and sustained adverse scenarios.
•We mitigate a portion of our operational risk exposure through our corporate insurance program by purchasing insurance coverage that seeks to provide insurance against unexpected material losses resulting from events such as criminal activity, property loss or damage and liability exposures, or that satisfies legal requirements and contractual obligations.
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•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 operational risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail.
Information Security and Privacy Risks
Information and technology are used in almost all aspects of our business and operations. As part of our Client strategy, we continue to enhance the digital side of our business to support and enable new business models and processes, that are more personal, proactive and predictive.
Our business and the successful implementation of our digital strategy are dependent on various factors including maintaining a secure environment for information belonging to our Clients, employees and other parties that interact with us. 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, AI 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.
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. 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 to actively monitor for increases in malicious activity due to escalating geopolitical tensions across the globe.
In particular, privacy breaches could occur and may result in unauthorized access, use or disclosure of personal information. Many jurisdictions in which we do business are developing and implementing cyber security reporting requirements and more stringent consumer privacy legislation, often with greater enforcement powers for regulators and higher fines and penalties for organizations.
We continue investing in people, processes, and technology to strengthen our abilities to respond to the evolving threat landscape. 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. Examples of our established controls and processes include:
•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. 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.
•Our Chief Privacy Officer oversees the global privacy program and sets direction for privacy compliance across the enterprise. Our global privacy program monitors adherence to our global privacy commitments, local laws and local privacy policies.
•Over 30 Privacy Officers across the enterprise monitor emerging privacy legislation, help our businesses make privacy-related decisions and provide guidance on handling personal information.
•We deliver general privacy training annually to all employees supported by targeted training as needed, and provide regular monitoring and reporting.
•Our protection strategy leverages information security risk assessments and privacy impact assessments to evaluate potential risks.
•We carry cyber risk insurance to help mitigate the impact of security and privacy incidents.
The threat environment is rapidly and constantly changing, and there remains a possibility that our processes and controls could be unsuccessful in detecting or preventing a security breach. We remain vulnerable, and work with third parties who may also be vulnerable, to computer viruses and other types of malicious software, cyber-attacks and hacking attempts from unauthorized persons, the physical theft of computer systems, internal programming or human errors, fraud, or other disruptive problems or events. There is also a risk that certain internal controls fail, which could also exacerbate the consequences from such events.
Human Resources Risk
Our ability to achieve business objectives can be adversely affected if we are unable to attract, retain or effectively deploy resources with the in-depth knowledge and necessary skills required, or are unable to design compensation and talent programs that effectively drive employee behaviour and shape corporate culture. Failure to manage Human Resources risk can also lead to direct financial and reputational loss including losses arising from activity that is inconsistent with Human Rights or employment laws or health and safety regulations.
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.
Regulatory Compliance, Legal and Conduct Risk
We are subject to extensive regulatory oversight by financial services regulators in the jurisdictions in which we conduct business. Failure to comply with applicable laws or to conduct our business consistent with changing regulatory or public expectations could adversely impact our reputation and may lead to regulatory investigations, examinations, proceedings, settlements, penalties, fines, restrictions on our business, litigation or an inability to carry out our business strategy.
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As a business with external Clients and stakeholders, we face many operational risks, including, legal, fraud, privacy, financial crimes, conduct, and firm administration. Examples of how these operational risks may affect our business are outlined below:
a.Legal Risk: during the normal course of operating our business, we are subject to the risk of adverse litigation including class action lawsuits. Such litigation could result in reputational damage and financial loss.
b.Fraud Risk: both internal and external fraud are possibilities within our business, such as the submission of fraudulent claims. Such actions could result in reputational damage, financial loss and lawsuits.
c.Privacy Risk: any breach of personal information could have ramifications for our business and may lead to lawsuits and reputational damage.
d.Financial Crimes Risk: non-compliance with regulatory requirements and the failure to manage the risk around Money-Laundering, Terrorist Financing, Sanctions, Bribery and Corruption can lead to financial loss, reputational damage, and business sanctions.
e.Conduct Risk: the risk of unfair treatment of Clients as a result of inadequate or failed processes or inappropriate behaviours, offerings, or interactions by the Enterprise, its Employees, Agents, Distributors, or other third parties which could lead to reputational damage, business sanctions and financial loss. This includes risk arising from non-compliance with Regulatory Requirements, how we design, develop, market, distribute, sell and service our products to our Clients, and how we address or attend to Client queries.
f.Firm Administration Regulatory Risk: the risk arising from the administration of the firm that is not compliant with applicable laws and regulations, which may result in reputational damage, business sanctions and financial loss.
As an international organization, we are subject to anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws, and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate in, each of which include significant civil and criminal penalties if breached. Our policies, including our Code of Conduct, require strict adherence to these laws. We, or our joint ventures, Distributors or other third-parties acting on our behalf, may from time to time interact with government officials, which presents a heightened risk of censure under anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws if our or our business partners' due diligence or other procedures when interacting with government officials are deemed inadequate.
Financial services regulators and other government agencies in jurisdictions we operate regularly make inquiries, conduct investigations and administer examinations with respect to compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As well, regulators and governmental authorities, industry groups and rating agencies have developed initiatives regarding market conduct. Financial services regulators and other governmental authorities in many of the countries in which we operate have raised issues and commenced regulatory inquiries, investigations and proceedings with respect to current and past business practices in the financial services industry and have given greater emphasis to the investigation of those practices. Current and future regulatory investigations, examinations, proceedings, and civil actions arising out of such matters could adversely affect our reputation, and may result in settlements, penalties, fines, restrictions on our business, litigation or an inability to carry out our business strategy or may cause us to make changes to our business and compliance practices, policies and procedures, which in turn could impact our profitability and future financial results and increase our litigation risk.
Under the Insurance Companies Act and the Supervisory Information (Insurance) Regulations (Canada) and pursuant to similar restrictions in other jurisdictions, we are prohibited from directly or indirectly disclosing any supervisory information relating to SLF Inc., Sun Life Assurance and their affiliates.
Our Chief Compliance Officer oversees our comprehensive Enterprise-wide compliance framework, which is aligned with guidance from OSFI and other regulators. This framework promotes proactive, risk-based management of compliance and regulatory risk, and includes Enterprise and business segment policies 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, sanctions, anti-bribery and corruption, fraud, privacy and information security risk management.
•Effective governance, oversight and implementation is a coordinated effort between first and second lines of defence functions. Second line oversight and effective challenge relies on a network of compliance officers.
•The Chief Compliance Officer reports regularly to the Board and Board Committees on the health of the compliance program, key compliance risks, emerging regulatory trends, escalation of significant issues and key risk indicators.
Information Technology Risk
The use of technology and computer systems is essential in supporting and maintaining business operations. We use technology to support virtually all aspects of our business and operations. The rapidly changing business environment increases the risk of our technology strategy not being agile enough to adapt to new business demands in a timely manner leading to financial losses, increased costs and the inability to meet Client needs.
Initiatives supporting our business strategy rely on developing innovative and timely information technology solutions and resilient technology supporting our critical operations. Although every reasonable precaution is taken to ensure information technology systems remain available, stable, and current, it is not possible to fully eliminate all risk. Some changes and upgrades are extremely complex and there is a chance that an undetected technical flaw may exist, which, when implemented, stops or disrupts critical information technology systems or business applications.
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.
An interruption in our relationship with certain third parties or other parties engaged by such third parties, the impairment of their reputation or creditworthiness, their failure to provide contracted services in the manner agreed or in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,
or the ability to timely and cost effectively transition to alternate third parties in the event of a disruption could materially and adversely affect our business objectives or expose us to regulatory fines and/or reputational harm.
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-party risk assessments and a risk-based approach to conducting due diligence. The key elements and risks associated with the third
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Business Disruption Risk
To conduct operations, our businesses are dependent on the availability of a range of resources including trained employees, physical locations, access to technology and third parties.
A sustained failure of one or more of our key business processes or systems could materially and adversely impact our business, operations, employees and ability to deliver to our Clients. These failures can result from disruption of our processes and systems due to a range of risks including utility outages, fires, floods, severe storms, cyber-attacks, terrorism and other human-made attacks, natural disasters and other events. We have experienced increased incidents and impacts of disruption due to weather events such as tropical storms and flooding in the geographies in which we operate, as well as earthquakes, and pandemic risks.
Business disruptions can also occur due to changes in environmental risk. The related impacts have been highlighted above under the heading Environmental and Social Risk. Also, because some of our business processes are performed by third parties and some of our systems interface with, or are dependent on, third-party systems, we could experience service interruptions if these third-party operations or systems are degraded and/or fail.
To mitigate the risk of disruption, we have implemented a business continuity management program and are building an operational resiliency program to regularly test and facilitate the recovery of critical business operations. This program encompasses business continuity, crisis management, disaster recovery planning, operational resilience and includes periodic testing of these plans.
Our policy, guidelines and operating procedures establish consistent processes to manage the impact to key business functions and operations and to support effective and efficient resumption should a major disruption occur. In addition to regular updates and testing of 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 AI, predictive modelling 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.
Model risk can arise from many sources including:
•inappropriate methodologies,
•assumptions or parameters,
•incorrect use of source data,
•inaccurate or untimely source data,
•incorrect application or operator errors,
•increasing product complexity, and
•regulatory expectations.
If the models' methodologies and assumptions are not appropriately set or well controlled, or data or implementation errors occur in the models, this could result in a negative impact on our results and financial position.
Many of our methods and models for managing risk and exposures are based upon the use of observed historical precedents for financial market behaviour, credit experience and insurance risks. As a result, these methods may not fully predict future risk exposures, which can be significantly greater than our historical measures indicate. Other risk management methods depend upon the evaluation of information regarding markets, Clients, catastrophic occurrence or other matters that are publicly available or otherwise accessible to us. However, this information may not always be accurate, complete, up-to-date, properly evaluated or necessarily indicative of ultimate realized experience. As we review and update our models, changes might be made to valuation methods and assumptions, which may impact our results.
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.
Information Management Risk
As an international provider of financial services, we deal with extensive information across a number of countries.
Information management risk is the:
a.inability to capture, manage, retain and appropriately dispose of business records,
b.the inability to provide data that is valid, complete, accurate, consistent, unique, or timely to support business decisions, and
c.the inability to manage data location and cross-border access 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 a data governance framework, which includes a records management program, data quality best practices, and data residency controls.
We continue to evolve our risk management best practices to manage risks associated with GenAI as we identify use cases and run experiments designed to identify opportunities.
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vi. Liquidity Risk
Risk Description
| Liquidity risk is the possibility that we will not be able to fund all cash outflow commitments and collateral requirements as they fall due. This includes the risk of being forced to sell assets at depressed prices resulting in realized losses on sale. This risk also includes restrictions on our ability to efficiently allocate capital among our subsidiaries due to various market and regulatory constraints on the movement of funds. Our funding obligations arise in connection with the payment of policyholder benefits, expenses, reinsurance settlements, asset purchases, investment commitments, interest on debt, and dividends on common and preferred shares. Sources of available cash flow include general fund premiums and deposits, investment related inflows (such as maturities, principal repayments, investment income and proceeds of asset sales), proceeds generated from financing activities, and dividends and interest payments from subsidiaries. We have various financing transactions and derivative contracts under which we may be required to pledge collateral or to make payments to our counterparties for the decline in market value of specified assets. The amount of collateral or payments required may increase under certain circumstances (such as changes to interest rates, credit spreads, equity markets or foreign exchange rates), which could adversely affect our liquidity. |
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Under stress conditions, increases in funding obligations can occur in conjunction with reductions in cost effective sources of available cash inflow. In particular, adverse stress scenarios could involve increases in policyholder cash surrenders and terminations and decreases in the amounts of premiums and deposits being generated by existing and new Clients. Adverse capital market conditions may also be associated with a reduction in available market liquidity and clearing prices for expected asset sales, and reductions in the level of cash inflows (dividends, interest payments and expected maturities) on continuing portfolio investments. These developments could have an adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.
We engage in various transactions including repurchase agreements and other capital markets transactions to meet short-term cash requirements. The cost and our ability to execute these transactions may be negatively impacted by illiquid or volatile markets. Disruption in the financial markets may limit our access to capital in the event we are required to seek additional liquidity to operate our businesses. This will result in increased costs to raise capital coupled with less desirable terms or maturities which would decrease future profitability and financial flexibility.
SLF Inc. is a holding company for its insurance, wealth and asset management subsidiaries and does not have significant operations of its own. Dividends and interest payments from its subsidiaries are its principal sources of cash. If the cash received from its subsidiaries is insufficient, then it may be required to raise debt or equity externally or sell some of its assets. 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.
In addition, rating agencies publish credit ratings of securities issued by SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries, which have an impact on the interest rates paid by those companies on borrowed funds. A material downgrade in the issuer credit ratings could limit our access to capital or increase the cost of borrowing and may have an adverse effect on our financial condition.
We have established financing arrangements that support NAIC statutory reserves for universal life policies issued by Sun Life Assurance in the U.S. Our ability to support these reserves with these financing structures can be negatively impacted by market conditions and regulatory changes. Further, these financings, in all or in part, are treated as operating leverage by the rating agencies. If, due to a change in rating agency methodology or position, the rating agencies cease to treat these financings as operating leverage, without providing any grandfathering provisions, there may be an adverse impact on our credit and financial strength ratings.
| Liquidity Risk Management Governance and Control<br><br>We generally maintain a conservative liquidity position and employ a wide range of liquidity risk management practices and controls, which are described below:<br><br>•Liquidity risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Risk Committee.<br><br>•Liquidity is managed in accordance with our Asset Liability Management Policy and operating guidelines.<br><br>•Liquidity contingency plans are maintained for the management of liquidity in a liquidity event.<br><br>•Stress testing is performed by comparing liquidity coverage risk metrics under a one-month stress scenario to our policy thresholds. These liquidity coverage risk metrics are measured and managed at the enterprise and legal entity levels.<br><br>•Stress testing of our collateral is performed by comparing collateral coverage ratios to our policy thresholds.<br><br>•Cash Management and asset-liability management programs support our ability to maintain our financial position by ensuring that sufficient cash flow and liquid assets are available to cover potential funding requirements. We invest in various types of assets with a view of matching them to our liabilities of various durations.<br><br>•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.<br><br>•We actively manage and monitor our capital and asset levels, and the diversification and credit quality of our investments.<br><br>•Various credit facilities for general corporate purposes are maintained.<br><br><br><br>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 Client obligations, service debt obligations and to pay other expenses as they fall due. | |||
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Maturity Analysis for Insurance Contracts
| The following tables present the undiscounted estimated future cash flows of insurance contract and reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. These cash flows include estimates related to the timing and payment of death and disability claims, policy surrenders, policy maturities, annuity payments, minimum guarantees on segregated fund products, policyholder dividends, amounts on deposit, commissions and premium taxes offset by contractual future premiums and fees on in-force contracts. These estimated cash flows are based on the best estimated assumptions used in the determination of insurance contract and reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities. Due to the use of assumptions, actual cash flows will differ from these estimates. Amounts payable on demand, which includes amounts on deposit, dividends on deposit, outstanding claims and policyholder account values, are included in the within 1 year time band. Amounts in this table include the liability for incurred claims and liability for remaining coverage for contracts measured using the premium allocation approach ("PAA"). The amounts included in the table differ from the carrying value of the portfolio mainly due to discounting and risk adjustments. | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As at | 1 to <br>2 years | 2 to <br>3 years | 3 to <br>4 years | 4 to<br>5 years | Over 5<br><br>years | Total | ||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| December 31, 2025 ( millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contracts: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets | $ | (382) | $ | (306) | $ | (288) | $ | (267) | $ | (252) | $ | (7,302) | $ | (8,797) | ||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities(1) | 10,183 | 2,973 | 3,516 | 4,501 | 5,563 | 939,926 | 966,662 | |||||||||||||
| Net insurance contract liabilities | $ | 9,801 | $ | 2,667 | $ | 3,228 | $ | 4,234 | $ | 5,311 | $ | 932,624 | $ | 957,865 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets(1) | $ | (837) | $ | (298) | $ | (308) | $ | (319) | $ | (338) | $ | (11,753) | $ | (13,853) | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities | 211 | 189 | 189 | 188 | 188 | 5,198 | 6,163 | |||||||||||||
| Net reinsurance contract held assets | $ | (626) | $ | (109) | $ | (119) | $ | (131) | $ | (150) | $ | (6,555) | $ | (7,690) | ||||||
| December 31, 2024 ( millions) | 1 to <br>2 years | 2 to <br>3 years | 3 to <br>4 years | 4 to<br>5 years | Over 5 <br>years | Total | ||||||||||||||
| Insurance contracts: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets | $ | (633) | $ | (332) | $ | (272) | $ | (263) | $ | (241) | $ | (3,935) | $ | (5,676) | ||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities(1) | 11,269 | 3,254 | 3,363 | 4,059 | 5,211 | 729,030 | 756,186 | |||||||||||||
| Net insurance contract liabilities | $ | 10,636 | $ | 2,922 | $ | 3,091 | $ | 3,796 | $ | 4,970 | $ | 725,095 | $ | 750,510 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets(1) | $ | (847) | $ | (652) | $ | (685) | $ | (707) | $ | (728) | $ | (9,405) | $ | (13,024) | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities | 110 | 99 | 101 | 104 | 107 | 4,769 | 5,290 | |||||||||||||
| Net reinsurance contract held assets | $ | (737) | $ | (553) | $ | (584) | $ | (603) | $ | (621) | $ | (4,636) | $ | (7,734) |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1) Includes amounts payable on demand of $5,386 million (2024 - $5,177 million), and $(26) million (2024 - $(29) million) for Insurance contract liabilities and Reinsurance contract held assets, respectively.
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Maturity Analysis - Other Financial Liabilities
| The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of our significant financial liabilities and contractual commitments other than insurance contracts as at December 31, 2025 and 2024: | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Liabilities and Contractual Obligations | |||||||||||||||
| December 31, 2025<br><br>($ millions) | Within 1<br><br>year | 1 to<br>3 years | 3 to<br>5 years | Over 5<br>years | Total | ||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities(1) | $ | 6,387 | $ | 2,229 | $ | 1,548 | $ | 1,678 | $ | 11,842 | |||||
| Senior debentures and unsecured financing(2) | 1,760 | 28 | 28 | 505 | 2,321 | ||||||||||
| Subordinated debt(2) | 312 | 769 | 606 | 9,762 | 11,449 | ||||||||||
| Bond repurchase agreements | 2,861 | — | — | — | 2,861 | ||||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 9,723 | — | — | — | 9,723 | ||||||||||
| Lease liabilities(3) | 167 | 294 | 236 | 393 | 1,090 | ||||||||||
| Secured borrowings from mortgage securitization | 425 | 560 | 390 | 145 | 1,520 | ||||||||||
| Borrowed funds(2) | 41 | 164 | 189 | 29 | 423 | ||||||||||
| Credit facilities | 1,748 | — | — | — | 1,748 | ||||||||||
| Total liabilities | $ | 23,424 | $ | 4,044 | $ | 2,997 | $ | 12,512 | $ | 42,977 | |||||
| Contractual commitments:(4) | |||||||||||||||
| Contractual loans, equities and mortgages | $ | 2,043 | $ | 1,320 | $ | 647 | $ | 2,209 | $ | 6,219 | |||||
| Total contractual commitments | $ | 2,043 | $ | 1,320 | $ | 647 | $ | 2,209 | $ | 6,219 | |||||
| December 31, 2024<br><br>($ millions) | Within 1<br><br>year | 1 to<br>3 years | 3 to<br>5 years | Over 5<br>years | Total | ||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities(1) | $ | 6,157 | $ | 2,351 | $ | 1,413 | $ | 1,692 | $ | 11,613 | |||||
| Senior debentures and unsecured financing(2) | 2,133 | 28 | 28 | 519 | 2,708 | ||||||||||
| Subordinated debt(2) | 225 | 451 | 585 | 7,248 | 8,509 | ||||||||||
| Bond repurchase agreements | 2,840 | — | — | — | 2,840 | ||||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 10,085 | — | — | — | 10,085 | ||||||||||
| Lease liabilities(3) | 166 | 262 | 207 | 421 | 1,056 | ||||||||||
| Secured borrowings from mortgage securitization | 461 | 758 | 382 | 380 | 1,981 | ||||||||||
| Borrowed funds(2) | 23 | 107 | 244 | 31 | 405 | ||||||||||
| Credit facilities | 2,126 | — | — | — | 2,126 | ||||||||||
| Total liabilities | $ | 24,216 | $ | 3,957 | $ | 2,859 | $ | 10,291 | $ | 41,323 | |||||
| Contractual commitments:(4) | |||||||||||||||
| Contractual loans, equities and mortgages | $ | 1,242 | $ | 985 | $ | 576 | $ | 2,054 | $ | 4,857 | |||||
| Total contractual commitments | $ | 1,242 | $ | 985 | $ | 576 | $ | 2,054 | $ | 4,857 | |||||
| (1) These amounts represent the undiscounted estimated cash flows of investment contract liabilities on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. | |||||||||||||||
| (2) Payments due based on maturity dates and include expected interest payments. Actual redemption of certain securities may occur sooner as some include an option for the issuer to call the security at par at an earlier date. | |||||||||||||||
| (3) Liabilities associated with the lease commitments are included on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. | |||||||||||||||
| (4) Contractual commitments are not reported on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Additional information on these commitments is included in Note 22 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. |
Additional information on liquidity risk can be found in Note 6 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
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vii. Other Risks
International Operations
The future success of our businesses in our international operations depends in large part on our ability to grow and compete in the markets where we operate. Challenges in these markets pose strategic and execution risk including our ability to attract and retain qualified employees and executives with local experience and critical skills, geopolitical, legal, economic, competition or other risks, risks associated with joint venture operations, developing and executing our risk management practices, and our ability to attract, retain, expand and diversify distribution channels.
If we are unable to attract, retain and engage qualified employees and executives with relevant experience and critical business skills, our ability to grow our business in our international operations as quickly as planned may be limited. Competition for qualified employees and distribution partners in our international operations, in particular the Asian markets, continues to be strong and could adversely impact our ability to attract and retain talent.
Our international operations may face geopolitical, legal and regulatory, economic, competitive, operational or other risks that we may not face in our domestic operations. Examples of this type of risk are the risk of changes in regulation, geopolitical risks due to changes in government, discriminatory regulation, political instability, nationalization or expropriation of assets, changes to the maximum level of non-domestic ownership, price controls and exchange controls or other restrictions that could prevent us from transferring funds from these operations out of the countries in which they operate or converting local currencies we hold into Canadian dollars or other currencies.
Capital markets in certain international markets may not have the same depth, liquidity or range of investment options generally available in other markets in which we operate. In particular, the more limited availability of long-duration assets exposes our Asian operations to higher asset-liability management costs and potential risk.
We have entered into joint venture arrangements in certain markets in Asia, where we may have a lesser degree of control over these businesses that may expose us to additional operational, financial, compliance and legal risks. We may be dependent on our joint venture counterparty for capital, product distribution, local market knowledge, or other resources. Our ability to exercise management control or influence over these joint ventures and the success of our investments in them will depend on the cooperation between the joint venture participants and the terms of the joint venture agreements, which allocate control among the joint venture participants. If we are unable to effectively manage these joint ventures, or any joint venture counterparty fails to meet its obligations under the joint venture arrangement, encounters financial difficulty, elects to alter, modify or terminate the relationship, or a joint venture does not comply with local legislation or regulations, we may be unable to achieve our objectives and our results of operations and brand may be negatively impacted.
Capital Adequacy
Capital adequacy risk is the risk that our capital position is not or will not be sufficient to withstand adverse economic conditions, to maintain our financial strength, to allow us and our subsidiaries to support ongoing operations and to take advantage of opportunities for expansion, and to support the risk taking activity in pursuit of our business objectives.
The strength of our capital position depends in part upon the level of and changes in interest rates and equity prices, credit experience, mortality and morbidity experience, currency rate fluctuations and our overall profitability.
Various factors may negatively impact our capital ratios, and may impair our financial position and our ability to execute our business strategies and plans, such as:
•Declining equity markets
•Downgrades in ratings
•Changes in interest rates
•Changes in credit spreads on corporate bonds and asset backed securities
•Lower earnings
•Inability to access capital markets on a timely basis
In addition, regulatory changes being considered by other regulators world-wide may adversely impact the capital of SLF Inc. and its insurance subsidiaries.
Credit and Financial Strength Ratings
Financial strength ratings represent the opinions of rating agencies regarding an insurance company's ability to meet its policy obligations. Credit ratings indicate the opinions of rating agencies regarding an issuer's ability to meet the terms of debt, preferred share and Tier 1 hybrid capital obligations in a timely manner, and are important factors in a company’s overall funding profile and ability to access external capital. A downgrade by a rating agency in the credit ratings of securities issued by SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries or the financial strength ratings of SLF Inc.'s insurance company subsidiaries could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
The financial strength rating of an insurance company is a key competitive factor in marketing its products and in attracting and retaining agents and distributors. If our credit or financial strength ratings are downgraded, our financial condition, competitive position and results of operations could be negatively impacted in many ways, including:
•Reducing new sales of insurance products, annuities and investment products;
•Requiring us to reduce prices for products and services to remain competitive;
•Higher level of surrenders and withdrawals;
•Higher reinsurance costs;
•Increasing our cost of capital and limiting our access to the capital markets, thus reducing our financial flexibility;
•Reducing our ability to enter into normal course derivative or hedging transactions and increasing the costs associated with such transactions; and
•Adversely affecting our relationships with our advisors and third-party distributors of our products.
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In addition, downgrades in our credit or financial strength ratings below thresholds specified in certain of our derivative agreements, reinsurance agreements and other agreements could result in the counterparties to those agreements having the right to terminate those agreements or to require that we provide support for those agreements in the form of collateral or letters of credit.
Changes in methodologies and criteria used by rating agencies could also result in downgrades that do not reflect changes in the general economic conditions or our financial condition.
Additional information concerning our ratings is provided in the AIF under the heading Security Ratings.
Tax Matters
The validity and measurement of tax benefits associated with various tax positions taken or expected to be taken in our tax filings are a matter of tax law and are subject to interpretation. 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 income tax implications of the transactions and events during the period. There can be a risk that tax authorities could differ in their interpretation of the relevant laws and could assert that tax positions taken by the company give rise to a need for reassessment, including reassessment under specific or general anti-avoidance rules or transfer pricing provisions.
The assessment of additional taxes, interest and penalties or damage to the Company’s reputation could be materially adverse to our future results of operations and financial position.
Under the liability method of accounting for income taxes, deferred tax assets are recognized for the carryforward of unused tax losses and tax credits, as well as amounts that have already been recorded in the financial statements, but will not result in deductible amounts in determining taxable income until future periods. Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent of the probability that taxable profit will be available against which the future tax deductions and unused tax losses can be utilized.
At the end of each reporting period, we must assess the value of our deferred tax assets. The determination of our deferred tax assets is dependent upon projections of future taxable profits. Our projections require significant judgments and estimates about future events, including global economic conditions and the future profitability of our businesses. If the profitability of our businesses is lower than our projections or if our outlook diminishes significantly, we may be required to reduce the value of our deferred tax assets. Any change to our deferred tax assets could have a material adverse impact on our future results of operations and financial position.
We are also subject to changing income tax regulations. We currently have an effective income tax rate that is lower than the Canadian statutory income tax rate for corporations. The Company reflects favourable tax impacts in its financial statements from certain tax benefits, including but not limited to tax-exempt or low-taxed investment income, dividends received deductions, tax credits (from certain investments or from taxes paid on foreign source income), and favourable tax rates in certain jurisdictions in which we operate. In addition, many of our life insurance products benefit Clients with preferred tax treatment under various tax regimes. For example life insurance policies and annuity contracts in the U.S. and Canada allow for the deferral or elimination of taxation on earnings (inside buildup) accrued under the policy. There is a risk that tax legislation, administrative guidance or legislative developments could lessen or eliminate some of the benefits currently available to the Company or its policyholders. This risk could result in lower product sales or increased lapses of policies, and could have a material adverse effect on our future results of operations and financial position.
From time to time, governments in countries in which we operate enact changes to statutory corporate income tax rates. A change in income tax rate requires us to review and re-measure our deferred tax assets and liabilities as of the date of substantive enactment. As of December 31, 2025, the Company reported a $3,502 million net deferred tax asset in its Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, primarily in Canada. Any future tax rate reductions in jurisdictions where we carry a net deferred tax asset could result in a reduction in the carrying value of the deferred tax asset and a corresponding income tax expense at the time of substantive enactment of a rate reduction.
GMT rules apply to Sun Life effective January 1, 2024. Canadian GMT legislation requires the ultimate parent entity of a group to pay top-up tax, on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis, on profits of its subsidiaries that are taxed below 15%. Some jurisdictions have enacted a QDMTT which requires the GMT top-up tax to be paid locally rather than to the ultimate parent entity's jurisdiction. In response to the GMT rules, Bermuda enacted a CIT regime, including a corporate income tax rate of 15%, which applies to Sun Life effective January 1, 2025. The Bermuda CIT is not a QDMTT for the purposes of GMT. Top-up tax may still be payable by the ultimate parent entity under the IIR, depending on the effective tax rate in Bermuda. Other Sun Life subsidiaries that are currently subject to a statutory tax rate or to a tax regime that could result in taxing profits at a rate below 15% include those in Hong Kong and Ireland, which have both enacted a QDMTT.
| L. Additional Financial Disclosure |
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- Selected Annual Information
| ($ millions, after-tax, unless otherwise stated) | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total revenue (pre-tax) | 41,900 | 38,633 | 40,774 |
| Common shareholders' net income (loss) | 3,472 | 3,049 | 3,086 |
| Reported basic earnings per share ($) | 6.17 | 5.27 | 5.27 |
| Reported earnings per share (diluted) ($) | 6.15 | 5.26 | 5.26 |
| Total assets | 398,455 | 370,721 | 333,241 |
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| --- | --- | --- | --- |
- Items related to Statement of Operations
i. Business Group Summary Statements of Operations
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Canada | U.S. | Asset<br>Management | Asia | Corporate | Total | Total |
| Insurance revenue | 9,220 | 12,936 | — | 1,826 | — | 23,982 | 22,637 |
| Investment income (loss) | 3,237 | 1,642 | 239 | 3,670 | 71 | 8,859 | 7,415 |
| Fee income | 1,954 | 534 | 6,624 | 353 | (406) | 9,059 | 8,581 |
| Revenue | 14,411 | 15,112 | 6,863 | 5,849 | (335) | 41,900 | 38,633 |
| Insurance service expenses | 7,410 | 12,020 | — | 984 | — | 20,414 | 19,631 |
| Reinsurance contract held net (income) expense | 163 | (115) | — | 46 | — | 94 | (85) |
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | 2,159 | 1,399 | — | 3,229 | — | 6,787 | 5,139 |
| Reinsurance finance (income) expenses | 17 | (105) | — | 19 | — | (69) | (51) |
| (Decrease) increase in investment contract liabilities | 320 | — | — | 3 | — | 323 | 393 |
| Other income | — | — | — | — | — | — | (163) |
| Interest expenses | 172 | 129 | 138 | 87 | — | 526 | 664 |
| Operating expenses and commissions | 2,137 | 1,123 | 5,038 | 591 | 138 | 9,027 | 8,766 |
| Total expenses | 12,378 | 14,451 | 5,176 | 4,959 | 138 | 37,102 | 34,294 |
| Income tax expense (benefit) | 513 | 116 | 428 | 79 | (120) | 1,016 | 1,040 |
| Dividends on preferred shares and distributions on other equity instruments | — | — | — | — | 79 | 79 | 80 |
| Non-controlling interests and participating policyholders' income in net income of subsidiaries | 118 | 25 | 45 | 43 | — | 231 | 170 |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 1,402 | 520 | 1,214 | 768 | (432) | 3,472 | 3,049 |
2025 vs. 2024
Canada
Canada's revenue decreased $1.2 billion in 2025, reflecting lower net investment income primarily from fair value changes of invested assets partially offset by higher insurance revenue.
U.S.
U.S.'s revenue increased $2.0 billion in 2025, driven by higher net investment income primarily from fair value changes of invested assets and higher insurance revenue.
Asset Management
Asset Management's revenue increased $0.2 billion in 2025, driven by higher fee income in SLC Management and MFS.
Asia
Asia's revenue increased $2.3 billion in 2025, driven by higher net investment income primarily from fair value changes of invested assets and higher insurance revenue.
Corporate
Corporate's loss of $0.3 billion in 2025 was in line with the prior year.
ii. Revenue
Revenues are primarily derived from life and health insurance, investment management and annuities, and mutual funds, as well as Corporate investments and earnings on capital not attributed to a strategic business segment. Total revenue is comprised of: (i) insurance revenue; (ii) net investment income; and (iii) fee income. Total revenue excludes investment result for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders.
Insurance revenue is comprised of the portion of premiums that cover expected claims and directly attributable expenses in the period, as well as the release of risk adjustment and the amortization of CSM for the period. Insurance revenue excludes the portion of premiums that cover repayment of investment components.
Net investment income is comprised of interest income, dividends, realized and unrealized gains and losses, and other investment income earned on general fund assets. Net investment income, such as net rental income, fair value changes, and foreign exchange gains (losses) are also earned from non-financial instruments. 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
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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 or classified 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 excluding those for account of segregated fund holders.
Fee income includes distribution fees, fund management and other asset-based fees, primarily earned in the Asset Management segment. Fee income also includes administrative service and other fees primarily earned in the Canada and U.S. segments. Premium and deposit equivalents from administrative services only ("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.
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance revenue | ||
| Annuities | 2,542 | 2,395 |
| Life insurance | 5,839 | 5,620 |
| Health insurance | 15,601 | 14,622 |
| Total insurance revenue | 23,982 | 22,637 |
| Net Investment income (loss) | 8,859 | 7,415 |
| Fee income | 9,059 | 8,581 |
| Total revenue | 41,900 | 38,633 |
2025 vs. 2024
Total revenue increased by $3.3 billion, driven by higher net investment income primarily from fair value changes of invested assets and higher insurance revenue. Foreign exchange translation increased revenue by $0.5 billion. By business group, revenue was driven by higher net investment income primarily in Asia and the U.S., partially offset by lower net investment income in Canada, and higher insurance revenue primarily in the U.S., Canada, and Asia.
Insurance revenue increased $1.3 billion, primarily driven by higher insurance revenue in the U.S, Canada, and Asia.
Net investment income increased $1.4 billion primarily from fair value changes of invested assets reflecting the impact of interest rates, credit spreads, and equity markets.
Fee income increased $0.5 billion driven by higher fee income in SLC Management, MFS, and in our other asset management and wealth businesses.
iii. Expenses
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Expenses | ||
| Insurance service expenses | 20,414 | 19,631 |
| Reinsurance contract held net (income) expense | 94 | (85) |
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | 6,787 | 5,139 |
| Reinsurance finance (income) expenses | (69) | (51) |
| (Decrease) increase in investment contract liabilities | 323 | 393 |
| Other income | — | (163) |
| Interest expenses | 526 | 664 |
| Operating expenses and commissions | 9,027 | 8,766 |
| Total expenses | 37,102 | 34,294 |
Total expenses of $37.1 billion increased $2.8 billion in 2025 compared to the prior year, primarily driven by higher insurance finance expenses from insurance contracts issued and higher insurance service expenses.
Insurance service expenses of $20.4 billion increased $0.8 billion in 2025 compared to the prior year, primarily driven by increases in the U.S. and Canada.
Reinsurance contract held net expense of $0.1 billion compared to $0.1 billion net income in the prior year, primarily driven by Canada.
Insurance finance expenses from insurance contracts issued of $6.8 billion increased $1.6 billion in 2025 compared to the prior year, primarily driven by Asia and the U.S., partially offset by insurance finance income from insurance contracts issued in Canada.
Other income of $nil in 2025 compared to prior year other income of $163 million. Prior year other income primarily relates to the early termination of a distribution agreement in Asset Management.
Interest expenses of $0.5 billion decreased $0.1 billion in 2025 compared to the prior year, primarily driven by Canada and Asset Management.
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Operating expenses and commissions of $9.0 billion increased $0.3 billion in 2025 compared to the prior year, primarily driven by higher expenses in Asset Management partially offset by lower expenses in Corporate, and $122 million of unfavourable foreign exchange translation. For additional information, see Note 17 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
iv. Taxes
Income Taxes
In 2025, we had an income tax expense of $1,016 million on reported net income before taxes of $4,798 million, which resulted in an effective income tax rate of 21.2% (2024 - $1,040 million, $4,339 million, and 24.0%, respectively).
On an underlying basis(1), in 2025, we had an income tax expense of $1,051 million on our underlying net income before taxes of $5,394 million, representing an effective income tax rate of 19.5% which is within our expected range of 16% to 22% (2024 - $834 million, $4,831 million, and 17.3%, respectively).
See section D - Profitability - 5 - Income taxes in this document for additional information on our effective tax rates.
- Items related to Statements of Financial Position
i. Changes in items related to the Statement of Financial Position
Total general fund assets were $231.9 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $221.9 billion), primarily driven by net fair value growth from changes in interest rates and credit spreads, and business growth and capital activities, partially offset by unfavourable impacts from foreign exchange translation.
The net liabilities balance for insurance contracts issued(2) was $155.6 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $146.9 billion), primarily driven by cash flows and insurance finance income and expenses from insurance contracts issued, partially offset by foreign currency translation and insurance service result.
Total shareholders' equity, including preferred shares and other equity instruments, is $24.5 billion as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - $25.6 billion). The change in total shareholders' equity included:
(i)common share dividend payments of $1,975 million;
(ii)a decrease of $1,707 million from the repurchase and cancellation of common shares; and
(iii)unfavourable impacts from foreign exchange translation of $899 million included in OCI; partially offset by
(iv)total shareholders' net income of $3,551 million, before preferred share dividends of $79 million; and
(v)net unrealized gains on FVOCI assets of $255 million.
As at January 30, 2026, SLF Inc. had 553,873,373 common shares, 2,887,502 options to acquire SLF Inc. common shares, and 52,200,000 Class A Shares outstanding.
ii. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
In the normal course of business, we are engaged in a variety of financial arrangements. The principal purposes of these arrangements are to earn management fees and additional spread on a matched book of business and to reduce financing costs.
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. For more information, see Note 5 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
iii. Goodwill and Intangibles Impairment
The Company completed its annual goodwill and indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing in the fourth quarter of 2025. Impairment charges on intangible assets of $88 million were recognized in 2025 (2024 - $201 million), primarily reflecting a customer relationship intangible asset related to the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract. The prior year impact reflects an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam resulting from changes in regulatory and macro-economic factors.
iv. Commitments, Guarantees, Contingencies and Reinsurance Matters
In the normal course of business, we enter into leasing agreements, outsourcing arrangements and agreements involving indemnities to third parties. We are also engaged in arbitration proceedings from time to time with certain companies that have contracts to provide reinsurance to the Company. Information regarding our commitments, guarantees and contingencies are summarized in Note 22 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. A table summarizing our significant financial liabilities and contractual obligations can be found in this MD&A in the section K - Risk Management - 9 - Risk Categories - vi - Liquidity Risk.
(1)Our effective income tax rate on underlying net income is calculated using underlying net income and income tax expense associated with underlying net income, which excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
(2)For more information about the changes in the net insurance contract liabilities, refer to Note 10 of the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
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- Fourth Quarter 2025 Profitability
The following table reconciles our Common shareholders' net income ("reported net income") and underlying net income in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 2024. All factors discussed in this document that impact underlying net income are also applicable to reported net income. Certain adjustments and notable items also impact the CSM, such as mortality experience and assumption changes; see section F - Contractual Service Margin in this document for more information.
| ($ millions, after-tax) | Q4'25 | Q4'24 |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying net income (loss) by business type(1): | ||
| Asset management & wealth | 534 | 486 |
| Group - Health & Protection | 308 | 266 |
| Individual - Protection(2) | 362 | 310 |
| Corporate expenses & other(2) | (110) | (97) |
| Underlying net income(1) | 1,094 | 965 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (179) | (179) |
| Assumption changes and management actions | (31) | 11 |
| Other adjustments | (162) | (560) |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 722 | 237 |
| Underlying ROE(1) | 19.1% | 16.5% |
| Reported ROE(1) | 12.6% | 4.0% |
| Notable items attributable to reported and underlying net income(1): | ||
| Mortality | 55 | 10 |
| Morbidity | 17 | (22) |
| Lapse and other policyholder behaviour | 1 | — |
| Expenses | (42) | (10) |
| Net Credit(3) | 14 | (6) |
| Other(4) | 24 | 16 |
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document. For more information about business types in Sun Life's business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
(2)Effective Q1'25, Regional Office in Asia was moved from the Corporate expenses & other business type to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation
(3)Credit includes rating changes on assets measured at FVTPL, and the ECL impact for assets measured at FVOCI. Effective Q1'25, the release of credit risk adjustments, which are reported in Expected Investment Earnings in the Driver of Earnings analysis, are included in this balance. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
(4)Other notable items are recorded in Net Insurance Service Result and Net Investment Result in the Drivers of Earnings analysis. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Quarterly Comparison - Q4'25 vs. Q4'24
Underlying net income(1) of $1,094 million increased $129 million or 13%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth(1) up $48 million: Improved credit experience and fee income in Canada wealth, higher fee income, net of expenses, in MFS, and higher fee-related earnings, offset by lower net seed investment income, in SLC Management.
•Group - Health & Protection(1) up $42 million: Improved U.S. medical stop-loss morbidity experience and business growth in Canada, partially offset by higher distribution costs in U.S. Group Benefits.
•Individual - Protection(1)(2) up $52 million: Business growth, favourable mortality experience and higher investment earnings in Asia, and favourable mortality experience in the U.S., partially offset by lower contributions from joint ventures in Asia.
•Corporate expenses & other(1)(2) $(13) million increase in net loss reflecting higher financing costs supporting the acquisition of our remaining interests in SLC Management affiliates.
Reported net income of $722 million increased $485 million or 205%, driven by:
•Changes in tax-exempt investment income primarily in Corporate(3) reflecting higher losses in the prior year;
•The increase in underlying net income; and
•The prior year impacts from an impairment charge of $186 million on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam and a provision in U.S. Dental; partially offset by
•Unfavourable ACMA impacts.
•Market-related impacts were in line with the prior year as favourable equity market impacts and improved real estate experience were offset by unfavourable other market-related and interest rate impacts.
Foreign exchange translation led to a decrease of $3 million in underlying net income and had no significant impact to the change in reported net income.
(1)Refer to section D - Profitability in this document for more information on notable items attributable to reported and underlying net income items and section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document for a reconciliation between reported net income and underlying net income. For more information about the business types in Sun Life's operating segments/business groups, see section A - How We Report Our Results in this document.
(2)Effective Q1'25, Regional Office in Asia was moved from the Corporate expenses & other business type to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
(3)Q4'25 results reflect lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $49 million (Q4'24 - lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $234 million).
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The Q4'25 effective income tax rate(1) on underlying net income and reported net income was 21.3% and 28.1% respectively.
Performance by Business Group - Fourth Quarter
We manage our operations and report our financial results in five business segments. The following section describes the operations and financial performance of Asset Management, Canada, U.S., Asia and Corporate.
The following table sets out the differences between our underlying net income (loss) and reported net income (loss) by business group.
| Q4'25 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Asset<br>Management | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 370 | 417 | 210 | 207 | (110) | 1,094 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (22) | (108) | (21) | (46) | (13) | (210) |
| ACMA (pre-tax) | — | (8) | (6) | (21) | — | (35) |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (49) | (9) | (69) | (17) | (5) | (149) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 19 | 15 | 19 | 8 | (39) | 22 |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 318 | 307 | 133 | 131 | (167) | 722 |
| Q4'24 | ||||||
| Underlying net income (loss) | 360 | 366 | 161 | 175 | (97) | 965 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (18) | (142) | (74) | 27 | (14) | (221) |
| ACMA (pre-tax) | — | (1) | (1) | 15 | — | 13 |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (34) | (8) | (143) | (193) | — | (378) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 18 | 38 | 50 | (13) | (235) | (142) |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 326 | 253 | (7) | 11 | (346) | 237 |
Quarterly Comparison - Q4'25 vs. Q4'24
Asset Management
Asset Management underlying net income of $370 million increased $10 million or 3% driven by:
•MFS up $11 million (up $8 million on a U.S. dollar basis): Higher fee income from higher ANA partially offset by higher expenses. Pre-tax net operating profit margin(2) was 40.0% for Q4'25, compared to 40.5% in the prior year.
•SLC Management down $1 million: Higher fee-related earnings offset by lower net seed investment income. Fee-related earnings(2) increased 25% driven by capital raising and higher property management fees. Fee-related earnings margin(2) was 27.5% for Q4'25, compared to 23.0% in the prior year.
Reported net income of $318 million decreased $8 million or 2%.
Foreign exchange translation led to a decrease of $1 million in underlying net income and reported net income, respectively.
Canada
Underlying net income of $417 million increased $51 million or 14%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $41 million: Improved credit experience and higher fee income from higher AUM.
•Group - Health & Protection up $2 million: Business growth and favourable mortality experience mostly offset by less favourable morbidity experience.
•Individual - Protection up $8 million: Favourable insurance experience.
Reported net income of $307 million increased $54 million or 21%, driven by the increase in underlying net income and market-related impacts primarily reflecting improved interest rate impacts partially offset by unfavourable other market-related impacts.
(1)Our effective income tax rate on reported net income is calculated using Total income (loss) before income taxes, as detailed in Note 19 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. Our effective income tax rate on underlying net income is calculated using pre-tax underlying net income, as detailed in section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document, and the associated income tax expense.
(2)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
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U.S.
Underlying net income of US$150 million increased US$35 million or 30%, driven by:
•Group - Health & Protection up US$27 million: Higher Group Benefits results primarily reflecting improved medical stop-loss morbidity experience, partially offset by higher distribution costs.
•Individual - Protection up US$8 million: Favourable mortality experience.
Reported net income was US$93 million compared to reported net loss of US$1 million in prior year, driven by the increase in underlying net income, market-related impacts primarily reflecting improved interest rate impacts, and a prior year provision in Dental, partially offset by DentaQuest acquisition, integration and restructuring costs.
Foreign exchange translation had no significant impact to the change in underlying net income and reported net income, respectively.
Asia
Underlying net income of $207 million increased $32 million or 18%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth down $3 million: Lower fee income related to the transitioning of the administration business to the centralized eMPF platform in Hong Kong.
•Individual - Protection(1) up $35 million: Continued strong sales momentum and in-force business growth across most markets, favourable mortality experience in High Net Worth, higher investment earnings, and lower expenses, partially offset by lower contributions from joint ventures and unfavourable credit experience.
Reported net income of $131 million increased $120 million, driven by the increase in underlying net income and a prior year impairment charge on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam, partially offset by unfavourable market-related and ACMA impacts. The market-related impacts were primarily from unfavourable interest rate and other market-related impacts, partially offset by improved equity market impacts.
Foreign exchange translation led to a decrease of $2 million in underlying net income and a decrease of $1 million in reported net income.
Corporate
Underlying net loss was $110 million, compared to underlying net loss of $97 million in the prior year, reflecting higher financing costs supporting the acquisition of our remaining interests in SLC Management affiliates.
Reported net loss was $167 million compared to reported net loss of $346 million in the prior year, driven by changes in tax-exempt investment income(2) reflecting higher losses in the prior year, partially offset by the change in underlying net loss.
Foreign exchange translation had no significant impact to the change in underlying net income and led to an increase of $3 million in reported net income.
- Fourth Quarter 2025 Growth
Revenue of $8.9 billion increased $1.4 billion compared to the same period in 2024, primarily reflecting fair value changes in invested assets driven by changes in interest rates. Foreign exchange translation decreased revenue by $24 million.
(1)Effective Q1'25, Regional Office in Asia was moved from the Corporate expenses & other business type to the Individual - Protection business type, reflecting a reporting refinement. Prior period amounts reflect current presentation.
(2)Q4'25 results reflect lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $44 million (Q4'24 - lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $234 million).
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- Quarterly Financial Results
The following table provides a summary of our results for the eight most recently completed quarters. A more complete discussion of our historical quarterly results can be found in our Interim and Annual MD&A for the relevant periods.
| ( millions, unless otherwise noted) | Q3'25 | Q2'25 | Q1'25 | Q4'24 | Q3'24 | Q2'24 | Q1'24 |
| Total revenue | 12,421 | 9,199 | 11,351 | 7,509 | 15,333 | 8,916 | 6,875 |
| Common shareholders' net income (loss) | |||||||
| Underlying net income(1) | 1,047 | 1,015 | 1,045 | 965 | 1,016 | 1,000 | 875 |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (14) | (166) | (22) | (179) | 29 | (153) | (70) |
| Assumption changes and management actions | (13) | 3 | (4) | 11 | 36 | 16 | (7) |
| Other adjustments | 86 | (136) | (91) | (560) | 267 | (217) | 20 |
| Reported net income - Common shareholder | 1,106 | 716 | 928 | 237 | 1,348 | 646 | 818 |
| Diluted EPS () | |||||||
| Underlying(1) | 1.86 | 1.79 | 1.82 | 1.68 | 1.76 | 1.72 | 1.50 |
| Reported | 1.97 | 1.26 | 1.62 | 0.41 | 2.33 | 1.11 | 1.40 |
| Basic reported EPS () | |||||||
| Reported | 1.97 | 1.27 | 1.62 | 0.41 | 2.33 | 1.11 | 1.40 |
| Underlying net income (loss) by segment(1) | |||||||
| Asset Management | 350 | 300 | 351 | 360 | 344 | 307 | 282 |
| Canada | 422 | 379 | 376 | 366 | 375 | 402 | 310 |
| U.S. | 147 | 195 | 218 | 161 | 219 | 204 | 189 |
| Asia | 226 | 206 | 197 | 175 | 170 | 179 | 177 |
| Corporate | (98) | (65) | (97) | (97) | (92) | (92) | (83) |
| Total underlying net income (loss)(1) | 1,047 | 1,015 | 1,045 | 965 | 1,016 | 1,000 | 875 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (26) | (187) | (28) | (221) | (12) | (169) | (26) |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | (18) | 4 | (5) | 13 | 63 | 18 | (8) |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | 67 | (181) | (113) | (378) | 246 | (254) | 41 |
| Tax expense (benefit) on above items | 36 | 65 | 29 | (142) | 35 | 51 | (64) |
| Reported net income (loss) by segment - Common shareholders | |||||||
| Asset Management | 316 | 254 | 326 | 326 | 644 | 274 | 284 |
| Canada | 414 | 330 | 351 | 253 | 382 | 292 | 290 |
| U.S. | 98 | 103 | 186 | (7) | 339 | 127 | 97 |
| Asia | 373 | 98 | 166 | 11 | 32 | 151 | 235 |
| Corporate | (95) | (69) | (101) | (346) | (49) | (198) | (88) |
| Total reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 1,106 | 716 | 928 | 237 | 1,348 | 646 | 818 |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1)Represents a non-IFRS financial measure. For more details, see section M - Non-IFRS Financial Measures in this document.
Third Quarter 2025
Underlying net income of $1,047 million increased $31 million or 3%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $26 million: Improved credit experience and higher fee income from higher AUM in Canada, and higher net seed investment income in SLC Management.
•Group - Health & Protection down $61 million: Unfavourable insurance experience across Group Benefits and Dental in the U.S., partially offset by business growth and favourable insurance experience in Canada.
•Individual - Protection up $72 million: Business growth and favourable mortality experience in Asia, higher contributions from our India joint venture, and higher investment earnings in Canada.
•Corporate expenses & other $(6) million increase in net loss reflecting timing of strategic investment spend.
Reported net income of $1,106 million decreased $242 million or 18% from prior year, driven by the prior year decrease in SLC Management's estimated acquisition-related liabilities, unfavourable ACMA impacts and market-related impacts reflecting unfavourable other market-related impacts, primarily from Asia, and real estate experience, partially offset by favourable interest rate impacts, partially offset by a gain from increased ownership interest in Bowtie and the increase in underlying net income.
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Second Quarter 2025
Underlying net income of $1,015 million increased $15 million or 2%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth was in line with the prior year as higher fee-related earnings in SLC Management reflecting strong capital raising, and higher fee income in Asia from higher AUM, was offset by lower fee income in MFS from lower ANA, and lower investment contributions from lower yields.
•Group - Health & Protection up $21 million: Improved U.S. Dental results primarily reflecting Medicaid repricing, higher fee income and management actions, and favourable mortality experience in Canada.
•Individual - Protection down $33 million: Higher expenses in Asia primarily reflecting continued investments in the business, and unfavourable mortality experience in Canada and the U.S., partially offset by business growth in Asia.
•Corporate expenses & other $27 million decrease in net loss primarily driven by timing of strategic investment spend, and lower incentive compensation.
Reported net income of $716 million increased $70 million or 11% from prior year, driven by a prior year restructuring charge of $108 million in Corporate and the increase in underlying net income partially offset by an impairment charge of $61 million on a customer relationship intangible asset from the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract and unfavourable other market-related impacts driven across Asia and Canada, partially offset by favourable interest rate impacts primarily from non-parallel curve changes in Canada, and improved real estate experience.
First Quarter 2025
Underlying net income of $1,045 million increased $170 million or 19% from prior year, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $79 million: Higher fee-related earnings from catch-up fees and strong performance of net seed investment income in SLC Management, and higher fee income in Canada and Asia.
•Group - Health & Protection up $50 million: Business growth and favourable protection experience in Canada primarily from morbidity and mortality experience, and higher U.S. Dental results, partially offset by moderately unfavourable morbidity experience in U.S. medical stop-loss.
•Individual - Protection up $55 million: Business growth and higher contributions from joint ventures in Asia, and improved protection experience in Canada largely from mortality experience.
•Corporate expenses & other $(14) million increase in net loss primarily reflecting lower investment income from surplus assets.
Reported net income of $928 million increased $110 million or 13% from prior year, driven by the increase in underlying net income, market-related impacts primarily reflecting improved real estate experience and favourable interest rate impacts partially offset by unfavourable equity market impacts, and fair value changes in MFS shares owned by management, partially offset by prior year gains on partial sale of ABSLAMC and the early termination of a distribution agreement in Asset Management.
Fourth Quarter 2024
Underlying net income of $965 million decreased $18 million or 2%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $47 million: Higher fee income in Asset Management, Canada, and Asia, partially offset by lower net investment results in Canada.
•Group - Health & Protection down $99 million: Unfavourable morbidity experience in U.S. medical stop-loss and less favourable morbidity experience in Canada, partially offset by business growth in Canada.
•Individual - Protection up $55 million: Improved protection experience in Asia and Canada and higher contributions from joint ventures in Asia.
•Corporate expenses & other $(21) million increase in net loss primarily reflecting higher expenses largely from continued investments in our Asia businesses and incentive compensation in Asia.
Reported net income of $237 million decreased $512 million or 68%, driven by lower tax-exempt investment income of $234 million in Corporate, an impairment charge of $186 million on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam reflecting updates resulting from changes in regulatory and macro-economic factors, and a non-recurring provision in U.S. Dental, partially offset by market-related impacts primarily reflecting improved real estate experience.
Third Quarter 2024
Underlying net income of $1,016 million increased $86 million or 9%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $17 million: Higher fee income in Asset Management, Asia, and Canada, partially offset by unfavourable credit experience in Canada.
•Group - Health & Protection up $60 million: Strong business growth in U.S. Group Benefits and Canada, higher fee-based income in Canada, and improved group life mortality experience in the U.S., partially offset by lower U.S. Dental results.
•Individual - Protection up $9 million: Business growth in Asia and Canada partially offset by unfavourable mortality experience in Asia.
•Corporate expenses & other were in line with prior year.
Reported net income of $1,348 million increased $477 million or 55%, driven by a decrease in SLC Management's estimated acquisition-related liabilities and the increase in underlying net income. Favourable equity market impacts and improved real estate experience were offset by interest rate impacts.
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Second Quarter 2024
Underlying net income of $1,000 million increased $80 million or 9%, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth up $36 million: Higher fee income in Asset Management, Canada, and Asia, partially offset by higher expenses in Asset Management.
•Group - Health & Protection down $55 million: Lower results in U.S. Dental primarily reflecting the impact of Medicaid redeterminations and related claims following the end of the Public Health Emergency, less favourable morbidity experience in Canada, and unfavourable morbidity experience in U.S. medical stop-loss, partially offset by strong business growth in U.S. Group Benefits and Canada.
•Individual - Protection up $82 million: Business growth in Asia and Canada, and favourable mortality experience in Canada and the U.S.
•Corporate expenses & other $17 million decrease in net loss driven by lower operating expenses and financing costs.
Reported net income of $646 million decreased $14 million or 2%. Financial discipline remains core to our Client Impact Strategy and business. In Q2'24, we recorded a restructuring charge of $138 million (post-tax $108 million) reflecting actions taken to improve productivity and drive earnings growth at the higher-end of our Medium-Term Financial Objectives. We expect these actions to result in annual savings of approximately $200 million (pre-tax) by 2026. The restructuring charge is offset by the increase in underlying net income; and market-related impacts primarily reflecting interest rates and real estate investments.
First Quarter 2024
Underlying net income of $875 million decreased $20 million from prior year, driven by:
•Asset management & wealth down $3 million: Higher fee income offset by higher expenses in Asset Management, as well as lower net seed investment income in SLC Management.
•Group - Health & Protection down $23 million: Less favourable morbidity experience in U.S. medical stop-loss and lower results in U.S. Dental primarily reflecting the impact of Medicaid redeterminations following the end of the Public Health Emergency, partially offset by strong revenue growth in U.S. Group Benefits, and business growth and improved disability experience in Canada.
•Individual - Protection down $13 million: Lower earnings due to the sale of Sun Life UK partially offset by business growth in Asia.
•Corporate expenses & other $19 million decrease in net loss driven by lower financing costs.
Reported net income of $818 million increased $12 million from prior year, driven by the gains on partial sale of ABSLAMC and the early termination of a distribution agreement in Asset Management, largely offset by the prior year gain on sale of the sponsored markets business in Canada, fair value changes in MFS shares owned by management, and the decrease in underlying net income. Unfavourable real estate experience was mostly offset by favourable interest rate impacts.
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| M. Non-IFRS Financial Measures | |||
| --- |
- Common Shareholders' View of Reported Net Income
The following table provides the reconciliation of the Drivers of Earnings ("DOE") analysis to the Statement of Operations total net income. The DOE analysis provides additional detail on the sources of earnings, primarily for protection and health businesses, and explains the actual results compared to the longer term expectations. The underlying DOE and reported DOE are both presented on a common shareholders' basis by removing the allocations to participating policyholders.
| ( millions) | 2025 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statement of Operations | Underlying DOE(1) | Non-underlying adjustments(1) | Common Shareholders' Reported DOE(2)(3) | Adjustment for: | Reported <br>(per IFRS) | ||
| Net(3) | |||||||
| Net insurance service result | 3,253 | (28) | 3,225 | 313 | (64) | 3,474 | |
| Net investment result | 1,715 | (224) | 1,491 | 20 | 307 | 1,818 | |
| Assumption changes and management actions(3) | (54) | (54) | — | 54 | |||
| Fee Income: | |||||||
| Asset Management | 1,906 | (232) | 1,674 | (1,674) | |||
| Other fee income | 422 | — | 422 | (22) | 8,659 | 9,059 | |
| Fee income | 9,059 | ||||||
| Other expenses | (1,902) | (374) | (2,276) | — | (7,277) | (9,553) | |
| Income before taxes | 5,394 | (912) | 4,482 | 311 | 5 | 4,798 | |
| Income tax (expense) benefit | (1,051) | 152 | (899) | (117) | — | (1,016) | |
| Total net income | 4,343 | (760) | 3,583 | 194 | 5 | 3,782 | |
| Allocated to Participating and NCI(4) | (63) | 31 | (32) | (194) | (5) | (231) | |
| Dividends and Distributions(5) | (79) | (79) | — | — | (79) | ||
| Underlying net income(1) | 4,201 | ||||||
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | (729) | 3,472 | — | — | 3,472 |
All values are in US Dollars.
| ( millions) | 2024 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statement of Operations | Underlying DOE(1) | Non-underlying adjustments(1) | Common Shareholders' Reported DOE(2)(3) | Adjustment for: | Reported <br>(per IFRS) | ||
| Net(3) | |||||||
| Net insurance service result | 2,996 | — | 2,996 | 243 | (148) | 3,091 | |
| Net investment result | 1,677 | (310) | 1,367 | (97) | 664 | 1,934 | |
| Assumption changes and management actions(3) | 86 | 86 | — | (86) | |||
| Fee income: | |||||||
| Asset Management | 1,762 | 250 | 2,012 | (2,012) | |||
| Other fee income | 321 | — | 321 | (18) | 8,278 | 8,581 | |
| Fee income | 8,581 | ||||||
| Other expenses | (1,925) | (701) | (2,626) | — | (6,641) | (9,267) | |
| Income before taxes | 4,831 | (675) | 4,156 | 128 | 55 | 4,339 | |
| Income tax (expense) benefit | (834) | (120) | (954) | (86) | — | (1,040) | |
| Total net income | 3,997 | (795) | 3,202 | 42 | 55 | 3,299 | |
| Allocated to Participating and NCI(4) | (61) | (12) | (73) | (42) | (55) | (170) | |
| Dividends and Distributions(5) | (80) | — | (80) | — | — | (80) | |
| Underlying net income(1) | 3,856 | ||||||
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | (807) | 3,049 | — | — | 3,049 |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1)For a breakdown of non-underlying adjustments made to arrive at underlying net income as well as the underlying DOE analysis, see the heading "Underlying Net Income and Underlying EPS" below.
(2)Removes the components attributable to the participating policyholders.
(3)Certain amounts within the DOE are presented on a net basis to reflect how the business is managed, compared to a gross basis in the Consolidated Financial Statements. For more details, refer to "Drivers of Earnings" in section 3 - Additional Non-IFRS Financial Measures below. Further, in this document, the reported net income impact of ACMA excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders and includes non-liability impacts. In contrast, Note 10.B.v of the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements shows the pre-tax net income impacts of method and assumption changes, and CSM Impacts include amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
(4)Allocated to equity in the participating account and attributable to NCI.
(5)Dividends on preferred shares and distributions on other equity instruments.
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- Underlying Net Income and Underlying EPS
Underlying net income is a non-IFRS financial measure that assists in understanding Sun Life's business performance by making certain adjustments to IFRS income. Underlying net income, along with common shareholders’ net income (Reported net income), is used as a basis for management planning, and is also a key measure in our employee incentive compensation programs. This measure reflects management's view of the underlying business performance of the company and long-term earnings potential. For example, due to the longer term nature of our individual protection businesses, market movements related to interest rates, equity markets and investment properties can have a significant impact on reported net income in the reporting period. However, these impacts are not necessarily realized, and may never be realized, if markets move in the opposite direction in subsequent periods or in the case of interest rates, the fixed income investment is held to maturity.
Underlying net income removes the impact of the following items from reported net income:
•Market-related impacts reflecting the after-tax difference in actual versus expected market movements, including:
i)Net interest impact from risk-free rate, credit spread, swap spread movements, and other impacts, reflecting accounting mismatches between assets and liabilities:
a.Differences arising from fair value changes(1) of fixed income assets (including derivatives) measured at FVTPL supporting insurance contracts, compared to fair value changes of the liabilities(2);
b.Fair value changes of fixed income assets (including derivatives) measured at FVTPL supporting our investment contract liability and surplus portfolios(3); and
c.Tax-exempt investment(4) income above or below expected long-term tax savings relating to our Canadian multi-national insurance operations.
ii)Non-fixed income investments where the weighted average expected return is approximately 2% per quarter, including:
a.Equity investments (including derivatives) supporting insurance contracts and surplus portfolios; and
b.Investment properties supporting insurance contracts and surplus portfolios.
•ACMA – captures the impact of method and assumption changes, and management actions on insurance and reinsurance contracts.
•Other adjustments:
i)MFS shares owned by management – this adjustment removes the change in fair value and other activity related to MFS common shares owned by management.
ii)Acquisition, integration, and restructuring – expense and income related to acquisition or disposal of a business. Also includes expenses related to restructuring activities.
iii)Intangible asset amortization – removes the amortization expense associated with finite life intangible assets arising from acquisitions or business combinations excluding amortization of software and distribution agreements.
iv)Other – represents items that are unusual or exceptional in nature which management believes are not representative of the long-term performance of the Company.
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 25 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information about the SLEECS, please refer to Note 12 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(1)For fixed income assets, Underlying Net Income includes credit experience from rating changes on assets measured at FVTPL, and the ECL impact for assets measured at FVOCI.
(2)Underlying net income is based on observable discount curves and exchange rates at the beginning of the period.
(3)Underlying net income for earnings on surplus includes realized gains (losses) on fixed income assets classified as FVOCI.
(4)Q4'25 and Q4'24 balances are isolated in Other within Other adjustments.
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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 and EPS based on IFRS.
| Reconciliations of Select Net Income Measures | ||
|---|---|---|
| ($ millions, after-tax) | 2025 | 2024 |
| Underlying net income | 4,201 | 3,856 |
| Market-related impacts | ||
| Equity market impacts | (14) | 25 |
| Interest rate impacts(1) | (148) | (60) |
| Impacts of changes in the fair value of investment properties (real estate experience) | (219) | (338) |
| Add: Market-related impacts | (381) | (373) |
| Add: Assumption changes and management actions | (45) | 56 |
| Other adjustments | ||
| MFS shares owned by management | 2 | (22) |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7) | (27) | 140 |
| Intangible asset amortization(8)(9) | (215) | (332) |
| Other(10)(11)(12)(13)(14) | (63) | (276) |
| Add: Total of other adjustments | (303) | (490) |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders | 3,472 | 3,049 |
| Underlying EPS (diluted) ($) | 7.45 | 6.66 |
| Add: Market-related impacts ($) | (0.68) | (0.65) |
| Assumption changes and management actions ($) | (0.08) | 0.10 |
| MFS shares owned by management ($) | — | (0.04) |
| Acquisition, integration and restructuring ($) | (0.05) | 0.24 |
| Intangible asset amortization ($) | (0.38) | (0.57) |
| Other ($) | (0.12) | (0.48) |
| Impact of convertible securities on diluted EPS ($) | 0.01 | — |
| Reported EPS (diluted) ($) | 6.15 | 5.26 |
(1)Our results are sensitive to long term interest rates given the nature of our business and to non-parallel yield curve movements (for example flattening, inversion, steepening, etc.).
(2)Amounts relate to acquisition costs for our SLC Management affiliates, BentallGreenOak, InfraRed Capital Partners, Crescent Capital Group LP and Advisors Asset Management, Inc, which include the unwinding of the discount for Other financial liabilities of $56 million in 2025 ( 2024- $76 million).
(3)Reflects an increase of $4 million in estimated future payments for options to purchase the remaining ownership interests of SLC Management affiliates in 2025 (2024 - a decrease of $344 million). For additional information, refer to Note 5 and Note 11 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(4)Includes acquisition, integration and restructuring costs associated with DentaQuest, acquired on June 1, 2022.
(5)To meet regulatory obligations, in Q1'24, we sold 6.3% of our ownership interest in ABSLAMC, generating a gain of $84 million. As a result of the transaction, our ownership interest in ABSLAMC was reduced from 36.5% to 30.2% for gross proceeds of $136 million. Subsequently in Q2'24, we sold an additional 0.2% of our ownership interest.
(6)Q2'24 includes a restructuring charge of $108 million in the Corporate business group.
(7)On July 15, 2025, we acquired an additional interest in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Total consideration was cash of $55 million. Our previously held interest in Bowtie was remeasured to its fair value, which resulted in a gain of $176 million recognized in reported net income in Q3'25 ("gain from increased ownership interest in Bowtie"). For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
(8)Includes an impairment charge of $186 million on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam reflecting updates resulting from changes in regulatory and macro-economic factors in Q4'24.
(9)Includes an impairment charge of $61 million on a customer relationship intangible asset from the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract in Q2'25.
(10)Includes the early termination of a distribution agreement in Asset Management in Q1'24.
(11)Includes a Pillar Two global minimum tax adjustment in Q2'24. For additional information, refer to Note 19 of our 2024 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and section D - Profitability in the 2024 Annual MD&A.
(12)Includes a non-recurring provision in U.S. Dental in Q4'24.
(13)Includes lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $49 million in Q4'25 (Q4'24 - lower than expected tax-exempt investment income of $234 million).
(14)Includes a tax impact in MFS in Q4'25 from changes to U.S. tax legislation. For more details, see section D - Profitability in this document.
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The following table shows the pre-tax amount of underlying net income adjustments:
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying net income (after-tax) | 4,201 | 3,856 |
| Underlying net income adjustments (pre-tax): | ||
| Add: Market-related impacts | (451) | (428) |
| Assumption changes and management actions(1) | (54) | 86 |
| Other adjustments | (376) | (345) |
| Total underlying net income adjustments (pre-tax) | (881) | (687) |
| Add: Taxes related to underlying net income adjustments | 152 | (120) |
| Reported net income - Common shareholders (after-tax) | 3,472 | 3,049 |
(1)In this document, the reported net income impact of ACMA excludes amounts attributable to participating policyholders and includes non-liability impacts. In contrast, Note 10.B.v of the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements shows the pre-tax net income impacts of method and assumption changes, and CSM Impacts include amounts attributable to participating policyholders.
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 and other tax-related adjustments.
- Additional Non-IFRS Financial Measures
Management also uses the following non-IFRS financial measures:
After-tax profit margin for U.S. Group Benefits. This ratio expresses U.S. Group Benefits underlying net income as a percentage of net premiums. It assists in explaining our results from period to period and measures profitability. This ratio is calculated by dividing underlying net income (loss) by net premiums for the trailing four quarters. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Assets under administration ("AUA"). AUA represents Client assets for which Sun Life provides administrative services. In Canada, AUA includes mutual fund dealers' assets in Individual Wealth and administrative services assets in Group Retirement Services. In Asia, AUA includes administrative services assets in China and Hong Kong. In SLC Management, AUA includes assets distributed mostly by SLC Management's affiliate, Advisors Asset Management Inc. There is no directly comparable measure under IFRS.
Assets under management. AUM is a non-IFRS financial measure that indicates the size of our Company's assets across asset management, wealth, and insurance. 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 Third-party AUM and Consolidation adjustments. "Consolidation adjustments" is presented separately as consolidation adjustments apply to all components of total AUM.
AUM not yet earning fees. This measure represents the committed uninvested capital portion of total AUM not currently earning management fees. The amount depends on the specific terms and conditions of each fund. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Capital raising. This measure consists of increases in SLC Management's commitments from fund raising activities for all real estate, infrastructure and alternative credit Clients excluding leverage. Investment-grade fixed income capital raising consists of sales made to new Clients. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Cash and other liquid assets. This measure is comprised of cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, and publicly traded securities, net of loans related to acquisitions and short-term loans that are held at SLF Inc. (the ultimate parent company), and its wholly owned holding companies. This measure is a key consideration of available funds for capital re-deployment to support business growth.
| ($ millions) | As at December 31, 2025 | As at December 31, 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Cash and other liquid assets (held at SLF Inc. and its wholly owned holding companies): | ||
| Cash, cash equivalents & short-term securities | 1,859 | 479 |
| Debt securities(1) | 537 | 780 |
| Equity securities(2) | — | 112 |
| Sub-total | 2,396 | 1,371 |
| Less: Loans related to acquisitions and short-term loans(3) (held at SLF Inc. and its wholly owned holding companies) | — | (17) |
| Cash and other liquid assets (held at SLF Inc. and its wholly owned holding companies) | 2,396 | 1,354 |
(1)Includes publicly traded bonds.
(2)Includes exchange traded fund ("ETF") Investments.
(3)Includes drawdowns from credit facilities to manage timing of cash flows.
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.
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CSM Movement Analysis includes certain non-IFRS financial measures, detailed below, and also presents certain measures on a net basis to reflect how the business is managed, compared to a gross basis in the Consolidated Financial Statements. Examples include i) The impacts of insurance contracts issued is presented net of reinsurance; ii) Impact of new business is presented net of acquisition expense gain/loss; and iii) Certain methodology changes are presented as an impact of change in assumptions, whereas the Consolidated Financial Statement presentation is a contract modification.
•Organic CSM Movement is comprised of the Impact of new insurance business, Expected movements from asset returns & locked-in rates, Insurance experience gains/losses, and CSM recognized for services provided.
•Impact of new insurance business on CSM, also referred to as "new business CSM", represents growth from sales activity in the period, including individual protection sales (excluding joint ventures), and defined benefit solutions and segregated fund wealth sales in Canada. New business CSM is presented net of acquisition expense gain/loss.
•Expected movements from asset returns & locked-in rates applies to variable fee approach ("VFA") and general measurement approach ("GMA") contracts. For VFA contracts, this component of the CSM movement analysis is comprised of two factors: (i) the expected return on underlying assets and (ii) the measurement of financial guarantees. The difference between actual and expected results are reported as the impact of markets. For GMA contracts, this component of the CSM includes the accretion of the CSM balance at locked-in rates, which refer to the term structure associated with locked-in discount rates, set when the insurance contract was sold or on transition to IFRS 17. Average locked-in rates increase with the passage of time on in-force business and new business added at current rates.
•Impact of markets & other includes the difference between actual and expected movement for VFA contracts for: (i) the return on underlying assets and (ii) the measurement of financial guarantees. Also includes other amounts excluded from Organic CSM Movement.
•Insurance experience gains/losses represents the current period impacts of insurance experience, resulting in a change in future cash flows that adjust CSM.
•Impact of change in assumptions represents the future period impacts of changes in fulfilment cash flows that adjust CSM.
•CSM market sensitivities. CSM 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.
Deployment. This measure represents the amount of capital that has been invested in the period, including leverage where applicable. Deployment also includes capital committed in infrastructure deals to be invested in specific assets. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Drivers of Earnings. The Drivers of Earnings ("DOE") analysis provides additional detail on the sources of earnings, primarily for protection and health businesses, and explains the actual results compared to the longer term expectations. The DOE is presented on a reported and underlying common shareholders' basis. Within the net insurance service result, the underlying DOE provides detail on expected insurance earnings, impact of new insurance business and experience gains (losses). Within the net investment result, the underlying DOE provides detail on expected investment earnings, credit experience, earnings on surplus, and joint ventures & other. For more information, refer to the headings "Underlying net income and Underlying EPS", "Earnings on surplus", "Notable items attributable to reported and underlying net income", in this document.
Certain amounts in the DOE are presented on a net basis to reflect how the business is managed, compared to a gross basis in the Consolidated Financial Statements. Examples include: i) Net investment result and Other expenses of the Asset Management operating segment are combined with Fee Income to report the net contribution to earnings; ii) Income for fee-based businesses is reported net of the associated expenses; iii) Carried interest in SLC Management within Fee Income excludes the carried interest that Sun Life does not participate in economically, and nets the non-controlling interest portion of the carried interest against fee income and expenses of consolidated funds; iv) Net investment results include assets returns net of the crediting rate for investment contract liabilities and the unwinding of and changes in the discount rate for insurance contract liabilities; v) Earnings on surplus reflects net spread earned from investment strategies; and vi) Earnings attributable to the participating account are excluded.
Earnings on Surplus. This component of the Drivers of Earnings represents the net income earned on a company’s surplus funds. Earnings on Surplus is comprised of realized gains on fair value through other comprehensive income assets, as well as net investment returns on surplus, such as investment income, gains (losses) on seed investments and investment properties mark-to-market, and also includes impacts from derivatives, currency and other items.
Experience-related items attributable to reported net income and underlying net income. These notable items attributable to reported net income and underlying net income are components of the Drivers of Earnings represents gains and losses that are due to differences between the actual results during the reporting period and management’s estimate of the expected longer-term returns on assets and liabilities (i.e. expected insurance earnings and expected investment earnings) at the start of the reporting period.
Fee earning AUM. FE AUM consists of assets managed by SLC Management, which are beneficially owned by Clients, on which we earn management fees for providing investment management, property management or advisory-related services. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Fee-related earnings and Operating income. Fee-related earnings represent profitability of SLC Management's fee-related portfolios, and is calculated as Fee-related revenue less Fee-related expenses. Operating income represents profit realized from our business operations, and is calculated as the sum of Fee-related earnings, Investment income (loss) and performance fees, and Interest and other. Fee-related revenue represents all fee income, with the exception of performance fees, generated from third-party investors. Fee-related expenses represent all expenses directly related to generating fee revenue from third-party investors. Investment income (loss) and performance fees represent total income or loss from our seed investments, net of the related expenses. Interest and other represents performance fee compensation, our net interest income or expense and income from managing the General Account assets.
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Fee-related earnings and Operating income are non-IFRS financial measures within SLC Management's Supplemental Income Statement, which enhances the comparability of SLC Management's results with publicly traded alternative asset managers. For more details, see our Supplementary Financial Information package for the quarter.
The following table provides a reconciliation from Fee-related earnings and Operating income to SLC Management's Fee income and Total expenses based on IFRS.
| SLC Management | ||
|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
| Fee income (per IFRS) | 1,894 | 1,938 |
| Less: Non-fee-related revenue adjustments(1)(2) | 565 | 700 |
| Fee-related revenue | 1,329 | 1,238 |
| Total expenses (per IFRS) | 1,853 | 1,480 |
| Less: Non-fee-related expense adjustments(2)(3) | 889 | 527 |
| Fee-related expenses | 964 | 953 |
| Fee-related earnings | 365 | 285 |
| Add: Investment income (loss) and performance fees(4) | 228 | 112 |
| Add: Interest and other(5) | (174) | (112) |
| Operating income | 419 | 285 |
(1)Includes Interest and other - fee income, Investment income (loss) and performance fees - fee income, and Other - fee income.
(2)Excludes the income and related expenses for certain property management agreements to provide more accurate metrics on our fee-related business.
(3)Includes Interest and other, Placement fees - other, Amortization of intangibles, Acquisition, integration and restructuring, and Other - expenses.
(4)Investment income (loss) and performance fee in SLC Management's Supplemental Income Statement relates to the underlying results of our seed investments. As such, we have excluded non-underlying market-related impacts as well as the gains or losses of certain non-seed hedges that are reported under Net investment income (loss) under IFRS. The reconciliation is as follows (amounts have been adjusted for rounding):
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Net investment income (loss) (per IFRS) | 130 | 138 |
| Less: Market-related impacts and Other - Investment income (loss) | 9 | 50 |
| Add: Investment income (loss) and performance fees - fee income | 107 | 24 |
| Investment income (loss) and performance fees | 228 | 112 |
(5)Includes Interest and other reported under Fee income under IFRS, net of Interest and other reported under Total expenses under IFRS.
Financial leverage ratio. This ratio is an indicator of the Company's balance sheet strength measured by its proportion of capital qualifying debt in accordance with OSFI guidelines. This is calculated as the ratio of total debt plus preferred shares to total capital including the contractual service margin net of taxes, where debt consists of all capital-qualifying debt securities. Capital-qualifying debt securities consist of subordinated debt and innovative capital instruments. The CSM is included net of taxes because debts are repaid and serviced from available after-tax funds.
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, 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 Assets and Liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, as well as the AUM and certain components of the Drivers of Earnings disclosure, period-end rates are used for currency translation purposes.
LICAT market sensitivities. LICAT 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.
Organic capital generation. This supplementary financial measure provides a view of the Company’s ability to generate excess capital under the normal course of business, excluding non-recurring items; where excess capital is defined as LICAT Available Capital and Surplus Allowance above LICAT Base Solvency Buffer at target ratio, as defined and calculated under OSFI-mandated guideline. This amount is determined as follows: underlying net income and organic CSM movement net of shareholder dividends and change in base solvency buffer for new business and aging of in-force. This amount excludes non-recurring impacts to available capital or base solvency buffer from markets, assumption changes, management actions, and other non-underlying items.
Pre-tax fee related earnings margin. This ratio is a measure of SLC Management's profitability in relation to funds that earn recurring fee revenues, while excluding investment income and performance fees. The ratio is calculated by dividing fee-related earnings by fee-related revenues and is based on the last twelve months. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Pre-tax net operating margin. This ratio is a measure of the profitability and there is no directly comparable IFRS measure. For MFS, this ratio is calculated by excluding MFS shares owned by management 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 margin and have no impact on the profitability of MFS. For SLC Management, the ratio is calculated by dividing the total operating income by fee-related revenue plus investment Income (loss) and performance fees, and is based on the last twelve months.
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The following table provides a reconciliation to calculate MFS' pre-tax net operating margin:
| MFS | ||
|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2025 | 2024 |
| Revenue | ||
| Fee income (per IFRS) | 3,385 | 3,370 |
| Less: Commissions | 386 | 399 |
| Less: Other(1) | (57) | (57) |
| Adjusted revenue | 3,056 | 3,028 |
| Expenses | ||
| Expenses (per IFRS) | 2,370 | 2,391 |
| Net investment (income)/loss (per IFRS) | (69) | (95) |
| Less: MFS shares owned by management (net of NCI)(2) | 33 | 57 |
| Compensation-related equity plan adjustments | 30 | 36 |
| Commissions | 386 | 399 |
| Other(1) | (58) | (51) |
| Adjusted expenses | 1,910 | 1,855 |
| Pre-tax net operating margin | 37.5% | 38.7% |
(1)Other includes accounting basis differences, such as sub-advisory expenses and product allowances.
(2)Excluding non-controlling interest. For more information on MFS shares owned by management, see the heading Underlying Net Income and Underlying EPS.
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 and flows. Asset Management gross flows includes funds from retail and institutional Clients; SLC Management gross flows include capital raising, such as uncalled capital commitments and fund leverage. Asset Management net flows consist of gross flows less gross outflows; SLC Management's net flows do not include Client distributions from the sale of underlying assets in closed-end funds. In Canada and in Asia, net sales consist of asset management gross flows & wealth sales less redemptions. In Canada, asset management gross flows & wealth sales consist of sales in Group Retirement Services (excluding retained sales) and Individual Wealth; group - health & protection sales consist of workplace benefits sold by Sun Life Health; and individual - protection sales refer to individual insurance sales. In the U.S., group - health & protection sales consist of sales by Group Benefits and Dental. In Asia, asset management gross flows & wealth sales consist of Hong Kong asset management gross flows & wealth sales, Philippines mutual fund sales, asset management gross flows & wealth sales by our India and China 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; individual - protection sales consist of the individual insurance sales, by our subsidiaries and joint ventures and associates, based on our proportionate equity interest, in the Philippines, Indonesia, India, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Hong Kong and High Net Worth. Asia also has group - health & protection sales in the Philippines, Hong Kong and our joint ventures. To provide greater comparability across reporting periods, we exclude the impacts of foreign exchange translation from sales and gross flows. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
Third-party AUM. Third-party AUM is composed of retail, institutional, and other third-party assets, which includes general fund and segregated fund assets managed by our joint ventures. In Asset Management, third-party AUM includes Client assets for retail and institutional Clients, as well as capital raising, such as uncalled commitments and fund leverage in SLC Management. In Canada, third-party AUM includes Client assets in retail mutual fund products of Sun Life Global Investments. In Asia, third-party AUM includes Client assets in Hong Kong managed fund products, International asset management & 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. There is no directly comparable IFRS financial measure.
Total weighted premium income ("TWPI"). This measure consists of 100% renewal premiums, 100% of first year premiums, and 10% of single premiums. In contrast to sales, which only includes premiums from new business, TWPI includes renewal premiums, reflecting the strength of the in-force block and providing a better understanding of both new and existing business. There is no directly comparable IFRS measure.
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 medium-term capital budgeting process to inform 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 J - 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. 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.
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- Reconciliations of Select Non-IFRS Financial Measures
Underlying Net Income to Reported Net Income Reconciliation - Pre-tax by Business Group
| Q4'25 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | Asset<br>Management | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 370 | 417 | 210 | 207 | (110) | 1,094 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (22) | (108) | (21) | (46) | (13) | (210) |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | — | (8) | (6) | (21) | — | (35) |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (49) | (9) | (69) | (17) | (5) | (149) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 19 | 15 | 19 | 8 | (39) | 22 |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 318 | 307 | 133 | 131 | (167) | 722 |
| Q4'24 | ||||||
| Underlying net income (loss) | 360 | 366 | 161 | 175 | (97) | 965 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (18) | (142) | (74) | 27 | (14) | (221) |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | — | (1) | (1) | 15 | — | 13 |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (34) | (8) | (143) | (193) | — | (378) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 18 | 38 | 50 | (13) | (235) | (142) |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 326 | 253 | (7) | 11 | (346) | 237 |
| Year-to-date | ||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2025 | ||||||
| ($ millions) | Asset<br>Management | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 1,371 | 1,594 | 770 | 836 | (370) | 4,201 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (65) | (173) | 44 | (238) | (19) | (451) |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | — | — | (67) | 13 | — | (54) |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (136) | (48) | (311) | 124 | (5) | (376) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 44 | 29 | 84 | 33 | (38) | 152 |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 1,214 | 1,402 | 520 | 768 | (432) | 3,472 |
| 2024 | ||||||
| Underlying net income (loss) | 1,293 | 1,453 | 773 | 701 | (364) | 3,856 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (25) | (211) | (148) | (47) | 3 | (428) |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | — | (47) | 181 | (52) | 4 | 86 |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | 263 | (33) | (323) | (114) | (138) | (345) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | (3) | 55 | 73 | (59) | (186) | (120) |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 1,528 | 1,217 | 556 | 429 | (681) | 3,049 |
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| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Underlying Net Income to Reported Net Income Reconciliation - Pre-tax by Business Unit - Asset Management
| Q4'25 | Q4'24 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ($ millions) | MFS | SLC<br>Management | MFS | SLC<br>Management | |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 312 | 58 | 301 | 59 | |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | — | (22) | — | (18) | |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | 5 | (54) | 4 | (38) | |
| Tax expense (benefit) | (15) | 34 | (4) | 22 | |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 302 | 16 | 301 | 25 | |
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |
| ($ millions) | MFS | SLC<br>Management | MFS | SLC<br>Management | |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 1,129 | 242 | 1,117 | 176 | |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | — | (65) | — | (25) | |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | 17 | (153) | (4) | 267 | |
| Tax expense (benefit) | (26) | 70 | (18) | 15 | |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 1,120 | 94 | 1,095 | 433 |
Underlying Net Income to Reported Net Income Reconciliation - Pre-tax in U.S. dollars
| Q4'25 | Q4'24 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | U.S. | MFS | U.S. | MFS | |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 150 | 224 | 115 | 216 | |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | (19) | — | (52) | — | |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | (4) | — | — | — | |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (49) | 3 | (103) | 3 | |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 15 | (11) | 39 | (3) | |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 93 | 216 | (1) | 216 | |
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |
| (US$ millions) | U.S. | MFS | U.S. | MFS | |
| Underlying net income (loss) | 551 | 809 | 566 | 817 | |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | 26 | — | (112) | — | |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | (49) | — | 136 | — | |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (219) | 12 | (235) | (4) | |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 59 | (19) | 56 | (13) | |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 368 | 802 | 411 | 800 |
Underlying Net Income to Reported Net Income Reconciliation - U.S. Group Benefits - Pre-tax in U.S. dollars
The following table sets out the amounts that were excluded from our reported net income (loss) for U.S. Group Benefits, which is used to calculate the trailing four-quarter after-tax profit margin for U.S. Group Benefits.
| (US$ millions) | Q4'25 | Q3'25 | Q2'25 | Q1'25 | Q4'24 | Q3'24 | Q2'24 | Q1'24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underlying net income (loss) for U.S. Group Benefits | 92 | 71 | 121 | 105 | 62 | 118 | 124 | 118 |
| Add: Market-related impacts (pre-tax) | — | 5 | (1) | 8 | (18) | 17 | (11) | (8) |
| Assumption changes and management actions (pre-tax) | — | 1 | — | — | — | 8 | — | — |
| Other adjustments (pre-tax) | (4) | (4) | (4) | (4) | (5) | (5) | (6) | (7) |
| Tax expense (benefit) | 1 | — | 1 | (1) | 5 | (4) | 3 | 3 |
| Reported net income (loss) - Common shareholders | 89 | 73 | 117 | 108 | 44 | 134 | 110 | 106 |
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| N. Accounting and Control Matters | ||||||||
| --- |
We have adopted amended IFRS standards in the current year, which had no material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information, refer to Note 2 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
- Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our material accounting and actuarial policies are described in Notes 1, 5-7 and 10 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. Management must make judgments involving assumptions and estimates, some of which may relate to matters that are inherently uncertain, under these policies. The estimates described below are considered particularly significant to understanding our financial performance. As part of our financial control and reporting, judgments involving assumptions and estimates are reviewed by the independent auditor and by other independent advisors on a periodic basis. Accounting policies requiring estimates are applied consistently in the determination of our financial results.
1.A Insurance Contracts Summary and Methods and Assumptions
Summary
We sell a variety of insurance contracts that include all forms of life, health and critical illness insurance sold to individuals and groups, annuities, and segregated fund products with guarantees. We hold reinsurance contracts that transfer mortality and other risks following internal guidelines.
Insurance contracts with direct participation features are products where investments are managed on behalf of policyholders, and investment returns less a variable fee are passed through to policyholders with the insurance benefits they receive. Insurance contracts with direct participation features are measured using the VFA, and include segregated funds, unit-linked contracts, variable universal life contracts, and most participating insurance contracts. Reinsurance contracts (both issued and held) cannot be measured using the VFA.
Insurance contracts without direct participation features are eligible to use the PAA if the coverage period is one year or less, or if the result of applying the PAA is not expected to be materially different result than applying the GMA in each reporting period over the life of the contract. Insurance contracts eligible to use the PAA include most group life and health contracts and the associated reinsurance contracts held.
Other insurance contracts are measured using the GMA. This includes most individual life and health insurance contracts and annuities and the associated reinsurance contracts held.
The Consolidated Statements of Financial Position present insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held as both assets and liabilities, depending on whether the portfolio is in an asset or liability position.
For more information about insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held, and Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders, see Note 1, Note 10 and Note 21 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Methods and Assumptions
General
A group of insurance contracts is measured as the total of FCF, which is the present value of future cash flows plus the risk adjustment for non-financial risk, and, for groups measured using the GMA or VFA, the CSM. In measuring the present value of future cash flows, assumptions must be made about mortality and morbidity rates, lapse and other policyholder behaviour ("policyholder behaviour"), expenses and other factors over the life of our products, and the prevailing market view of the cost of financial risk in our products. Many 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.
The RA is the compensation we require for the uncertainty related to non-financial risk in the estimates of future cash flows. This compensation is measured by discounting cash flows from applying margins to the non-financial assumptions used in the estimate of future cash flows.
The CSM represents the unearned profit that will be recognized as insurance contract services are provided.
The methods and assumptions used in the measurement of insurance contracts are reviewed regularly and are subject to external actuarial peer review.
Present Value of Future Cash Flows
Assumptions for non-financial risk variables in the present value of future cash flows are intended to be current, neutral estimates of the expected outcome, as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada. The choice of assumptions takes into account current circumstances, past experience data from our own experience or from the industry, the relationship of past to expected future experience, anti-selection, the relationship among assumptions (including those for financial risk variables), and other relevant factors.
Assumptions for financial risk variables in the present value of future cash flows are based on current observable market prices, adjusted to account for differences between the financial risk embedded in our products and those in the corresponding observed market instrument. Where no relevant market instrument is available, we use the best information available as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada.
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Mortality
Mortality refers to the rates at which death occurs for defined groups of people. Mortality assumptions are generally based on the past five to ten years of experience. Our experience is combined with industry experience or experience from reinsurers 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 the rate of being unhealthy or disabled 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 Canadian long-term care and critical illness insurance in Canada and Asia, 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 or reinsurer experience.
Policyholder Behaviour
Lapse or surrender 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 or surrender experience on life insurance are generally based on our five-year average experience. Lapse or surrender rates vary by plan, age at issue, method of premium payment, policy duration and financial risk variables.
Premium payment patterns For universal life contracts, it is necessary to set assumptions about premium payment patterns. Studies prepared by industry or the actuarial profession are used for products where our experience is insufficient to be statistically valid. Premium payment patterns usually vary by plan, age at issue, method of premium payment, policy duration and financial risk variables.
Expense
Future expenses directly attributable to the fulfilment of our insurance contracts include the costs of premium collection, claims adjudication and processing, actuarial calculations, preparation and mailing of policy statements, and related overhead. Future expense assumptions are mainly based on our recent experience using an internal expense allocation methodology. Inflationary increases assumed in future expenses are based on long-term expectations.
Acquisition expenses directly attributable to portfolios of insurance contracts include the costs of selling, underwriting and issuing insurance contracts. For new insurance contracts measured using the GMA or VFA, actual or estimated directly attributable acquisition expenses are recognized in the initial measurement of the contract. If estimates are used, the difference between estimated and actual acquisition expenses adjusts the CSM when the group of insurance contracts is closed to new contracts.
Current Discount Rates
Current discount rates are used to discount estimates of future cash flows in determining the present value of future cash flows. Current discount rates reflect the time value of money, the characteristics of the cash flows, and the liquidity characteristics of the insurance contracts.
Current discount rates for cash flows that do not vary based on returns on underlying items
Cash flows that do not vary at all based on the returns on any underlying items are discounted at rates that reflect the timing and currency of cash flows and the liquidity characteristics of the insurance contracts.
The timing of cash flows is reflected by constructing a discount curve, so that each cash flow is discounted consistent with the timing of the cash flow. In constructing the discount curve, a portion is based on market information (the observable period) and beyond that period, the discount rates are estimated (the unobservable period). The observable period, which varies by currency, is the time period where information on risk-free interest rates is deep and liquid. In the unobservable period, risk-free rates are interpolated between the last observable point and an ultimate risk-free rate at year 70. The ultimate risk-free rate is estimated using historical averages as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada.
The currency of cash flows is reflected by using different discount curves for different currencies.
Liquidity is reflected by adding a liquidity premium to risk-free discount rates that is consistent with the liquidity characteristics of the insurance contracts. The liquidity premium in the observable period is based on the liquidity premium on assets with similar liquidity characteristics, which is estimated from the spread inherent in current market yields less a deduction for expected and unexpected credit losses. The deduction for expected and unexpected credit losses is estimated using historical rating agency data and current market conditions, and varies by asset type, quality, and duration. The liquidity premium in the unobservable period is interpolated between the last observable liquidity premium and an ultimate liquidity premium (at year 70) specific to liquid or illiquid contracts as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada. See Note 10.A in the 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for further details, which provides a weighted average summary of the discount curves used to present value cash flows for all major products that do not vary based on the returns on underlying items.
Current discount rates for cash flows that vary with returns on underlying items
Discount rates for cash flows that vary directly with returns on underlying items reflect that variability. For the portion of cash flows that is a pass through of returns on underlying items to policyholders, the discount rate is such that the present value of cash flows equals the portion of the underlying items that is passed through to policyholders. For cash flows that vary, but not directly, with underlying items (e.g., financial guarantees), scenario testing may be necessary. If so, discount rates used in the scenario projections are scenario-specific and based on the projected risk-free rates in the scenario plus liquidity premiums consistent with the liquidity characteristics of the contracts being measured.
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Scenario Testing
Scenario testing may be required when the relationship between cash flows and financial risk variables is non-linear, or where there are complex interdependencies among cash flows. In scenario testing of financial risk variables, future cash flows are projected for each scenario path and discounted at the scenario-specific discount rates, resulting in a present value of future cash flows for each scenario. The provision for the projected cash flows is the average of the scenario-specific values. Assumptions for non-financial risk variables are the best estimate assumptions consistent with the scenario.
Scenarios are consistent with the current market environment. Our Economic Scenario Generator calibration process produces integrated stochastic scenarios of financial risk variables (e.g., risk-free interest rates, bond fund returns, equity returns) with parameters calibrated to replicate observable market prices of financial instruments available in the market. Adjustments are made when the insurance contracts being measured are illiquid but the financial instruments to which the scenarios are calibrated to are liquid.
Risk Adjustment for Non-Financial Risk
The RA for insurance contracts issued is the compensation we require for bearing uncertainty about the amount and timing of the cash flows that arises from non-financial risk. This amount is measured as the present value of the difference between estimated future cash flows with a margin applied to non-financial assumptions and estimated future cash flows without this adjustment. Margins generally range from 5% to 20% depending on the uncertainty in the determination of the assumption. The level of uncertainty, and hence the margin chosen, varies by assumption and by line of business and other factors. Considerations that would generally lead to a choice of margin at the higher end of the range are as follows:
•The statistical credibility of our experience is too low to be the primary source of data for choosing the assumption;
•Future experience is difficult to estimate;
•The cohort of risks lacks homogeneity;
•Operational risks adversely impact the ability to estimate the assumption; or
•Past experience may not be representative of future experience and the experience may deteriorate.
Margins are generally stable over time and are revised only to reflect changes in the level of uncertainty in the assumptions. Our margins tend to be at mid-range.
The RA for reinsurance contracts held represents the amount of risk transferred to the reinsurer. This is measured as the difference between the RA on the underlying insurance contracts without reinsurance and what the RA on the underlying insurance contracts would be with reinsurance. The RA for reinsurance contracts held increases the asset or reduces the liability for reinsurance contracts held.
The RA for insurance contracts corresponds to a confidence level of approximately 85-90% overall.
Contractual Service Margin
The initial and subsequent measurement of CSM is described in Note 1 in our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. Additional detail about certain components of the measurement of CSM is provided below.
Interest accretion
For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, locked-in discount rates are used to accrete interest on the CSM. The locked-in discount rate for a group of insurance contracts is the weighted average of the current discount rates at initial recognition of the contracts in the group.
For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, there is no accretion of interest. Rather, the CSM is adjusted by the change in our share of the fair value of underlying items.
Changes in FCF relating to future service
For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, locked-in discount rates are used to measure changes in FCF relating to future service. Changes in FCF relating to future service reflect changes in non-financial assumptions but not changes in assumptions related to financial risk.
For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, current discount rates are used to measure the change in FCF relating to future service. Changes in FCF relating to future service reflect both changes in non-financial assumptions and changes in assumptions related to financial risk.
Changes in FCF relating to future service include (Liability for Remaining Coverage only):
•All changes related to investment component payments (including current period payments);
•Changes arising from changes in assumptions used to derive the present value of future cash flows - limited to non-financial assumptions for insurance contracts measured using the GMA;
•Changes in future cash flows arising from claims in the current period; and
•For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, changes related to discretionary cash flows on some universal life and adjustable products. Discretionary cash flows are cash flows outside the guaranteed payments to the policyholder, and are described as a spread on earned rates (in the case of some universal life contracts) and in the policy on criteria for changes to adjustable policies for adjustable policies.
CSM recognized for services provided
The amount of CSM recognized as insurance revenue in each period to reflect the insurance contract services provided for a group of contracts in the period is determined by:
•Identifying the total coverage units in the group (for services in current and future periods) – based on the quantity of insurance contract services;
•Allocating the CSM at the end of the period equally to each coverage unit in the current period and expected to be provided in the future (i.e., coverage units "unitize" the services provided); then
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•Recognizing in insurance revenue the amount allocated to coverage units provided in the period.
Total coverage units for services expected to be provided in future periods is the present value of projected coverage units. The present value is measured using locked-in discount rates for groups measured using the GMA and current discount rates for groups measured using the VFA.
The coverage unit for a group is based on the nature of the insurance contract services provided. Insurance contract services comprise services for providing insurance coverage and, for some contracts, investment-return or investment-related services. It does not include services related to performing functions such as claims adjudication. Where more than one type of service is provided to insurance contracts in a group, the coverage unit reflects the primary service provided.
For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, coverage units are based on the policyholder's account value or the policyholders' share of the fair value of underlying items. For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, coverage units are based on the expected claim amount (excluding any investment component) for life and health insurance contracts, and the payment due in a period for annuity contracts.
For reinsurance contracts held, the amount of CSM recognized reflects the services received in the period.
Sensitivities to Insurance Methods and Assumptions
In addition to the insurance risks factors and risk management governance and controls described in section K - Risk Management in this document and the Risk Factors section of the 2025 AIF, we also note that on adoption of IFRS 17 and 9, the tables below include sensitivities of contractual service margins to insurance and other non-financial assumption risks.
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, the CSM and net income to certain instantaneous changes in the insurance and other non-financial assumptions used in the calculation of our insurance contract liabilities, based on a starting point and business mix as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. These sensitivities are calculated independently for each risk factor, generally assuming that all other risk variables stay constant. The estimates are illustrative and different starting points for best estimate assumptions, CSM balances and business mix will result in different estimated sensitivities. These sensitivities represent our estimate of changes in best estimate assumptions that are reasonably likely based on our and/or the industry's historical experience and industry standards and best practices as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
The impact on CSM is attributable to insurance contracts measured under the GMA and VFA. For insurance contracts measured under the GMA, the impact flows through the CSM at locked-in discount rates. For insurance contracts measured under the VFA, the impact flows through the CSM at current discount rates.
The impact on net income is attributable to any portion of the sensitivities for insurance contracts measured under the GMA and VFA that cannot be absorbed by CSM, the full impact for insurance contracts measured under the PAA, and the difference in impact between locked-in and current discount rates for insurance contracts measured under the GMA. If current discount rates are higher than locked-in rates, this generally results in a favourable impact to net income from contracts measured under the GMA.
| ($ millions) | As at December 31, 2025 | As at December 31, 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sensitivity(1) | Potential impact on CSM (pre-tax) | Potential impact on<br><br>net income/equity (after-tax) | Potential impact on <br>CSM (pre-tax) | Potential impact on<br><br>net income/equity (after-tax) |
| Policyholder Behaviour (10% increase/decrease, where adverse) | (800) | (25) | (800) | (25) |
| Life Mortality rates (2% increase) | — | (75) | 25 | (75) |
| Annuity Mortality rates (2% decrease) | (175) | 25 | (175) | — |
| Morbidity rates (5% incidence increase and 5% termination decrease) | (150) | (200) | (125) | (225) |
| Expenses (5% increase) | (150) | (25) | (150) | (25) |
(1) Sensitivities to insurance assumptions refer to insurance contracts issued net of reinsurance contracts held. Net income and CSM sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25 million. The sensitivities exclude the impacts on the income from our joint ventures and associates in China and India, which we account for on an equity basis.
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities
Debt securities, equity securities, most mortgages and loans and certain other invested assets are measured FVTPL or FVOCI and are recorded at fair value in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Changes in fair value of assets measured FVTPL, and realized gains and losses on sale of FVTPL assets are recognized in income. Changes in fair value of FVOCI assets are recorded in OCI. For foreign currency translation, exchange differences calculated on the amortized cost of FVOCI assets are recognized in income and other changes in the carrying amount are recognized in OCI. Net impairment losses and realized gains and losses on sale of FVOCI assets (except for FVOCI equity securities as they remain in OCI) are reclassified from OCI to income.
The fair value of government and corporate debt securities is primarily determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities, where available. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using market standard valuation methodologies, which include a discounted cash flow method, 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.
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The fair value of asset-backed securities is primarily determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities, where 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 limited circumstances 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 unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities or similar securities, where available. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using equity valuation models, which include a discounted cash flow method 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. Where equity securities are less frequently traded, the most recent exchange-quoted pricing is used to determine fair value.
The fair value of mortgages and loans is determined by discounting the expected future contractual 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 internal lending activities or loan issuances. Valuation inputs also include external lending activities or loan issuances from both public and private markets, enhancing the market observability of inputs. The risk-adjusted spreads are determined based on the borrower’s credit and liquidity, as well as term and other loan-specific features.
The fair value of other financial liabilities is determined using the discounted cash flow methodology at the incremental borrowing rate or the effective interest rate, where available. 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 unadjusted quoted prices in active markets, where available, while the fair value of OTC derivatives is determined using pricing models, such as a discounted cash flow method 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 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 financial invested assets consists primarily of limited partnership investments which 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 limited partnership investments.
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.
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities are accounted for at FVTPL due to their short-term nature or because they are frequently repriced to current market rates.
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 account of segregated fund holders is determined using unadjusted 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 fair value of investment contracts is measured through the use of prospective discounted cash flow method. For unit-linked contracts, the fair value 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 is equal to the present value of contractual cash flow. The fair value of the investment contract liabilities approximate their carrying values due to the nature of the contracts.
The fair values of these obligations are based on the fair value of the underlying securities, which can include debt or equity securities. The method used to determine fair value is based on the quoted market prices where available in an active market.
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The fair value of underlying assets within our CLOs is determined primarily using observable market inputs, such as quoted prices for similar assets in active markets and other observable market data.
The fair value of underlying liabilities within our CLOs is determined by discounting expected future contractual cash flows using a current market interest rate applicable to financial instruments with a similar yield, credit quality, maturity characteristics, and structural credit protections. The valuation technique maximizes the use of observable inputs that incorporates comparable securities’ prices and other market intelligence.
The methodologies and assumptions for determining the fair values of investment contract liabilities are included in Note 10.A of the 2025 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 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 2025 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 2025 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 $343 million and $2,579 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, respectively, (December 31, 2024 - $624 million and $1,058 million, respectively). 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 $7 million as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 - gain of $2 million).
Additional information on the fair value measurement of investments can be found in Note 5 of our 2025 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") 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. 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.
There were no impairment charges on goodwill recognized in 2025. We had a carrying value of $9,530 million in goodwill as at December 31, 2025. Additional information on goodwill can be found in Note 1 and Note 9 of our 2025 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: i) Distribution, sales potential of field force, client relationships and asset administration contracts - 3 to 40 years ii) and internally generated software - 3 to 10 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 of disposal 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 $88 million were recognized in 2025 (2024 - $201 million) primarily reflecting a customer relationship intangible asset related to the early termination of a U.S. group dental contract. The prior year impact reflects an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam resulting from changes in regulatory and macro-economic factors.
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As at December 31, 2025, our finite life intangible assets had a net carrying value of $3.9 billion, which reflected the value of the field force, asset administration contracts, and Client relationships acquired as part of the AAM, BGO, Crescent, Clarica, Dialogue, DentaQuest, U.S. employee benefits, and Bowtie business acquisitions, the ACB, Dah Sing and CIMB Niaga bancassurance partnerships, as well as software costs. Our indefinite life intangible assets had a net carrying value of $1.2 billion as at December 31, 2025. The value of the indefinite life intangible assets reflected fund management contracts of MFS, BGO, InfraRed, Crescent and AAM. Additional information on intangible assets can be found in Note 9 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
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 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, 2025, our net deferred tax asset in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position was $3,502 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.
The Pillar Two Global Minimum Tax ("GMT") rules applied to us effective January 1, 2024. The Canadian GMT legislation requires the ultimate parent entity of a group to pay top-up tax, on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis, on profits of its subsidiaries that are taxed below 15%. Some jurisdictions have enacted a Qualifying Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax ("QDMTT") which requires the GMT top-up tax to be paid in the local jurisdiction rather than to the ultimate parent entity's jurisdiction. In response to the GMT rules, Bermuda has enacted a Corporate Income Tax ("CIT") regime, including a corporate income tax rate of 15%, which applies to us effective January 1, 2025. The Bermuda CIT is not a QDMTT for the purposes of GMT. Top-up tax may still be payable by the ultimate parent entity under the Income Inclusion Rule, depending on the effective tax rate in Bermuda. Our other subsidiaries that are currently subject to a statutory tax rate or to a tax regime that could result in taxing profits at a rate below 15% include those in Hong Kong and Ireland, which have both enacted a QDMTT. The Pillar Two legislation increased the effective tax rate on underlying net income by approximately one to two percentage points in 2025. For additional information, refer to Note 19 of our 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits
The Company sponsors defined benefit pension plans and defined contribution plans for eligible employees. All of our significant defined benefit plans worldwide are closed to new entrants with new hires participating in defined contribution plans. Our defined benefit pension plans offer benefits based on length of service and final average earnings and certain plans offer some indexation of benefits. We maintain certain supplementary non-contributory defined benefit pension arrangements for eligible employees, which are primarily for benefits which are in excess of local tax limits. In addition to these plans, in some countries the Company sponsors certain post-retirement benefit plans (for medical, dental and/or life insurance benefits) for eligible qualifying employees and their dependents who meet certain requirements.
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, 2025, there are 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 significant defined benefit plans is determined with reference to market yields of
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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 24 of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
- Changes in Accounting Policies
We have included in this section a summary of changes in accounting policies. Where there are references to Notes, these are part of our 2025 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
2.A New and Amended International Financial Reporting Standards to be Adopted in 2026 or Later
In April 2024, the IASB issued IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements ("IFRS 18") which replaces IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements. IFRS 18 introduces new requirements on presentation within the statement of profit or loss, disclosure of management-defined performance measures, and principles for aggregation and disaggregation of financial information in the financial statements and the notes. IFRS 18 will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2027. IFRS 18 is to be applied retrospectively. We are currently assessing the impact that IFRS 18 will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In May 2024, the IASB issued Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments (Amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures). The amendments clarify the timing for derecognizing financial liabilities and introduce an accounting policy choice to derecognize financial liabilities settled using electronic payment systems before the settlement date if certain conditions are met. We have chosen to apply this early derecognition for electronic payments. The amendments also clarify the assessment of contractual cash flow characteristic of financial assets that include environmental, social and corporate governance linked features and other similar contingent features not directly related to changes in basic lending risks; and introduced additional related disclosure requirements for financial instruments with such contingent features. The amendments will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026. The amendments are to be applied retrospectively with no restatement of comparative periods required. We do not expect the adoption of these amendments to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
2.B Other Changes in Accounting Policy
We have changed our accounting policy for certain joint ventures to disaggregate insurance finance income or expenses between net income (loss) and OCI. For these joint ventures, insurance finance income or expenses on our insurance contract liabilities were previously recorded through net income (loss), while the corresponding invested assets have historically been recorded at FVOCI. The invested assets and insurance contract liabilities are managed together and presenting insurance finance income or expenses through OCI reduces accounting mismatch. We account for these joint ventures using the equity method of accounting, whereby we recognize our share of net income (loss) in Net investment income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and our share of OCI in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The impact of this change is not material to our share of net income (loss) or OCI in any individual prior period. We have processed an adjustment to increase opening Retained earnings by $213 and decrease Accumulated other comprehensive income by $213 retroactively to January 1, 2024.
- Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company has established disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that all relevant information is gathered and reported to senior management, including the Company's President and CEO, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), and Executive Vice-President, Chief Legal Officer and Public Affairs, on a timely basis so that appropriate decisions can be made regarding public disclosure.
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, 2025, 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, 2025.
Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of our financial statements in accordance with IFRS.
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, 2025, 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, 2025. Excluded from our evaluation were internal controls over financial reporting at Bowtie, for which control was acquired on July 15, 2025. Bowtie constitutes less than 1% of our Annual Consolidated Financial Statements across all major financial metrics, including total assets, total equity, insurance revenue and total net income, as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025.
Our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2025, 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
| 108 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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December 31, 2025. 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, 2025.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
No changes were made in our internal control over financial reporting for the period which began on January 1, 2025 and ended December 31, 2025 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.
| O. Legal and Regulatory Proceedings |
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Information concerning legal and regulatory matters is provided in our Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and the AIF, in each case for the year ended December 31, 2025.
| P. 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, plans, targets, goals and priorities; (ii) relating to our growth initiatives and other business objectives; (iii) relating to the expected closing in late 2026 of the increase to our existing ownership interest in our Malaysia joint ventures; (iv) relating to expected annual savings resulting from the actions taken to improve financial discipline and productivity reflected in the restructuring charge recorded in Q2'24; (v) relating to the expected impact of certain proposed tax changes in the 2025 Canadian Federal Budget on our consolidated financial statements; (vi) relating to the expected impact of certain tax provisions in the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Act on our consolidated financial statements; (vii) relating to the expected use of net proceeds from the September 2025 Debenture Offering and the December 2025 Debenture Offering; (viii) relating to the expected impact of the new structure of our asset management pillar; (ix) relating to the expected impact of the Amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 on our consolidated financial statements; (x) set out in this document under the heading K - Risk Management - Market Risk Sensitivities - Interest Rate Sensitivities; (xi) relating to expected changes in our LICAT ratio; (xii) that are predictive in nature or that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions; and (xiii) 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.
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 matters set out in this document under the headings D - Profitability - 5 - Income taxes, G - Financial Strength and K - Risk Management and in SLF Inc.’s 2025 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.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively.
Medium-Term Financial Objectives
The Company's medium-term financial objectives set out in section B - Overview - 2 - Financial Objectives are forward-looking non-IFRS financial measures and do not constitute guidance. Although considered reasonable by the Company, actual results could differ materially depending on our success in achieving growth initiatives and business objectives and based on certain key assumptions, which may prove to be inaccurate, including: (i) no significant changes in the level of interest rates; (ii) average total return on real estate and equity investments of approximately 8% per annum; (iii) credit experience in line with expectations; (iv) no significant changes in the level of our regulatory capital requirements; (v) no significant changes to our effective tax rate; (vi) no significant increase in the number of shares outstanding; (vii) no material changes to our hedging program; (viii) hedging costs that are consistent with our expectations; (ix) no material assumption changes; and (x) no material accounting standard changes. In addition, our medium-term financial objectives do not reflect the indirect effects of interest rate and equity market movements including the potential impacts on goodwill or the current valuation allowance on deferred tax assets as well as other items that may be non-operational in nature.
Our underlying ROE is dependent upon capital levels and options for deployment of excess capital. 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 J - Capital and Liquidity Management - 3 - Shareholder Dividends in this MD&A.
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. 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; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; and inflation; insurance risks - related to mortality experience, morbidity experience and longevity; policyholder behaviour; 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 geopolitical 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; shifts in investing trends and Client preference towards products that differ from our investment products and strategies; changes in the legal or regulatory environment, including capital
| MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 109 |
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requirements and tax laws; environmental and social issues and their related 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 - changes to accounting standards in the jurisdictions in which we operate; risks associated with 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 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.
| 110 | December 31, 2025 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
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slf-20251231_d2
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 | 2 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| APPOINTED ACTUARY'S REPORT | 3 | |||||||
| INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT | 4 | |||||||
| REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM | 7 | |||||||
| CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 10 | |||||||
| Consolidated Statements of Operations | 10 | |||||||
| Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 11 | |||||||
| Consolidated Statements of Financial Position | 11 | |||||||
| Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity | 13 | |||||||
| Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 14 | |||||||
| NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 15 | |||||||
| Material Accounting Policies | Note 1 | 15 | ||||||
| Changes in Accounting Policies | Note 2 | 29 | ||||||
| Acquisition and Other | Note 3 | 29 | ||||||
| Segmented Information | Note 4 | 30 | ||||||
| Invested Assets and Net Investment Income | Note 5 | 33 | ||||||
| Financial Instruments Risk Management | Note 6 | 45 | ||||||
| Insurance Risk Management | Note 7 | 61 | ||||||
| Other Assets | Note 8 | 65 | ||||||
| Goodwill and Intangible Assets | Note 9 | 65 | ||||||
| Insurance Contracts | Note 10 | 68 | ||||||
| Other Liabilities | Note 11 | 86 | ||||||
| Senior Debentures and Innovative Capital Instruments | Note 12 | 87 | ||||||
| Subordinated Debt | Note 13 | 89 | ||||||
| Share Capital | Note 14 | 90 | ||||||
| Interests in Other Entities | Note 15 | 91 | ||||||
| Fee Income | Note 16 | 93 | ||||||
| Operating Expenses and Commissions | Note 17 | 93 | ||||||
| Share-Based Payments | Note 18 | 94 | ||||||
| Income Taxes | Note 19 | 96 | ||||||
| Capital Management | Note 20 | 98 | ||||||
| Segregated Funds | Note 21 | 99 | ||||||
| Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies | Note 22 | 102 | ||||||
| Related Party Transactions | Note 23 | 104 | ||||||
| Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits | Note 24 | 105 | ||||||
| Earnings (Loss) Per Share | Note 25 | 108 | ||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Note 26 | 109 | Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 1 | ||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Financial Reporting Responsibilities

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, 2025, 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, 2025.
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, 2025, in addition to auditing the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. 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.
| Kevin D. Strain, CPA, CA | Timothy Deacon, FCPA, FCA |
|---|---|
| President and Chief Executive Officer | Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer |
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
February 11, 2026
| 2 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Consolidated Financial Statements |
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Appointed Actuary’s Report

THE SHAREHOLDERS AND DIRECTORS OF SUN LIFE FINANCIAL INC.
I have valued the policy liabilities of Sun Life Financial Inc. and its subsidiaries for its Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
In my opinion, the amount of policy liabilities is appropriate for this purpose. The valuation conforms to accepted actuarial practice in Canada and the Consolidated Financial Statements fairly present the results of the valuation.

Brennan Kennedy
Fellow, Canadian Institute of Actuaries and Society of Actuaries
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
February 11, 2026
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Sun Life Financial Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity, and cash flows, for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2025, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and its financial performance and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2025, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
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, 2025, 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 11, 2026, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
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.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Insurance Contract Liabilities – Refer to Notes 1 and 10 to the Financial Statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company’s insurance contract liabilities represent a significant portion of its total liabilities. Insurance contract liabilities are determined in accordance with IFRS 17, Insurance Contracts (“IFRS 17”). This requires the use of complex valuation models and assumptions to measure groups of insurance contracts as the total of fulfillment cash flows, plus a risk adjustment for non-financial risk and a contractual service margin (“CSM”). The CSM component is only relevant for groups of insurance contracts measured using the general measurement approach and the variable fee approach.
While there is considerable judgment applied by management and inherent uncertainty in selecting assumptions, the assumptions with the greatest estimation uncertainty are those related to mortality, policyholder behaviour and discount rates. These assumptions required significant auditor attention in specific circumstances 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 determination of discount rates requires complex calculation and measurement of unobservable market inputs. Auditing certain valuation models and significant assumptions (mortality, policyholder behaviour and discount rate) required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of audit effort, including the need to involve actuarial and fair value specialists.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to certain valuation models and significant assumptions included the following, among others:
•Evaluated the effectiveness of the internal controls over actuarial models and the determination of the mortality, policyholder behaviour and discount rate assumptions used in the calculation of insurance contract liabilities, as well as access and change management controls over those actuarial models.
•With the assistance of actuarial specialists, tested the appropriateness of certain valuation models used in the valuation process by:
•Calculating an independent estimate of the insurance contract liability for a sample of insurance policies and comparing the results to the Company’s estimate; and
•Testing the accuracy of certain valuation models for changes in key assumptions.
•With the assistance of actuarial specialists, tested the reasonableness of mortality and policyholder behaviour assumptions by:
•Evaluating whether management’s assumptions were determined in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 17;
•Testing experience studies and other inputs used in the determination of the assumptions; and
•Analyzing management’s interpretation and judgment with respect to its experience study results and emerging claims experience, evaluating new and revised key assumptions, assessing reasonable possible alternative assumptions, and considering industry and other external sources of benchmarking where applicable.
| Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 7 |
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•With the assistance of actuarial and fair value specialists, evaluated the reasonableness of the discount rates used by:
•Evaluating whether management’s assumptions and methodologies were determined in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 17; and
•Testing the inputs and source information underlying the determination of the discount rates and for a sample of curves, calculated the discount rates and compared against discount rates derived by management.
Goodwill Impairment Testing – U.S. Dental Cash Generating Unit — Refer to Notes 1 and 9.A to the Financial Statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company’s evaluation of goodwill for impairment involves the comparison of the recoverable amount of the U.S. Dental cash generating unit (“identified CGU”) to its carrying value. The recoverable amount for the identified CGU is the greater of the fair value less costs of disposal and the value in use and it is estimated using a discounted cash flow approach. As the recoverable amount of the identified CGU exceeded its carrying value, no impairment was recognized.
While there are several estimates and assumptions that are required to determine the recoverable amount of the identified CGU, the estimates and assumptions with the highest degree of subjectivity are the forecasted cashflows, the timing and outcome of contract negotiations and repricing of Medicaid contracts, and the discount rate. Performing audit procedures around these estimates and assumptions required a high degree of judgment and an increased extent of audit effort, including the need to involve fair value and actuarial specialists.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the forecasted cashflows, the timing and outcome of contract negotiations and repricing of Medicaid contracts, and the discount rate used to determine the recoverable amount of the identified CGU included the following, among others:
•Evaluated the effectiveness of the internal controls over the key assumptions used by management to determine the recoverable amount for the identified CGU.
• Evaluated the forecasted cashflows by:
•Assessing the underlying analyses detailing business strategies and growth plans considering the uncertainties associated with structural changes in the U.S. health care system; and
•Evaluating the expected claims frequency and cost with the assistance of actuarial specialists.
• Evaluated the timing and outcome of contract negotiations and repricing of Medicaid contracts assumption by considering historical outcomes in contract negotiations and status of contracts under negotiation.
• With the assistance of fair value specialists, evaluated the:
•Reasonableness of the discount rate by testing the source information underlying the determination of the discount rate, and developing a range of independent estimates and comparing those to the discount rate selected by management; and
•Information obtained through other audit procedures to consider whether it could be potentially contradictory to management’s assessment which included considering market multiples of public company peers.
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 an elevated degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of audit effort, including the need for the integral involvement of valuation specialists.
How the Critical 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:
•Evaluated the effectiveness of the internal 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 valuation specialists, 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.
/s/ Deloitte LLP
Chartered Professional Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
Toronto, Canada
February 11, 2026
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1875.
| 8 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Sun Life Financial Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Sun Life Financial Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
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, 2025, of the Company and our report dated February 11, 2026, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
As described in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting at Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited (“Bowtie”), for which control was acquired July 15, 2025. The financial statements of this entity constitute less than 1% of total assets, total equity, insurance revenue and total net income of the consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at Bowtie.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
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.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
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.
/s/ Deloitte LLP
Chartered Professional Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
Toronto, Canada
February 11, 2026
| Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 9 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS | |||||||
| --- | For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars, except for per share amounts) | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||
| Insurance service result | |||||||
| Insurance revenue (Note 10) | $ | 23,982 | $ | 22,637 | |||
| Insurance service expenses (Note 10) | (20,414) | (19,631) | |||||
| Reinsurance contract held net income (expenses) (Note 10) | (94) | 85 | |||||
| Net insurance service result | 3,474 | 3,091 | |||||
| Investment result | |||||||
| Investment result excluding result for account of segregated fund holders: | |||||||
| Net investment income (loss) (Note 5) | 8,859 | 7,415 | |||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from insurance contracts issued (Note 5) | (6,787) | (5,139) | |||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held (Note 5) | 69 | 51 | |||||
| Decrease (increase) in investment contract liabilities | (323) | (393) | |||||
| Net investment result excluding result for account of segregated fund holders | 1,818 | 1,934 | |||||
| Investment result for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders: | |||||||
| Investment income (loss) on investments for account of segregated fund holders | 1,901 | 2,316 | |||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) (Note 21) | (1,901) | (2,316) | |||||
| Net investment result for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders | — | — | |||||
| Net investment result | 1,818 | 1,934 | |||||
| Fee income (Note 16) | 9,059 | 8,581 | |||||
| Other expenses (income) | |||||||
| Other income | — | (163) | |||||
| Operating expenses and commissions (Note 17) | 9,027 | 8,766 | |||||
| Interest expenses | 526 | 664 | |||||
| Total other expenses (income) | 9,553 | 9,267 | |||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes | 4,798 | 4,339 | |||||
| Less: Income tax expense (benefit) (Note 19) | 1,016 | 1,040 | |||||
| Total net income (loss) | 3,782 | 3,299 | |||||
| Less: Net income (loss) allocated to the participating account (Note 20) | 194 | 42 | |||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests | 37 | 128 | |||||
| Shareholders' net income (loss) | 3,551 | 3,129 | |||||
| Less: Dividends on preferred shares and distributions on other equity instruments | 79 | 80 | |||||
| Common shareholders' net income (loss) | $ | 3,472 | $ | 3,049 | |||
| Average exchange rates during the reporting periods: U.S. dollars | 1.40 | 1.37 | |||||
| Earnings (loss) per share (Note 25) | |||||||
| Basic | $ | 6.17 | $ | 5.27 | |||
| Diluted | $ | 6.15 | $ | 5.26 | |||
| Dividends per common share | $ | 3.520 | $ | 3.240 |
The attached notes form part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
| 10 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Consolidated Financial Statements | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) | |||||||
| --- | For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||
| Total net income (loss) | $ | 3,782 | $ | 3,299 | |||
| 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) | (899) | 1,346 | |||||
| Change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments at fair value through other comprehensive income | |||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) | 230 | 166 | |||||
| Reclassifications to net income (loss) and provision for credit losses recognized into income | 25 | (62) | |||||
| Change in unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges: | |||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) | (11) | 111 | |||||
| Reclassifications to net income (loss) | 8 | (106) | |||||
| Share of other comprehensive income (loss) in joint ventures and associates: | |||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) | (203) | 196 | |||||
| Reclassifications to net income (loss) | — | 5 | |||||
| Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to income | (850) | 1,656 | |||||
| Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income: | |||||||
| Remeasurement of defined benefit plans | 19 | 19 | |||||
| Share of other comprehensive income (loss) in joint ventures and associates | 8 | (7) | |||||
| Revaluation of property, plant and equipment | — | 1 | |||||
| Total items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income | 27 | 13 | |||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes | (823) | 1,669 | |||||
| Total comprehensive income (loss) | 2,959 | 4,968 | |||||
| Less: Comprehensive income (loss) allocated to the participating account (Note 20) | 200 | 39 | |||||
| Non-controlling interests' comprehensive income (loss) (Note 20) | 37 | 138 | |||||
| Shareholders’ comprehensive income (loss) | $ | 2,722 | $ | 4,791 | |||
| INCOME TAXES INCLUDED IN OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) | |||||||
| --- | For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||
| Income tax benefit (expense): | |||||||
| Items that may be reclassified subsequently to income: | |||||||
| Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) | $ | — | $ | (2) | |||
| Unrealized gains (losses) on investments at fair value through other comprehensive income | (47) | (44) | |||||
| Reclassifications to net income (loss) and provision for credit losses recognized into income on investments at fair value through other comprehensive income | (3) | 14 | |||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges | (4) | (15) | |||||
| Reclassifications to net income (loss) for cash flow hedges | 5 | 11 | |||||
| Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to income | (49) | (36) | |||||
| Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income: | |||||||
| Remeasurement of defined benefit plans | (4) | (7) | |||||
| Total items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income | (4) | (7) | |||||
| Total income tax benefit (expense) included in other comprehensive income (loss) | $ | (53) | $ | (43) |
The attached notes form part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
| Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 11 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION | ||||||||
| --- | As at December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||
| Assets | ||||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities (Note 5) | $ | 14,841 | $ | 13,873 | ||||
| Debt securities (Notes 5 and 6) | 85,618 | 81,955 | ||||||
| Equity securities (Notes 5 and 6) | 12,250 | 9,974 | ||||||
| Mortgages and loans (Notes 5 and 6) | 59,433 | 57,619 | ||||||
| Derivative assets (Notes 5 and 6) | 1,534 | 1,971 | ||||||
| Other financial invested assets (Note 5) | 14,374 | 13,306 | ||||||
| Financial invested assets | 188,050 | 178,698 | ||||||
| Investment properties (Note 5) | 9,432 | 9,290 | ||||||
| Other non-financial invested assets (Note 5) | 1,693 | 1,829 | ||||||
| Invested assets | 199,175 | 189,817 | ||||||
| Other assets (Note 8) | 7,753 | 7,021 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets (Note 10) | 6,138 | 6,318 | ||||||
| Insurance contract assets (Note 10) | 335 | 355 | ||||||
| Deferred tax assets (Note 19) | 3,803 | 3,910 | ||||||
| Intangible assets (Note 9) | 5,155 | 5,058 | ||||||
| Goodwill (Note 9) | 9,530 | 9,456 | ||||||
| Total general fund assets | 231,889 | 221,935 | ||||||
| Investments for account of segregated fund holders (Note 21) | 166,566 | 148,786 | ||||||
| Total assets | $ | 398,455 | $ | 370,721 | ||||
| Liabilities and equity | ||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities excluding those for account of segregated fund holders (Note 10) | $ | 155,910 | $ | 147,269 | ||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities (Note 10) | 2,049 | 1,825 | ||||||
| Investment contract liabilities (Note 5) | 11,796 | 11,678 | ||||||
| Derivative liabilities (Notes 5 and 6) | 2,065 | 2,077 | ||||||
| Deferred tax liabilities (Note 19) | 301 | 286 | ||||||
| Other liabilities (Note 11) | 25,905 | 26,292 | ||||||
| Senior debentures (Note 12) | 200 | 200 | ||||||
| Subordinated debt (Note 13) | 8,171 | 6,179 | ||||||
| Total general fund liabilities | 206,397 | 195,806 | ||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders (Note 21) | 20,108 | 20,097 | ||||||
| Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders (Note 21) | 146,458 | 128,689 | ||||||
| Total liabilities | $ | 372,963 | $ | 344,592 | ||||
| Equity | ||||||||
| Issued share capital and contributed surplus | $ | 10,220 | $ | 10,526 | ||||
| Shareholders’ retained earnings and accumulated other comprehensive income | 14,312 | 15,031 | ||||||
| Total shareholders’ equity | 24,532 | 25,557 | ||||||
| Equity in the participating account | 696 | 496 | ||||||
| Non-controlling interests’ equity | 264 | 76 | ||||||
| Total equity | $ | 25,492 | $ | 26,129 | ||||
| Total liabilities and equity | $ | 398,455 | $ | 370,721 | ||||
| Exchange rates at the end of the reporting periods: U.S. dollars | 1.37 | 1.44 |
The attached notes form part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
Approved on behalf of the Board of Directors on February 11, 2026.
| Kevin Strain | Helen Mallovy Hicks | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Executive Officer | Director | 12 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Consolidated Financial Statements | |||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY | ||||||||
| --- | For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||
| Shareholders: | ||||||||
| Preferred shares and other equity instruments (Note 14) | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning and end of year | $ | 2,239 | $ | 2,239 | ||||
| Common shares (Note 14) | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | 8,192 | 8,327 | ||||||
| Stock options exercised | 42 | 47 | ||||||
| Common shares purchased for cancellation | (334) | (182) | ||||||
| Balance, end of year | 7,900 | 8,192 | ||||||
| Contributed surplus | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | 95 | 94 | ||||||
| Share-based payments | (9) | 5 | ||||||
| Stock options exercised | (5) | (4) | ||||||
| Balance, end of year | 81 | 95 | ||||||
| Retained earnings | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year(1) | 12,817 | 12,370 | ||||||
| Net income (loss) | 3,551 | 3,129 | ||||||
| Dividends on common shares | (1,975) | (1,875) | ||||||
| Dividends on preferred shares and distributions on other equity instruments | (79) | (80) | ||||||
| Common shares purchased for cancellation (Note 14) and other | (1,373) | (727) | ||||||
| Changes attributable to acquisition (Note 3) | (14) | — | ||||||
| Balance, end of year | 12,927 | 12,817 | ||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes (Note 26) | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year(1) | 2,214 | 552 | ||||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the year | (829) | 1,662 | ||||||
| Balance, end of year | 1,385 | 2,214 | ||||||
| Total shareholders’ equity, end of year | $ | 24,532 | $ | 25,557 | ||||
| Equity in the participating account: | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 496 | $ | 457 | ||||
| Net income (loss) | 194 | 42 | ||||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the year (Note 26) | 6 | (3) | ||||||
| Total equity in the participating account, end of year | $ | 696 | $ | 496 | ||||
| Non-controlling interests: | ||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 76 | $ | 161 | ||||
| Net income (loss) | 37 | 128 | ||||||
| Changes attributable to acquisition (Note 3) | 221 | — | ||||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the year (Note 26) | — | 10 | ||||||
| Distribution to non-controlling interests | (70) | (223) | ||||||
| Total non-controlling interests’ equity, end of year | $ | 264 | $ | 76 | ||||
| Total equity | $ | 25,492 | $ | 26,129 |
(1) Balances have been restated. Refer to Note 2.
The attached notes form part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
| Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 13 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | |||||||||
| --- | For the years ended December 31, (in millions of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities | |||||||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 4,798 | $ | 4,339 | |||||
| Adjustments: | |||||||||
| Interest expense related to financing activities | 363 | 398 | |||||||
| (Decrease) increase in investment contract liabilities | 323 | 393 | |||||||
| Changes in insurance contract liabilities and assets | 3,219 | 2,133 | |||||||
| Changes in reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities | 25 | (136) | |||||||
| Realized and unrealized (gains) losses and foreign currency changes on invested assets | (765) | 129 | |||||||
| Sales, maturities and repayments of invested assets | 59,959 | 52,512 | |||||||
| Purchases of invested assets | (71,218) | (61,251) | |||||||
| Income taxes received (paid) | (978) | (1,138) | |||||||
| Mortgage securitization (Note 5) | (423) | (265) | |||||||
| Other operating activities | 7,496 | 5,418 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | 2,799 | 2,532 | |||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities | |||||||||
| Net (purchase) sale of property and equipment | (145) | (143) | |||||||
| Investment in and transactions with joint ventures and associates (Note 15) | (44) | (17) | |||||||
| Dividends and other proceeds related to joint ventures and associates (Note 15) | 55 | 160 | |||||||
| Acquisitions, net of cash and cash equivalents acquired (Note 3)(1) | 25 | — | |||||||
| Other investing activities | (211) | (337) | |||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (320) | (337) | |||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities | |||||||||
| Increase in (repayment of) borrowed funds (Note 11) | 28 | 23 | |||||||
| Issuance of subordinated debt, net of issuance costs (Note 13) | 1,991 | 746 | |||||||
| Increase in (repayment of) borrowings from credit facility | (308) | (340) | |||||||
| Redemption of senior debentures and subordinated debt (Notes 12 and 13) | — | (750) | |||||||
| Issuance of common shares on exercise of stock options | 37 | 43 | |||||||
| Transactions with non-controlling interests | (78) | (223) | |||||||
| Common shares purchased for cancellation (Note 14) | (1,707) | (855) | |||||||
| Dividends paid on common and preferred shares | (2,064) | (1,962) | |||||||
| Payment of lease liabilities | (180) | (175) | |||||||
| Interest expense paid | (355) | (389) | |||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | (2,636) | (3,882) | |||||||
| Changes due to fluctuations in exchange rates | (198) | 471 | |||||||
| Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | (355) | (1,216) | |||||||
| Net cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 9,954 | 11,170 | |||||||
| Net cash and cash equivalents, end of year | 9,599 | 9,954 | |||||||
| Short-term securities, end of year | 5,156 | 3,744 | |||||||
| Net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities, end of year (Note 5) | $ | 14,755 | $ | 13,698 |
(1) Consists of total cash and cash equivalents acquired of $80, less total cash consideration paid of $55, for the year ended December 31, 2025.
The attached notes form part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
| 14 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 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.)
| 1. Material Accounting Policies |
|---|
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 a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. We have operations in a number of markets worldwide including Canada, the United States ("U.S."), the United Kingdom ("UK"), Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Bermuda.
Statement of Compliance
We prepared our Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as issued 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.
The material accounting policies used in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements are summarized below and are applied consistently.
Estimates, Assumptions and Judgments
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.
Use of Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the application of our policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Key sources of estimation uncertainty include the measurement of insurance contract assets and liabilities, reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities and investment contract liabilities, determination of fair value, determination and impairment of goodwill and intangible assets, determination of provisions and liabilities for pension plans, other post-retirement benefits, income taxes, and the determination of fair value of share-based payments. Actual results may differ from our estimates thereby impacting our Consolidated Financial Statements. Information on our use of estimates and assumptions is discussed in this Note and other Notes.
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").
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 15 |
|---|
Significant estimates and judgments have been made in the following areas and are discussed as noted:
| Insurance contract and investment contract assumptions and measurement | Note 1 Insurance Contracts and Investment Contract Liabilities<br><br>Note 10 Insurance Contracts |
|---|---|
| Determination of fair value | Note 1 Basis of Consolidation<br><br>Note 1 Determination of Fair Value<br><br>Note 3 Acquisition and Other<br><br>Note 5 Invested Assets and Net Investment Income |
| Determination of fair value of insurance contracts on transition for adoption of IFRS 17 | Note 1 Insurance Contracts |
| Income taxes | Note 1 Income Taxes<br><br>Note 19 Income Taxes |
| Pension plans | Note 1 Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits<br><br>Note 24 Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits |
| Goodwill and intangible assets on acquisition and impairment | Note 1 Goodwill<br><br>Note 1 Intangible Assets<br><br>Note 3 Acquisition and Other<br><br>Note 9 Goodwill and Intangible Assets |
| Determination of control for purpose of consolidation | Note 1 Basis of Consolidation<br><br>Note 15 Interests in Other Entities |
| Share-based payments | Note 1 Share-Based Payments<br><br>Note 18 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.
Determination of Fair Value
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Fair value is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing an asset or liability. We determine fair value by using quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar assets or liabilities. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs. When observable valuation inputs are not available, significant judgment is required to determine fair value by assessing the valuation techniques and valuation inputs. The use of alternative valuation techniques or valuation inputs may result in a different fair value. A description of the fair value methodologies, assumptions, valuation techniques, and valuation inputs by type of asset is included in Note 5. A description of the fair value methodologies, assumptions, valuation techniques and valuation inputs for the transition of insurance contracts to IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts ("IFRS 17") is included in Note 1.
| 16 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 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. Insurance contract and reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities, including the contractual service margin ("CSM"), are monetary items. 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 net income (loss), are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. For monetary assets classified as fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI"), 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 on these assets are recognized in OCI.
Translation to the Presentation Currency
In preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements, the financial statements of foreign operations are translated from their respective functional currencies to Canadian dollars, our presentation currency. Assets and liabilities are translated at the closing exchange rate at the statement of financial position date, and income and expenses are translated using the average exchange rates. The accumulated gains or losses arising from translation of functional currencies to the presentation currency, net of the effect of any hedges, are included as a separate component of OCI within equity. Upon disposal of a foreign operation that includes loss of control, significant influence or joint control, the cumulative exchange gain or loss related to that foreign operation is recognized in net income (loss).
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, and other financial invested assets.
i) Initial Recognition and Subsequent Measurement
Classification of financial assets
Financial assets are measured at initial recognition at fair value and are classified as and subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss ("FVTPL"), FVOCI, or amortized cost based on the business model used to manage the financial asset and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the asset. Amortized cost is determined using the effective interest rate method, which is the gross carrying amount less the allowance for expected credit losses ("ECL"). Financial assets are not reclassified subsequent to initial recognition unless the business model used to manage the financial asset has changed. Financial assets are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position on their trade dates, which are the dates that we commit to purchase or sell the assets. Originated mortgages and loans are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position on their settlement dates.
A financial asset is measured at amortized cost if both of the following conditions are met and the asset is not designated at FVTPL:
•The asset is held within a business model that is held to collect ("HTC"), in which the collection of contractual cash flows from the financial asset is the primary objective and sales are expected to be insignificant or infrequent; and
•The contractual terms of the asset give rise to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest ("SPPI") on the principal amount outstanding.
A financial asset is measured at FVOCI if both of the following conditions are met and the asset is not designated at FVTPL:
•The asset is held within a business model that is held to collect and sell ("HTC&S"), in which both the collection of contractual cash flows and the sale of financial assets are integral to achieving the objective of the business model; and
•The contractual terms of the asset give rise, on specified dates, to cash flows that are SPPI.
Financial assets that are managed on a fair value basis and do not meet the objectives of a HTC or HTC&S business model, such as financial assets that are held for trading, are measured at FVTPL and fall within the scope of other business models.
All financial assets not classified as amortized cost or FVOCI, as described above, are measured at FVTPL. Financial assets at FVTPL include financial assets that are held-for-trading. A financial asset is classified as held-for-trading if it is acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term. Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities are held for trading for the purpose of meeting short-term cash requirements and are measured at FVTPL. On initial recognition, we may also make an irrevocable election to designate a financial asset that would otherwise be measured at amortized cost or FVOCI as measured at FVTPL if the financial asset is managed together with a related financial liability and their performance is evaluated on a fair value basis. Certain debt securities, mortgages and loan instruments that support insurance contract liabilities, which are measured at fair value, have been designated at FVTPL, as doing so significantly reduces measurement inconsistency with the related insurance contract liabilities. These financial assets would otherwise have been measured at FVOCI or amortized cost.
Equity securities are measured at FVTPL, unless the asset is not held for trading purposes and we make an irrevocable election to designate the asset at FVOCI. This election is made on an instrument-by-instrument basis. If such an election is made, the fair value changes, including any associated foreign exchange gains or losses, are recognized in OCI and are not subsequently reclassified to the Consolidated Statements of Operations, including upon disposal. Realized gains and losses are transferred directly to retained earnings upon disposal.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 17 |
|---|
The following table summarizes the financial assets included in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and the applicable classifications:
| IFRS 9 | |
|---|---|
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | FVTPL |
| Debt securities | FVTPL, FVOCI |
| Equity securities | FVTPL, FVOCI |
| Mortgages and loans | FVTPL, FVOCI, Amortized cost |
| Other financial invested assets | FVTPL |
Business model assessment
We determine our business models at the level that best reflects how we manage portfolios of financial assets to achieve our business objectives. Judgment is used in determining our business models, which is supported by relevant, objective evidence including:
•How the economic activities of our businesses generate benefits, for example, through enhancing yields or hedging and how such economic activities are evaluated and reported to key management personnel;
•The significant risks affecting the performance of our businesses, for example, market risk, credit risk, or other risks as described in the Risk Management section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis, and the activities undertaken to manage those risks;
•The frequency, volume, and timing of sales in prior periods, the reasons for the sales and expectations about future sales activity. Information about sales activity is not considered in isolation, but as part of an overall assessment of how our stated objective for managing the financial assets is achieved and how cash flows are realized; and
•The compensation structures for managers of our businesses, to the extent that these are directly linked to the economic performance of the business model.
Our business models include HTC, HTC&S and other, as described above.
Assessment of whether contractual cash flows are SPPI
Financial assets held within a HTC or HTC&S business model are assessed to evaluate if their contractual cash flows are comprised of SPPI. SPPI payments are those which would typically be expected from basic lending arrangements, such as interest and basic lending returns, compensation for credit risk and the time value of money, costs associated with holding the financial asset for a period of time, and a profit margin. In making the SPPI assessment, we consider the contractual terms of the instrument, including assessment of whether the timing or amount of the contractual cash flows could change by a contractual term of the financial asset. A prepayment feature is consistent with the SPPI criterion if the prepayment amount substantially represents unpaid amounts of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding, which may include reasonable compensation for early termination of the contract.
Where the contractual terms introduce exposure to risk or variability of the cash flows that are inconsistent with a basic lending arrangement, the related financial asset is classified as and measured at FVTPL.
Subsequent measurement
Equity securities, debt securities, mortgages and loans, and assets related to Collateralized Loan Obligations ("CLOs") that are classified or designated at FVTPL are recorded at fair value in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, and gains or losses, including interest or dividend income and foreign exchange gains and losses, are recognized in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Debt securities and mortgages and loans that are classified as FVOCI are recorded at fair value. Interest income, foreign exchange gains (losses), and impairment are recognized in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Other gains or losses are recognized in OCI.
Mortgages and loans classified as amortized cost are subsequently measured using the effective interest rate method. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses, and impairment are presented in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Other financial invested assets include investments in limited partnerships, segregated funds, mutual funds, and assets related to CLOs that are classified as FVTPL. These financial assets are recorded at fair value, and gains or losses are recognized in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Cash equivalents are highly liquid instruments with a term to maturity of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents are classified as FVTPL and the fair values are assumed to approximate their carrying values, due to their short-term nature or because they are frequently repriced to current market rates. Short-term securities are those that have a term to maturity exceeding three months but less than one year. The fair value of short-term securities is approximated by their carrying amount.
ii) Derecognition
Financial assets are derecognized when our contractual rights to the cash flows of the financial asset have expired, or when we transfer the rights to receive contractual cash flows and substantially all the risks and rewards of owning the financial assets have been transferred. When we neither retain nor transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership, the financial assets are derecognized if control over the financial assets have been relinquished. If we retain control of the financial assets, we continue to recognize the transferred assets to the extent of our continuing involvement.
When financial assets are derecognized, the difference between the carrying amount and the consideration received on the date of derecognition is recognized in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. For debt securities at FVOCI, the cumulative gains (losses) previously recognized in OCI are reclassified to Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of
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Operations. For equity investments designated at FVOCI, the cumulative gains (losses) previously recognized in OCI are not reclassified to net income (loss).
For financial assets measured at amortized cost in which modifications have resulted in derecognition, the gain (loss) is presented together with impairment losses if the modification was a result of financial difficulties of the borrower. Otherwise, the gain (loss) is presented as Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Judgment is applied in determining whether contractual rights to the cash flows from the transferred assets have expired or whether we retain the rights to receive the cash flows on the assets but have assumed an obligation to pay for those cash flows.
iii) Impairment
We establish an allowance for ECL for financial assets not classified or designated at FVTPL. Financial assets measured at amortized cost are presented at their carrying amounts on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, which is the gross carrying amount less the allowance for ECL, with changes in the allowance for ECL recognized in Provision for credit losses in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The allowance for ECL on financial assets measured at FVOCI, including debt securities and mortgages and loans, does not reduce the carrying amount of the assets in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, which remains at fair value. Rather, an amount equal to the allowance for ECL that would arise if the assets were measured at amortized cost is recognized in OCI, with changes in the allowance for ECL recognized in Provision for credit losses in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
At the end of each reporting period, we apply a three-stage impairment approach to measure the ECL on financial assets measured at amortized cost or at FVOCI:
•Stage 1: For financial assets that have not experienced a significant increase in credit risk since the date of initial recognition, a loss allowance equal to the credit losses expected to result from default events occurring over the 12 months following the reporting date is recognized.
•Stage 2: For financial assets that have experienced a significant increase in credit risk since the date of initial recognition, a loss allowance equal to the credit losses expected to result from default events occurring over the remaining lifetime of the financial asset is recognized.
•Stage 3: When a financial asset is considered to be credit-impaired, a loss allowance equal to the ECL over the remaining lifetime of the financial asset is recognized. Interest income is calculated based on the carrying amount of the asset, net of the loss allowance.
We monitor all financial assets that are subject to impairment for significant increase in credit risk. In making this assessment, we consider both quantitative and qualitative information that is reasonable and supportable, including historical experience and forward-looking information that is available without undue cost or effort. Additional details about significant increase in credit risk and forward-looking information are provided in Note 6.
Modified financial assets
The contractual terms of a financial asset may be modified for a number of reasons, including changing market conditions and other factors not related to a current or potential credit deterioration of the borrower. An existing financial asset whose terms have been modified may be derecognized and the renegotiated asset recognized as a new financial asset at fair value in accordance with the accounting policies in this Note.
If modification does not result in derecognition, the financial asset continues to be subject to the assessment for significant increase in credit risk relative to initial recognition. Expected cash flows arising from the modified contractual terms are considered when calculating the ECL for the modified asset. For loans that were modified while having lifetime ECLs, such loans can revert to having 12-month ECLs if the borrower's financial condition that led to it being identified as credit-impaired are no longer present.
Definition of default
The definition of default used in the measurement of ECL is consistent with the definition of default used for our internal credit risk management purposes. We consider a financial asset to be in default when the issuer is unlikely to meet its credit obligations in full, without recourse action on our part, or when the financial asset is 90 days past due. Our definition of default may differ across financial assets and consider qualitative factors, such as the terms of financial covenants, breaches of such covenants, and other indicators of financial distress, as well as quantitative factors, such as overdue status and non-payment of other obligations under the same issuer. We use internally developed data and those obtained from external sources when assessing default.
Credit-impaired financial assets (Stage 3)
At each reporting date, we assess whether financial assets measured at amortized cost and FVOCI are credit-impaired. A financial asset is credit-impaired when one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred. Evidence of credit-impairment may include indications that the borrower is experiencing significant financial difficulty, probability of bankruptcy or other financial reorganization, as well as a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows evidenced by the adverse changes in the payments status of the borrower or economic conditions that correlate with defaults. If a financial asset is credit-impaired, interest income is calculated based on the carrying amount of the asset, which is net of the allowance for ECL, rather than on the gross carrying amount.
Write-off of financial assets
The gross carrying amount of a financial asset, and the related allowance for ECL, is written off (either partially or in full) to the extent that there is no realistic prospect of recovery. This is generally the case when we determine that the borrower does not have assets or sources of income that could generate sufficient cash flows to repay the amounts subject to the write-off. However, financial assets that are written off could still be subject to enforcement activities in order to comply with procedures for recovery of amounts due.
iv) Embedded Derivatives
Under IFRS 9 Financial Instruments ("IFRS 9"), derivatives embedded in contracts where the host is a financial asset in scope of IFRS 9 are not separated. Instead, the hybrid financial instrument, as a whole, is assessed for classification.
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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.
Derivative Financial Instruments
All derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Derivatives with a positive fair value are recorded as Derivative assets while derivatives with a negative fair value are recorded as Derivative liabilities.
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 fair value of derivatives that are not designated for hedge accounting purposes, which are defined as derivative investments, are recorded in Net investment income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Income earned or paid on these derivatives is recorded in Net investment income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Hedge accounting is applied to certain derivatives to reduce income statement volatility. 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. We have elected to continue to apply the hedge accounting principles under International Accounting Standard ("IAS") 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement instead of those under IFRS 9.
Cash Flow Hedges
Certain equity and foreign currency forwards are designated as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges for anticipated payments of awards under certain share-based payment plans and for anticipated foreign currency purchases of foreign operations. Changes in the fair value of derivatives for the effective portion of the hedge are recognized in OCI, while the ineffective portion of the hedge and any items excluded from the hedging relationship, such as the spot-to-forward differential, are recognized in net investment income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. A portion of the amount recognized in OCI related to the equity forwards is reclassified to net income (loss) as a component of Operating expenses as the liabilities for the share-based payment awards are accrued over the vesting period. A portion of the amounts recognized in OCI related to the foreign currency forwards would be reclassified to net income (loss) upon disposal or impairment of the foreign operations. All amounts recognized in, or reclassified from, OCI are net of related taxes.
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 Non-Financial Invested Assets
Other non-financial invested assets include investments in joint ventures and associates, which are accounted for using the equity method. Investments in joint ventures and associates are initially recorded at cost. The investment in joint ventures and associates is increased by our share of capital contributions and for purchases of additional interests and is reduced by distributions received. In addition, subsequent adjustments to the investment are made for our share of net income (loss) and our share of OCI. Our share of net income (loss) is recorded in investment income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and our share of OCI is recorded in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Impairment losses on equity method investments are recognized when events or changes in circumstances indicate that they are impaired. The impairment loss recognized is the difference between the carrying amount and the recoverable amount.
Other Assets
Other assets, which are measured at amortized cost, include accounts receivable, investment income due and accrued, deferred acquisition costs from service contracts, property and equipment, and lessee’s right-of-use assets. Deferred acquisition costs from service contracts are discussed in the Service contract and fee income section of this Note. Right-of-use assets are discussed in the Leases section of this Note. 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.
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 net income (loss) 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
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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 net income (loss).
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 rate 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: i) Distribution, sales potential of field force, client relationships and asset administration contracts — 3 to 40 years; ii) and internally generated software — 3 to 10 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 of disposal 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. 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 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.
Insurance Contracts
Classification
Insurance contracts are comprised of insurance contracts issued, which are insurance and reinsurance or retrocession contracts that are issued by us, and reinsurance contracts held.
Insurance contracts issued are contracts under which we accept significant insurance risk from a policyholder by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if a specified uncertain future event adversely affects the policyholder. The presence of significant insurance risk in individual contracts is assessed by reviewing books of contracts with homogeneous risk features.
Reinsurance contracts held are insurance contracts under which we are the policyholder and have transferred insurance risk to the issuer of the contract, either the reinsurer or the retrocessionaire. In the normal course of business, we use reinsurance to limit our exposure to large losses. We have a retention policy that requires that such arrangements be placed with well-established, highly-rated reinsurers.
Certain investment contracts contain discretionary participation features ("DPF"), whereby the policyholder has the right to receive, in addition to guaranteed amounts, potentially significant benefits based on returns on a specified pool of assets. For entities like us that issue insurance contracts, investment contracts with DPF are measured and reported as insurance contracts.
Judgment is required to determine the classification of a contract as an insurance contract, investment contract or a service contract. Contracts are classified at initial recognition. Once a contract is classified as an insurance contract, it remains an insurance contract until all rights and obligations are extinguished or the contract is derecognized.
Combination and Separation of Contracts
Derivatives embedded in insurance contracts are treated as separate contracts and measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income (loss) unless the embedded derivative itself meets the definition of an insurance contract or when the risks and characteristics of the embedded derivative are closely related to those of the host contract. Embedded derivatives that are not separated are accounted for with the host insurance contract.
Investment components of insurance contracts are amounts we repay to a policyholder in all circumstances (e.g., cash surrender values). Investment components of insurance contracts are treated as separate investment contracts only if the investment component is not highly
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interrelated with the insurance component and a contract with equivalent terms could be sold separately in the same market. Investment components that are not separated are accounted for as non-distinct investment components of insurance contracts.
Service components of insurance contracts are treated as separate service contracts only if the service component is not highly interrelated with the insurance component and we provide no significant service in integrating the service component with the insurance component. Service components that are not separated are accounted for with insurance contracts.
Insurance components of insurance contracts are treated as separate contracts only if the insurance component constitutes a separate insurance contract (e.g., certain reinsurance treaties that transfer risk on different types of insurance contracts).
For insurance contracts where both parties to the contract have the practical ability to terminate the contract, the extension of the contract beyond the termination date is treated as a new and separate contract. This occurs for most group life and health insurance contracts every year, when we have the right to reprice the contract and the policyholder has the option to not renew the contract. In such instances, each renewal is considered a new and separate contract. This also applies for many reinsurance contracts held, where the reinsurer has the right to reprice new cessions and we have the right to cease ceding new contracts with a notice period. In such instances, the cessions within each notice period are considered a new and separate reinsurance contract held.
Measurement
Insurance contracts are measured in accordance with IFRS 17, using one of the following approaches:
•Variable fee approach ("VFA"): This approach applies to insurance contracts (excluding reinsurance contracts) with direct participation features, which are substantially investment-related service contracts where the policyholder is promised an investment return based on underlying items.
•Premium allocation approach ("PAA"): This is a simplified measurement approach and is applied to all insurance contracts that are eligible to use it, such as the majority of those in our group life and health businesses.
•General measurement approach ("GMA"): This approach applies to all insurance contracts not measured using the VFA or the PAA.
Reinsurance contracts held are measured in a manner consistent with the associated underlying insurance contracts and in accordance with the terms of each reinsurance contract held. Reinsurance contracts held cannot be measured using the VFA. The measurement of reinsurance contracts held includes a provision for the risk that the reinsurer will not honour its obligations under the contract.
The carrying value of insurance contracts comprises the liability for remaining coverage ("LRC") and the liability for incurred claims ("LIC"):
•The LRC is the measurement of our obligation to investigate and pay valid claims for insured events that have not yet occurred (i.e., the obligation that relates to the unexpired portion of the coverage period).
•The LIC is the measurement of our obligation to investigate and pay valid claims for insured events that have already occurred, including events that have occurred but for which claims have not been reported. For reinsurance contracts held, the LIC is an asset for incurred claims.
Significant judgment is required in measuring assets or liabilities for insurance contracts, including the assumptions that are used for their measurement. Application of different assumptions may result in different measurement of the insurance contracts. 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 selecting these assumptions are discussed in Note 10. The sensitivity of the measurement of insurance contracts to changes in risk variables are discussed in Note 7.
Level of Aggregation
The unit of account for the measurement of insurance contracts is a group. Each insurance contract is assigned to a group at initial recognition and remains in that group until the insurance contract is derecognized.
Groups are subdivisions of portfolios. Portfolios are insurance contracts subject to similar risks and managed together and a portfolio is the level at which expenses are attributed and the level at which insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held are presented.
We have established portfolios in each reportable business segment, distinguished between:
•Insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held;
•Group insurance contracts and individual insurance contracts;
•Participating insurance contracts and non-participating insurance contracts;
•Adjustable insurance contracts and non-adjustable insurance contracts;
•Traditional life insurance contracts and universal life insurance contracts; and
•Pass-through insurance contracts and discretionary crediting contracts.
Within each portfolio, separate groups are established by:
•Date of issue: To be in the same group, contracts must be issued within the same time period, and the period cannot be longer than one year; and
•Level of profitability: Insurance contracts are separated into groups of contracts that are onerous at initial recognition, contracts that do not have a significant possibility of becoming onerous subsequently, and other contracts. The level of profitability for an insurance contract is based on the CSM at initial recognition of the contract (as described below in Initial Measurement).
We do not establish additional groups beyond the minimum required except for:
•Some portfolios of reinsurance contracts held where grouping is established to line up with the grouping of the underlying insurance contracts issued; and
•Some individual life policies which are included in their own groups.
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Initial Measurement
Groups of insurance contracts are recognized and measured as the total of the following measurement components:
•Fulfilment cash flows ("FCF"), which is comprised of:
•The present value of future cash flows (including the provisions for financial risk),
•The risk adjustment for non-financial risk ("RA"); and
•A CSM, representing the unearned profit that will be recognized in net income (loss) as insurance contract services are provided.
These measurement components apply to groups of insurance contracts measured using the GMA and the VFA. Under the PAA, which is a simplified measurement approach, insurance contracts are measured based on unearned profits and do not include a CSM.
GMA or VFA
Using the GMA or VFA, a group of insurance contracts is measured as the total of the three measurement components, as described above.
Estimates of the present value of future cash flows are explicit and current, and consider all reasonable and supportable information available at the reporting date without undue cost or effort. The portion of the present value of future cash flows related to financial risk variables is consistent with observable market prices and, where necessary, considers a range of scenarios that provides a good representation of possible outcomes. The cash flows for each scenario are probability-weighted and discounted using current assumptions.
The RA for non-financial risk represents the compensation required for uncertainty related to non-financial risk (mortality, morbidity, surrender and expenses, etc.). The risk adjustment is reduced as the non-financial risks of our insurance contracts diminish over time ("release of risk adjustment").
The CSM at the initial recognition of an insurance contract issued is the amount that fully offsets the FCF at initial recognition, and represents unearned profits on new business that are deferred and amortized into income as insurance contract services are provided. For insurance contracts issued that are not profitable at initial recognition ("onerous insurance contracts"), a CSM is not established and losses are recognized in net income (loss) immediately.
For reinsurance contracts held, there is no restriction on the CSM based on profitability at initial recognition, and any losses are deferred in the same manner as profits. In addition, the CSM for reinsurance contracts held can be adjusted to offset any gains or losses on the groups of underlying direct contracts that would have gone through CSM if the group of underlying direct contracts had a CSM balance.
For onerous insurance contracts, the loss recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations at initial recognition is added to the loss component of the group to which the contract is assigned. The loss component is a notional portion of the LRC that represents the amount of loss that can be reversed by future profit before a CSM is re-established for the group. For groups of reinsurance contracts held for which the CSM has been adjusted to offset gains and losses on groups of underlying direct contracts without a CSM, a loss recovery component is established.
PAA
The LRC is initially measured as the premium received in the period. For groups using the PAA, insurance acquisition cash flows are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations when incurred, rather than including such expenses in the measurement of LRC.
Subsequent Measurement
The subsequent measurement of FCF uses the same approach as described above for initial measurement, but with current inputs for each subsequent reporting date.
For contracts measured using the PAA, the LRC subsequent to initial recognition is the amount of unearned revenue and the remaining loss component for any groups that are onerous. We do not adjust the LRC to reflect the time value of money and the effects of financial risk when we expect the time between providing coverage and the related premiums to be no more than one year. We do not adjust the LIC to reflect the time value of money and the effects of financial risk when we expect the claims to be fully paid within one year of the insured event occurring.
For contracts measured using the GMA or VFA, the measurement of CSM subsequent to initial recognition is described below.
For groups of insurance contracts issued using the GMA, the CSM at the end of a reporting period is measured as the CSM at the beginning of the reporting period, adjusted for:
•The effect of any new contracts added to the group;
•Interest accretion on the carrying amount of the CSM;
•The change in FCF relating to future service, except to the extent that increases exceed the carrying amount of the CSM (giving rise to a loss) or decreases are allocated to the loss component of the LRC (reversing a prior loss);
•The effect of any currency exchange differences on the CSM; and
•The amount recognized as Insurance revenue due to the performance of insurance contract services in the period ("CSM amortization").
For groups of insurance contracts issued using the VFA, the CSM at the end of a reporting period is measured as the CSM at the beginning of the reporting period, adjusted for:
•The effect of any new contracts added to the group;
•The change in the entity's share of the fair value of underlying items, except to the extent a decrease exceeds the carrying amount of the CSM (giving rise to a loss) or an increase reverses a prior loss, or that risk mitigation applies (see below);
•The change in FCF relating to future service, except to the extent that increases exceed the carrying amount of the CSM (giving rise to a loss) or decreases are allocated to the loss component of the LRC (reversing a prior loss), or that risk mitigation applies (see below);
•The effect of any currency exchange differences on the CSM; and
•CSM amortization.
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The risk mitigation option is provided to avoid accounting mismatches that would otherwise occur when the financial risk of a group of insurance contracts is mitigated outside the underlying items of the group. For insurance contracts issued using the VFA, changes related to financial risk adjust the CSM, but offsetting changes from risk mitigation (e.g., derivatives) may go through net income (loss). The risk mitigation option allows for a change that would otherwise adjust CSM to be recognized in net income (loss) instead, to avoid such a mismatch. We apply the risk mitigation option where applicable to reduce accounting mismatches. The effect on CSM of applying the risk mitigation option is disclosed in more detail in Note 5.C.
For groups of reinsurance contracts held, the CSM at the end of a reporting period is measured as the CSM at the start of the reporting period, adjusted for:
•The effect of any new contracts added to the group;
•Interest accretion on the carrying amount of the CSM;
•Net income (loss) recognized in the reporting period as a result of gains or losses recognized to offset gains or losses on groups of underlying direct contracts with no CSM;
•Reversals of a loss-recovery component to the extent those reversals are not changes in the FCF of the group of reinsurance contracts held;
•The change in FCF relating to future service, unless the change offsets a gain or loss on groups of underlying direct contracts with no CSM or the change is related to groups of onerous insurance contracts using the PAA;
•The effect of any currency exchange differences on the CSM; and
•The amount recognized in net income (loss) due to services received in the period.
We have not changed the accounting estimates made in previous interim financial statements in the preparation of these Consolidated Financial Statements. In particular, the CSM at the end of each reporting period is the CSM at the beginning of the reporting period adjusted as described above, rather than the CSM at the beginning of the calendar year adjusted as described above.
Transition to IFRS 17
At the transition date to IFRS 17, January 1, 2022, we applied the fair value approach for all groups of insurance contracts existing at that date that are measured using the GMA or VFA because applying the full retrospective approach was impracticable. Under this approach, the CSM at transition for a group of insurance contracts is its fair value minus the FCF measured according to the policies described in this Note. The fair value of a group of insurance contracts is the amount that a market participant would require to take over the obligations of the group of insurance contracts. Each portfolio of issued insurance contracts had one group at transition. Reinsurance contracts held were grouped according to the underlying direct contracts. The discount curve established at transition is the locked-in curve for the group. The fair value of reinsurance contracts held at transition was the difference between the fair value of underlying insurance contracts without reinsurance and with reinsurance. The determination of fair value required us to apply significant judgment in the methodology used and in our estimates and assumptions.
Derecognition and Modification
An insurance contract is derecognized when the obligations in the contract expire, are discharged or cancelled, this includes at the time payment is made to the policyholder, or when the contract is modified and the modification is substantial, such as when the modification results in a change in the measurement approach. When a contract modification results in derecognition, the original contract is derecognized and the modified contract is recognized as a new contract. Modifications that do not result in derecognition are treated as changes in FCF.
Presentation on the Consolidated Financial Statements
The carrying value of portfolios of insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held that are in an asset position are presented as Insurance contract assets and Reinsurance contract held assets in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, while the carrying value of portfolios of insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held that are liabilities are presented as Insurance Contract liabilities excluding those for account of segregated fund holders and Reinsurance contract held liabilities. Assets for insurance acquisition cash flows incurred before initial recognition of the contracts to which they are attributable are included in the carrying value of the portfolio associated with those contracts.
Amounts related to insurance contracts that impact income are included in the Net insurance service result of the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the Insurance finance income (expenses) line in the Net investment result section. Results in those sections are presented separately for insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held. We have chosen to disaggregate changes in the RA between the Insurance revenue line in Net insurance service result, and the Insurance finance income (expenses) line in Net investment result.
Net insurance service result
Insurance revenue is recognized as insurance contract services are provided for groups of insurance contracts. For insurance contracts issued that are measured using the GMA or the VFA, Insurance revenue includes the following services for which consideration in the form of premiums, net of premium taxes, is expected to be received:
•Expected claims and other expenses directly attributable to fulfilling insurance contracts, measured at the amounts expected at the beginning of the period, and excluding investment components and amounts allocated to the loss component;
•Release of the RA for the period, excluding amounts allocated to the loss component and amounts related to changes in the time value of money, which are recognized in Insurance finance income (expenses);
•CSM amortization to reflect services provided in the period, measured using the coverage units for the reporting period as a proportion of total coverage units (additional detail on coverage units is provided in Note 10);
•Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows;
•Premium experience adjustments that relate to current or past service; and
•Expected amounts related to income taxes specifically chargeable to the policyholder.
Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows in Insurance revenue is an allocation of the portion of the premiums that relates to the recovery of insurance acquisition cash flows, determined in a systematic way based on the passage of time. An equal and offsetting amount is included in Insurance service expenses.
| 24 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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For insurance contracts issued measured using the PAA, expected premium receipts (net of premium taxes and excluding investment components) are recognized as revenue, generally based on the passage of time.
Insurance service expenses include:
•Claims incurred in the period (excluding investment components and amounts allocated to the loss component);
•Expenses incurred that are directly attributable to fulfilling the insurance contracts;
•Losses on onerous contracts and reversals of those losses;
•Changes related to past service (e.g., changes in the LIC in periods subsequent to the claim being incurred);
•Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows;
•Insurance acquisition cash flows expensed as incurred related to PAA contracts; and
•Impairment and reversals of impairment of assets for insurance acquisition cash flows.
For reinsurance contracts held, we have elected to present income and expenses arising from these contracts as a single amount in the Reinsurance contract held net income (expense) line on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. This amount includes an allocation of reinsurance premiums, amounts recovered from reinsurers, and changes in the risk of non-performance by the reinsurer. Allocations of reinsurance premiums are recognized as services are received for the reinsurance contract held.
For reinsurance contracts held measured using the GMA, the services received for which consideration is paid include:
•Expected recoveries and expenses, excluding amounts that are paid regardless of claims;
•Release of the RA for the period;
•CSM recognized for services received; and
•Premium experience adjustments that relate to current or past service.
For reinsurance contracts held measured using the PAA, expected premium payments (net of premium taxes and excluding amounts that are paid regardless of claims) are recognized as an allocation of reinsurance premiums based on the passage of time. Amounts recovered from reinsurers includes incurred claims (excluding amounts that are paid regardless of claims) and expenses, loss recoveries and reversals of loss recoveries, and changes related to past service (e.g., changes in the asset for incurred claims in periods subsequent to the claim being incurred).
Insurance finance income (expenses)
Changes in the carrying value of insurance contracts issued not measured using the VFA and reinsurance contracts held that are due to changes in the time value of money and in financial risk are recognized in the Insurance finance income (expenses) line on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. For insurance contracts issued measured using the VFA, Insurance finance income (expenses) includes changes in the fair value of underlying items and changes not recognized in the CSM when the risk mitigation option is applied. We have elected to recognize all insurance finance income (expenses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and not in OCI, except for insurance finance income or expenses for certain joint ventures which are disaggregated between net income and OCI. These joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Consequently, insurance finance income or expenses are recognized through our share of net income in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and our share of OCI in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Insurance finance income (expense) for Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders is discussed in the Segregated Funds section of this Note.
Segregated Funds
Segregated funds are products 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 policyholders bear the risks and rewards of the fund’s investment performance. In addition, certain segregated funds contracts include guarantees from us. Segregated fund contracts are classified as insurance contracts or investment contracts following the classification criteria described in the Insurance Contracts section of this Note and Note 10.
Investments for Account of Segregated Fund Holders
Investments for account of segregated fund holders are recorded separately from the Total general fund assets in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and are carried at fair value. Fair values are determined using quoted market values or, where quoted market values are not available, estimated fair values as determined by us. Investments for account of segregated fund holders includes investments for contracts that are classified as insurance contracts and investments for contracts that are classified as investment contracts. Unrealized gains and losses and other investment income from investments for account of segregated fund holders classified as insurance contracts is reported as Net investment income (loss) within the Net investment result for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Such investment income (loss) will be offset by the corresponding increase or decrease in the insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders. Changes in the fair value of the investments for account of segregated fund holders classified as investment contracts are recorded in net realized and unrealized gains (losses) within the segregated fund and are not recorded in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Insurance Contract Liabilities for Account of Segregated Fund Holders
Segregated fund products classified as insurance contracts are contracts with direct participation features and are therefore measured using the VFA described in the Insurance contracts section of this Note. Insurance contract liabilities for these contracts are presented as two separate lines on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position: Insurance contract liabilities excluding those for account of segregated fund holders, and Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders. The Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders represents the obligation to pay the policyholder an amount equal to the fair value of the underlying items. Changes in this obligation due to changes in fair value of the underlying items are recognized as Insurance finance income or expenses in the Net investment result for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Such insurance finance income or expenses will be offset by the corresponding increase or decrease in Investments for account of segregated fund holders. Deposits into and payments from the segregated funds are investment components and thus excluded from insurance revenue and insurance service expenses. The Insurance contract liabilities excluding those for account of segregated fund holders on the Consolidated
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 25 |
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Statements of Financial Position includes the remaining insurance contract liabilities for these contracts, which comprises the provision for guarantees, future expenses (less future fees), the RA and the CSM. Revenue and expenses related to these items are included in the Insurance service result on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Investment Contract Liabilities for Account of Segregated Fund Holders
Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders are recorded separately from the Total general fund liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The liabilities reported as Investment contracts for account of segregated fund holders are measured at the aggregate of the policyholder account balances. We derive fee income from segregated funds classified as investment contracts, which is included in Fee income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Deposits to segregated funds and payments made from segregated funds are reflected as increases or decreases in Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders and Investments for account of segregated fund holders and are not reported as revenues or expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Financial Liabilities
Classification and initial measurement
Our financial liabilities are classified and measured at amortized cost, except for financial guarantees, derivative liabilities, and liabilities related to CLOs. Financial guarantees, derivative liabilities, and liabilities related to CLOs are classified as FVTPL. For further details on the liabilities related to CLOs, refer to Note 5.A.i. We may also designate certain investment contracts liabilities and third-party interests in consolidated funds at FVTPL on initial recognition, and once designated, the designation is irrevocable. Financial liabilities are designated at FVTPL if doing so either eliminates or significantly reduces accounting mismatch with the supporting assets or that the liabilities and supporting assets are managed together and their performance is evaluated on a fair value basis. Liabilities related to CLOs are designated at FVTPL on initial recognition as doing so either eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch with the supporting assets. The FVTPL designation is available only for those financial liabilities for which a reliable estimate of fair value can be obtained. All other investment contracts are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.
Subsequent measurement
Financial liabilities classified or designated at FVTPL are measured at fair value. Any interest expenses, foreign exchange gains (losses), and fair value changes that are not due to changes in own credit risk are recognized in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, unless they arise from derivatives designated as hedging instruments in net investment hedges. For financial liabilities designated at FVTPL, fair value changes attributable to changes in our own credit risk are recorded in OCI, and are not reclassified subsequently to Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Financial liabilities at amortized cost are measured at fair value less transaction costs at initial recognition, and subsequently at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Interest expense and foreign exchange gains (losses) are recorded in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Derecognition
We generally derecognize a financial liability when the contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. We also derecognize a financial liability when the terms are modified and the cash flows of the modified liability are substantially different, in which case a new financial liability based on the modified terms is recognized at fair value. On derecognition of a financial liability, the difference between the carrying amount extinguished and the consideration paid (including any new non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed) is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
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, unless they have DPF, in which case they are accounted for as insurance contracts (See Insurance Contracts). Distinct service components of investment contracts are treated as service contracts (See Service Contracts and Fee Income).
Investment contract liabilities without DPF are initially recognized at fair value, less transaction costs directly attributable to the issue of the contract, and are subsequently held at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Amortization is recorded as a Decrease (increase) in investment contract liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Deposits collected from and payments made to contract holders are recorded as changes in our Investment contract liabilities balance in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Investment contract liabilities are derecognized when the obligation of the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired. Investment contract liabilities without DPF include term certain payout annuities in Canada, accumulation annuities and guaranteed investment contracts in Canada, unit-linked products issued in Hong Kong, and non-unit linked pensions contracts issued in Hong Kong.
As discussed in the Segregated Funds section of this Note, 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.
Obligations for Securities Borrowing
The obligation for securities borrowing represents our commitment to deliver securities under the short sale program. Under the program, we short sell the securities that we borrowed from a third party. The obligation to return the securities is not recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position until they are sold, and the risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred. Upon recognition, they are measured at fair value. The securities borrowings are returnable to the lender upon demand or at our discretion.
Other Liabilities
Other liabilities, which are measured at amortized cost, include accounts payable, credit facilities, repurchase agreements, accrued expenses and taxes, senior financing, provisions, lessee’s lease liabilities and a deferred payment liability. Liabilities for provisions, other than those
| 26 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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reported with 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 reporting 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.
Lease liabilities are measured as described in the Leases Section of this Note.
Other financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost, with the exception of CLOs which are measured at FVTPL. For put option liabilities, upon initial recognition, the present value is calculated using our incremental borrowing rate and subsequent revisions to the expected timing or amount of cash flows payable as well as interest expense will be recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Senior Debentures and Subordinated Debt
Senior debentures and subordinated debt liabilities are recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Transaction costs are recorded as part of the liability and are recognized in income using the effective interest rate method. These liabilities are derecognized when the obligation of the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired.
Service Contracts and Fee Income
Contracts issued by us 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. Distinct service components of insurance and investment contracts are also accounted for as service contracts.
Fees earned from these contracts are recognized and included in Fee income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Fee income from service contracts represents fees associated with 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 that 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.
Deferred acquisition costs arising from service contracts or investment contracts are amortized over the expected life of the contracts based on the future expected fees. Where the cost of meeting the obligations of the contract exceeds the economic benefits expected to be received under it, a provision is recognized in Other 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 reporting 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 the reporting date. Deferred income tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses to the extent that future taxable profit is expected to 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.
Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits
For defined benefit plans, the present value of the defined benefit obligation is calculated by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method, and actuarial assumptions that represent best estimates of future variables that will affect the ultimate cost of these obligations. The discount rate used for our significant 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
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 27 |
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the terms of obligations. Plan assets are measured at fair value and are held in separate trustee administered funds or as qualifying insurance contracts. The difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the present value of the defined benefit obligation is recognized on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as an asset or liability in Other assets or Other liabilities, respectively.
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 assumptions 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, except for other long-term employee benefits, which are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. 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 24.
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.
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.
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share ("EPS")
Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the common shareholders’ net income by the weighted average number of common shares issued and outstanding.
Diluted EPS adjusts common shareholders’ net income (loss) 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 (loss) by the adjusted weighted average number of common shares outstanding. For convertible instruments, common shareholders’ net income (loss) 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.
| 28 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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| 2. Changes in Accounting Policies | |||
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2.A New and Amended International Financial Reporting Standards to be Adopted in 2026 or Later
In April 2024, the IASB issued IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements ("IFRS 18") which replaces IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements. IFRS 18 introduces new requirements on presentation within the statement of profit or loss, disclosure of management-defined performance measures, and principles for aggregation and disaggregation of financial information in the financial statements and the notes. IFRS 18 will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2027. IFRS 18 is to be applied retrospectively. We are currently assessing the impact that IFRS 18 will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In May 2024, the IASB issued Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments (Amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures). The amendments clarify the timing for derecognizing financial liabilities and introduce an accounting policy choice to derecognize financial liabilities settled using electronic payment systems before the settlement date if certain conditions are met. We have chosen to apply this early derecognition for electronic payments. The amendments also clarify the assessment of contractual cash flow characteristic of financial assets that include environmental, social and corporate governance linked features and other similar contingent features not directly related to changes in basic lending risks; and introduced additional related disclosure requirements for financial instruments with such contingent features. The amendments will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026. The amendments are to be applied retrospectively with no restatement of comparative periods required. We do not expect the adoption of these amendments to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
2.B Other Changes in Accounting Policy
We have changed our accounting policy for certain joint ventures to disaggregate insurance finance income or expenses between net income (loss) and OCI. For these joint ventures, insurance finance income or expenses on our insurance contract liabilities were previously recorded through net income (loss), while the corresponding invested assets have historically been recorded at FVOCI. The invested assets and insurance contract liabilities are managed together and presenting insurance finance income or expenses through OCI reduces accounting mismatch. We account for these joint ventures using the equity method of accounting, whereby we recognize our share of net income (loss) in Net investment income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and our share of OCI in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The impact of this change is not material to our share of net income (loss) or OCI in any individual prior period. We have processed an adjustment to increase opening Retained earnings by $213 and decrease Accumulated other comprehensive income by $213 retroactively to January 1, 2024.
| 3. Acquisition and Other |
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Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited
On July 15, 2025, we acquired an additional interest in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11% and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. Total consideration was cash of $55. Our previously held interest in Bowtie was remeasured to its fair value of $224, which resulted in a pre-tax gain of $176. The gain was recognized in Net investment income (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Bowtie is a Hong Kong-based virtual insurer with a prominent position in medical insurance, and forms part of our Asia business segment. The acquisition reinforces our long-term partnership with Bowtie, and is aligned with our strategy to enhance insurance accessibility.
The fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were:
| As at July 15, 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Intangible assets and Goodwill(1) | $ | 448 |
| Net assets | 60 | |
| Deferred tax liabilities | (8) | |
| Total identifiable net assets at fair value | 500 | |
| Non-controlling interests(2) | (221) | |
| Existing ownership interest remeasured to fair value | (224) | |
| Total consideration | $ | 55 |
(1) Goodwill primarily reflects the expected growth of the business. Goodwill is not tax deductible.
(2) We have elected to measure NCI at fair value for this acquisition.
We have a contractual obligation to purchase existing equity from Bowtie's management, employees, and existing shareholders in 2026. A $14 liability, measured at fair value, was recognized in Other liabilities and offset by a reduction to Retained earnings.
Other
On December 17, 2025, we entered into an implementation agreement to increase our ownership interest in our existing joint ventures in Malaysia to a majority stake for cash consideration of approximately $240. The proposed transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of certain conditions and is expected to be completed in late 2026.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 29 |
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On March 21, 2024, we sold a portion of our investment in Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited. As a result of the disposition, our ownership interest was reduced by 6.3% and we generated gross proceeds of $136, which included a realized gain of approximately $98 (pre-tax). Subsequently on May 31, 2024, we completed the partial disposition through the sale of an additional 0.2% of ownership interest. After the disposition, we retained ownership of the listed entity of 30%.
| 4. Segmented Information |
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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 primarily includes our Corporate Support operations, which have 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.
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.
| 30 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| For the year ended | Canada | U.S. | Asset Management | Asia | Corporate | Consolidation adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| December 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance revenue: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Annuities | $ | 2,233 | $ | 286 | $ | — | $ | 23 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,542 | |||||
| Life insurance | 2,304 | 2,082 | — | 1,453 | — | — | 5,839 | ||||||||||||
| Health insurance | 4,683 | 10,568 | — | 350 | — | — | 15,601 | ||||||||||||
| Total Insurance revenue | 9,220 | 12,936 | — | 1,826 | — | — | 23,982 | ||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) | 3,237 | 1,642 | 239 | 3,670 | 171 | (100) | 8,859 | ||||||||||||
| Fee income | 1,954 | 534 | 6,624 | 353 | 190 | (596) | 9,059 | ||||||||||||
| Segment revenue(1) | 14,411 | 15,112 | 6,863 | 5,849 | 361 | (696) | 41,900 | ||||||||||||
| Expenses: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance service expenses | 7,410 | 12,020 | — | 984 | — | — | 20,414 | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net (income) expenses | 163 | (115) | — | 46 | — | — | 94 | ||||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | 2,159 | 1,399 | — | 3,229 | — | — | 6,787 | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance finance (income) expenses | 17 | (105) | — | 19 | — | — | (69) | ||||||||||||
| (Decrease) increase in investment contract liabilities | 320 | — | — | 3 | — | — | 323 | ||||||||||||
| Interest expenses | 172 | 129 | 138 | 87 | 118 | (118) | 526 | ||||||||||||
| Operating expenses and commissions | 2,137 | 1,123 | 5,038 | 591 | 716 | (578) | 9,027 | ||||||||||||
| Total expenses(1) | 12,378 | 14,451 | 5,176 | 4,959 | 834 | (696) | 37,102 | ||||||||||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes | 2,033 | 661 | 1,687 | 890 | (473) | — | 4,798 | ||||||||||||
| Less: Income tax expense (benefit) | 513 | 116 | 428 | 79 | (120) | — | 1,016 | ||||||||||||
| Total net income (loss) | 1,520 | 545 | 1,259 | 811 | (353) | — | 3,782 | ||||||||||||
| Less: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) allocated to the participating account | 118 | 25 | — | 51 | — | — | 194 | ||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests | — | — | 45 | (8) | — | — | 37 | ||||||||||||
| Shareholders' net income (loss) | $ | 1,402 | $ | 520 | $ | 1,214 | $ | 768 | $ | (353) | $ | — | $ | 3,551 | |||||
| December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance revenue: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Annuities | $ | 2,063 | $ | 307 | $ | — | $ | 25 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,395 | |||||
| Life insurance | 2,324 | 2,008 | — | 1,279 | 9 | — | 5,620 | ||||||||||||
| Health insurance | 4,391 | 9,981 | — | 250 | — | — | 14,622 | ||||||||||||
| Total Insurance revenue | 8,778 | 12,296 | — | 1,554 | 9 | — | 22,637 | ||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) | 5,039 | 316 | 281 | 1,648 | 233 | (102) | 7,415 | ||||||||||||
| Fee income | 1,771 | 489 | 6,391 | 329 | 162 | (561) | 8,581 | ||||||||||||
| Segment revenue(1) | 15,588 | 13,101 | 6,672 | 3,531 | 404 | (663) | 38,633 | ||||||||||||
| Expenses: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance service expenses | 7,309 | 11,345 | — | 974 | 3 | — | 19,631 | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net (income) expenses | 4 | (145) | — | 56 | — | — | (85) | ||||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | 3,843 | 63 | — | 1,233 | — | — | 5,139 | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance finance (income) expenses | 81 | (121) | — | (11) | — | — | (51) | ||||||||||||
| (Decrease) increase in investment contract liabilities | 390 | — | — | 3 | — | — | 393 | ||||||||||||
| Other income(2) | — | — | (163) | — | — | — | (163) | ||||||||||||
| Interest expenses | 262 | 116 | 172 | 105 | 123 | (114) | 664 | ||||||||||||
| Operating expenses and commissions | 1,989 | 1,127 | 4,596 | 701 | 902 | (549) | 8,766 | ||||||||||||
| Total expenses(1) | 13,878 | 12,385 | 4,605 | 3,061 | 1,028 | (663) | 34,294 | ||||||||||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes | 1,710 | 716 | 2,067 | 470 | (624) | — | 4,339 | ||||||||||||
| Less: Income tax expense (benefit) | 395 | 133 | 411 | 124 | (23) | — | 1,040 | ||||||||||||
| Total net income (loss) | 1,315 | 583 | 1,656 | 346 | (601) | — | 3,299 | ||||||||||||
| Less: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) allocated to the participating account | 98 | 27 | — | (83) | — | — | 42 | ||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests | — | — | 128 | — | — | — | 128 | ||||||||||||
| Shareholders' net income (loss) | $ | 1,217 | $ | 556 | $ | 1,528 | $ | 429 | $ | (601) | $ | — | $ | 3,129 |
(1) Segment revenue and Total expenses exclude Investment result for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders.
(2) Relates to the early termination of a distribution agreement. We recognized income of $163 (pre-tax) and $46 (net of taxes, NCI impact and others) for the year ended December 31, 2024.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 31 |
|---|
Assets and liabilities by segment are as follows:
| Canada | U.S. | Asset<br>Management | Asia | Corporate | Consolidation<br>adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As at December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total general fund assets | $ | 124,049 | $ | 35,825 | $ | 10,537 | $ | 49,152 | $ | 12,770 | $ | (444) | $ | 231,889 | ||||
| Investments for account of segregated fund holders | $ | 159,020 | $ | 406 | $ | — | $ | 7,140 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 166,566 | ||||
| Total general fund liabilities | $ | 117,923 | $ | 29,321 | $ | 7,371 | $ | 43,018 | $ | 9,208 | $ | (444) | $ | 206,397 | ||||
| As at December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total general fund assets | $ | 120,987 | $ | 37,006 | $ | 11,066 | $ | 43,158 | $ | 10,044 | $ | (326) | $ | 221,935 | ||||
| Investments for account of segregated fund holders | $ | 140,900 | $ | 429 | $ | — | $ | 7,457 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 148,786 | ||||
| Total general fund liabilities | $ | 114,300 | $ | 30,495 | $ | 7,858 | $ | 37,780 | $ | 5,699 | $ | (326) | $ | 195,806 |
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.
The following table shows revenue by country for Asset Management and Corporate:
| Asset Management | Corporate | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| Revenue: | ||||||||
| United States | $ | 6,101 | $ | 5,995 | $ | 174 | $ | 180 |
| United Kingdom | 229 | 245 | — | — | ||||
| Canada | 292 | 282 | 7 | 53 | ||||
| Other countries | 241 | 150 | 180 | 171 | ||||
| Segment revenue | $ | 6,863 | $ | 6,672 | $ | 361 | $ | 404 |
The following table shows total assets by country for Asset Management and Corporate:
| Asset Management | Corporate | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| Total general fund assets: | ||||||||
| United States | $ | 8,490 | $ | 9,027 | $ | 5,201 | $ | 5,161 |
| United Kingdom | 1,100 | 1,047 | — | — | ||||
| Canada | 718 | 785 | 7,455 | 4,758 | ||||
| Other countries | 229 | 207 | 114 | 125 | ||||
| Total general fund assets | $ | 10,537 | $ | 11,066 | $ | 12,770 | $ | 10,044 |
| 32 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||
| 5. Invested Assets and Net Investment Income | ||||||||
| --- |
5.A Fair Value of Financial Instruments
5.A.i Carrying Value and Fair Value of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities
The carrying values and fair values of our financial assets and liabilities are shown in the following table:
| As at | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying value | Fair value | Carrying value | Fair value | |||||||
| Financial assets | ||||||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities – FVTPL | $ | 14,841 | $ | 14,841 | $ | 13,873 | $ | 13,873 | ||
| Debt securities – FVTPL(1) | 72,599 | 72,599 | 68,106 | 68,106 | ||||||
| Debt securities – FVOCI | 13,019 | 13,019 | 13,849 | 13,849 | ||||||
| Equity securities – FVTPL | 12,179 | 12,179 | 9,900 | 9,900 | ||||||
| Equity securities – FVOCI | 71 | 71 | 74 | 74 | ||||||
| Mortgages and loans – FVTPL(2) | 55,157 | 55,157 | 53,233 | 53,233 | ||||||
| Mortgages and loans – FVOCI | 2,733 | 2,733 | 2,525 | 2,525 | ||||||
| Mortgages and loans – Amortized cost(3) | 1,543 | 1,521 | 1,861 | 1,814 | ||||||
| Derivative assets – FVTPL | 1,534 | 1,534 | 1,971 | 1,971 | ||||||
| Other financial invested assets (excluding CLOs) – FVTPL(4) | 8,161 | 8,161 | 7,950 | 7,950 | ||||||
| Other financial invested assets (CLOs) – FVTPL(5) | 6,213 | 6,213 | 5,356 | 5,356 | ||||||
| Total(6) | $ | 188,050 | $ | 188,028 | $ | 178,698 | $ | 178,651 | ||
| Financial liabilities | ||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities – Amortized cost | $ | 11,796 | $ | 11,796 | $ | 11,678 | $ | 11,678 | ||
| Obligations for securities borrowing – FVTPL | 267 | 267 | 239 | 239 | ||||||
| Derivative liabilities – FVTPL | 2,065 | 2,065 | 2,077 | 2,077 | ||||||
| Other financial liabilities – Amortized cost(7) | 2,244 | 2,245 | 2,265 | 2,214 | ||||||
| Other financial liabilities (CLOs) – FVTPL(5) | 5,846 | 5,846 | 5,028 | 5,028 | ||||||
| Total(8) | $ | 22,218 | $ | 22,219 | $ | 21,287 | $ | 21,236 |
(1) Includes primarily debt securities that are designated at FVTPL.
(2) Includes primarily mortgages and loans that are designated at FVTPL.
(3) Certain mortgages and loans are carried at amortized cost. The fair value of these mortgages and loans, for disclosure purposes, is determined based on the methodology and assumptions described in Note 5.A.iii. As at December 31, 2025, $1,502 and $19 are categorized in Level 2 and Level 3, respectively, of the fair value hierarchy described in this Note (December 31, 2024 — $1,787 and $27, respectively).
(4) Other financial invested assets include our investments in segregated funds, mutual funds, and limited partnerships.
(5) See below for details on CLOs.
(6) Invested assets on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position of $199,175 (December 31, 2024 — $189,817) include Total financial assets in this table, Investment properties of $9,432 (December 31, 2024 — $9,290), and Other non-financial invested assets of $1,693 (December 31, 2024 — $1,829). Other non-financial invested assets consist of investment in associates and joint ventures which are not consolidated.
(7) Amount reflects the obligations to purchase outstanding shares of certain SLC Management subsidiaries.
(8) Total financial liabilities excluding Senior debentures (Note 12) and Subordinated debt (Note 13).
Collateralized Loan Obligations Structure
Crescent Capital Group LP, a subsidiary within our Asset Management business segment, issues and manages CLOs. Each CLO is a special purpose vehicle that owns a portfolio of investments, consisting primarily of senior secured loans, and issues various tranches of senior and subordinated notes to third parties for the purpose of financing the purchase of those investments. Assets of the special purpose vehicle, the senior secured loans, are included in Other financial invested assets and the associated liabilities, the senior and subordinated notes issued to third parties, are included in Other liabilities in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
As at December 31, 2025, the carrying value of the assets related to CLOs are $6,213 (December 31, 2024 — $5,356), which consists of cash and accounts receivable of $691 (December 31, 2024 — $679) and loans of $5,522 (December 31, 2024 — $4,677). These underlying loans are mainly below investment grade.
As at December 31, 2025, the carrying value of the liabilities related to CLOs are $5,846 (December 31, 2024 — $5,028). Our maximum contractual exposure to loss related to the CLOs is limited to our investment of $291 (December 31, 2024 — $263) in the most subordinated tranche. The net unrealized loss incurred to date is $120.
5.A.ii Non-Financial Invested Assets
Non-financial invested assets consist of investment properties, investment in associates and joint ventures which are not consolidated. As at December 31, 2025, the carrying value and fair value of investment properties was $9,432 (December 31, 2024 — $9,290) and $9,432 (December 31, 2024 — $9,290), respectively. The carrying value of other non-financial invested assets which were measured using the equity method of accounting was $1,693 as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $1,829).
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 33 |
|---|
5.A.iii Fair Value Methodologies and Assumptions
The specific inputs and valuation techniques used to determine the fair value of our invested assets and financial liabilities are noted below:
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities
Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments that are subject to insignificant changes in value and are readily convertible into known amounts of cash. Cash equivalents comprise financial assets with maturities of three months or less from the date of acquisition. Short-term securities comprise financial assets with maturities of greater than three months and less than one year when acquired. Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities are accounted for at FVTPL.
Government and corporate debt securities
The fair value of government and corporate debt securities is primarily determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities, where available. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using market standard valuation methodologies, which include a discounted cash flow method, 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.
Asset-backed securities
The fair value of asset-backed securities is primarily determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical or similar securities, where 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 limited circumstances where there is a lack of sufficient observable market data to value the securities, non-binding broker quotes are used.
Equity securities
The fair value of equity securities is determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities or similar securities, where available. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is determined using equity valuation models, which include a discounted cash flow method 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. Where equity securities are less frequently traded, the most recent exchange-quoted pricing is used to determine fair value.
Mortgages and loans
The fair value of mortgages and loans is determined by discounting the expected future contractual 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 internal lending activities or loan issuances. Valuation inputs also include external lending activities or loan issuances from both public and private markets, enhancing the market observability of inputs. The risk-adjusted spreads are determined based on the borrower’s credit and liquidity, as well as term and other loan-specific features.
Derivative financial instruments
The fair value of derivative financial instruments depends upon derivative types. The fair value of exchange-traded futures and options is determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets, where available, while the fair value of over-the-counter ("OTC") derivatives is determined using pricing models, such as a discounted cash flow method 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 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.
Other financial invested assets
The fair value of other financial invested assets consists primarily of limited partnership investments which 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 limited partnership investments.
Investment properties
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.
| 34 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
Investments for account of segregated fund holders
The fair value of investments for account of segregated fund holders is determined using unadjusted 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.
Investment contract liabilities
The fair value of investment contracts is measured through the use of prospective discounted cash flow method. For unit-linked contracts, the fair value 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 is equal to the present value of contractual cash flow. The fair value of the investment contract liabilities approximate their carrying values due to the nature of the contracts.
Obligations for securities borrowing
The fair values of these obligations are based on the fair value of the underlying securities, which can include debt or equity securities. The method used to determine fair value is based on the quoted market prices where available in an active market.
Other financial liabilities
The fair value of other financial liabilities is determined using the discounted contractual cash flow methodology at the incremental borrowing rate or the effective interest rate, where available. 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).
Collateralized loan obligations
The fair value of underlying assets within our CLOs is determined primarily using observable market inputs, such as quoted prices for similar assets in active markets and other observable market data.
The fair value of underlying liabilities within our CLOs is determined by discounting expected future contractual cash flows using a current market interest rate applicable to financial instruments with a similar yield, credit quality, maturity characteristics, and structural credit protections. The valuation technique maximizes the use of observable inputs that incorporates comparable securities’ prices and other market intelligence.
5.A.iv Fair Value Hierarchy
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 based on the unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets represents a Level 1 valuation. Where possible, valuations are based on quoted prices or observable inputs obtained from active markets. 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. When a fair value is based on all significant market observable inputs, the valuation is classified as Level 2. Financial instruments traded in a less active market are valued using indicative market prices, the present value of cash flows or other valuation methods. 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, repurchase agreements, 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. Where financial instruments trade in inactive markets or when using models where observable parameters do not exist, significant management judgment is required for valuation methodologies and model inputs. The types of assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 generally include certain corporate bonds, certain asset-backed securities, certain other financial invested assets, investment properties, and certain segregated and mutual fund units held for account of segregated fund holders.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 35 |
|---|
Our assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value on a recurring basis by hierarchy level are as follows:
| As at | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities – FVTPL | $ | 13,705 | $ | 1,136 | $ | — | $ | 14,841 | $ | 13,243 | $ | 630 | $ | — | $ | 13,873 | ||
| Debt securities – FVTPL | 973 | 70,804 | 822 | 72,599 | 463 | 67,126 | 517 | 68,106 | ||||||||||
| Debt securities – FVOCI | 394 | 12,507 | 118 | 13,019 | 505 | 13,193 | 151 | 13,849 | ||||||||||
| Equity securities – FVTPL | 8,200 | 3,972 | 7 | 12,179 | 6,331 | 3,358 | 211 | 9,900 | ||||||||||
| Equity securities – FVOCI | — | — | 71 | 71 | — | — | 74 | 74 | ||||||||||
| Mortgages and loans – FVTPL | — | 54,568 | 589 | 55,157 | — | 50,933 | 2,300 | 53,233 | ||||||||||
| Mortgages and loans – FVOCI | — | 2,711 | 22 | 2,733 | — | 2,512 | 13 | 2,525 | ||||||||||
| Derivative assets – FVTPL | 171 | 1,363 | — | 1,534 | 28 | 1,943 | — | 1,971 | ||||||||||
| Other financial invested assets (excluding CLOs) – FVTPL(1) | 813 | 218 | 7,130 | 8,161 | 859 | 211 | 6,880 | 7,950 | ||||||||||
| Other financial invested assets (CLOs) – FVTPL(2) | — | 6,213 | — | 6,213 | — | 5,356 | — | 5,356 | ||||||||||
| Investment properties – FVTPL | — | — | 9,432 | 9,432 | — | — | 9,290 | 9,290 | ||||||||||
| Total invested assets measured at fair value | $ | 24,256 | $ | 153,492 | $ | 18,191 | $ | 195,939 | $ | 21,429 | $ | 145,262 | $ | 19,436 | $ | 186,127 | ||
| Investments for account of segregated fund holders – FVTPL | 17,325 | 148,778 | 463 | 166,566 | 17,253 | 131,074 | 459 | 148,786 | ||||||||||
| Total assets measured at fair value | $ | 41,581 | $ | 302,270 | $ | 18,654 | $ | 362,505 | $ | 38,682 | $ | 276,336 | $ | 19,895 | $ | 334,913 | ||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||
| Obligations for securities borrowing – FVTPL | $ | 7 | $ | 260 | $ | — | $ | 267 | $ | 4 | $ | 235 | $ | — | $ | 239 | ||
| Derivative liabilities – FVTPL | 94 | 1,971 | — | 2,065 | 28 | 2,049 | — | 2,077 | ||||||||||
| Other financial liabilities (CLOs) – FVTPL(2) | — | 5,846 | — | 5,846 | — | 5,028 | — | 5,028 | ||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders – FVTPL | — | — | 146,458 | 146,458 | — | — | 128,689 | 128,689 | ||||||||||
| Total liabilities measured at fair value | $ | 101 | $ | 8,077 | $ | 146,458 | $ | 154,636 | $ | 32 | $ | 7,312 | $ | 128,689 | $ | 136,033 |
(1) Other financial invested assets (excluding CLOs) – FVTPL include our investments in segregated funds, mutual funds, and limited partnerships.
(2) For details on CLOs, refer to Note 5.A.i.
Debt securities at FVTPL consist of the following:
| As at | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||
| Canadian federal government | $ | — | $ | 7,413 | $ | — | $ | 7,413 | $ | — | $ | 6,790 | $ | 13 | $ | 6,803 |
| Canadian provincial and municipal government | — | 15,843 | — | 15,843 | — | 15,302 | — | 15,302 | ||||||||
| U.S. government and agency | 973 | 151 | — | 1,124 | 463 | 163 | — | 626 | ||||||||
| Other foreign government | — | 3,233 | 52 | 3,285 | — | 3,762 | 34 | 3,796 | ||||||||
| Corporate | — | 34,680 | 751 | 35,431 | — | 32,929 | 465 | 33,394 | ||||||||
| Asset-backed securities: | ||||||||||||||||
| Commercial mortgage-backed securities | — | 2,100 | — | 2,100 | — | 2,163 | — | 2,163 | ||||||||
| Residential mortgage-backed securities | — | 4,464 | — | 4,464 | — | 3,539 | — | 3,539 | ||||||||
| Collateralized debt obligations | — | 915 | 19 | 934 | — | 352 | 1 | 353 | ||||||||
| Other | — | 2,005 | — | 2,005 | — | 2,126 | 4 | 2,130 | ||||||||
| Total debt securities at FVTPL | $ | 973 | $ | 70,804 | $ | 822 | $ | 72,599 | $ | 463 | $ | 67,126 | $ | 517 | $ | 68,106 |
| 36 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Debt securities at FVOCI consist of the following:
| As at | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||
| Canadian federal government | $ | — | $ | 480 | $ | — | $ | 480 | $ | — | $ | 734 | $ | — | $ | 734 |
| Canadian provincial and municipal government | — | 237 | — | 237 | — | 353 | — | 353 | ||||||||
| U.S. government and agency | 387 | 8 | — | 395 | 501 | 8 | — | 509 | ||||||||
| Other foreign government | 7 | 335 | 14 | 356 | 4 | 397 | 12 | 413 | ||||||||
| Corporate | — | 6,772 | 85 | 6,857 | — | 7,529 | 90 | 7,619 | ||||||||
| Asset-backed securities: | ||||||||||||||||
| Commercial mortgage-backed securities | — | 1,284 | — | 1,284 | — | 1,084 | — | 1,084 | ||||||||
| Residential mortgage-backed securities | — | 1,129 | — | 1,129 | — | 1,159 | 11 | 1,170 | ||||||||
| Collateralized debt obligations | — | 1,155 | 19 | 1,174 | — | 673 | 38 | 711 | ||||||||
| Other | — | 1,107 | — | 1,107 | — | 1,256 | — | 1,256 | ||||||||
| Total debt securities at FVOCI | $ | 394 | $ | 12,507 | $ | 118 | $ | 13,019 | $ | 505 | $ | 13,193 | $ | 151 | $ | 13,849 |
Mortgages and loans at FVTPL consist of the following:
| As at | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||
| Mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
| Retail | $ | — | $ | 2,256 | $ | 5 | $ | 2,261 | $ | — | $ | 2,472 | $ | 12 | $ | 2,484 |
| Office | — | 2,318 | 8 | 2,326 | — | 2,602 | 12 | 2,614 | ||||||||
| Multi-family residential | — | 2,864 | — | 2,864 | — | 2,887 | — | 2,887 | ||||||||
| Industrial | — | 3,562 | — | 3,562 | — | 3,447 | — | 3,447 | ||||||||
| Other | — | 888 | — | 888 | — | 1,034 | — | 1,034 | ||||||||
| Corporate loans | — | 42,680 | 576 | 43,256 | — | 38,491 | 2,276 | 40,767 | ||||||||
| Total mortgages and loans at FVTPL | $ | — | $ | 54,568 | $ | 589 | $ | 55,157 | $ | — | $ | 50,933 | $ | 2,300 | $ | 53,233 |
Mortgages and loans at FVOCI consist of the following:
| As at | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||
| Mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
| Retail | $ | — | $ | 75 | $ | — | $ | 75 | $ | — | $ | 83 | $ | — | $ | 83 |
| Office | — | 38 | — | 38 | — | 19 | — | 19 | ||||||||
| Multi-family residential | — | 155 | — | 155 | — | 79 | — | 79 | ||||||||
| Industrial | — | 231 | — | 231 | — | 236 | — | 236 | ||||||||
| Corporate loans | — | 2,212 | 22 | 2,234 | — | 2,095 | 13 | 2,108 | ||||||||
| Total mortgages and loans at FVOCI | $ | — | $ | 2,711 | $ | 22 | $ | 2,733 | $ | — | $ | 2,512 | $ | 13 | $ | 2,525 |
There were no significant transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the year ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 37 |
|---|
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for assets that are categorized in Level 3:
| For the year ended | Debt<br><br>securities at FVTPL | Debt<br>securities at FVOCI | Equity<br>securities at FVTPL | Equity securities at FVOCI | Mortgages and loans at FVTPL | Mortgages and loans at FVOCI | Other financial invested assets at FVTPL | Investment properties at FVTPL | Total<br>invested<br>assets<br>measured<br>at fair<br>value | Investments for account of segregated fund holders | Total assets measured at fair value | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning balance | $ | 517 | $ | 151 | $ | 211 | $ | 74 | $ | 2,300 | $ | 13 | $ | 6,880 | $ | 9,290 | $ | 19,436 | $ | 459 | $ | 19,895 | |||||||||||
| Included in net income (loss)(1)(2)(3) | 3 | — | (5) | — | (48) | (2) | 39 | (277) | (290) | 12 | (278) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Included in OCI(2) | — | 4 | — | — | — | (2) | — | — | 2 | — | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchases / Issuances | 537 | 277 | — | — | 196 | 46 | 828 | 626 | 2,510 | 84 | 2,594 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sales / Payments | (42) | (13) | (127) | — | (154) | (10) | (539) | (142) | (1,027) | (65) | (1,092) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Settlements | (2) | (7) | — | — | (2) | (2) | — | — | (13) | (1) | (14) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Transfers into Level 3(4) | 15 | — | — | — | 328 | — | — | — | 343 | — | 343 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Transfers (out) of Level 3(4) | (173) | (284) | (72) | — | (2,029) | (21) | — | — | (2,579) | (1) | (2,580) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation(5) | (33) | (10) | — | (3) | (2) | — | (78) | (65) | (191) | (25) | (216) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ending balance | $ | 822 | $ | 118 | $ | 7 | $ | 71 | $ | 589 | $ | 22 | $ | 7,130 | $ | 9,432 | $ | 18,191 | $ | 463 | $ | 18,654 | |||||||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) relating to instruments still held(1) | $ | 2 | $ | — | $ | (5) | $ | — | $ | (59) | $ | (3) | $ | 65 | $ | (283) | $ | (283) | $ | — | $ | (283) | |||||||||||
| December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning balance | $ | 402 | $ | 187 | $ | 113 | $ | 68 | $ | 2,056 | $ | — | $ | 6,074 | $ | 9,723 | $ | 18,623 | $ | 341 | $ | 18,964 | |||||||||||
| Included in net income (loss)(1)(2)(3) | 2 | — | 20 | — | 33 | — | 251 | (455) | (149) | (8) | (157) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Included in OCI(2) | — | 5 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 5 | — | 5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchases / Issuances | 436 | 335 | 77 | — | 240 | 22 | 825 | 146 | 2,081 | 173 | 2,254 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sales / Payments | (48) | (47) | (1) | — | (133) | — | (389) | (255) | (873) | (62) | (935) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Settlements | (37) | (50) | — | — | (21) | — | — | — | (108) | (1) | (109) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Transfers into Level 3(4) | 117 | 62 | — | — | 439 | 6 | — | — | 624 | — | 624 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Transfers (out) of Level 3(4) | (367) | (341) | — | — | (320) | (15) | (15) | — | (1,058) | — | (1,058) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation(5) | 12 | — | 2 | 6 | 6 | — | 134 | 131 | 291 | 16 | 307 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ending balance | $ | 517 | $ | 151 | $ | 211 | $ | 74 | $ | 2,300 | $ | 13 | $ | 6,880 | $ | 9,290 | $ | 19,436 | $ | 459 | $ | 19,895 | |||||||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) relating to instruments still held(1) | $ | (6) | $ | — | $ | 19 | $ | — | $ | 30 | $ | — | $ | 247 | $ | (369) | $ | (79) | $ | — | $ | (79) |
(1) Included in Net investment income (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for Total invested assets measured at fair value.
(2) Total gains and losses in net income (loss) and OCI are calculated assuming transfers into or out of Level 3 occur at the beginning of the period. For an asset or liability that transfers into Level 3 during the reporting period, the entire change in fair value for the period is included in the table above. For transfers out of Level 3 during the reporting period, the change in fair value for the period is excluded from the table above.
(3) Investment properties included in net income (loss) is comprised of fair value changes on investment properties of $(241) (2024 — $(383)), net of amortization of leasing commissions and tenant inducements of $36 (2024 — $72). As at December 31, 2025, we have used assumptions that reflect known changes in the property values including changes in expected future cash flows.
(4) Transfers into Level 3 occur when the inputs used to price the assets and liabilities lack observable market data, and as a result, no longer meet the Level 1 or 2 definitions 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 and are primarily the result of observable market data being available at the reporting date, thus removing the requirement to rely on inputs that lack observability.
(5) Foreign currency translation relates to the foreign exchange impact of translating Level 3 assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries from their functional currencies to Canadian dollars.
Unobservable Inputs and Sensitivity for Level 3 Assets
Our assets categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy are primarily Investment properties, Mortgages and loans, Debt securities and Other invested assets (financial and non-financial).
The fair value of Investment properties is determined by using the discounted cash flow methodology as described in Note 5.A.iii. The key unobservable inputs used in the valuation of investment properties as at December 31, 2025 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 $21.00 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
| 38 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
value. The rental growth rate (per annum) ranges from 0.00% to 3.60%, 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 0.00% to 25.00%.
•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 5.50% to 10.00%.
•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 4.50% to 8.50%.
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 Mortgages and loans, categorized in Level 3, are included in Mortgages and loans – FVTPL and Mortgages and loans – FVOCI in the Level 3 roll forward table, and Mortgages and loans – Amortized cost in Note 5.A.i. The fair value of these mortgages and loans is determined by using the discounted cash flow methodology. The key unobservable inputs used in the valuation of mortgages and loans as at December 31, 2025 include credit spreads and liquidity adjustments. The credit spread is the difference between the instrument yield and the benchmark yield. The benchmark yield is determined by matching each asset by geography, sector, rating and maturity to a matrix comprised of spreads of publicly available corporate bonds. In some cases, a liquidity premium or discount may be applied if recent private spreads differ from public spreads. The credit spreads range from 2.00% to 3.00%. The liquidity adjustments range from a discount of 0.50% to a premium of 1.00%. Changes in the fair value of mortgages and loans are negatively correlated with changes in credit spread and liquidity adjustments.
Our Debt securities categorized in Level 3, which are included in Debt securities – FVTPL and Debt securities – FVOCI 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. A decrease (increase) in these issuer spreads would result in a higher (lower) 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. 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 financial invested assets categorized in Level 3, which are included in Other financial invested assets – FVTPL and Other financial invested assets – FVOCI in the Level 3 roll forward table, consists primarily of limited partnership investments. The fair value of our limited partnership investments is based on 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.
Valuation Process for Level 3 Assets
Our assets categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy are primarily Investment properties, Debt securities (including asset-backed securities), Mortgages and loans and limited partnership investments included in Other financial invested assets. Our valuation processes for these assets are as follows:
The fair value of investment properties are based on the results of appraisals performed quarterly and reviewed for material changes. The valuation methodology used to determine the fair value is in accordance with the standards of the Appraisal Institute of Canada and the U.S. 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 mortgages and loans is based on an internal discounted cash flow model, subject to detailed review and validation to ensure 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 financial 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.
Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders can be surrendered and units in the segregated funds can be redeemed by the holder at any time. Accordingly, the fair value of investments for account of segregated fund holders represent the net assets of the segregated funds and are not less than the amount payable on demand.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 39 |
|---|
5.B Net Investment Income (Loss)
| For the years ended | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Instruments at FVOCI | Financial Instruments at FVTPL | Other(1) | Total | Financial Instruments at FVOCI | Financial Instruments at FVTPL | Other(1) | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Interest income (expense): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments | $ | — | $ | 412 | $ | — | $ | 412 | $ | — | $ | 537 | $ | — | $ | 537 | ||||||||
| Debt securities | 571 | 3,216 | — | 3,787 | 604 | 2,894 | — | 3,498 | ||||||||||||||||
| Mortgages and loans | 152 | 2,719 | 57 | 2,928 | 138 | 2,661 | 64 | 2,863 | ||||||||||||||||
| Derivative investments | — | (26) | — | (26) | — | (38) | — | (38) | ||||||||||||||||
| Other financial invested assets | 2 | 405 | — | 407 | 1 | 362 | — | 363 | ||||||||||||||||
| Other financial liabilities | — | (336) | (120) | (456) | — | (299) | (165) | (464) | ||||||||||||||||
| Total interest income (expense) | 725 | 6,390 | (63) | 7,052 | 743 | 6,117 | (101) | 6,759 | ||||||||||||||||
| Dividend and other investment income: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Equity securities | — | 297 | — | 297 | — | 254 | — | 254 | ||||||||||||||||
| Other financial invested assets | — | 336 | — | 336 | — | 313 | — | 313 | ||||||||||||||||
| Total dividend and other investment income | — | 633 | — | 633 | — | 567 | — | 567 | ||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains (losses): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments | — | (9) | — | (9) | — | 8 | — | 8 | ||||||||||||||||
| Debt securities | 275 | (423) | — | (148) | 162 | (824) | — | (662) | ||||||||||||||||
| Equity securities | — | 1,881 | — | 1,881 | — | 1,218 | — | 1,218 | ||||||||||||||||
| Mortgages and loans | 14 | 719 | — | 733 | 30 | 650 | — | 680 | ||||||||||||||||
| Derivative investments | — | (942) | — | (942) | — | (1,347) | — | (1,347) | ||||||||||||||||
| Other financial assets | 2 | (170) | — | (168) | 1 | 406 | — | 407 | ||||||||||||||||
| Other financial liabilities | — | 31 | — | 31 | — | (44) | — | (44) | ||||||||||||||||
| Total net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | 291 | 1,087 | — | 1,378 | 193 | 67 | — | 260 | ||||||||||||||||
| Provision for credit losses | (11) | — | (1) | (12) | 3 | — | (7) | (4) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) from financial instruments | $ | 1,005 | $ | 8,110 | $ | (64) | $ | 9,051 | $ | 939 | $ | 6,751 | $ | (108) | $ | 7,582 | ||||||||
| Net Investment income (loss) from non-financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment properties rental income | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 685 | $ | 685 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 664 | $ | 664 | ||||||||
| Investment properties expenses | — | — | (274) | (274) | — | — | (265) | (265) | ||||||||||||||||
| Investment expenses and taxes | — | — | (292) | (292) | — | — | (278) | (278) | ||||||||||||||||
| Fair value changes on investment properties | — | — | (241) | (241) | — | — | (383) | (383) | ||||||||||||||||
| Other investment income (loss) | — | — | 92 | 92 | — | — | 323 | 323 | ||||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange gains (losses) | — | — | (64) | (64) | — | — | 116 | 116 | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) from non-financial instruments | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (94) | $ | (94) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 177 | $ | 177 | ||||||||
| Total Net investment income (loss)(2) | $ | 1,005 | $ | 8,110 | $ | (158) | $ | 8,957 | $ | 939 | $ | 6,751 | $ | 69 | $ | 7,759 |
(1) Primarily includes investment income (loss) on financial instruments carried at amortized cost, investment properties, and equity method investments.
(2) Net investment income (loss) recognized in income is $8,859 (December 31, 2024 — $7,415) and net investment income (loss) recognized in OCI is $98 (December 31, 2024 — $344).
| 40 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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5.C Explanation of Investment Result
Net investment result excluding result for account of segregated fund holders consists of the following:
| For the year ended December 31, 2025 | Insurance contracts Issued | Reinsurance<br>contracts<br>held | Total insurance | Non-insurance (all other) | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net investment income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) recognized in net income | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 7,539 | $ | 1,320 | $ | 8,859 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) recognized in OCI | — | — | 120 | (22) | 98 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total net investment income (loss) | — | — | 7,659 | 1,298 | 8,957 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total insurance finance income (expenses) recognized in net income: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Effect of time value of money (Interest on carrying value) including interest on policy loans and interest on amounts on deposit | (3,479) | 140 | (3,339) | — | (3,339) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Impact of change in discount rate on fulfilment cash flows excluding where measured at locked-in rates and effect of changes in financial risk | 483 | (67) | 416 | — | 416 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Application of risk mitigation option(1) | 203 | — | 203 | — | 203 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in fair value of underlying items for contracts with direct participation features (excluding segregated funds) | (4,144) | — | (4,144) | — | (4,144) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange gains (losses) | (20) | — | (20) | — | (20) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 170 | (4) | 166 | — | 166 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total insurance finance income (expenses) recognized in income | (6,787) | 69 | (6,718) | — | (6,718) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Decrease (increase) in investment contract liabilities | — | — | — | (323) | (323) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment result | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 941 | $ | 975 | $ | 1,916 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment result recognized in net income | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 821 | $ | 997 | $ | 1,818 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment result recognized in OCI | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 120 | $ | (22) | $ | 98 | For the year ended December 31, 2024 | Insurance contracts Issued | Reinsurance<br> contracts held | Total insurance | Non-insurance (all other) | Total | ||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) recognized in net income | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 5,894 | $ | 1,521 | $ | 7,415 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) recognized in OCI | — | — | 12 | 332 | 344 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total net investment income (loss) | — | — | 5,906 | 1,853 | 7,759 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total insurance finance income (expenses) recognized in net income: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Effect of time value of money (Interest on carrying value) including interest on policy loans and interest on amounts on deposit | (4,474) | 190 | (4,284) | — | (4,284) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Impact of change in discount rate on fulfilment cash flows excluding where measured at locked-in rates and effect of changes in financial risk | 1,683 | (135) | 1,548 | — | 1,548 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Application of risk mitigation option(1) | 225 | — | 225 | — | 225 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in fair value of underlying items for contracts with direct participation features (excluding segregated funds) | (2,642) | — | (2,642) | — | (2,642) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange gains (losses) | 49 | — | 49 | — | 49 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 20 | (4) | 16 | — | 16 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total insurance finance income (expenses) recognized in income | (5,139) | 51 | (5,088) | — | (5,088) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Decrease (increase) in investment contract liabilities | — | — | — | (393) | (393) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment result | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 818 | $ | 1,460 | $ | 2,278 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment result recognized in net income | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 806 | $ | 1,128 | $ | 1,934 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment result recognized in OCI | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 12 | $ | 332 | $ | 344 |
(1) Changes in our share of the fair value of underlying items and FCF arising from changes in the effect of financial risk that are mitigated by the use of derivatives and non-derivative financial instruments are recognized in income rather than adjusting the CSM. These amounts are offset by changes in the fair value of the derivatives and non-derivative financial instruments included in Investment income. The amount above would have resulted in an adjustment to the CSM if it was recorded to the CSM.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 41 |
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5.D Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Securities
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities presented in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and Net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities presented in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows consist of the following:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash | $ | 2,498 | $ | 2,294 | ||
| Cash equivalents | 7,187 | 7,835 | ||||
| Short-term securities | 5,156 | 3,744 | ||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | 14,841 | 13,873 | ||||
| Less: Bank overdraft, recorded in Other liabilities | 86 | 175 | ||||
| Net cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | $ | 14,755 | $ | 13,698 |
5.E Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities
We apply hedge accounting to minimize volatility in income and equity caused by changes in interest rates or foreign exchange rates. Interest rate and currency fluctuations will either cause assets and liabilities to appreciate or depreciate in market value or cause variability in forecasted cash flows. When a hedging relationship is effective, gains, losses, revenue and expenses of the hedging instrument will offset the gains, losses, revenue and expenses of the hedged item. Derivatives used in hedging relationships are recorded in Derivative assets or Derivative liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
5.E.i Derivatives Held for Risk Management
We use other derivatives, not designated in a qualifying hedging relationship ("Derivatives investments"), to manage exposure to foreign currency, interest rate, and equity market. The instruments used include principally interest rate swaps, cross-currency swaps, forward contracts, interest rate futures, interest rate options, credit and swaps and equity swaps.
The following table describes the fair value of derivatives held for risk management purposes by type of risk exposure:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assets | Liabilities | Assets | Liabilities | ||||||
| Interest rate contracts: | |||||||||
| Derivative investments | $ | 207 | $ | (1,091) | $ | 392 | $ | (822) | |
| Total interest rate derivatives | $ | 207 | $ | (1,091) | $ | 392 | $ | (822) | |
| Foreign exchange contracts: | |||||||||
| Designated as cash flow hedges | $ | 1 | $ | (2) | $ | 8 | $ | (3) | |
| Derivative investments | 1,028 | (865) | 1,403 | (1,195) | |||||
| Total foreign exchange derivatives | $ | 1,029 | $ | (867) | $ | 1,411 | $ | (1,198) | |
| Other contracts: | |||||||||
| Designated as cash flow hedges | $ | 34 | $ | — | $ | 43 | $ | — | |
| Derivative investments | 264 | (107) | 125 | (57) | |||||
| Total other contracts | $ | 298 | $ | (107) | $ | 168 | $ | (57) | |
| Total derivative contracts | $ | 1,534 | $ | (2,065) | $ | 1,971 | $ | (2,077) |
The maturity analysis of the notional amounts and the average rates (or weighted average rates, if applicable) and prices of the hedging instruments are disclosed in Note 6.A.iv.
5.E.ii Hedge Accounting
Cash flow hedges
We use pay fixed/receive floating interest rate and cross-currency interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate risks in respect of the benchmark interest rate (mainly sterling and Euribor or Sterling Overnight Index Average ("SONIA"), Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR")) and foreign currency risks (mainly U.S. dollar and sterling or SONIA, SOFR) from its issuance of floating-rate notes denominated in foreign currencies. We hedge interest rate risk to the extent of benchmark interest rate exposure on its floating-rate notes to mitigate variability in its cash flows. Hedge accounting is applied where economic hedging relationships meet the hedge accounting criteria.
We also hedge the variability of cash payments associated with changes in SLF Inc.'s common share prices using total return forwards. This is related to our Sun Share Unit ("Sun Share") Plan as a long-term incentive award to executive employees.
Our exposure to market risk and our approach to managing market risk, including interest rate risk and foreign currency risk, are discussed in Note 6.
We determine the amount of the exposure to which it applies hedge accounting by assessing the potential impact of changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates on the future cash flows from its issuance of floating-rate notes denominated in foreign currencies. This assessment is performed using analytical techniques, such as cash flow sensitivity analysis.
| 42 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
We manage our exposure to credit risk of the counterparties to the derivatives, which is not offset by the hedged items, in a similar manner as described above for the fair value hedges.
We determine whether an economic relationship exists between the cash flows of the hedged item and hedging instrument based on an evaluation of the qualitative characteristics of these items and the hedged risk that is supported by quantitative analysis. We consider whether the critical terms of the hedged item and hedging instrument closely align when assessing the presence of an economic relationship. We evaluate whether the cash flows of the hedged item and the hedging instrument respond similarly to the hedged risk, such as the benchmark interest rate or foreign currency. For cash flow hedging relationships directly impacted by IBOR ("Interbank Offered Rate") reform (i.e. hedges of U.S. dollar London Inter-Bank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and sterling LIBOR), the cash flows of the hedged item and hedging instrument will not be altered as a result of IBOR reform. We further support this qualitative assessment by using regression analysis to assess whether the hedging instrument is expected to be and has been highly effective in offsetting changes in the present value of the hedged item. We assess hedge effectiveness using the hypothetical derivative method, which creates a derivative instrument to serve as a proxy for the hedged transaction. The terms of the hypothetical derivative match the critical terms of the hedged item and it has a fair value of zero at inception. We assess whether the derivative designated in each hedging relationship is expected to be and has been highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged item (prospectively and retrospectively) using this regression analysis.
Potential sources of hedge ineffectiveness can be attributed to differences between hedging instruments and hedge items:
•The effect of the counterparty and our own credit risk on the fair value of the interest rate swap, which is not reflected in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the change in interest rate.
•Differences in maturities of the interest rate swap and the loans or debt securities.
•Mismatches in the frequency and timing of when interest rates are reset and frequency of payment.
•Differences in the discounting factors between the hedged item and hedging instrument.
There were no other sources of ineffectiveness in these hedging relationships.
The maturity analysis of the notional amounts and the average rates (or weighted average rates, if applicable) and prices of the hedging instruments are disclosed in Note 6.A.iv.
The amounts relating to items designated as hedging instruments were as follows:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hedging risks | Hedged Item | Accumulated other comprehensive income from active hedges | Accumulated other comprehensive income from active hedges | |||||
| Foreign exchange risk(1) | Variable rate liabilities(2) | $ | 20 | $ | 14 | |||
| Equity risk | Share-based payment(3) | $ | (19) | $ | (10) |
(1) Cross-currency swap may be used to hedge foreign exchange risk, or a combination of interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk in a single hedge relationship. Cross-currency swaps in both type of hedge relationships are disclosed in the above risk category (foreign exchange risk).
(2) Hedged items include other financial liabilities.
(3) Hedged items includes other liabilities.
The amounts relating to the effectiveness of hedging relationships were as follows:
| Hedging risks | Hedged Item | Gains (losses) on hedged items for ineffectiveness measurement | Gain (losses) on hedging instruments for ineffectiveness measurement | Hedge ineffectiveness | Unrealized gains (losses) included in Other comprehensive income as the effective portion of the hedging instrument | Losses (gains) reclassified to Net interest income | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| For the year ended December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange risk(1) | Variable rate liabilities(2) | $ | 1 | $ | (1) | $ | — | $ | (21) | $ | 21 | |||||
| Equity risk | Share-based payment(3) | $ | (32) | $ | 34 | $ | 2 | $ | 14 | $ | (18) | |||||
| For the year ended December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange risk(1) | Variable rate liabilities(2) | $ | (5) | $ | 5 | $ | — | $ | 69 | $ | (76) | |||||
| Equity risk | Share-based payment(3) | $ | (42) | $ | 43 | $ | 1 | $ | 57 | $ | (41) |
(1) Cross-currency swap may be used to hedge foreign exchange risk, or a combination of interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk in a single hedge relationship. Cross-currency swaps in both type of hedge relationships are disclosed in the above risk category (foreign exchange risk).
(2) Hedged items include other financial liabilities, that are floating rate obligations.
(3) Hedged items include other liabilities, representing share-based payment awards.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 43 |
|---|
5.E.iii Reconciliation of Components of Equity
The following table provides a reconciliation by risk category of the accumulated other comprehensive income and analysis of OCI items resulting from hedge accounting:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash flow hedges: | ||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 4 | $ | (1) | ||
| Effective portion of changes in fair value: | ||||||
| Foreign currency risk(1) | (21) | 69 | ||||
| Equity price risk | 14 | 57 | ||||
| Net amount reclassified to income (loss): | ||||||
| Foreign currency risk(1) | 21 | (76) | ||||
| Equity price risk | (18) | (41) | ||||
| Related tax | 1 | (4) | ||||
| Balance, end of year | $ | 1 | $ | 4 |
(1) Cross-currency swap may be used to hedge foreign exchange risk, or a combination of interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk in a single hedge relationship. Cross-currency swaps in both type of hedge relationships are disclosed in the above risk category (foreign exchange risk).
5.F Transfers of Financial Assets
We enter into transactions, including mortgage securitization, repurchase agreements and securities lending, where we transfer financial assets while retaining the risks and rewards of ownership of the assets. These transferred financial assets are not derecognized and remain on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The carrying value of the transferred assets and the associated liabilities are described in the sections below.
5.F.i Mortgage Securitization
We securitize certain insured fixed-rate commercial mortgages through the creation of mortgage-backed securities under the National Housing Act 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 is no ECL 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, 2025 are $1,205 and $1,181, respectively (December 31, 2024 — $1,555 and $1,505, respectively). The carrying value and fair value of the associated liabilities as at December 31, 2025 are $1,431 and $1,407, respectively (December 31, 2024 — $1,854 and $1,807, respectively). The carrying value of securities in the PRA as at December 31, 2025 is $229 (December 31, 2024 — $302). There are $nil cash and cash equivalents in the PRA as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
The fair value of the secured borrowings from mortgage securitization is based on the methodologies and assumptions for asset-backed securities described in Note 5.A.iii. The fair value of these liabilities is categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
5.F.ii Repurchase Agreements
We enter into repurchase agreements for operational funding and liquidity purposes. Repurchase agreements have maturities ranging from 12 to 365 days, averaging 89 days, and bear interest at an average rate of 2.38% as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — 3.52%). The carrying values of the transferred assets and the obligations related to their repurchase, which approximate their fair values, are $2,861 as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $2,840). These liabilities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Collateral primarily consists of cash and cash equivalents as well as government guaranteed securities. Details on the collateral pledged are included in Note 6.A.ii.
5.F.iii Securities Lending
The Company engages in securities lending to generate additional income. Certain securities from its portfolio are lent to other institutions for short periods. Collateral exceeding the fair value of the securities lent 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. The fair value of the securities lent is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the fair values fluctuate. Collateral primarily consists of Canadian federal and provincial government securities and cash and cash equivalents. Certain arrangements allow us to invest the cash collateral received for the securities lent. The carrying values of the securities lent approximate their fair values. The carrying values of the securities lent and the related collateral held are $2,360 and $2,486, respectively, as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $2,377 and $2,506, respectively). Of the collateral held, we held cash collateral of $170 as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $194), which is recognized on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
| 44 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6. Financial Instruments Risk Management | |||
| --- |
The significant risks related to financial instruments are credit risk, market risk (including equity risk, real estate risk, interest rate and spread risk, foreign currency risk, and inflation risk) and liquidity risk.
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.
6.A Credit Risk
Risk Description
Credit risk is the possibility of loss from amounts owed by our borrowers or financial counterparties. We are subject to credit risk in connection with issuers of securities held in our investment portfolio, debtors, structured securities, reinsurers, counterparties (including derivative, repurchase agreement and securities lending counterparties), other financial institutions and other entities. Losses may occur when a counterparty fails to make timely payments pursuant to the terms of the underlying contractual arrangement or when the counterparty's credit rating or risk profile otherwise deteriorates. Credit risk can also arise in connection with deterioration in the value of, or ability to realize, any underlying security that may be used as collateral for the debt obligation. Credit risk can occur as a result of broad economic conditions, challenges within specific sectors of the economy, from issues affecting individual companies or loss given default expectations. Events that result in defaults, impairments or downgrades of the securities in our 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.
Credit Risk Management Governance and Control
We rate fixed income investments primarily through the use of internally developed scorecards and rating methodologies, 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, 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.
We employ a wide range of credit risk management practices and controls, as outlined below:
•Credit risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the risk committees.
•Risk appetite limits have been established for credit risk.
•Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed and reported against pre-established risk limits.
•Comprehensive Investment and Credit Risk Management Policy, guidelines and practices are in place.
•Specific investment diversification requirements are in place, such as defined investment limits for asset class, geography, and industry.
•Risk-based credit portfolio, counterparty, and sector exposure limits have been established.
•Mandatory use of credit quality ratings for portfolio investments has been established and is reviewed regularly. These internal rating decisions for new fixed income investments and ongoing review of existing rating decisions are independently adjudicated by Corporate Risk Management.
•Develop and maintain hedging programs that may employ the use of derivatives. Market conditions determine the availability and cost of the derivative protection.
•Comprehensive due diligence processes and ongoing credit analyses are conducted.
•Regulatory solvency requirements include risk-based capital requirements and are monitored regularly.
•Comprehensive compliance monitoring practices and procedures including reporting against pre-established investment limits are in place.
•Purchase reinsurance for certain risks underwritten by our various insurance businesses. Reinsurance does not relieve us from our direct liability to policyholders and accordingly, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers. Reinsurance exposures are monitored to ensure that no single reinsurer represents an undue level of credit risk.
•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 IFRS.
•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.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 45 |
|---|
6.A.i Maximum Exposure to Credit Risk
Our maximum credit exposure related to financial instruments as at December 31 is the balance as presented in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as we believe that these carrying amounts best represent the maximum exposure to credit risk. The credit exposure for debt securities may be increased to the extent that the amounts recovered from default are insufficient to satisfy the actuarial liability cash flows that the assets are intended to support.
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:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Off-balance sheet item: | ||||||
| Loan commitments(1) | $ | 2,672 | $ | 2,500 |
(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.
6.A.ii Right of Offset and Collateral
We invest in financial assets which may be secured by real estate properties, pools of financial assets, third-party financial guarantees, credit insurance, and other arrangements.
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.
| 46 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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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.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial<br><br>instruments<br><br>presented<br><br>in the<br><br>Consolidated<br><br>Statements<br><br>of Financial<br><br>Position(1) | Related amounts not set off in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position | Financial<br><br>instruments<br><br>presented<br><br>in the<br><br>Consolidated<br><br>Statements<br><br>of Financial<br><br>Position(1) | Related amounts not set off in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Financial instruments subject to master netting or similar agreements | Financial collateral (received) pledged(2) | Net amount | Financial instruments subject to master netting or similar agreements | Financial collateral (received) pledged(2) | Net amount | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Financial assets: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative assets (Note 6.A.v) | $ | 1,534 | $ | (742) | $ | (589) | $ | 203 | $ | 1,971 | $ | (1,043) | $ | (787) | $ | 141 | |||||||||
| Reverse repurchase agreements (Note 8) | — | — | — | — | 33 | (33) | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
| Total financial assets | $ | 1,534 | $ | (742) | $ | (589) | $ | 203 | $ | 2,004 | $ | (1,076) | $ | (787) | $ | 141 | |||||||||
| Financial liabilities: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative liabilities (Note 6.A.v) | $ | (2,065) | $ | 742 | $ | 1,170 | $ | (153) | $ | (2,077) | $ | 1,043 | $ | 936 | $ | (98) | |||||||||
| Repurchase agreements (Note 5.F.ii) | (2,861) | — | 2,861 | — | (2,840) | 33 | 2,807 | — | |||||||||||||||||
| Cash collateral on securities lent (Note 5.F.iii) | (170) | — | 162 | (8) | (194) | — | 184 | (10) | |||||||||||||||||
| Obligations for securities borrowing | (267) | — | 267 | — | (239) | — | 239 | — | |||||||||||||||||
| Total financial liabilities | $ | (5,363) | $ | 742 | $ | 4,460 | $ | (161) | $ | (5,350) | $ | 1,076 | $ | 4,166 | $ | (108) |
(1) Net amounts of the financial instruments presented in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position are the same as our gross recognized financial instruments, as we do not offset financial instruments in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
(2) Financial collateral presented in the table above excludes overcollateralization and, for exchange-traded derivatives, initial margin. Total financial collateral at fair value, including initial margin and overcollateralization, received on derivative assets was $826 (December 31, 2024 — $895), received on reverse repurchase agreements was $nil (December 31, 2024 — $33), pledged on derivative liabilities was $2,254 (December 31, 2024 — $2,126), and pledged on repurchase agreements was $2,861 (December 31, 2024 — $2,840).
6.A.iii Concentration Risk
Concentrations of credit risk arise from exposures to a single debtor, a group of related debtors, or groups of debtors that have similar credit risk characteristics, such as groups of debtors in the same economic or geographic regions or in similar industries. Related issuers may have similar economic characteristics so that their ability to meet contractual obligations may be impacted similarly by changes in the economic or political conditions. We manage this risk by appropriately diversifying our investment portfolio through the use of concentration limits. In particular, we maintain policies which set counterparty exposure limits to manage the credit exposure for investments in any single issuer or to the same underlying credit. Exceptions exist for investments in securities which are issued or guaranteed by the Government of Canada, U.S. or UK and issuers for which the Risk Committee have granted specific approval. Mortgages are collateralized by the related property, and generally do not exceed 75% of the value of the property at the time the original loan is made. Our mortgages and loans are diversified by type and location and, for mortgages, by borrower. Loans provide diversification benefits (name, industry and geography) and often provide stronger covenants and collateral than public debt securities, thereby providing both better credit protection and potentially higher recoveries in the event of default. The following tables provide details of the debt securities, mortgages and loans held by issuer country, geographic location and industry sector, where applicable.
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.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FVTPL | FVOCI | Total debt securities | FVTPL | FVOCI | Total debt securities | |||||||||||||
| Canada | $ | 35,582 | $ | 3,288 | $ | 38,870 | $ | 34,472 | $ | 3,614 | $ | 38,086 | ||||||
| United States | 23,389 | 6,060 | 29,449 | 20,986 | 6,486 | 27,472 | ||||||||||||
| Europe(1) | 4,329 | 1,451 | 5,780 | 4,145 | 1,664 | 5,809 | ||||||||||||
| Asia(1) | 7,230 | 971 | 8,201 | 6,891 | 950 | 7,841 | ||||||||||||
| Other(1) | 2,069 | 1,249 | 3,318 | 1,612 | 1,135 | 2,747 | ||||||||||||
| Total debt securities | $ | 72,599 | $ | 13,019 | $ | 85,618 | $ | 68,106 | $ | 13,849 | $ | 81,955 |
(1) Reflects a change in presentation to our geographic locations. We have updated the prior period to reflect this change in presentation.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 47 |
|---|
The carrying value of debt securities by issuer and industry sector is shown in the following table:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FVTPL | FVOCI | Total debt<br>securities | FVTPL | FVOCI | Total debt<br>securities | |||||||||||||
| Debt securities issued or guaranteed by: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Canadian federal government | $ | 7,413 | $ | 480 | $ | 7,893 | $ | 6,803 | $ | 734 | $ | 7,537 | ||||||
| Canadian provincial and municipal government | 15,843 | 237 | 16,080 | 15,302 | 353 | 15,655 | ||||||||||||
| U.S. government and agency | 1,124 | 395 | 1,519 | 626 | 509 | 1,135 | ||||||||||||
| Other foreign government | 3,285 | 356 | 3,641 | 3,796 | 413 | 4,209 | ||||||||||||
| Total government issued or guaranteed debt securities | 27,665 | 1,468 | 29,133 | 26,527 | 2,009 | 28,536 | ||||||||||||
| Corporate debt securities by industry sector: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Financials | 9,759 | 2,604 | 12,363 | 8,659 | 2,893 | 11,552 | ||||||||||||
| Utilities | 6,994 | 679 | 7,673 | 6,859 | 763 | 7,622 | ||||||||||||
| Industrials | 4,345 | 792 | 5,137 | 4,424 | 951 | 5,375 | ||||||||||||
| Energy | 3,424 | 493 | 3,917 | 3,258 | 446 | 3,704 | ||||||||||||
| Communication services | 2,575 | 267 | 2,842 | 2,647 | 373 | 3,020 | ||||||||||||
| Real estate | 2,007 | 407 | 2,414 | 1,882 | 423 | 2,305 | ||||||||||||
| Health care | 1,820 | 377 | 2,197 | 1,644 | 363 | 2,007 | ||||||||||||
| Consumer staples | 1,541 | 252 | 1,793 | 1,301 | 256 | 1,557 | ||||||||||||
| Consumer discretionary | 1,109 | 651 | 1,760 | 1,011 | 747 | 1,758 | ||||||||||||
| Information technology | 964 | 110 | 1,074 | 890 | 202 | 1,092 | ||||||||||||
| Materials | 893 | 225 | 1,118 | 819 | 202 | 1,021 | ||||||||||||
| Total corporate debt securities | 35,431 | 6,857 | 42,288 | 33,394 | 7,619 | 41,013 | ||||||||||||
| Asset-backed securities | 9,503 | 4,694 | 14,197 | 8,185 | 4,221 | 12,406 | ||||||||||||
| Total debt securities | $ | 72,599 | $ | 13,019 | $ | 85,618 | $ | 68,106 | $ | 13,849 | $ | 81,955 |
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, 2025 | Canada | United States | Europe | Asia | Other | Total | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mortgages: | |||||||||||||||
| Retail | $ | 1,268 | $ | 1,068 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,336 | |||
| Office | 1,335 | 1,029 | — | — | — | 2,364 | |||||||||
| Multi-family residential | 3,255 | 948 | — | — | — | 4,203 | |||||||||
| Industrial | 2,537 | 1,256 | — | — | — | 3,793 | |||||||||
| Other | 740 | 34 | 135 | — | — | 909 | |||||||||
| Total mortgages(1) | $ | 9,135 | $ | 4,335 | $ | 135 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,605 | |||
| Loans | $ | 12,880 | $ | 20,044 | $ | 9,234 | $ | 678 | $ | 2,992 | $ | 45,828 | |||
| Total mortgages and loans | $ | 22,015 | $ | 24,379 | $ | 9,369 | $ | 678 | $ | 2,992 | $ | 59,433 |
(1) $3,361 of mortgages in Canada are insured by the CMHC.
| As at December 31, 2024 | Canada | United States | Europe | (2) | Asia | (2) | Other | (2) | Total | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Retail | $ | 1,398 | $ | 1,169 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,567 | ||||||
| Office | 1,385 | 1,248 | — | — | — | 2,633 | ||||||||||||
| Multi-family residential | 3,451 | 1,048 | — | — | — | 4,499 | ||||||||||||
| Industrial | 2,369 | 1,314 | — | — | — | 3,683 | ||||||||||||
| Other | 799 | 49 | 208 | — | — | 1,056 | ||||||||||||
| Total mortgages(1) | $ | 9,402 | $ | 4,828 | $ | 208 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 14,438 | ||||||
| Loans | $ | 12,560 | $ | 18,856 | $ | 8,488 | $ | 680 | $ | 2,597 | $ | 43,181 | ||||||
| Total mortgages and loans | $ | 21,962 | $ | 23,684 | $ | 8,696 | $ | 680 | $ | 2,597 | $ | 57,619 |
(1) $3,630 of mortgages in Canada are insured by the CMHC.
(2) Reflects a change in presentation to our geographic locations. We have updated the prior period to reflect this change in presentation.
| 48 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 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.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FVTPL | FVOCI | Total debt securities | FVTPL | FVOCI | Total debt securities | |||||||||||||
| Due in 1 year or less | $ | 3,027 | $ | 3,198 | $ | 6,225 | $ | 1,932 | $ | 2,385 | $ | 4,317 | ||||||
| Due in years 2-5 | 11,151 | 5,233 | 16,384 | 9,733 | 6,496 | 16,229 | ||||||||||||
| Due in years 6-10 | 10,751 | 1,523 | 12,274 | 10,662 | 1,922 | 12,584 | ||||||||||||
| Due after 10 years | 47,670 | 3,065 | 50,735 | 45,779 | 3,046 | 48,825 | ||||||||||||
| Total debt securities | $ | 72,599 | $ | 13,019 | $ | 85,618 | $ | 68,106 | $ | 13,849 | $ | 81,955 |
The carrying value of mortgages by scheduled maturity, before the allowance for ECL, is as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FVTPL | FVOCI | Amortized cost | Total | FVTPL | FVOCI | Amortized cost | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Due in 1 year or less | $ | 1,585 | $ | 183 | $ | 323 | $ | 2,091 | $ | 1,344 | $ | 66 | $ | 283 | $ | 1,693 | |||||||
| Due in years 2-5 | 5,177 | 313 | 751 | 6,241 | 5,745 | 340 | 929 | 7,014 | |||||||||||||||
| Due in years 6-10 | 3,903 | 3 | 131 | 4,037 | 3,814 | 8 | 343 | 4,165 | |||||||||||||||
| Due after 10 years | 1,236 | — | — | 1,236 | 1,563 | 3 | — | 1,566 | |||||||||||||||
| Total mortgages | $ | 11,901 | $ | 499 | $ | 1,205 | $ | 13,605 | $ | 12,466 | $ | 417 | $ | 1,555 | $ | 14,438 |
The carrying value of loans by scheduled maturity, before the allowance for ECL, is as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FVTPL | FVOCI | Amortized cost | Total | FVTPL | FVOCI | Amortized cost | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Due in 1 year or less | $ | 2,319 | $ | 280 | $ | 66 | $ | 2,665 | $ | 2,262 | $ | 324 | $ | 100 | $ | 2,686 | |||||||
| Due in years 2-5 | 8,805 | 1,464 | 253 | 10,522 | 7,863 | 1,240 | 199 | 9,302 | |||||||||||||||
| Due in years 6-10 | 11,580 | 417 | 29 | 12,026 | 10,354 | 494 | 21 | 10,869 | |||||||||||||||
| Due after 10 years | 20,552 | 73 | — | 20,625 | 20,288 | 50 | — | 20,338 | |||||||||||||||
| Total loans | $ | 43,256 | $ | 2,234 | $ | 348 | $ | 45,838 | $ | 40,767 | $ | 2,108 | $ | 320 | $ | 43,195 |
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:
| Terms to maturity | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As at | Notional Amount | ||||||||||
| Under 1 Year | 1 to 5 Years | Over 5 Years | Total | ||||||||
| December 31, 2025 | |||||||||||
| Derivative designated as hedging instrument: | |||||||||||
| Foreign exchange contracts / Currency risk(1) | $ | 763 | $ | 14 | $ | — | $ | 777 | |||
| Equity price risk(2) | 69 | 133 | — | 202 | |||||||
| Total designated as hedging instrument | 832 | 147 | — | 979 | |||||||
| Derivative investments(3) | 36,774 | 13,318 | 32,500 | 82,592 | |||||||
| Total derivatives | $ | 37,606 | $ | 13,465 | $ | 32,500 | $ | 83,571 | |||
| December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||
| Derivative designated as hedging instrument: | |||||||||||
| Foreign exchange contracts / Currency risk(1) | $ | 888 | $ | — | $ | 14 | $ | 902 | |||
| Equity price risk(2) | 60 | 128 | — | 188 | |||||||
| Total designated as hedging instrument | 948 | 128 | 14 | 1,090 | |||||||
| Derivative investments(3) | 28,359 | 13,251 | 32,254 | 73,864 | |||||||
| Total derivatives | $ | 29,307 | $ | 13,379 | $ | 32,268 | $ | 74,954 |
(1) The average fixed rate is 6% (December 31, 2024 — 4%). The average USD-CAD exchange rate is $1.37 (December 31, 2024 — $1.42).
(2) The average price is $73 (December 31, 2024 — $69).
(3) Derivatives investments are derivatives that have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 49 |
|---|
The following table provides the fair value of derivative instruments outstanding by term to maturity:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term to maturity | Term to maturity | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Under <br>1 Year | 1 to 5<br> Years | Over 5<br> Years | Total | Under <br>1 Year | 1 to 5<br> Years | Over 5<br> Years | Total | |||||||||||||||
| Derivative assets | $ | 421 | $ | 252 | $ | 861 | $ | 1,534 | $ | 227 | $ | 271 | $ | 1,473 | $ | 1,971 | ||||||
| Derivative liabilities | $ | (219) | $ | (182) | $ | (1,664) | $ | (2,065) | $ | (536) | $ | (278) | $ | (1,263) | $ | (2,077) |
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 ratings as well as ratings assigned by external rating agencies where available.
Derivative Financial Instruments by Counterparty Credit Rating
Derivative instruments consist of bilateral OTC contracts negotiated directly between counterparties, OTC contracts cleared through central clearing houses or exchange-traded contracts. Since a counterparty failure in an OTC derivative transaction could render it ineffective for hedging purposes, we generally transact our derivative contracts with highly-rated counterparties. In limited circumstances, we enter into transactions with lower-rated counterparties if credit enhancement features are included.
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.
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:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gross positive<br><br>replacement<br><br>cost(2) | Impact of master netting<br><br>agreements(3) | Net<br><br>replacement<br><br>cost(4) | Gross positive<br><br>replacement<br><br>cost(2) | Impact of<br><br>master netting<br><br>agreements(3) | Net<br><br>replacement<br><br>cost(4) | |||||||||||||
| Over-the-counter contracts: | ||||||||||||||||||
| AA | $ | 315 | $ | (163) | $ | 152 | $ | 494 | $ | (203) | $ | 291 | ||||||
| A | 1,048 | (579) | 469 | 1,438 | (840) | 598 | ||||||||||||
| BBB | — | — | — | 8 | — | 8 | ||||||||||||
| Total over-the-counter derivatives(1) | $ | 1,363 | $ | (742) | $ | 621 | $ | 1,940 | $ | (1,043) | $ | 897 |
(1) Exchange-traded derivatives with a positive fair value of $171 in 2025 (2024 — $31) 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.
Credit Default Swaps by Underlying Financial Instrument Credit Rating
Credit default swaps ("CDS") are OTC contracts that transfer credit risk related to an underlying referenced financial instrument from one counterparty to another. The purchaser receives protection against the decline in the value of the referenced financial instrument as a result of specified credit events such as default or bankruptcy. The seller receives a periodic premium in return for payment contingent on a credit event affecting the referenced financial instrument. CDS index contracts are those where the underlying referenced financial instruments are a group of assets. The Company enters into credit derivatives to replicate credit exposure of an underlying reference security and enhance investment returns. The credit risk ratings of the underlying reference securities for single name contracts were established in accordance with the internal rating process described in the Credit Risk Management Governance and Control section.
| 50 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
The following table provides a summary of the credit default swap protection sold by credit rating of the underlying reference security:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Notional amount | Fair value | Notional amount | Fair value | |||||||||
| Single name credit default swap contracts: | ||||||||||||
| A | $ | 676 | $ | 21 | $ | 552 | $ | 7 | ||||
| BBB | 570 | 10 | 499 | 13 | ||||||||
| Total single name credit default swap contracts | 1,246 | 31 | 1,051 | 20 | ||||||||
| Credit default swap index contracts | 172 | (3) | 432 | (10) | ||||||||
| Total credit default swap contracts sold | $ | 1,418 | $ | 28 | $ | 1,483 | $ | 10 |
Reinsurance Contract Held Assets by Credit Rating
The table below presents the distribution of reinsurance contract held assets by credit rating:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gross exposure | Collateral | Net exposure | Gross exposure | Collateral | Net exposure | |||||||||||||||
| % | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| AA or A | $ | 3,664 | $ | 109 | $ | 3,555 | 99 | $ | 3,670 | $ | 4 | $ | 3,666 | 95 | ||||||
| Below A | 2,412 | 2,378 | 34 | 1 | 2,531 | 2,416 | 115 | 3 | ||||||||||||
| Not rated | 62 | 62 | — | — | 117 | 51 | 66 | 2 | ||||||||||||
| Total reinsurance contract held assets | $ | 6,138 | $ | 2,549 | $ | 3,589 | 100 | $ | 6,318 | $ | 2,471 | $ | 3,847 | 100 |
6.A.vi Impairment of Financial Assets
Significant increase in credit risk
The assessment of significant increase in credit risk requires judgment. We assign counterparties a relevant internal credit risk rating grade depending on their credit quality. Changes in borrower-specific internal risk ratings is a primary indicator of significant increase in credit risk.
At each reporting date, movements between Stage 1 and Stage 2 are determined based on whether an instrument’s internal rating as at the reporting date has increased (decreased) significantly relative to the date it was initially recognized. We assess whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk for exposures since initial recognition by comparing the risk of default occurring over the remaining expected life from the reporting date and the date of initial recognition. The assessment considers borrower-specific quantitative and qualitative information without consideration of collateral, and the impact of forward-looking macroeconomic factors. Unless identified at an earlier stage, the credit risk of financial assets is deemed to have increased significantly when more than 30 days past due or moved to Watch List status and such assets are automatically migrated to Stage 2. Exposures are classified as "Watch List" when there is a moderate deterioration in credit quality, but the full payment of principal and interest is still expected to be collected, or there is an increased possibility of the exposure being impaired in the near term. No impairment charge is recorded for unrealized losses on assets related to these debtors.
Incorporation of forward-looking information
The measurement of ECL for each stage and the assessment of significant increase in credit risk considers future events and economic conditions.
The probability of default ("PD"), loss given default ("LGD") and exposure at default ("EAD") inputs used to estimate allowance for ECL are modelled based on the macroeconomic variables (or changes in macroeconomic variables) that are most closely correlated with credit losses in the relevant portfolio.
Our estimation of ECL is a discounted probability-weighted estimate that considers a minimum of three future macroeconomic scenarios (base case, upside and downside) and probability weights are attributed to each scenario. All scenarios considered are applied to all portfolios subject to ECL with the same probabilities. Our assessment of significant increase in credit risk is based on changes in internal rating as at the reporting date.
We subscribe to Moody's Analytics economic forecasting services and leverage its forward-looking macroeconomic information to model ECL.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 51 |
|---|
The table below includes certain key macroeconomic variables used to estimate the allowance for ECL, and the ranges of scenarios incorporated in the model within the U.S. and Canada:
| For the three months ended<br><br>December 31, 2025 | Average value over<br><br>the next 12 months | Average value over<br><br>the remaining forecast period | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base case | Upside case | Downside case | Base case | Upside case | Downside case | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gross Domestic Product | $ | 23,972 | (1) | 2.1 | % | 3.8 | % | (2.4) | % | 2.1 | % | 2.3 | % | 2.2 | % | ||||||||||||
| Unemployment Rate | 4.3 | % | 4.6 | % | 3.8 | % | 7.4 | % | 4.5 | % | 3.8 | % | 7.4 | % | |||||||||||||
| BBB Bonds Spreads | 1.0 | % | 1.7 | % | 1.4 | % | 2.9 | % | 1.8 | % | 1.7 | % | 2.1 | % | |||||||||||||
| Canada | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gross Domestic Product | $ | 2,446 | (1) | 0.5 | % | 2.8 | % | (4.2) | % | 2.0 | % | 2.3 | % | 1.8 | % | ||||||||||||
| Unemployment Rate | 7.1 | % | 7.1 | % | 6.4 | % | 8.6 | % | 6.5 | % | 5.6 | % | 8.9 | % | |||||||||||||
| Oil Price | $ | 61.30 | $ | 62.20 | $ | 67.00 | $ | 46.30 | $ | 64.00 | $ | 66.60 | $ | 54.50 | |||||||||||||
| For the three<br><br>months ended<br><br>December 31, 2024 | Average value over <br>the next 12 months | Average value over <br>the remaining forecast period | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Base case | Upside case | Downside case | Base case | Upside case | Downside case | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gross Domestic Product | $ | 29,633 | (1) | 4.2 | % | 5.8 | % | (0.4) | % | 4.3 | % | 4.6 | % | 3.8 | % | ||||||||||||
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2 | % | 4.1 | % | 3.3 | % | 7.3 | % | 4.0 | % | 3.3 | % | 7.2 | % | |||||||||||||
| BBB Bonds Spreads | 1.2 | % | 1.9 | % | 1.6 | % | 2.6 | % | 2.0 | % | 2.0 | % | 2.1 | % | |||||||||||||
| Canada | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gross Domestic Product | $ | 2,396 | (1) | 1.9 | % | 3.3 | % | (1.9) | % | 2.0 | % | 2.6 | % | 1.9 | % | ||||||||||||
| Unemployment Rate | 6.7 | % | 6.8 | % | 6.5 | % | 8.1 | % | 6.5 | % | 6.0 | % | 9.3 | % | |||||||||||||
| Oil Price | $ | 76.10 | $ | 74.60 | $ | 79.20 | $ | 58.90 | $ | 72.10 | $ | 74.60 | $ | 62.60 |
(1) Presented in billions.
Measurement of ECL
ECL is measured as the probability-weighted present value of expected cash shortfalls expected to result from defaults over the relevant time horizon, which is the maximum contractual period over which we are exposed to credit risk, including consideration of prepayments, and extensions.
The mechanics of the ECL calculations are outlined below and the key elements are as follows: PD, LGD, and EAD.
The PD is an estimate of the likelihood of default over a given time horizon. It is estimated as at a point in time based on historical losses, along with consideration of economic scenarios and forward-looking information.
LGD is the magnitude of the likely loss if there is a default at a given time. It is based on the difference in the present values of the contractual cash flows due and those that the lender would expect to receive, including from the realization of any collateral (net of directly attributable costs).
EAD represents the expected exposure in the event of a default. We derive the EAD from the current exposure to the counterparty and potential changes to the current amount allowed under the contract, including amortization, and prepayments.
An ECL estimate is produced for each individual exposure. Relevant parameters are modelled on a collective basis using portfolio segmentation that allows for appropriate incorporation of forward-looking information. To reflect other characteristics that are not already considered through modelling, expert credit judgment can be exercised in determining the final ECL.
Qualitative adjustments or overlays
The inputs and models used for calculating ECL may not always capture all characteristics of the market at the date of the financial statements. This could be a case where a major event occurs close to the reporting date, so that the potential effects are not appropriately captured in the models and inputs. To reflect this, qualitative adjustments or overlays are occasionally made as temporary adjustments when such differences are material.
| 52 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
The following table shows reconciliations from the opening balance to the closing balance of the allowance for ECL by class of financial instrument:
| For the years ended | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performing | Impaired | Total | Performing | Impaired | Total | ||||||||||||||||||
| Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Debt securities: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 25 | $ | 1 | $ | — | $ | 26 | $ | 30 | $ | 2 | $ | — | $ | 32 | |||||||
| Provision for credit losses: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| New originations or purchases | 12 | — | — | 12 | 9 | — | — | 9 | |||||||||||||||
| Derecognition or maturities | (8) | — | — | (8) | (10) | (1) | — | (11) | |||||||||||||||
| Net remeasurement(1) | — | 2 | — | 2 | (4) | — | — | (4) | |||||||||||||||
| Balance, end of year | $ | 29 | $ | 3 | $ | — | $ | 32 | $ | 25 | $ | 1 | $ | — | $ | 26 | |||||||
| Mortgages and loans: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 6 | $ | 1 | $ | 55 | $ | 62 | $ | 8 | $ | — | $ | 49 | $ | 57 | |||||||
| Provision for credit losses: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| New originations or purchases | 4 | — | — | 4 | 4 | 1 | — | 5 | |||||||||||||||
| Derecognition or maturities | (1) | — | — | (1) | (1) | — | — | (1) | |||||||||||||||
| Net remeasurement(1) | (2) | (1) | 6 | 3 | (5) | — | 11 | 6 | |||||||||||||||
| Write-offs, net of recoveries, and other adjustments | — | — | (7) | (7) | — | — | (5) | (5) | |||||||||||||||
| Balance, end of year | $ | 7 | $ | — | $ | 54 | $ | 61 | $ | 6 | $ | 1 | $ | 55 | $ | 62 |
(1) Includes changes in the measurement resulting from the significant changes in credit risk and from changes in credit risk that did not result in a transfer between stages, changes in model inputs and assumptions and changes in forward looking macroeconomic conditions.
Credit risk exposure by internal rating
The following table presents the gross carrying amount of mortgages and loans at amortized cost and the fair value of mortgages and loans and debt securities at FVOCI. Risk ratings are based on internal ratings used in the measurement of ECL, as at the reporting date.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performing | Impaired | Total | Performing | Impaired | Total | ||||||||||||||||||
| Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mortgages and loans at amortized cost: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment grade | $ | 1,482 | $ | 41 | $ | — | $ | 1,523 | $ | 1,791 | $ | 41 | $ | — | $ | 1,832 | |||||||
| Non-investment grade | 2 | — | — | 2 | — | 8 | — | 8 | |||||||||||||||
| Impaired | — | — | 28 | 28 | — | — | 35 | 35 | |||||||||||||||
| Total mortgages and loans at amortized cost | 1,484 | 41 | 28 | 1,553 | 1,791 | 49 | 35 | 1,875 | |||||||||||||||
| Less: Total allowance for ECL | 1 | — | 9 | 10 | 1 | — | 13 | 14 | |||||||||||||||
| Total mortgages and loans at amortized cost, net of total allowance for ECL | $ | 1,483 | $ | 41 | $ | 19 | $ | 1,543 | $ | 1,790 | $ | 49 | $ | 22 | $ | 1,861 | |||||||
| Mortgages and loans at FVOCI: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment grade | $ | 2,636 | $ | 42 | $ | — | $ | 2,678 | $ | 2,433 | $ | 14 | $ | — | $ | 2,447 | |||||||
| Non-investment grade | 50 | — | — | 50 | 57 | 13 | — | 70 | |||||||||||||||
| Impaired | — | — | 5 | 5 | — | — | 8 | 8 | |||||||||||||||
| Total mortgages and loans at FVOCI | $ | 2,686 | $ | 42 | $ | 5 | $ | 2,733 | $ | 2,490 | $ | 27 | $ | 8 | $ | 2,525 | |||||||
| Debt securities at FVOCI: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment grade | $ | 12,635 | $ | 14 | $ | — | $ | 12,649 | $ | 13,649 | $ | 18 | $ | — | $ | 13,667 | |||||||
| Non-investment grade | 361 | 9 | — | 370 | 180 | 2 | — | 182 | |||||||||||||||
| Total debt securities at FVOCI | $ | 12,996 | $ | 23 | $ | — | $ | 13,019 | $ | 13,829 | $ | 20 | $ | — | $ | 13,849 | |||||||
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 53 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Management assesses debt securities, mortgages and loans 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 FVOCI 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.
Mortgages and Loans
Objective evidence of impairment on mortgages and loans involves an assessment of the borrower's ability to meet current and future contractual interest and principal payments. In determining whether objective evidence of impairment exists, we consider a number of factors including, but not limited to, the financial condition of the borrower and, for collateral dependent mortgages and loans, the fair value of the collateral.
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.
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.
| 54 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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6.B Market Risk
Risk Description
We are exposed to market risk, which is defined as the risk that the value or future cash flows of insurance and investment contract liabilities or financial assets will fluctuate because of changes or volatility in market prices. Market risk includes equity, interest rate and spread, real estate, foreign currency, and inflation risks.
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.
•Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed, and reported against pre-established risk appetite 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 IFRS.
•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.
6.B.i Equity Risk
Equity risk is the potential for financial loss arising from declines or volatility in public or private equity market prices. We are exposed to equity risk from a number of sources.
We generate revenue in our asset management businesses and from certain protection and wealth 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 revenue and 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 net income.
A portion of our exposure to equity risk arises in connection with benefit guarantees on segregated fund products, some participating insurance contracts, some adjustable insurance contracts, and some universal life contracts. 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.
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 geography is shown in the following table:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FVTPL | FVOCI | Total equities | FVTPL | FVOCI | Total equities | |||||||||||||
| Canada | $ | 4,649 | $ | — | $ | 4,649 | $ | 3,821 | $ | — | $ | 3,821 | ||||||
| United States | 2,601 | 71 | 2,672 | 2,600 | 74 | 2,674 | ||||||||||||
| Europe(1) | 812 | — | 812 | 373 | — | 373 | ||||||||||||
| Asia(1) | 4,091 | — | 4,091 | 3,079 | — | 3,079 | ||||||||||||
| Other(1) | 26 | — | 26 | 27 | — | 27 | ||||||||||||
| Total equities | $ | 12,179 | $ | 71 | $ | 12,250 | $ | 9,900 | $ | 74 | $ | 9,974 |
(1) Reflects a change in presentation to our geographic locations. We have updated the prior period to reflect this change in presentation.
6.B.ii Interest Rate and Spread Risk
Interest rate and spread risk includes the potential for financial loss arising from changes in the value of insurance and investment contract liabilities and financial assets due to changes or volatility in interest rates or spreads. In practice, when asset cash flows and the policy obligations they support are not matched, this may result in the need to either sell assets to meet policy payments and expenses or reinvest excess asset cash flows in unfavourable interest rate or spread environments. This risk is managed in our asset-liability management program.
Our primary exposure to interest rate and spread risk arises from insurance and investment contracts that contain guarantees in the form of minimum crediting rates, maximum premium rates, settlement options, guaranteed annuitization options and minimum benefits. 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. Exposure to guarantees is managed within our risk appetite limits through our asset-liability management program, which may include the use of hedging strategies utilizing interest rate derivatives such as interest rate floors, swaps, forwards, futures and swaptions. The impact of these guarantees on net income are included in the disclosed market risk sensitivities.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 55 |
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Significant changes or volatility in interest rates or spreads could have a negative impact on sales of certain protection and wealth 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. While we have established hedging programs in place and our protection and wealth products often contain surrender mitigation features, these may not be sufficient to fully offset the adverse impact of changes in interest rates or spreads.
•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, increased asset calls, mortgage and structured security prepayments, and net reinvestment of positive cash flows at lower yields, and therefore can adversely impact our profitability and financial position.
•Negative interest rates may additionally result in losses on our cash and short-term deposits and low or negative returns on our fixed income assets impacting our profitability.
•A sustained low interest rate environment may additionally adversely impact our net income and our ability to implement our business strategy and plans. This may be realized through lower sales, less profitable new business, changes in the pattern of redemptions on existing policies, among other impacts.
We also have direct exposure to interest rates and spreads from investments supporting other general account liabilities, surplus and employee benefit plans. Higher interest rates or wider spreads will reduce the value of our existing assets. Conversely, lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads will result in reduced investment income on new fixed income asset purchases. These exposures fall within our risk-taking philosophy and appetite and are therefore generally not hedged.
6.B.iii 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 real estate investments that support general account liabilities and surplus, and fluctuations in value will affect our net income. A material and sustained increase in interest rates may lead to deterioration in real estate values.
6.B.iv Foreign Currency Risk
Foreign currency risk is the result of mismatches in the currency of our assets and liabilities (inclusive of capital), and cash flows. This risk may arise from a variety of sources such as foreign currency transactions and services, foreign currency hedging, investments denominated in foreign currencies, investments in foreign subsidiaries and net income from foreign operations. Changes or volatility in foreign exchange rates, including a change to currencies that are fixed in value to another currency, could adversely affect our net income.
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 liabilities and required capital. 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, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company did not have a material foreign currency risk mismatch exposure.
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.
6.B.v Inflation Risk
Inflation risk is the potential for financial loss arising from changes in inflation rates. This risk results from insurance contract liabilities that are linked to market measures of inflation such as the Consumer Price Index. The primary sources for this risk exposure are from certain group and retail annuity contracts and group long term disability contracts. In these contracts, the annuity and disability benefit payments may be linked to an indexing formula containing an inflation price index. Benefit payments linked to inflation indices may also include various caps, floors and averaging mechanisms that vary across product designs.
Exposure to inflation risk is managed within our asset-liability management program, primarily by investing in inflation linked assets to match liability exposures.
The impact of inflation on general account expenses is discussed in Note 7.A.v Expense Risk in this document.
6.B.vi Market Risk Sensitivities
We utilize a variety of methods and measures to quantify our market risk exposures. These include duration management, key rate duration techniques, convexity measures, cash flow gap analysis, scenario testing, and sensitivity testing of earnings and regulatory capital ratios versus risk appetite limits.
The measurement of liabilities and assets are affected by the level of equity market performance, interest rates, credit and swap spreads and other market risk variables. The following sections set out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income and OCI to certain instantaneous changes in market variables as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
| 56 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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The estimated sensitivities in the tables below reflect the impact of market movements on insurance and investment contracts, assets backing insurance contracts, assets backing investment contracts, assets backing the surplus segment, and seed investments in our asset management subsidiaries.
Net income sensitivities to equity and real estate market movements are driven primarily by changes in the value of investments backing general account liabilities and surplus. Net income sensitivities to interest rates and spreads are driven by the net impact on liabilities and the assets backing them. Lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads will typically result in increased liabilities for insurance contracts, offset by increased values of the assets backing general account liabilities. Higher interest rates or a widening of spreads will typically result in decreased liabilities for insurance contracts, offset by decreased values of the assets backing general account liabilities. Further detail on the impact of changes or volatility in market prices on assets and liabilities is provided under the headings "Equity Risk", "Interest Rate and Spread Risk", and "Real Estate Risk" above.
OCI sensitivities are impacted by changes in the market value of assets classified as FVOCI. The market value of FVOCI fixed income assets, which are held primarily backing surplus, investment contracts and CSM liabilities, increases with lower interest rates or a narrowing of spreads, and decreases with higher interest rates or widening of spreads.
As these market risk sensitivities reflect an instantaneous impact on net income and OCI, they do not include impacts over time such as the effect on fee income in our asset management businesses.
Refer to Additional Cautionary Language and Key Assumptions Related to Sensitivities in this section for important additional information regarding these estimates.
Equity Market Sensitivities
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income to certain instantaneous changes in equity market prices as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in Equity Markets(1)(2)(3) | 25% decrease | 10% decrease | 10% increase | 25% increase | 25%<br>decrease | 10% decrease | 10% increase | 25% increase | ||||||||||||||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | $ | (550) | $ | (225) | $ | 225 | $ | 575 | $ | (550) | $ | (225) | $ | 225 | $ | 575 |
(1)Represents the respective change across all equity exposures as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. Due to the impact of active management, basis risk, and other factors, realized sensitivities may differ meaningfully from expectations. Sensitivities include the impact of re-balancing equity hedges for hedging programs at 2% intervals (for 10% changes in equity markets) and at 5% intervals (for 25% changes in equity markets).
(2)The market risk sensitivities include the estimated impact of our hedging programs in effect as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, and include new business added and product changes implemented prior to such dates.
(3)Net income sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.
Interest Rate Sensitivities
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income and OCI to certain instantaneous changes in interest rates as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in Interest Rates(1)(2)(3) | 50 basis point decrease | 50 basis point increase | 50 basis point decrease | 50 basis point<br> increase | ||||||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | $ | — | $ | (25) | $ | (50) | $ | 25 | ||||
| Potential impact on OCI(4) | $ | 200 | $ | (200) | $ | 200 | $ | (200) |
(1)Interest rate sensitivities assume a parallel shift in assumed interest rates across the entire yield curve as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 with no change to the ultimate risk-free rate. 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 hedging programs at 10 basis point intervals (for 50 basis point changes in interest rates).
(2)The market risk sensitivities include the estimated impact of our hedging programs in effect as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, 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 $25. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.
(4)The market risk OCI sensitivities exclude the impact of changes in the defined benefit obligations and plan assets.
The above sensitivities were determined using a 50 basis point change in interest rates and 10% and 25% changes in our equity markets because we believe that these market shocks were reasonably possible as at December 31, 2025. Significant changes in market variables may result in non-proportional impacts on our sensitivities.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 57 |
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Credit Spread and Swap Spread Sensitivities
The following tables set out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income and OCI to certain instantaneous changes in credit spreads and our net income to certain changes in swap spreads as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in Credit Spreads(1)(2) | 50 basis point decrease | 50 basis point increase | 50 basis point decrease | 50 basis point<br> increase | ||||||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | $ | 125 | $ | (25) | $ | 75 | $ | (50) | ||||
| Potential impact on OCI(3) | $ | 200 | $ | (175) | $ | 200 | $ | (200) |
(1)The credit spread sensitivities assume a parallel shift in the indicated spreads across the entire term structure with no change to the ultimate liquidity premium. The sensitivities reflect a floor of zero on credit spreads where the spreads are not currently negative. 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.
(2)Net income and OCI sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.
(3)The market risk OCI sensitivities exclude the impact of changes in the defined benefit obligations and plan assets.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in Swap Spreads(1)(2) | 20 basis point decrease | 20 basis point increase | 20 basis point decrease | 20 basis point increase | ||||||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (25) | $ | 25 |
(1)The 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.
(2)Net income sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.
Real Estate Sensitivities
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, our net income to certain instantaneous changes in the value of our real estate investments as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change in Real Estate Values(1) | 10% decrease | 10% increase | 10% decrease | 10% increase | ||||||||
| Potential impact on net income (after-tax) | $ | (475) | $ | 475 | $ | (450) | $ | 450 |
(1)Net income sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25. The sensitivities exclude the market impacts on the income from our joint ventures in China and India.
6.B.vii Additional Cautionary Language and Key Assumptions Related to Sensitivities
Our market risk sensitivities are measures of our estimated change in net income and OCI for changes in market risk variables described above, based on market risk variables and business in force as at the reporting date. These sensitivities are calculated independently for each risk factor, generally assuming that all other risk variables stay constant. The sensitivities do not take into account indirect effects such as potential impacts on goodwill impairment or valuation allowances on deferred tax assets.
We have provided measures of our net income sensitivity to instantaneous changes in equity markets, interest rates, credit spreads, swap spreads, and real estate price levels. The cautionary language which appears in this section is applicable to all net income and OCI sensitivities.
Actual results can differ materially from these estimates for a variety of reasons, including differences in the pattern or distribution of the market shocks, the interaction between these risk factors, model error, or changes in other assumptions such as business mix, effective tax rates, policyholder behaviour, currency exchange rates and other market variables relative to those underlying the calculation of these sensitivities. The extent to which actual results may differ from the indicative ranges will generally increase with larger movements in risk variables. Our sensitivities as at December 31, 2024 have been included for comparative purposes only.
Sensitivities to interest rates and spreads assume a parallel shift in assumed interest rates across the entire yield curve or a parallel shift in the indicated spreads across the entire term structure, with no change to the ultimate risk-free rate or ultimate liquidity premium. Realized sensitivities may be significantly different from those illustrated based on factors such as different terms to maturity, geographies, asset classes and derivative types, and ratings.
The sensitivities reflect the composition of our assets and liabilities as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, 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 hedging programs in place as at the December 31 calculation dates. The actual impact of hedging activity can differ materially from that assumed in the estimated 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.
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Our hedging programs may themselves expose us to other risks, including basis risk, volatility risk, 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 (e.g., hedge counterparty credit risk is managed by maintaining broad diversification, dealing primarily with highly-rated counterparties, and transacting through OTC contracts cleared through central clearing houses, exchange-traded contracts or bilateral OTC contracts negotiated directly between counterparties that include CSA), residual risks and potential reported earnings and capital volatility remain.
The sensitivities are based on methods and assumptions in effect as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, as applicable. Changes in the regulatory environment, assumptions or methods used to measure assets and liabilities after those dates could result in material changes to the estimated sensitivities. Changes in market risk variables in excess of the changes illustrated may result in other than proportionate impacts.
The sensitivities reflect the CSM as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, where the change in the effect of the time value of money and financial risk not arising from the underlying items adjusts the CSM, changes in the CSM balance will affect the sensitivity of income to changes in market risk variables.
For the reasons outlined above, our sensitivities should only be viewed as indicative estimates of the underlying sensitivities of each factor under these specialized assumptions, and should not be viewed as predictors of our future income and OCI. Given the nature of these calculations, we cannot provide assurance that actual impacts will be consistent with the estimates provided.
6.C Liquidity Risk
Risk Description
Liquidity risk is the possibility that we will not be able to fund all cash outflow commitments and collateral requirements as they fall due. This includes the risk of being forced to sell assets at depressed prices resulting in realized losses on sale. This risk also includes restrictions on our ability to efficiently allocate capital among our subsidiaries due to various market and regulatory constraints on the movement of funds. Our funding obligations arise in connection with the payment of policyholder benefits, expenses, reinsurance settlements, asset purchases, investment commitments, interest on debt, and dividends on common and preferred shares. Sources of available cash flow include general fund premiums and deposits, investment related inflows (such as maturities, principal repayments, investment income and proceeds of asset sales), proceeds generated from financing activities, and dividends and interest payments from subsidiaries. We have various financing transactions and derivative contracts under which we may be required to pledge collateral or to make payments to our counterparties for the decline in market value of specified assets. The amount of collateral or payments required may increase under certain circumstances (such as changes to interest rates, credit spreads, equity markets or foreign exchange rates), which could adversely affect our liquidity.
Liquidity Risk Management Governance and Control
We generally maintain a conservative liquidity position and employ a wide range of liquidity risk management practices and controls, which are described below:
•Liquidity risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Risk Committee.
•Liquidity is managed in accordance with our Asset Liability Management Policy and operating guidelines.
•Liquidity contingency plans are maintained for the management of liquidity in a liquidity event.
•Stress testing is performed by comparing liquidity coverage risk metrics under a one-month stress scenario to our policy thresholds. These liquidity coverage risk metrics are measured and managed at the enterprise and legal entity levels.
•Stress testing of our collateral is performed by comparing collateral coverage ratios to our policy thresholds.
•Cash Management and asset-liability management programs support our ability to maintain our financial position by ensuring that sufficient cash flow and liquid assets are available to cover potential funding requirements. We invest in various types of assets with a view of matching them to our liabilities of various durations.
•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 actively manage and monitor our capital and asset levels, and the diversification and credit quality of our investments.
•Various credit facilities for general corporate purposes are maintained.
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 Client obligations, service debt obligations and to pay other expenses as they fall due.
6.C.i Maturity Analysis for Insurance Contracts
The following tables present the undiscounted estimated future cash flows of insurance contract and reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. These cash flows include estimates related to the timing and payment of death and disability claims, policy surrenders, policy maturities, annuity payments, minimum guarantees on segregated fund products, policyholder dividends, amounts on deposit, commissions and premium taxes offset by contractual future premiums and fees on in-force contracts. These estimated cash flows are based on the best estimated assumptions used in the determination of insurance contract and reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities. Due to the use of assumptions, actual cash flows will differ from these estimates. Amounts payable on demand, which includes amounts on deposit, dividends on deposit, outstanding claims and policyholder account values, are
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 59 |
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included in the within 1 year time band. Amounts in this table include the LIC and LRC for contracts measured using the PAA. The amounts included in the table differ from the carrying value of the portfolio mainly due to discounting and RA.
| As at | Within 1 year | 1 to <br>2 years | 2 to <br>3 years | 3 to <br>4 years | 4 to<br>5 years | Over 5 years | Total | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||
| Insurance contracts: | |||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets | $ | (382) | $ | (306) | $ | (288) | $ | (267) | $ | (252) | $ | (7,302) | $ | (8,797) | |
| Insurance contract liabilities | 10,183 | (1) | 2,973 | 3,516 | 4,501 | 5,563 | 939,926 | 966,662 | |||||||
| Net insurance contract liabilities | $ | 9,801 | $ | 2,667 | $ | 3,228 | $ | 4,234 | $ | 5,311 | $ | 932,624 | $ | 957,865 | |
| Reinsurance contract held: | |||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets | $ | (837) | (1) | $ | (298) | $ | (308) | $ | (319) | $ | (338) | $ | (11,753) | $ | (13,853) |
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities | 211 | 189 | 189 | 188 | 188 | 5,198 | 6,163 | ||||||||
| Net reinsurance contract held assets | $ | (626) | $ | (109) | $ | (119) | $ | (131) | $ | (150) | $ | (6,555) | $ | (7,690) | |
| December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||
| Insurance contracts: | |||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets | $ | (633) | $ | (332) | $ | (272) | $ | (263) | $ | (241) | $ | (3,935) | $ | (5,676) | |
| Insurance contract liabilities | 11,269 | (1) | 3,254 | 3,363 | 4,059 | 5,211 | 729,030 | 756,186 | |||||||
| Net insurance contract liabilities | $ | 10,636 | $ | 2,922 | $ | 3,091 | $ | 3,796 | $ | 4,970 | $ | 725,095 | $ | 750,510 | |
| Reinsurance contract held: | |||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets | $ | (847) | (1) | $ | (652) | $ | (685) | $ | (707) | $ | (728) | $ | (9,405) | $ | (13,024) |
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities | 110 | 99 | 101 | 104 | 107 | 4,769 | 5,290 | ||||||||
| Net reinsurance contract held assets | $ | (737) | $ | (553) | $ | (584) | $ | (603) | $ | (621) | $ | (4,636) | $ | (7,734) |
(1) Includes amounts payable on demand of $5,386 (2024 — $5,177) and $(26) (2024 — $(29)) for Insurance contract liabilities and Reinsurance contract held assets, respectively.
6.C.ii Maturity Analysis — Other Financial Liabilities
The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of our significant financial liabilities and contractual commitments other than insurance contracts:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Within<br><br>1 year | 1 to<br>3 years | 3 to<br>5 years | Over 5<br>years | Total | Within<br>1 year | 1 to<br>3 years | 3 to<br>5 years | Over 5<br>years | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities(1) | $ | 6,387 | $ | 2,229 | $ | 1,548 | $ | 1,678 | $ | 11,842 | $ | 6,157 | $ | 2,351 | $ | 1,413 | $ | 1,692 | $ | 11,613 | ||||||||||
| Senior debentures and unsecured financing(2) | 1,760 | 28 | 28 | 505 | 2,321 | 2,133 | 28 | 28 | 519 | 2,708 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Subordinated debt(2) | 312 | 769 | 606 | 9,762 | 11,449 | 225 | 451 | 585 | 7,248 | 8,509 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Bond repurchase agreements | 2,861 | — | — | — | 2,861 | 2,840 | — | — | — | 2,840 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 9,723 | — | — | — | 9,723 | 10,085 | — | — | — | 10,085 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Lease commitments(3) | 167 | 294 | 236 | 393 | 1,090 | 166 | 262 | 207 | 421 | 1,056 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Secured borrowings from mortgage securitization | 425 | 560 | 390 | 145 | 1,520 | 461 | 758 | 382 | 380 | 1,981 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Borrowed funds(2) | 41 | 164 | 189 | 29 | 423 | 23 | 107 | 244 | 31 | 405 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Credit facilities | 1,748 | — | — | — | 1,748 | 2,126 | — | — | — | 2,126 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total liabilities | $ | 23,424 | $ | 4,044 | $ | 2,997 | $ | 12,512 | $ | 42,977 | $ | 24,216 | $ | 3,957 | $ | 2,859 | $ | 10,291 | $ | 41,323 | ||||||||||
| Contractual commitments:(4) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual loans, equities and mortgages | $ | 2,043 | $ | 1,320 | $ | 647 | $ | 2,209 | $ | 6,219 | $ | 1,242 | $ | 985 | $ | 576 | $ | 2,054 | $ | 4,857 | ||||||||||
| Total contractual commitments | $ | 2,043 | $ | 1,320 | $ | 647 | $ | 2,209 | $ | 6,219 | $ | 1,242 | $ | 985 | $ | 576 | $ | 2,054 | $ | 4,857 |
(1) These amounts represent the undiscounted estimated cash flows of investment contract liabilities on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
(2) Payments due based on maturity dates and include expected interest payments. Actual redemption of certain securities may occur sooner as some include an option for the issuer to call the security at par at an earlier date.
(3) Liabilities associated with the lease commitments are included on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
(4) Contractual commitments are not reported on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Additional information on these commitments is included in Note 22.
| 60 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7. Insurance Risk Management | |||
| --- |
7.A Insurance Risk
Risk Description
Insurance risk is the uncertainty of product performance due to actual experience emerging differently than expected in the areas of mortality, morbidity and longevity. In addition, policyholder behaviour, product design and pricing, expense and reinsurance risks impact multiple risk categories, including insurance risk.
Insurance Risk Management Governance and Control
We employ a wide range of insurance risk management practices and controls, as outlined below:
•Insurance risk governance practices are in place, including independent monitoring and review and reporting to senior management and the Risk Committee.
•Income and regulatory capital sensitivities are monitored, managed and reported against pre-established risk appetite limits for policyholder behaviour, mortality, morbidity and longevity risks.
•Comprehensive Insurance Risk Policy, guidelines and practices are in place.
•The global underwriting manual aligns underwriting practices with our corporate risk management standards and ensures a consistent approach in insurance underwriting.
•Board-approved maximum retention limits are in place. Amounts issued in excess of these limits are reinsured.
•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.
•Reinsurance is used 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.
•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 drivers 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 IFRS.
•Internal capital targets are established at an enterprise level to cover all risks and are above minimum regulatory and supervisory levels.
The concentration for insurance risks is monitored geographically and its adverse effect is mitigated through a diversified product portfolio, product design, underwriting standards and practices, utilizing reinsurance as well as the Company's global operation. Specific to the reinsurance risk, the concentration is measured by aggregating the exposure to each reinsurance counterparty across all Business Groups to ensure it does not exceed a predefined risk level.
Specific insurance risks and our risk management strategies are discussed below in further detail.
7.A.i Policyholder Behaviour Risk
Risk Description
Many of our products include some form of embedded policyholder option. We can incur losses due to adverse policyholder behaviour relative to the assumptions used in the pricing and valuation of products regarding lapse of policies or exercise of other embedded policy options.
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;
•Changes in our financial strength or reputation.
Uncertainty in future cash flows affected by policyholder behaviour can be further exacerbated by unexpected behaviour during times of economic turbulence or at key option exercise points in the life of an insurance contract.
Policyholder Behaviour Risk Management Governance and Control
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 policyholders can select and the frequency with which they can change funds.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 61 |
|---|
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.
7.A.ii Mortality and Morbidity Risk
Mortality and morbidity risk is the risk that future experience could be unfavourable relative to the assumptions used in the pricing and valuation of products.
Mortality and morbidity risk could adversely affect many of our products which introduces the potential for adverse financial results. These risks can arise in the normal course of business through random fluctuation in realized experience, through catastrophes, as a result of a pandemic, or in association with other risk factors such as product development and pricing 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. Adverse morbidity experience could also occur through external events such as increases in disability claims during economic slowdowns, increases in high medical treatment costs and growth in utilization of specialty drugs.
Mortality and morbidity concentration risk is the risk of a catastrophic event that could occur in geographic locations where there is significant insurance coverage, 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.
Mortality and Morbidity Risk Management Governance and Control
Concentration risk exposure is monitored on group policies in a single location. 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.
Current legislation in Canada restricts insurers from requiring policyholders to take or release the results of genetic tests. If policyholders have access to the results of genetic tests and we do not, this creates asymmetry of information between policyholders and insurers, which could adversely impact mortality and morbidity experience and policyholder behaviour. This asymmetry of information may increase as genetic testing advances and becomes more accessible, giving rise to better diagnoses of conditions where treatments are expensive or non-existent. The asymmetry of information may lead to increased anti-selection in new business underwriting. There may also be an impact on policy lapse rates where adverse genetic testing results may motivate policyholders to retain their policies resulting in higher claims payouts than assumed in the pricing and valuation of products, as well as increased insurance rates which may result in loss of new and existing policyholders.
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. We are committed to paying claims fairly and promptly in accordance with the terms of our policies. Our claims management process is designed to ensure thorough evaluation of claims.
The Insurance Risk Policy, which is approved by the Risk Committee, sets out limits on the maximum amount of insurance risk per life that may be retained. Retention limits per life vary by geographic region and amounts in excess of the Board-approved maximum retention limits are reinsured to ensure there is no exposure to unreasonable concentration of risk.
•On a single life or joint-first-to-die basis our 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.
7.A.iii Longevity Risk
Risk Description
Longevity risk is the potential for losses arising from adverse changes in mortality improvement rates 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 insured life expectancy could therefore increase the ultimate cost of these benefits (for example, annuities, pensions, pure endowments, some segregated funds, and specific types of health contracts), thereby requiring strengthening of policyholder liabilities and resulting in reductions in net income and capital.
Longevity Risk Management Governance and Control
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 protection and wealth products.
| 62 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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7.A.iv Product Design and Pricing Risk
Risk Description
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
•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.
Products that offer complex features, options or guarantees require increasingly complex pricing models, methods or assumptions, leading to additional levels of uncertainty.
•The risk of mis-pricing increases with the number and inherent uncertainty of assumptions needed to model a product.
•Past experience data supplemented with future trend assumptions may be poor predictors of future experience.
•Lack of experience data on new products or new Client segments increases the risk that future actual experience unfolds differently from expected assumptions.
•External environmental factors may introduce new risk factors, which were unanticipated during product design, and have an adverse result on the financial performance of the product.
•Policyholder behaviour in the future may vary from that assumed at the time the product is designed, thereby adversely affecting the product's financial performance.
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 peer reviews.
•Experience studies, drivers 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.
7.A.v Expense Risk
Risk Description
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;
•Changes in availability of current products; 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 policyholder and will manifest itself in the form of a liability increase or a reduction in expected future profits.
From time to time, certain products or business segments may be closed for new sales (for example, individual protection business in the U.S.). Our ability to effectively manage the run-off of business in these products or business segments introduces additional risks, such as policyholder behaviour and expense risk, that may have an adverse effect on our operations, profitability and financial position.
Expenses Risk Management Governance and Control
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.
7.A.vi Reinsurance Risk
Risk Description
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. While reinsurance arrangements provide for the recovery of claims arising from the liabilities ceded, we retain primary responsibility to the policyholders.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 63 |
|---|
Rates for our in-force reinsurance treaties can be either guaranteed or adjustable for the life of the ceded policy. 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 our reinsurers, as the global reinsurance industry continues 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.
Reinsurance Risk Management Governance and Control
We have an Insurance Risk Policy approved by the Risk Committee and an Investment & Credit Risk Policy approved by the Governance Committee, which set acceptance criteria and processes to monitor and manage the level of reinsurance ceded to any single reinsurer. These policies are regularly reviewed and approved by the relevant Board Committee to ensure the alignment with our risk appetite levels and reinsurance risk guidelines.
The policies set the acceptance criteria which verify if a reinsurer qualifies as a suitable reinsurance counterparty, having the capability, expertise, governance practices and financial capacity to assume the risks being considered. In addition, a periodic due diligence is performed on the existing reinsurance counterparties, including an internal credit assessment for reinsurance counterparties with whom we have material exposure.
The exposure to each reinsurance counterparty is monitored closely to ensure that no single reinsurance counterparty represents an undue level of credit risk and does not exceed the predefined limits. In order to diversify our reinsurance risk, there is generally more than one reinsurance counterparty supporting a reinsurance pool. A summary of the reinsurance counterparty credit risk exposures is reported annually to the Risk Committee.
To further increase the reinsurance risk control, our reinsurance agreements include provisions to allow actions to be taken, such as recapture of ceded risk (at a potential cost to the Company), in the event that the reinsurance counterparty loses its legal ability to carry on business through insolvency or regulatory action.
In case of unfavourable developments in the reinsurance markets, we also have an option to discontinue or implement changes to the new sales of our products to better manage the associated risks.
7.B Sensitivity to Changes in Non-Financial Assumptions
The following table sets out the estimated immediate impact on, or sensitivity of, the CSM and net income to certain instantaneous changes in the insurance and other non-financial assumptions used in the calculation of our insurance contract liabilities, based on a starting point and business mix as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. These sensitivities are calculated independently for each risk factor, generally assuming that all other risk variables stay constant. The estimates are illustrative and different starting points for best estimate assumptions, CSM balances and business mix will result in different estimated sensitivities. These sensitivities represent our estimate of changes in best estimate assumptions that are reasonably likely based on our and/or the industry's historical experience and industry standards and best practices as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
The impact on CSM is attributable to insurance contracts measured under the GMA and VFA. For insurance contracts measured under the GMA, the impact flows through the CSM at locked-in discount rates. For insurance contracts measured under the VFA, the impact flows through the CSM at current discount rates.
The impact on net income is attributable to any portion of the sensitivities for insurance contracts measured under the GMA and VFA that cannot be absorbed by CSM, the full impact for insurance contracts measured under the PAA, and the difference in impact between locked-in and current discount rates for insurance contracts measured under the GMA. If current discount rates are higher than locked-in rates, this generally results in a favourable impact to net income from contracts measured under the GMA.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potential impact on <br>CSM (pre-tax) | Potential impact on <br>net income/equity (after-tax) | Potential impact on <br>CSM (pre-tax) | Potential impact on <br>net income/equity (after-tax) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Sensitivities(1) | Insurance contracts issued | Net of reinsurance contracts held | Insurance contracts issued | Net of reinsurance contracts held | Insurance contracts issued | Net of reinsurance contracts held | Insurance contracts issued | Net of reinsurance contracts held | |||||||||||||
| Policyholder behaviour (10% increase / decrease, where adverse) | $ | (600) | $ | (800) | $ | — | $ | (25) | $ | (625) | $ | (800) | $ | 25 | $ | (25) | |||||
| Life mortality rates (2% increase) | $ | (325) | $ | — | $ | (75) | $ | (75) | $ | (350) | $ | 25 | $ | (50) | $ | (75) | |||||
| Annuity mortality rates (2% decrease) | $ | (200) | $ | (175) | $ | 25 | $ | 25 | $ | (200) | $ | (175) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||
| Morbidity rates (5% incidence increase and 5% termination decrease) | $ | (300) | $ | (150) | $ | (250) | $ | (200) | $ | (250) | $ | (125) | $ | (250) | $ | (225) | |||||
| Expenses (5% increase) | $ | (150) | $ | (150) | $ | (25) | $ | (25) | $ | (150) | $ | (150) | $ | (25) | $ | (25) |
(1) Net income and CSM sensitivities have been rounded in increments of $25. The sensitivities exclude the impacts on the income from our joint ventures and associates in China and India, which we account for on an equity basis.
| 64 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8. Other Assets | ||||||||
| --- | As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||
| Accounts receivable | $ | 3,862 | $ | 2,750 | ||||
| Investment income due and accrued | 1,175 | 1,163 | ||||||
| Property and equipment | 651 | 667 | ||||||
| Right-of-use assets | 793 | 734 | ||||||
| Deferred acquisition costs(1) | 142 | 157 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses | 931 | 1,337 | ||||||
| Accrued post-retirement benefit assets (Note 24) | 73 | 58 | ||||||
| Other | 126 | 155 | ||||||
| Total other assets | $ | 7,753 | $ | 7,021 |
(1) Amortization of deferred acquisition cost charged to income during the year amounted to $29 in 2025 (2024 — $27).
| 9. Goodwill and Intangible Assets |
|---|
9.A Goodwill
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable business segment are as follows:
| Canada | U.S. | Asset<br>Management | Asia | Total | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance, January 1, 2024 | $ | 2,748 | $ | 3,389 | $ | 2,148 | $ | 684 | $ | 8,969 | |||||
| Acquisitions (Note 3) | (1) | — | — | — | (1) | ||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | — | 290 | 140 | 58 | 488 | ||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2024 | $ | 2,747 | $ | 3,679 | $ | 2,288 | $ | 742 | $ | 9,456 | |||||
| Acquisitions (Note 3) | — | — | — | 337 | 337 | ||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | — | (167) | (61) | (35) | (263) | ||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2025 | $ | 2,747 | $ | 3,512 | $ | 2,227 | $ | 1,044 | $ | 9,530 |
The carrying amounts of goodwill allocated to our CGUs or groups of CGUs are as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $ | 2,747 | $ | 2,747 | ||
| U.S. | ||||||
| Dental | 2,366 | 2,479 | ||||
| Group Benefits | 1,146 | 1,200 | ||||
| Asset Management | ||||||
| SLC Management | 1,709 | 1,748 | ||||
| MFS | 518 | 540 | ||||
| Asia | 1,044 | 742 | ||||
| Total | $ | 9,530 | $ | 9,456 |
Goodwill Impairment Testing
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 or group of CGUs falling below its carrying value. The recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs of disposal ("FVLCD") and value in use. We use FVLCD as the recoverable amount. There was no impairment of goodwill in 2025 (2024 — $nil).
Valuation Techniques & Significant Assumptions
FVLCD is initially assessed by looking at recently completed market comparable transactions. In the absence of such comparables, for insurance blocks we use an insurance appraisal methodology (discounted cash flow approach) with current market-based assumptions and for asset management companies we use a valuation multiples methodology. The fair value measurements are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy (2024 — Level 3).
The most recent calculations from 2024 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 2024 are consistent with the key assumptions below.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 65 |
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Under the insurance appraisal methodology, fair value is determined based on the market value of the Company’s surplus, plus the discounted value of future distributable earnings on in-force policies and new business. The calculation incorporates market consistent assumptions including assumptions for capital requirements and risk margins. In determining the values assigned to our key assumptions, we considered past experience, economic trends, such as interest rate and equity returns, product mix, as well as industry and market trends. The discount rates used in the insurance appraisal value reflect current market factors applicable to the block being valued (CGU or group of CGUs). Future distributable earnings reflect our current business plans and anticipated levels of future profitability.
Discount rates used range from 9.50% to 10.50% after-tax (2024 — 9.50% to 10.50% after-tax). For example, more established CGUs or groups of CGUs with a stronger brand and competitive market position use discount rates at the low end of the range and CGUs or groups of 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.
Distributable earnings on in-force policies and new business are projected for all CGUs. In calculating the value of new business, future sales are projected for 10 to 15 years for all CGUs except for the U.S. Dental CGU, whose cash flows are projected out for 10 years and thereafter assumed to increase at a constant rate using a nominal long-term growth rate of 3%.
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 10.00 to 16.00 (2024 — 10.00 to 16.00). The price-to-assets-under-management ratios used range from 0.7% to 1.5% (2024 — 1.20% to 2.0%).
Judgment is used in estimating the recoverable amounts of CGUs or groups of CGUs and the use of different assumptions and estimates could result in material adjustments to the valuation of CGUs or groups of CGUs and the size of any impairment. Any material change in the key assumptions including those for 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 our recoverable amounts to changes in key assumptions, we identified that forecasted cash flows and the corresponding discount rate used to determine the recoverable amount of the U.S. Dental CGU incorporate key assumptions that are subject to a higher degree of variability, primarily due to uncertainties associated with structural changes in the U.S. health care system. These assumptions include discount rates, expected claims frequency and cost, the timing and outcome of contract negotiations and repricing of Medicaid contracts, and projected growth in our commercial business.
The recoverable amount of our U.S. Dental CGU, based on the insurance appraisal methodology, was 127% of its carrying amount, or an excess of $727. In our analysis, an increase of 125 basis points to our discount rate of 10.5% would reduce the recoverable amount of the U.S. Dental CGU to approximate its carrying amount. We do not believe that any reasonably possible changes in individual key assumptions other than the discount rate would result in its carrying amount exceeding its recoverable amount. However, changes in assumptions are often interdependent, and if adverse changes in key assumptions were to occur concurrently, a material impairment charge could result.
For all other CGUs, reasonably possible changes in our key assumptions would continue to result in the recoverable amounts of each CGU or groups of CGUs exceeding its carrying amounts.
| 66 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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9.B Intangible Assets
Changes in intangible assets are as follows:
| Finite life | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Internally<br>generated software | Other | Indefinite<br>life | Total | |||||||
| Gross carrying amount | ||||||||||
| Balance, January 1, 2024 | $ | 1,876 | $ | 4,098 | $ | 1,222 | $ | 7,196 | ||
| Additions | 303 | 3 | — | 306 | ||||||
| Disposals | (21) | — | (47) | (68) | ||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | 70 | 236 | 98 | 404 | ||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2024 | $ | 2,228 | $ | 4,337 | $ | 1,273 | $ | 7,838 | ||
| Additions | 185 | 507 | — | 692 | ||||||
| Acquisitions (Note 3) | — | 111 | — | 111 | ||||||
| Disposals | (13) | — | — | (13) | ||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | (50) | (209) | (31) | (290) | ||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2025 | $ | 2,350 | $ | 4,746 | $ | 1,242 | $ | 8,338 | ||
| Accumulated amortization and impairment losses | ||||||||||
| Balance, January 1, 2024 | $ | (872) | $ | (1,122) | $ | (28) | $ | (2,022) | ||
| Amortization charge for the year | (218) | (259) | — | (477) | ||||||
| Disposals | 21 | — | — | 21 | ||||||
| Impairment of intangible assets(1) | — | (195) | (6) | (201) | ||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | (37) | (60) | (4) | (101) | ||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2024 | $ | (1,106) | $ | (1,636) | $ | (38) | $ | (2,780) | ||
| Amortization charge for the year | (178) | (247) | — | (425) | ||||||
| Disposals | 13 | — | — | 13 | ||||||
| Impairment of intangible assets(2) | (3) | (83) | (2) | (88) | ||||||
| Impairment reversals | — | — | 5 | 5 | ||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | 27 | 62 | 3 | 92 | ||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2025 | $ | (1,247) | $ | (1,904) | $ | (32) | $ | (3,183) | ||
| Net carrying amount, end of year: | ||||||||||
| As at December 31, 2024 | $ | 1,122 | $ | 2,701 | $ | 1,235 | $ | 5,058 | ||
| As at December 31, 2025 | $ | 1,103 | $ | 2,842 | $ | 1,210 | $ | 5,155 |
(1) Includes an impairment charge of $186 on an intangible asset related to bancassurance in Vietnam reflecting updates resulting from changes in regulatory and macro-economic factors. The recoverable amount of $303 is based on value-in-use. The impairment is included in Operating Expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
(2) Includes a full write-down of $83 on an intangible asset related to a client relationship in the U.S. resulting from a contract termination notice. The amount is included in Operating Expenses in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.
The components of the intangible assets are as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finite life intangible assets: | ||||||
| Distribution, sales potential of field force | $ | 220 | $ | 244 | ||
| Client relationships and asset administration contracts | 2,622 | 2,457 | ||||
| Internally generated software | 1,103 | 1,122 | ||||
| Total finite life intangible assets | 3,945 | 3,823 | ||||
| Indefinite life intangible assets: | ||||||
| Fund management contracts(1) and other | 1,210 | 1,235 | ||||
| Total indefinite life intangible assets | 1,210 | 1,235 | ||||
| Total intangible assets | $ | 5,155 | $ | 5,058 |
(1) Fund management contracts are attributable to Asset Management, where its competitive position in, and the stability of, its markets support their classification as indefinite life intangible assets. Fund management contracts are allocated to MFS and SLC Management CGUs with carrying values of $280 (2024 — $290) and $915 (2024 — $931), respectively.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 67 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10. Insurance Contracts | |||
| --- |
10.A Summary and Methods and Assumptions
10.A.i Summary
We sell a variety of insurance contracts that include all forms of life, health and critical illness insurance sold to individuals and groups, annuities, and segregated fund products with guarantees. We hold reinsurance contracts that transfer mortality and other risks following internal guidelines.
Insurance contracts with direct participation features are products where investments are managed on behalf of policyholders, and investment returns less a variable fee are passed through to policyholders with the insurance benefits they receive. Insurance contracts with direct participation features are measured using the VFA, and include segregated funds, unit-linked contracts, variable universal life contracts, and most participating insurance contracts. Reinsurance contracts (both issued and held) cannot be measured using the VFA.
Insurance contracts without direct participation features are eligible to use the PAA if the coverage period is one year or less, or if the result of applying the PAA is not expected to be materially different result than applying the GMA in each reporting period over the life of the contract. Insurance contracts eligible to use the PAA include most group life and health contracts and the associated reinsurance contracts held.
Other insurance contracts are measured using the GMA. This includes most individual life and health insurance contracts and annuities and the associated reinsurance contracts held.
The Consolidated Statements of Financial Position present insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held as both assets and liabilities, depending on whether the portfolio is in an asset or liability position. The disclosures in this Note are for the net insurance contract asset or liability, and net reinsurance contract held asset or liability. In addition, certain disclosures in this Note exclude assets and liabilities for contracts measured using the PAA, as indicated.
10.A.ii Methods and Assumptions
General
A group of insurance contracts is measured as the total of FCF, which is the present value of future cash flows plus the risk adjustment for non-financial risk, and, for groups measured using the GMA or VFA, the CSM. In measuring the present value of future cash flows, assumptions must be made about mortality and morbidity rates, policyholder behaviour, expenses and other factors over the life of our products, and the prevailing market view of the cost of financial risk in our products. Many 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.
The RA is the compensation we require for the uncertainty related to non-financial risk in the estimates of future cash flows. This compensation is measured by discounting cash flows from applying margins to the non-financial assumptions used in the estimate of future cash flows.
The CSM represents the unearned profit that will be recognized as insurance contract services are provided.
The methods and assumptions used in the measurement of insurance contracts are reviewed regularly and are subject to external actuarial peer review.
Present Value of Future Cash Flows
Assumptions for non-financial risk variables in the present value of future cash flows are intended to be current, neutral estimates of the expected outcome, as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada. The choice of assumptions takes into account current circumstances, past experience data from our own experience or from the industry, the relationship of past to expected future experience, anti-selection, the relationship among assumptions (including those for financial risk variables), and other relevant factors.
Assumptions for financial risk variables in the present value of future cash flows are based on current observable market prices, adjusted to account for differences between the financial risk embedded in our products and those in the corresponding observed market instrument. Where no relevant market instrument is available, we use the best information available as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada.
Mortality
Mortality refers to the rates at which death occurs for defined groups of people. Mortality assumptions are generally based on the past five to ten years of experience. Our experience is combined with industry experience or experience from reinsurers 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 the rate of being unhealthy or disabled 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 Canadian long-term care and critical illness insurance in Canada and Asia, 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 or reinsurer experience.
| 68 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
Policyholder Behaviour
Lapse or surrender
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 or surrender experience on life insurance are generally based on our five-year average experience. Lapse or surrender rates vary by plan, age at issue, method of premium payment, policy duration and financial risk variables.
Premium payment patterns
For universal life contracts, it is necessary to set assumptions about premium payment patterns. Studies prepared by industry or the actuarial profession are used for products where our experience is insufficient to be statistically valid. Premium payment patterns usually vary by plan, age at issue, method of premium payment, policy duration and financial risk variables.
Expense
Future expenses directly attributable to the fulfilment of our insurance contracts include the costs of premium collection, claims adjudication and processing, actuarial calculations, preparation and mailing of policy statements, and related overhead. Future expense assumptions are mainly based on our recent experience using an internal expense allocation methodology. Inflationary increases assumed in future expenses are based on long-term expectations.
Acquisition expenses directly attributable to portfolios of insurance contracts include the costs of selling, underwriting and issuing insurance contracts. For new insurance contracts measured using the GMA or VFA, actual or estimated directly attributable acquisition expenses are recognized in the initial measurement of the contract. If estimates are used, the difference between estimated and actual acquisition expenses adjusts the CSM when the group of insurance contracts is closed to new contracts.
Current Discount Rates
Current discount rates are used to discount estimates of future cash flows in determining the present value of future cash flows. Current discount rates reflect the time value of money, the characteristics of the cash flows, and the liquidity characteristics of the insurance contracts.
Current discount rates for cash flows that do not vary based on returns on underlying items
Cash flows that do not vary at all based on the returns on any underlying items are discounted at rates that reflect the timing and currency of cash flows and the liquidity characteristics of the insurance contracts.
The timing of cash flows is reflected by constructing a discount curve, so that each cash flow is discounted consistent with the timing of the cash flow. In constructing the discount curve, a portion is based on market information (the observable period) and beyond that period, the discount rates are estimated (the unobservable period). The observable period, which varies by currency, is the time period where information on risk-free interest rates is deep and liquid. In the unobservable period, risk-free rates are interpolated between the last observable point and an ultimate risk-free rate at year 70. The ultimate risk-free rate is estimated using historical averages as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada.
The currency of cash flows is reflected by using different discount curves for different currencies.
Liquidity is reflected by adding a liquidity premium to risk-free discount rates that is consistent with the liquidity characteristics of the insurance contracts. The liquidity premium in the observable period is based on the liquidity premium on assets with similar liquidity characteristics, which is estimated from the spread inherent in current market yields less a deduction for expected and unexpected credit losses. The deduction for expected and unexpected credit losses is estimated using historical rating agency data and current market conditions, and varies by asset type, quality, and duration. The liquidity premium in the unobservable period is interpolated between the last observable liquidity premium and an ultimate liquidity premium (at year 70) specific to liquid or illiquid contracts as guided by both IFRS and accepted actuarial practice in Canada.
The following table provides a weighted average summary of the discount curves used to present value cash flows that do not vary based on the returns on underlying items for all major products by business group:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | 30 years | Ultimate | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | 30 years | Ultimate | ||
| Canada | CAD | 3.34% | 4.11% | 4.52% | 5.13% | 4.95% | 3.92% | 4.02% | 4.33% | 4.48% | 4.95% |
| U.S. | USD | 4.78% | 4.79% | 5.03% | 6.09% | 4.95% | 5.32% | 5.45% | 5.57% | 5.98% | 4.95% |
| Asia | USD | 4.55% | 4.59% | 5.36% | 5.50% | 4.95% | 5.40% | 5.37% | 5.99% | 5.76% | 4.95% |
Current discount rates for cash flows that vary with returns on underlying items
Discount rates for cash flows that vary directly with returns on underlying items reflect that variability. For the portion of cash flows that is a pass through of returns on underlying items to policyholders, the discount rate is such that the present value of cash flows equals the portion of the underlying items that is passed through to policyholders. For cash flows that vary, but not directly, with underlying items (e.g., financial guarantees), scenario testing may be necessary. If so, discount rates used in the scenario projections are scenario-specific and based on the projected risk-free rates in the scenario plus liquidity premiums consistent with the liquidity characteristics of the contracts being measured.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 69 |
|---|
Scenario Testing
Scenario testing may be required when the relationship between cash flows and financial risk variables is non-linear, or where there are complex interdependencies among cash flows. In scenario testing of financial risk variables, future cash flows are projected for each scenario path and discounted at the scenario-specific discount rates, resulting in a present value of future cash flows for each scenario. The provision for the projected cash flows is the average of the scenario-specific values. Assumptions for non-financial risk variables are the best estimate assumptions consistent with the scenario.
Scenarios are consistent with the current market environment. Our Economic Scenario Generator calibration process produces integrated stochastic scenarios of financial risk variables (e.g., risk-free interest rates, bond fund returns, equity returns) with parameters calibrated to replicate observable market prices of financial instruments available in the market. Adjustments are made when the insurance contracts being measured are illiquid but the financial instruments to which the scenarios are calibrated to are liquid.
Risk Adjustment for Non-Financial Risk
The RA for insurance contracts issued is the compensation we require for bearing uncertainty about the amount and timing of the cash flows that arises from non-financial risk. This amount is measured as the present value of the difference between estimated future cash flows with a margin applied to non-financial assumptions and estimated future cash flows without this adjustment. Margins generally range from 5% to 20% depending on the uncertainty in the determination of the assumption. The level of uncertainty, and hence the margin chosen, varies by assumption and by line of business and other factors. Considerations that would generally lead to a choice of margin at the higher end of the range are as follows:
•The statistical credibility of our experience is too low to be the primary source of data for choosing the assumption;
•Future experience is difficult to estimate;
•The cohort of risks lacks homogeneity;
•Operational risks adversely impact the ability to estimate the assumption; or
•Past experience may not be representative of future experience and the experience may deteriorate.
Margins are generally stable over time and are revised only to reflect changes in the level of uncertainty in the assumptions. Our margins tend to be at mid-range.
The RA for reinsurance contracts held represents the amount of risk transferred to the reinsurer. This is measured as the difference between the RA on the underlying insurance contracts without reinsurance and what the RA on the underlying insurance contracts would be with reinsurance. The RA for reinsurance contracts held increases the asset or reduces the liability for reinsurance contracts held.
The RA for insurance contracts corresponds to a confidence level of approximately 85-90% overall.
Contractual Service Margin
The initial and subsequent measurement of CSM is described in Note 1. Additional detail about certain components of the measurement of CSM is provided below.
Interest accretion
For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, locked-in discount rates are used to accrete interest on the CSM. The locked-in discount rate for a group of insurance contracts is the weighted average of the current discount rates at initial recognition of the contracts in the group. For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, there is no accretion of interest. Rather, the CSM is adjusted by the change in our share of the fair value of underlying items.
Changes in FCF relating to future service
For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, locked-in discount rates are used to measure changes in FCF relating to future service. Changes in FCF relating to future service reflect changes in non-financial assumptions but not changes in assumptions related to financial risk.
For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, current discount rates are used to measure the change in FCF relating to future service. Changes in FCF relating to future service reflect both changes in non-financial assumptions and changes in assumptions related to financial risk.
Changes in FCF relating to future service include (LRC only):
•All changes related to investment component payments (including current period payments);
•Changes arising from changes in assumptions used to derive the present value of future cash flows — limited to non-financial assumptions for insurance contracts measured using the GMA;
•Changes in future cash flows arising from claims in the current period; and
•For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, changes related to discretionary cash flows on some universal life and adjustable products. Discretionary cash flows are cash flows outside the guaranteed payments to the policyholder, and are described as a spread on earned rates (in the case of some universal life contracts) and in the policy on criteria for changes to adjustable policies for adjustable policies.
CSM amortization
The amount of CSM recognized as insurance revenue in each period to reflect the insurance contract services provided for a group of contracts in the period is determined by:
•Identifying the total coverage units in the group (for services in current and future periods) — based on the quantity of insurance contract services;
•Allocating the CSM at the end of the period equally to each coverage unit in the current period and expected to be provided in the future (i.e., coverage units "unitize" the services provided); then
•Recognizing in insurance revenue the amount allocated to coverage units provided in the period.
| 70 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
Total coverage units for services expected to be provided in future periods is the present value of projected coverage units. The present value is measured using locked-in discount rates for groups measured using the GMA and current discount rates for groups measured using the VFA.
The coverage unit for a group is based on the nature of the insurance contract services provided. Insurance contract services comprise services for providing insurance coverage and, for some contracts, investment-return or investment-related services. It does not include services related to performing functions such as claims adjudication. Where more than one type of service is provided to insurance contracts in a group, the coverage unit reflects the primary service provided.
For insurance contracts measured using the VFA, coverage units are based on the policyholder's account value or the policyholders' share of the fair value of underlying items. For insurance contracts measured using the GMA, coverage units are based on the expected claim amount (excluding any investment component) for life and health insurance contracts, and the payment due in a period for annuity contracts.
For reinsurance contracts held, CSM amortization reflects the services received in the period.
10.B Changes in Insurance Contracts
10.B.i Changes in Insurance Contracts Issued and Reinsurance Contracts Held Net Asset or Liability
The following tables show the changes in the net assets or liabilities for insurance contracts issued and reinsurance contracts held, excluding Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders. Changes in the liabilities for Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders are provided in Note 21. Total insurance contract liabilities, including Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders, are $176,018 as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $167,366).
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 71 |
|---|
Insurance Contracts Issued By Measurement Component
The following table shows the changes in net liabilities for insurance contracts issued by measurement component:
| For the years ended and as at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk adjustment | CSM | Total | Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk adjustment | CSM | Total | |||||||||||
| Insurance contracts, beginning of year: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities — non-PAA | $ | 108,232 | $ | 7,948 | $ | 12,733 | $ | 128,913 | $ | 99,420 | $ | 7,388 | $ | 11,597 | $ | 118,405 | ||
| Insurance contract liabilities — PAA | 17,490 | 866 | — | 18,356 | 16,436 | 828 | — | 17,264 | ||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets — non-PAA | (670) | 149 | 295 | (226) | (578) | 146 | 248 | (184) | ||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets — PAA | (129) | — | — | (129) | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 124,923 | $ | 8,963 | $ | 13,028 | $ | 146,914 | $ | 115,278 | $ | 8,362 | $ | 11,845 | $ | 135,485 | ||
| Changes related to current service: | ||||||||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services provided | — | — | (1,235) | (1,235) | — | — | (1,117) | (1,117) | ||||||||||
| Risk adjustment recognized for non-financial risk expired | — | (572) | — | (572) | — | (596) | — | (596) | ||||||||||
| Income taxes specifically chargeable to the policyholder | (53) | — | — | (53) | (26) | — | — | (26) | ||||||||||
| Experience adjustments | 31 | — | — | 31 | 176 | — | — | 176 | ||||||||||
| Total changes related to current service | (22) | (572) | (1,235) | (1,829) | 150 | (596) | (1,117) | (1,563) | ||||||||||
| Changes related to future service: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM | (968) | (133) | 1,101 | — | (508) | 34 | 474 | — | ||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that do not adjust CSM (losses on onerous groups and reversals of such losses) | 284 | (254) | — | 30 | 81 | 72 | — | 153 | ||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year | (2,144) | 579 | 1,675 | 110 | (1,859) | 530 | 1,448 | 119 | ||||||||||
| Total changes related to future service | (2,828) | 192 | 2,776 | 140 | (2,286) | 636 | 1,922 | 272 | ||||||||||
| Changes related to past service — Adjustments to FCF for incurred claims | (28) | (2) | — | (30) | 8 | (2) | — | 6 | ||||||||||
| Insurance service result | (2,878) | (382) | 1,541 | (1,719) | (2,128) | 38 | 805 | (1,285) | ||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | 5,874 | 253 | (46) | 6,081 | 4,149 | 290 | (97) | 4,342 | ||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income | 2,996 | (129) | 1,495 | 4,362 | 2,021 | 328 | 708 | 3,057 | ||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (2,223) | (174) | (357) | (2,754) | 3,524 | 235 | 475 | 4,234 | ||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income and OCI | 773 | (303) | 1,138 | 1,608 | 5,545 | 563 | 1,183 | 7,291 | ||||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums received | 19,212 | — | — | 19,212 | 16,055 | — | — | 16,055 | ||||||||||
| Amounts paid to policyholders and other insurance service expenses paid | (12,646) | — | — | (12,646) | (13,138) | — | — | (13,138) | ||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | (2,003) | — | — | (2,003) | (1,257) | — | — | (1,257) | ||||||||||
| Fees received from segregated funds | 408 | — | — | 408 | 419 | — | — | 419 | ||||||||||
| Other | 1,249 | — | — | 1,249 | 1,096 | — | — | 1,096 | ||||||||||
| Total cash flows | 6,220 | — | — | 6,220 | 3,175 | — | — | 3,175 | ||||||||||
| Changes in PAA balance | 810 | 23 | — | 833 | 925 | 38 | — | 963 | ||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 132,726 | $ | 8,683 | $ | 14,166 | $ | 155,575 | $ | 124,923 | $ | 8,963 | $ | 13,028 | $ | 146,914 | ||
| Insurance contracts, end of year: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities — non-PAA(1) | $ | 116,344 | $ | 6,905 | $ | 13,534 | $ | 136,783 | $ | 108,232 | $ | 7,948 | $ | 12,733 | $ | 128,913 | ||
| Insurance contract liabilities — PAA | 18,238 | 889 | — | 19,127 | 17,490 | 866 | — | 18,356 | ||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets — non-PAA | (1,789) | 889 | 632 | (268) | (670) | 149 | 295 | (226) | ||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets — PAA | (67) | — | — | (67) | (129) | — | — | (129) | ||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 132,726 | $ | 8,683 | $ | 14,166 | $ | 155,575 | $ | 124,923 | $ | 8,963 | $ | 13,028 | $ | 146,914 |
(1) Includes liabilities of $(442) as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $(325)) for segregated fund insurance contracts that are not backed by the related Investments for account of segregated fund holders.
| 72 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
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Insurance Contracts Issued By Remaining Coverage and Incurred Claims
The following table shows the changes in net liabilities for remaining coverage and incurred claims for insurance contracts issued:
| Liability for remaining coverage | Liability for incurred claims | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contracts using PAA | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| For the year ended and as at December 31, 2025 | Excluding loss component | Loss component | Contracts not using PAA | Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk Adjustment | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities, beginning of year | $ | 127,878 | $ | 579 | $ | 1,077 | $ | 16,869 | $ | 866 | $ | 147,269 | |||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets, beginning of year | 1,982 | 10 | (2,581) | 234 | — | (355) | |||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 129,860 | $ | 589 | $ | (1,504) | $ | 17,103 | $ | 866 | $ | 146,914 | |||||||||||
| Insurance revenue | (23,982) | — | — | — | — | (23,982) | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance service expenses: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Incurred claims and other expenses | — | (33) | 5,162 | 15,735 | 200 | 21,064 | |||||||||||||||||
| Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows | 337 | — | — | — | — | 337 | |||||||||||||||||
| Changes related to future service (losses on onerous groups and reversals of such losses) | — | 142 | — | — | — | 142 | |||||||||||||||||
| Changes related to past service (changes in FCF related to liability for incurred claims) | — | — | (29) | (2,239) | (219) | (2,487) | |||||||||||||||||
| Total insurance service expenses | 337 | 109 | 5,133 | 13,496 | (19) | 19,056 | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance service result | (23,645) | 109 | 5,133 | 13,496 | (19) | (4,926) | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses | 6,177 | 7 | (146) | 709 | 40 | 6,787 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income | (17,468) | 116 | 4,987 | 14,205 | 21 | 1,861 | |||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (2,633) | (10) | (41) | (303) | 2 | (2,985) | |||||||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income and OCI | (20,101) | 106 | 4,946 | 13,902 | 23 | (1,124) | |||||||||||||||||
| Cash flows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums received | 38,641 | — | — | — | — | 38,641 | |||||||||||||||||
| Amounts paid to policyholders and other insurance service expenses paid | — | — | (12,646) | (15,930) | — | (28,576) | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | (2,004) | — | — | — | — | (2,004) | |||||||||||||||||
| Fees received from segregated funds | 408 | — | — | — | — | 408 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other | 3,081 | — | (1,823) | 34 | — | 1,292 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total cash flows | 40,126 | — | (14,469) | (15,896) | — | 9,761 | |||||||||||||||||
| Investment component excluded from insurance revenue and insurance service expense | (12,343) | — | 9,539 | 2,804 | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
| Acquisitions (Note 3) | (14) | — | — | 38 | — | 24 | |||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 137,528 | $ | 695 | $ | (1,488) | $ | 17,951 | $ | 889 | $ | 155,575 | |||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities, end of year | $ | 135,661 | $ | 637 | $ | 1,013 | $ | 17,710 | $ | 889 | $ | 155,910 | |||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets, end of year | 1,867 | 58 | (2,501) | 241 | — | (335) | |||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 137,528 | $ | 695 | $ | (1,488) | $ | 17,951 | $ | 889 | $ | 155,575 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 73 | |||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Liability for remaining coverage | Liability for incurred claims | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||
| Contracts using PAA | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| For the year ended and as at December 31, 2024 | Excluding loss component | Loss component | Contracts not using PAA | Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk Adjustment | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities, beginning of year | $ | 117,440 | $ | 358 | $ | 1,195 | $ | 15,848 | $ | 828 | $ | 135,669 | |||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets, beginning of year | 2,516 | — | (2,700) | — | — | (184) | |||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 119,956 | $ | 358 | $ | (1,505) | $ | 15,848 | $ | 828 | $ | 135,485 | |||||||||||
| Insurance revenue | (22,637) | — | — | — | — | (22,637) | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance service expenses: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Incurred claims and other expenses | — | (57) | 5,075 | 14,897 | 248 | 20,163 | |||||||||||||||||
| Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows | 341 | — | — | — | — | 341 | |||||||||||||||||
| Changes related to future service (losses on onerous groups and reversals of such losses) | — | 266 | — | — | — | 266 | |||||||||||||||||
| Changes related to past service (changes in FCF related to liability for incurred claims) | — | — | 59 | (2,208) | (248) | (2,397) | |||||||||||||||||
| Total insurance service expenses | 341 | 209 | 5,134 | 12,689 | — | 18,373 | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance service result | (22,296) | 209 | 5,134 | 12,689 | — | (4,264) | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses | 4,262 | 17 | 70 | 755 | 35 | 5,139 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income | (18,034) | 226 | 5,204 | 13,444 | 35 | 875 | |||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | 4,262 | 5 | (115) | 490 | 3 | 4,645 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income and OCI | (13,772) | 231 | 5,089 | 13,934 | 38 | 5,520 | |||||||||||||||||
| Cash flows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums received | 34,027 | — | — | — | — | 34,027 | |||||||||||||||||
| Amounts paid to policyholders and other insurance service expenses paid | — | — | (13,138) | (15,305) | — | (28,443) | |||||||||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | (1,259) | — | — | — | — | (1,259) | |||||||||||||||||
| Fees received from segregated funds | 419 | — | — | — | — | 419 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other | 1,413 | — | (299) | 51 | — | 1,165 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total cash flows | 34,600 | — | (13,437) | (15,254) | — | 5,909 | |||||||||||||||||
| Investment component excluded from insurance revenue and insurance service expense | (10,924) | — | 8,349 | 2,575 | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 129,860 | $ | 589 | $ | (1,504) | $ | 17,103 | $ | 866 | $ | 146,914 | |||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities, end of year | $ | 127,878 | $ | 579 | $ | 1,077 | $ | 16,869 | $ | 866 | $ | 147,269 | |||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets, end of year | 1,982 | 10 | (2,581) | 234 | — | (355) | |||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 129,860 | $ | 589 | $ | (1,504) | $ | 17,103 | $ | 866 | $ | 146,914 | 74 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Reinsurance Contracts Held By Measurement Component
The following table shows the changes in net assets for reinsurance contracts held by measurement component:
| For the years ended and as at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk adjustment | CSM | Total | Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk adjustment | CSM | Total | |||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held, beginning of year: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets — non-PAA | $ | 4,292 | $ | 1,487 | $ | 130 | $ | 5,909 | $ | 3,848 | $ | 1,431 | $ | 174 | $ | 5,453 | ||
| Reinsurance contract held assets — PAA | 392 | 17 | — | 409 | 324 | 17 | — | 341 | ||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities — non-PAA | (2,212) | 855 | (468) | (1,825) | (2,355) | 847 | (115) | (1,623) | ||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 2,472 | $ | 2,359 | $ | (338) | $ | 4,493 | $ | 1,817 | $ | 2,295 | $ | 59 | $ | 4,171 | ||
| Changes related to current service: | ||||||||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services received | — | — | 28 | 28 | — | — | 18 | 18 | ||||||||||
| Risk adjustment recognized for non-financial risk expired | — | (133) | — | (133) | — | (174) | — | (174) | ||||||||||
| Experience adjustments | 116 | — | — | 116 | 151 | — | — | 151 | ||||||||||
| Total changes related to current service | 116 | (133) | 28 | 11 | 151 | (174) | 18 | (5) | ||||||||||
| Changes related to future service: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM(1) | 27 | (11) | (16) | — | 584 | (42) | (542) | — | ||||||||||
| Loss recoveries at initial recognition of onerous underlying contracts | — | — | 55 | 55 | — | — | 44 | 44 | ||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that relate to losses and reversals of losses on groups of underlying contracts(1) | 127 | (167) | (11) | (51) | 115 | 4 | (52) | 67 | ||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year(1) | (101) | 127 | (26) | — | (152) | 29 | 123 | — | ||||||||||
| Total changes related to future service | 53 | (51) | 2 | 4 | 547 | (9) | (427) | 111 | ||||||||||
| Changes related to past service — Adjustments to FCF for incurred claims | (9) | (2) | — | (11) | 7 | 4 | — | 11 | ||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net income (expense) | 160 | (186) | 30 | 4 | 705 | (179) | (409) | 117 | ||||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held | 19 | 57 | (9) | 67 | (139) | 192 | (1) | 52 | ||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income | 179 | (129) | 21 | 71 | 566 | 13 | (410) | 169 | ||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (163) | (33) | (9) | (205) | 286 | 51 | 13 | 350 | ||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income and OCI | 16 | (162) | 12 | (134) | 852 | 64 | (397) | 519 | ||||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums paid | 1,139 | — | — | 1,139 | 1,407 | — | — | 1,407 | ||||||||||
| Amounts recovered from reinsurers | (1,403) | — | — | (1,403) | (1,508) | — | — | (1,508) | ||||||||||
| Other | (9) | — | — | (9) | (164) | — | — | (164) | ||||||||||
| Total cash flows | (273) | — | — | (273) | (265) | — | — | (265) | ||||||||||
| Changes in PAA balance | (3) | 6 | — | 3 | 68 | — | — | 68 | ||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 2,212 | $ | 2,203 | $ | (326) | $ | 4,089 | $ | 2,472 | $ | 2,359 | $ | (338) | $ | 4,493 | ||
| Reinsurance contract held, end of year: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets — non-PAA | $ | 4,294 | $ | 1,314 | $ | 118 | $ | 5,726 | $ | 4,292 | $ | 1,487 | $ | 130 | $ | 5,909 | ||
| Reinsurance contract held assets — PAA | 389 | 23 | — | 412 | 392 | 17 | — | 409 | ||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities — non-PAA | (2,471) | 866 | (444) | (2,049) | (2,212) | 855 | (468) | (1,825) | ||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 2,212 | $ | 2,203 | $ | (326) | $ | 4,089 | $ | 2,472 | $ | 2,359 | $ | (338) | $ | 4,493 |
(1) Comparative amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 75 |
|---|
Reinsurance Contracts Held By Remaining Coverage and Incurred Claims
The following table shows the changes in net assets for remaining coverage and incurred claims for reinsurance contracts held:
| Asset for remaining coverage | Asset for incurred claims | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contracts using PAA | ||||||||||||||||||
| For the year ended and as at December 31, 2025 | Excluding loss-recovery component | Loss-recovery component | Contracts not using PAA | Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk Adjustment | Total | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets, beginning of year | $ | 5,403 | $ | 153 | $ | 364 | $ | 381 | $ | 17 | $ | 6,318 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities, beginning of year | (1,897) | 2 | 70 | — | — | (1,825) | ||||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 3,506 | $ | 155 | $ | 434 | $ | 381 | $ | 17 | $ | 4,493 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net income (expense) excluding changes in risk of non-performance by the reinsurer | (2,381) | (16) | 1,498 | 804 | 1 | (94) | ||||||||||||
| Changes in the risk of non-performance by the reinsurer | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net income (expense) | (2,381) | (16) | 1,498 | 804 | 1 | (94) | ||||||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held | 7 | 2 | 56 | (1) | 5 | 69 | ||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income | (2,374) | (14) | 1,554 | 803 | 6 | (25) | ||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (180) | — | (19) | (8) | — | (207) | ||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income and OCI | (2,554) | (14) | 1,535 | 795 | 6 | (232) | ||||||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums paid | 2,020 | — | — | — | — | 2,020 | ||||||||||||
| Amounts recovered from reinsurers | — | — | (1,403) | (783) | — | (2,186) | ||||||||||||
| Other | (166) | — | 158 | — | — | (8) | ||||||||||||
| Total cash flows | 1,854 | — | (1,245) | (783) | — | (174) | ||||||||||||
| Investment component excluded from reinsurance contract held net income (expense) | (51) | — | 24 | 27 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Acquisitions (Note 3) | (29) | — | — | 31 | — | 2 | ||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 2,726 | $ | 141 | $ | 748 | $ | 451 | $ | 23 | $ | 4,089 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets, end of year | $ | 5,161 | $ | 138 | $ | 365 | $ | 451 | $ | 23 | $ | 6,138 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities, end of year | (2,435) | 3 | 383 | — | — | (2,049) | ||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 2,726 | $ | 141 | $ | 748 | $ | 451 | $ | 23 | $ | 4,089 | ||||||
| 76 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||||||||||||
| Asset for remaining coverage | Asset for incurred claims | |||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Contracts using PAA | ||||||||||||||||||
| For the year ended and as at December 31, 2024 | Excluding loss-recovery component | Loss-recovery component | Contracts not using PAA | Estimates of PV of future cash flows | Risk Adjustment | Total | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets, beginning of year | $ | 5,019 | $ | 56 | $ | 383 | $ | 319 | $ | 17 | $ | 5,794 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities, beginning of year | (1,599) | 2 | (26) | — | — | (1,623) | ||||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 3,420 | $ | 58 | $ | 357 | $ | 319 | $ | 17 | $ | 4,171 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net income (expense) excluding changes in risk of non-performance by the reinsurer | (2,064) | 92 | 1,339 | 717 | 1 | 85 | ||||||||||||
| Changes in the risk of non-performance by the reinsurer | 2 | — | (2) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held net income (expense) | (2,062) | 92 | 1,337 | 717 | 1 | 85 | ||||||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held | 41 | 5 | 7 | (1) | (1) | 51 | ||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income | (2,021) | 97 | 1,344 | 716 | — | 136 | ||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | 310 | — | 38 | 20 | — | 368 | ||||||||||||
| Total changes recognized in income and OCI | (1,711) | 97 | 1,382 | 736 | — | 504 | ||||||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums paid | 2,179 | — | — | — | — | 2,179 | ||||||||||||
| Amounts recovered from reinsurers | — | — | (1,508) | (705) | — | (2,213) | ||||||||||||
| Other | (322) | — | 171 | 3 | — | (148) | ||||||||||||
| Total cash flows | 1,857 | — | (1,337) | (702) | — | (182) | ||||||||||||
| Investment component excluded from reinsurance contract held net income (expense) | (60) | — | 32 | 28 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 3,506 | $ | 155 | $ | 434 | $ | 381 | $ | 17 | $ | 4,493 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets, end of year | $ | 5,403 | $ | 153 | $ | 364 | $ | 381 | $ | 17 | $ | 6,318 | ||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities, end of year | (1,897) | 2 | 70 | — | — | (1,825) | ||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 3,506 | $ | 155 | $ | 434 | $ | 381 | $ | 17 | $ | 4,493 |
10.B.ii CSM Movement Analysis
Insurance Contracts Issued
The following table shows the changes in CSM by reportable segment for insurance contracts issued:
| For the year ended and as at December 31, 2025 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 5,952 | $ | 1,042 | $ | 6,034 | $ | — | $ | 13,028 | ||||||||||||||
| Changes recognized in income and OCI: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services provided | (505) | (109) | (621) | — | (1,235) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM | 647 | 62 | 392 | — | 1,101 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year | 478 | — | 1,197 | — | 1,675 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | (124) | 32 | 46 | — | (46) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | (46) | (311) | — | (357) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 6,448 | $ | 981 | $ | 6,737 | $ | — | $ | 14,166 | For the year ended and as at December 31, 2024 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | ||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 6,062 | $ | 1,162 | $ | 4,621 | $ | — | $ | 11,845 | ||||||||||||||
| Changes recognized in income and OCI: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services provided | (493) | (118) | (506) | — | (1,117) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM | (1) | (101) | 576 | — | 474 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year | 512 | — | 936 | — | 1,448 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses from insurance contracts issued | (128) | 10 | 21 | — | (97) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | 89 | 386 | — | 475 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | 5,952 | $ | 1,042 | $ | 6,034 | $ | — | $ | 13,028 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 77 | ||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Reinsurance Contracts Held
The following table shows the changes in CSM by reportable segment for reinsurance contracts held:
| For the year ended and as at December 31, 2025 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | (560) | $ | 166 | $ | 56 | $ | — | $ | (338) | ||||||||||||||
| Changes recognized in income and OCI: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services received | 54 | (13) | (13) | — | 28 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM | (1) | (9) | (6) | — | (16) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Loss recoveries at initial recognition of onerous underlying contracts | 42 | — | 13 | — | 55 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that relate to losses and reversals of losses on groups of underlying contracts | (23) | 2 | 10 | — | (11) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year | (16) | — | (10) | — | (26) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held | (14) | 3 | 2 | — | (9) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | (7) | (2) | — | (9) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | (518) | $ | 142 | $ | 50 | $ | — | $ | (326) | For the year ended and as at December 31, 2024 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | ||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||||||||||
| Net balances, beginning of year | $ | 32 | $ | 9 | $ | 18 | $ | — | $ | 59 | ||||||||||||||
| Changes recognized in income and OCI: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services received | 26 | (5) | (3) | — | 18 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM(1) | (529) | (31) | 18 | — | (542) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Loss recoveries at initial recognition of onerous underlying contracts | 43 | — | 1 | — | 44 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that relate to losses and reversals of losses on groups of underlying contracts(1) | (46) | (5) | (1) | — | (52) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year(1) | (82) | 187 | 18 | — | 123 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held | (4) | 2 | 1 | — | (1) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | 9 | 4 | — | 13 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net balances, end of year | $ | (560) | $ | 166 | $ | 56 | $ | — | $ | (338) |
(1) Comparative amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
| 78 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
10.B.iii Insurance Revenue
Insurance revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following:
| For the years ended | Canada | U.S | Asia | Corporate | Total | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||
| For contracts not measured using the PAA: | ||||||||||||
| Amounts relating to changes in liabilities for remaining coverage: | ||||||||||||
| Expected claims and other expenses(1) | $ | 3,314 | $ | 1,176 | $ | 613 | $ | — | $ | 5,103 | ||
| Release of risk adjustment(1) | 349 | 21 | 196 | — | 566 | |||||||
| CSM recognized for services provided | 505 | 109 | 621 | — | 1,235 | |||||||
| Income taxes specifically chargeable to the policyholder | 4 | — | 49 | — | 53 | |||||||
| Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows | 87 | — | 250 | — | 337 | |||||||
| Total insurance revenue for contracts not measured using the PAA | 4,259 | 1,306 | 1,729 | — | 7,294 | |||||||
| For contracts measured using the PAA: | ||||||||||||
| Insurance revenue | 4,961 | 11,630 | 97 | — | 16,688 | |||||||
| Total insurance revenue | $ | 9,220 | $ | 12,936 | $ | 1,826 | $ | — | $ | 23,982 | ||
| December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||
| For contracts not measured using the PAA: | ||||||||||||
| Amounts relating to changes in liabilities for remaining coverage: | ||||||||||||
| Expected claims and other expenses(1) | $ | 3,084 | $ | 1,112 | $ | 637 | $ | 9 | $ | 4,842 | ||
| Release of risk adjustment(1) | 353 | 61 | 182 | — | 596 | |||||||
| CSM recognized for services provided | 493 | 118 | 506 | — | 1,117 | |||||||
| Income taxes specifically chargeable to the policyholder | (6) | — | 32 | — | 26 | |||||||
| Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows | 190 | — | 151 | — | 341 | |||||||
| Total insurance revenue for contracts not measured using the PAA | 4,114 | 1,291 | 1,508 | 9 | 6,922 | |||||||
| For contracts measured using the PAA: | ||||||||||||
| Insurance revenue | 4,664 | 11,005 | 46 | — | 15,715 | |||||||
| Total insurance revenue | $ | 8,778 | $ | 12,296 | $ | 1,554 | $ | 9 | $ | 22,637 |
(1)Expected claims and other expenses excludes investment components and amounts allocated to the loss component. Release of risk adjustment excludes amounts allocated to the loss component and amounts related to changes in the time value of money, which are recognized in Insurance finance income (expenses).
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 79 |
|---|
10.B.iv Contracts Initially Recognized in the Period
The tables in this section illustrate the effect on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position of insurance contracts initially recognized during the period, excluding contracts measured using the PAA.
Insurance Contracts Issued
| For the year ended December 31, 2025 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to all contracts initially recognized: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | (8,070) | $ | — | $ | (11,683) | $ | — | $ | (19,753) | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | 946 | — | 1,115 | — | 2,061 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other cash outflows | 6,445 | — | 9,103 | — | 15,548 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 270 | — | 309 | — | 579 | |||||||||||||||||||
| CSM | 478 | — | 1,197 | — | 1,675 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions) | $ | 69 | $ | — | $ | 41 | $ | — | $ | 110 | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to onerous contracts included in total contracts above: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | (496) | $ | — | $ | (259) | $ | — | $ | (755) | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | 99 | — | 107 | — | 206 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other cash outflows | 372 | — | 163 | — | 535 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 94 | — | 30 | — | 124 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total onerous contracts | $ | 69 | $ | — | $ | 41 | $ | — | $ | 110 | For the year ended December 31, 2024 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | ||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||||||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to all contracts initially recognized: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | (9,182) | $ | — | $ | (8,539) | $ | — | $ | (17,721) | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | 1,033 | — | 1,744 | — | 2,777 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other cash outflows | 7,456 | — | 5,629 | — | 13,085 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 293 | — | 237 | — | 530 | |||||||||||||||||||
| CSM | 512 | — | 936 | — | 1,448 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions) | $ | 112 | $ | — | $ | 7 | $ | — | $ | 119 | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to onerous contracts included in total contracts above: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | (1,186) | $ | — | $ | (92) | $ | — | $ | (1,278) | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows | 101 | — | 21 | — | 122 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other cash outflows | 1,076 | — | 70 | — | 1,146 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 121 | — | 8 | — | 129 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total onerous contracts | $ | 112 | $ | — | $ | 7 | $ | — | $ | 119 | ||||||||||||||
| 80 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Reinsurance Contracts Held
| For the year ended December 31, 2025 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to all contracts initially recognized: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | 1,144 | $ | — | $ | 178 | $ | — | $ | 1,322 | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums and other expenses | (1,208) | — | (215) | — | (1,423) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 80 | — | 47 | — | 127 | |||||||||||||||||||
| CSM | (16) | — | (10) | — | (26) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to contracts initially recognized in the period with a loss recovery component included in total contracts above: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | 167 | $ | — | $ | 15 | $ | — | $ | 182 | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums and other expenses | (147) | — | (13) | — | (160) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 51 | — | 2 | — | 53 | |||||||||||||||||||
| CSM | (71) | — | (4) | — | (75) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total reinsurance contracts held with a loss recovery component | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Loss recoveries at initial recognition of onerous underlying contracts | $ | 42 | $ | — | $ | 13 | $ | — | $ | 55 | For the year ended December 31, 2024 | Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | ||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||||||||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to all contracts initially recognized: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows(1) | $ | 275 | $ | 1,419 | $ | 289 | $ | — | $ | 1,983 | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums and other expenses(1) | (275) | (1,515) | (345) | — | (2,135) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment(1) | 82 | (91) | 38 | — | 29 | |||||||||||||||||||
| CSM(1) | (82) | 187 | 18 | — | 123 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total contracts initially recognized in the period (excluding acquisitions) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts related to contracts initially recognized in the period with a loss recovery component included in total contracts above: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash inflows | $ | 155 | $ | — | $ | 3 | $ | — | $ | 158 | ||||||||||||||
| Estimates of present value of future cash outflows: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Premiums and other expenses | (145) | — | (3) | — | (148) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Risk adjustment | 56 | — | — | — | 56 | |||||||||||||||||||
| CSM | (66) | — | — | — | (66) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total reinsurance contracts held with a loss recovery component | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Loss recoveries at initial recognition of onerous underlying contracts | $ | 43 | $ | — | $ | 1 | $ | — | $ | 44 |
(1) Comparative amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 81 |
|---|
10.B.v Impact of Method and Assumption Changes
Impacts of method and assumption changes on insurance contracts, are as follows:
| For the year ended December 31, 2025 | Income impact | Deferred <br>in CSM | Description | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mortality / Morbidity | $ | 17 | $ | 266 | Updates to reflect mortality and morbidity experience in all jurisdictions. The largest item was a favourable mortality update mainly to Group Retirement Services and Individual Wealth in Canada. | ||||||||||||||
| Policyholder behaviour | (23) | (145) | Updates to reflect lapse and policyholder behaviour in all jurisdictions. The largest item was an adverse lapse and policyholder behaviour impact in Individual Insurance in Canada. | ||||||||||||||||
| Expense | (32) | (95) | Updates to expenses in all jurisdictions. | ||||||||||||||||
| Financial | 38 | 7 | Updates to various financial-related assumptions. | ||||||||||||||||
| Modelling enhancements and other | (54) | 16 | Various enhancements and methodology changes. The largest items were the unfavourable impact of a new reinsurance treaty in Individual Insurance in Canada, partially offset by favourable refinements in Hong Kong and High-Net-Worth in Asia. | ||||||||||||||||
| Total (pre-tax) | $ | (54) | $ | 49 | For the year ended December 31, 2024 | Income impact | Deferred<br> in CSM | Description | |||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ||||||||||||
| Mortality / Morbidity | $ | (79) | $ | 206 | Updates to reflect mortality/morbidity experience in all jurisdictions. The largest items were favourable mortality impacts in Group Retirement Services and Individual Wealth in Canada, and the Philippines in Asia. These were partially offset by an unfavourable mortality impact in Individual Insurance in Canada. | ||||||||||||||
| Policyholder behaviour | (74) | (152) | Updates to reflect lapse and policyholder behaviour in all jurisdictions. The largest items were an adverse lapse impact in In-force Management in the U.S. and in Vietnam in Asia. | ||||||||||||||||
| Expense | (36) | (26) | Updates to expenses in all jurisdictions. | ||||||||||||||||
| Financial | 10 | 62 | Updates to various financial related assumptions. | ||||||||||||||||
| Modelling enhancements and other | 265 | (60) | Various enhancements and methodology changes. The largest items were the favourable impact of refinements in Hong Kong in Asia, offset by the impact of a new reinsurance treaty in In-force Management in the U.S. that was favourable to net income but unfavourable to CSM. | ||||||||||||||||
| Total (pre-tax) | $ | 86 | $ | 30 | 82 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
10.C Expectation of When CSM Will Be Recognized in Income
Insurance Contracts Issued
The following tables illustrate the expected timing of CSM amortization into Insurance revenue for insurance contracts issued:
| Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As at December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||
| Within 1 year | $ | 493 | $ | 100 | $ | 595 | $ | — | $ | 1,188 | ||
| 1-3 years | 882 | 173 | 1,040 | — | 2,095 | |||||||
| 3-5 years | 756 | 144 | 860 | — | 1,760 | |||||||
| 5-10 years | 1,441 | 256 | 1,559 | — | 3,256 | |||||||
| Over 10 years | 2,876 | 308 | 2,683 | — | 5,867 | |||||||
| Total | $ | 6,448 | $ | 981 | $ | 6,737 | $ | — | $ | 14,166 | ||
| As at December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||
| Within 1 year | $ | 450 | $ | 104 | $ | 497 | $ | — | $ | 1,051 | ||
| 1-3 years | 805 | 180 | 883 | — | 1,868 | |||||||
| 3-5 years | 692 | 149 | 750 | — | 1,591 | |||||||
| 5-10 years | 1,325 | 266 | 1,382 | — | 2,973 | |||||||
| Over 10 years | 2,680 | 343 | 2,522 | — | 5,545 | |||||||
| Total | $ | 5,952 | $ | 1,042 | $ | 6,034 | $ | — | $ | 13,028 |
Reinsurance Contracts Held
The following tables illustrate the expected timing of CSM amortization into net income (expense) for reinsurance contracts held:
| Canada | U.S. | Asia | Corporate | Total | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As at December 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||
| Within 1 year | $ | 50 | $ | (13) | $ | (7) | $ | — | $ | 30 | |||||||
| 1-3 years | 86 | (23) | (9) | — | 54 | ||||||||||||
| 3-5 years | 67 | (20) | (7) | — | 40 | ||||||||||||
| 5-10 years | 99 | (36) | (11) | — | 52 | ||||||||||||
| Over 10 years | 216 | (50) | (16) | — | 150 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 518 | $ | (142) | $ | (50) | $ | — | $ | 326 | |||||||
| As at December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||||
| Within 1 year | $ | 52 | $ | (15) | $ | (5) | $ | — | $ | 32 | |||||||
| 1-3 years | 92 | (26) | (9) | — | 57 | ||||||||||||
| 3-5 years | 77 | (22) | (8) | — | 47 | ||||||||||||
| 5-10 years | 138 | (42) | (14) | — | 82 | ||||||||||||
| Over 10 years | 201 | (61) | (20) | — | 120 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 560 | $ | (166) | $ | (56) | $ | — | $ | 338 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 83 | |||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
10.D CSM and Insurance Revenue by Transition Method
Insurance Contracts Issued
The following table shows the reconciliations of the CSM and the amount of insurance revenue recognized separately for insurance contracts issued that existed at the transition date to which the fair value transition approach was applied as described in Note 1. The reconciliation of the CSM for all other contracts is for contracts issued after the transition date that are not measured using the PAA. Insurance revenue for all other contracts includes contracts issued after the transition date as well as all revenue from all contracts measured using the PAA.
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fair value at Transition | All other contracts | Fair value at Transition | All other contracts | |||||||||
| Contractual Service Margin: | ||||||||||||
| Balances, beginning of year | $ | 9,483 | $ | 3,545 | $ | 9,701 | $ | 2,144 | ||||
| Changes related to current service: | ||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services provided | (905) | (330) | (906) | (211) | ||||||||
| Changes related to future service: | ||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM | 1,424 | (323) | 506 | (32) | ||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year | — | 1,675 | — | 1,448 | ||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from insurance contracts issued | (107) | 61 | (147) | 50 | ||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (235) | (122) | 329 | 146 | ||||||||
| Balances, end of year | $ | 9,660 | $ | 4,506 | $ | 9,483 | $ | 3,545 | ||||
| Insurance revenue | $ | 5,568 | $ | 18,414 | $ | 5,765 | $ | 16,872 |
Reinsurance Contracts Held
The following table shows the reconciliations of the CSM separately for reinsurance contracts held that existed at the transition date to which the fair value transition approach was applied. The reconciliation of the CSM for all other contracts is for contracts issued after the transition date that are not measured using the PAA.
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fair value at Transition | All other contracts | Fair value at Transition | All other contracts | |||||||||
| Contractual Service Margin: | ||||||||||||
| Balances, beginning of year | $ | (223) | $ | (115) | $ | 146 | $ | (87) | ||||
| Changes related to current service: | ||||||||||||
| CSM recognized for services received | 18 | 10 | 7 | 11 | ||||||||
| Changes related to future service: | ||||||||||||
| Changes in estimates that adjust CSM(1) | (27) | 11 | (344) | (198) | ||||||||
| Loss recoveries at initial recognition of onerous underlying contracts | — | 55 | — | 44 | ||||||||
| Changes in estimates that relate to losses and reversals of losses on groups of underlying contracts(1) | (13) | 2 | (39) | (13) | ||||||||
| Contracts initially recognized in the year(1) | — | (26) | — | 123 | ||||||||
| Insurance finance income (expenses) from reinsurance contracts held | (4) | (5) | — | (1) | ||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (8) | (1) | 7 | 6 | ||||||||
| Balances, end of year | $ | (257) | $ | (69) | $ | (223) | $ | (115) |
(1) Comparative amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
| 84 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
10.E Underlying Items for Insurance Contracts Issued with Direct Participation Features
The fair value of the underlying items for insurance contract liabilities for the account of segregated fund holders are included in Note 21.
The composition and fair value of the underlying items for other insurance contracts with direct participation features included in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, are as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | $ | 5,692 | $ | 5,115 | |
| Debt securities | 29,196 | 26,349 | |||
| Equity securities | 8,929 | 6,877 | |||
| Mortgages and loans | 13,661 | 11,518 | |||
| Derivative assets | 329 | 211 | |||
| Other financial invested assets | 2,915 | 2,666 | |||
| Investment properties | 5,790 | 5,714 | |||
| Total | $ | 66,512 | $ | 58,450 |
10.F Insurance Service Expenses
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incurred claims and other expenses(1) | $ | 21,064 | $ | 20,163 |
| Amortization of insurance acquisition cash flows | 337 | 341 | ||
| Insurance acquisition cash flows expensed as incurred | 1,358 | 1,258 | ||
| Changes related to future service (losses on onerous groups and reversals of such losses) | 142 | 266 | ||
| Changes related to past service (changes in FCF related to liability for incurred claims) | (2,487) | (2,397) | ||
| Total insurance service expenses | $ | 20,414 | $ | 19,631 |
(1)Incurred claims and other expenses excludes investment components.
10.G Role of the Appointed Actuary
The Appointed Actuary is appointed by the Board and is responsible for ensuring that the assumptions and methods used in the valuation of policy liabilities are in accordance with accepted actuarial practice in Canada, applicable legislation, and associated regulations or directives.
The Appointed Actuary is required to provide an opinion regarding the appropriateness of the policy liabilities at the statement dates. Examination of supporting data for accuracy and completeness and analysis of the assets supporting the policy liabilities 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 2025 analysis tested our capital adequacy to December 31, 2029, under various adverse economic and business conditions. The Appointed Actuary reviews the calculation of our Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test ("LICAT") ratios.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 85 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11. Other Liabilities | |||
| --- |
11.A Composition of Other Liabilities
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accounts payable | $ | 2,140 | $ | 2,559 | ||
| Bank overdrafts and cash pooling | 86 | 175 | ||||
| Repurchase agreements (Note 5) | 2,861 | 2,840 | ||||
| Accrued expenses and taxes | 5,149 | 4,904 | ||||
| Credit facilities(1) | 1,748 | 2,126 | ||||
| Borrowed funds(2) | 386 | 361 | ||||
| Accrued post-retirement benefit liability (Note 24) | 334 | 351 | ||||
| Secured borrowings from mortgage securitization (Note 5) | 1,431 | 1,854 | ||||
| Lease liabilities | 924 | 946 | ||||
| Other financial liabilities (Note 5)(3) | 2,244 | 2,265 | ||||
| Obligations for securities borrowing | 267 | 239 | ||||
| Collateralized loan obligations (Note 5) | 5,846 | 5,028 | ||||
| Deferred payments liability | 127 | 197 | ||||
| Other(1) | 2,362 | 2,447 | ||||
| Total other liabilities | $ | 25,905 | $ | 26,292 |
(1) Interest expense on credit facilities and other borrowings was $96 in 2025 (2024 — $148).
(2) The change in Borrowed funds relates to net cash flow changes of $28 in 2025 (2024 — $23) and foreign exchange rate movements of $(3) in 2025 (2024 — $5).
(3) Comprises of financial liabilities related to acquisitions, including put option liabilities and financial liabilities due to NCI. Interest expense on financial liabilities related to acquisitions was $69 in 2025 (2024 — $87).
Other financial liabilities include obligations to purchase outstanding shares of certain SLC Management subsidiaries. These amounts are initially measured at fair value. For obligations to purchase remaining outstanding shares, the price is based on the expected average EBITDA for respective subsidiaries using multiples in accordance with contractual terms. During the year, these amounts were revised to reflect the change in expected cash flows, resulting in an increase (decrease) in our liability of $20 (2024 — $(331)). This amount was recognized in Operating expenses and commissions in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Other financial liabilities are expected to increase by a minimum of approximately $150, subject to the outcome of ongoing discussions with minority shareholders on certain adjustments to the EBITDA calculation. Any changes or agreed modification to cashflows will be recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in subsequent reporting periods.
11.B Borrowed Funds
Borrowed funds include the following:
| As at December 31, | Currency of borrowing | Maturity | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Encumbrances on real estate | CAD | Current — 2032 | $ | 318 | $ | 294 | ||
| Encumbrances on real estate | USD | 2028 | 68 | 67 | ||||
| Total borrowed funds | $ | 386 | $ | 361 |
Interest expense on the borrowed funds was $11 in 2025 (2024 — $13). The aggregate maturities of borrowed funds are included in Note 6.
| 86 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12. Senior Debentures and Innovative Capital Instruments | |||
| --- |
12.A Senior Debentures
The following obligations are included in Senior debentures(1) as at December 31:
| Interest<br>rate | Earliest par call or<br>redemption date | Maturity | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Life Assurance senior debentures: | |||||||||
| Issued to Sun Life Capital Trust ("SLCT I") | |||||||||
| Series B issued June 25, 2002 | 7.093% | June 30, 2032(2) | 2052 | $ | 200 | $ | 200 | ||
| Fair value | $ | 226 | $ | 228 |
(1) All senior debentures are unsecured, and redemptions are subject to regulatory approval.
(2) Redeemable in whole or in part on any interest payment date or in whole upon the occurrence of a Regulatory Event or Tax Event, as described in the debenture. Prior to June 30, 2032, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.32%. On and after June 30, 2032, the redemption price is par.
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 senior debentures was $14 for both 2025 and 2024.
The senior debentures issued by SLF Inc. are direct senior unsecured obligations and rank equally with other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of SLF Inc.
12.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.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 87 |
|---|
The table below presents additional significant terms and conditions of the SLEECS:
| Issuer | Issuance date | Distribution or interest<br><br>payment dates | Annual<br><br>yield | Redemption date at<br><br>the issuer’s option | Conversion date at<br><br>the holder’s option | Principal<br><br>amount | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issued to Sun Life Capital Trust (1)(2)(3)(4) | |||||||||
| 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.
| 88 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13. Subordinated Debt | |||
| --- |
The following obligations are included in Subordinated debt as at December 31, and qualify as capital for Canadian regulatory purposes:
| Interest rate | Earliest par call date(1) | Maturity | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Life Assurance: | ||||||||||
| Issued May 15, 1998(2) | 6.30% | n/a | 2028 | $ | 150 | $ | 150 | |||
| Sun Life Financial Inc.: | ||||||||||
| Issued May 29, 2007(3) | 5.40% | May 29, 2037 | (4) | 2042 | 399 | 399 | ||||
| Issued May 8, 2020(5) | 2.58% | May 10, 2027 | 2032 | 999 | 998 | |||||
| Issued October 1, 2020(6) | 2.06% | October 1, 2030 | 2035 | 747 | 747 | |||||
| Issued November 18, 2021(7) | 2.46% | November 18, 2026 | 2031 | 499 | 499 | |||||
| Issued November 18, 2021(8) | 2.80% | November 21, 2028 | 2033 | 998 | 997 | |||||
| Issued November 18, 2021(9) | 3.15% | November 18, 2031 | 2036 | 498 | 498 | |||||
| Issued August 10, 2022(10) | 4.78% | August 10, 2029 | 2034 | 648 | 648 | |||||
| Issued July 4, 2023(11) | 5.50% | July 4, 2030 | 2035 | 498 | 497 | |||||
| Issued May 15, 2024(12) | 5.12% | May 15, 2031 | 2036 | 747 | 746 | |||||
| Issued September 11, 2025(13) | 4.14% | September 13, 2032 | 2037 | 994 | — | |||||
| Issued December 3, 2025(14) | 4.56% | December 3, 2035 | 2040 | 994 | — | |||||
| Total subordinated debt | $ | 8,171 | $ | 6,179 | ||||||
| Fair value | $ | 8,259 | $ | 6,179 |
(1) Subject to regulatory approval all obligations are redeemable 5-years after issuance date. From the date noted, the redemption price is par and redemption may only occur on a scheduled interest payment date.
(2) 6.30% Debentures, Series 2, due 2028, issued by The Mutual Life Assurance Company of Canada, which subsequently changed its name to Clarica Life Insurance Company ("Clarica") and was amalgamated with Sun Life Assurance. These debentures are redeemable at any time. Prior to May 15, 2028, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.16%.
(3) Series 2007-1 Subordinated Unsecured 5.40% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2042. From May 29, 2037, interest is payable at 1.00% over Canadian Dollar Offered Rate ("CDOR"), subject to any necessary action to reflect the replacement of CDOR.
(4) For redemption of the 2007 debentures prior to the date noted, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.250%.
(5) Series 2020-1 Subordinated Unsecured 2.58% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2032. From May 10, 2027, interest is payable at 1.66% over CDOR, subject to transition to an alternative benchmark rate due to the interest rate benchmark reform. Between May 10, 2025 and May 10, 2027, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.515%.
(6) Series 2020-2 Subordinated Unsecured 2.06% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2035. From October 1, 2030, interest is payable at 1.03% over CDOR, subject to transition to an alternative benchmark rate due to the interest rate benchmark reform. Between October 1, 2025 and October 1, 2030, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.380%.
(7) Series 2021-1 Subordinated Unsecured 2.46% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2031. From November 18, 2026, interest is payable at 0.44% over CDOR, subject to transition to an alternative benchmark rate due to the interest rate benchmark reform.
(8) Series 2021-2 Subordinated Unsecured 2.80% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2033. From November 21, 2028, interest is payable at 0.69% over CDOR, subject to transition to an alternative benchmark rate due to the interest rate benchmark reform. Between November 21, 2026 and November 21, 2028, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.285%.
(9) Series 2021-3 Subordinated Unsecured 3.15% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2036. From November 18, 2031, interest is payable at 0.91% over CDOR, subject to transition to an alternative benchmark rate due to the interest rate benchmark reform. Between November 18, 2026 and November 18, 2031, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.335%.
(10) Series 2022-1 Subordinated Unsecured 4.78% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2034. From August 10, 2029, interest is payable at 1.96% over the Canadian Overnight Repo Rate Average ("CORRA"). Between August 10, 2027 and August 10, 2029, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.520%.
(11) Series 2023-1 Subordinated Unsecured 5.50% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2035. From July 4, 2030, interest is payable at 1.93% over the CORRA. Between July 4, 2028 and July 4, 2030, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.525%.
(12) Series 2024-1 Subordinated Unsecured 5.12% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2036. From May 15, 2031, interest is payable at 1.46% over the CORRA. Between May 15, 2029 and May 15, 2031, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.355%.
(13) Series 2025-1 Subordinated Unsecured 4.14% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2037. From September 13, 2032, interest is payable at 1.42% over the CORRA. Between September 13, 2030 and September 13, 2032, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.285%.
(14) Series 2025-2 Subordinated Unsecured 4.56% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2040. From December 3, 2035, interest is payable at 1.57% over the CORRA. Between December 3, 2030 and December 3, 2035, the redemption price is the greater of par and a price based on the yield of a corresponding Government of Canada bond plus 0.325%.
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 $242 and $223 for 2025 and 2024, respectively.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 89 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14. Share Capital | |||
| --- |
The authorized share capital of SLF Inc. consists of the following:
•An unlimited number of common shares without nominal or par value. Each common share is entitled to one vote at meetings of the shareholders of SLF Inc. There are no pre-emptive, redemption, purchase, or conversion rights attached to the common shares.
•An unlimited number of Class A and Class B non-voting shares, issuable in series. The Board is authorized before issuing the shares, to fix the number, the consideration per share, the designation of, and the rights and restrictions of the Class A and Class B shares of each series, subject to the special rights and restrictions attached to all the Class A and Class B shares. The Board has authorized 14 series of Class A non-voting preferred shares, 8 of which are outstanding.
The common and preferred shares of SLF Inc. qualify as capital for Canadian regulatory purposes. See Note 20.
Dividends and Restrictions on the Payment of Dividends
Under the Insurance Companies Act (Canada), SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance are each prohibited from declaring or paying a dividend on any of its shares if there are reasonable grounds for believing that it is, or by paying the dividend would be, in contravention of: (i) the requirement that it maintains adequate capital and adequate and appropriate forms of liquidity, (ii) any regulations under the Insurance Companies Act (Canada) in relation to capital and liquidity, and (iii) any order by which OSFI directs it to increase its capital or provide additional liquidity.
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, 2025, Sun Life Assurance did not have any outstanding 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.
14.A Common Shares
Changes in common shares issued and outstanding for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common shares (in millions of shares) | Number of<br>shares | Amount | Number of<br>shares | Amount | ||||
| Balance, beginning of year | 573.9 | $ | 8,192 | 584.6 | $ | 8,327 | ||
| Stock options exercised (Note 18) | 0.6 | 42 | 0.8 | 47 | ||||
| Common shares purchased for cancellation | (20.7) | (334) | (11.5) | (182) | ||||
| Balance, end of year | 553.8 | $ | 7,900 | 573.9 | $ | 8,192 |
On August 29, 2023, we launched a normal course issuer bid (the "NCIB") to purchase up to 17 million of our common shares, which expired on August 28, 2024. We renewed the NCIB to purchase up to 15 million of our common shares, which commenced on August 29, 2024 and was in effect until June 6, 2025 (the "2024 NCIB"). We repurchased approximately 14.4 million common shares under the 2024 NCIB. In June 2025, we renewed the NCIB to purchase up to 10.6 million common shares (the "2025 NCIB", and together with the 2024 NCIB, the "NCIBs"), which represented an additional 10 million common shares approved by OSFI and the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") along with the remaining approximately 0.6 million common shares that we had not repurchased under the 2024 NCIB. The 2025 NCIB commenced on June 9, 2025 and will continue until, at the latest, May 21, 2026.
We implemented an automatic repurchase plan with our designated broker in order to facilitate purchases of common shares under the NCIBs. Under the automatic repurchase plan, our designated broker is able to purchase common shares pursuant to the NCIBs at times when we ordinarily would not be active in the market due to applicable securities laws or self-imposed blackout periods. Any common shares purchased by us pursuant to the NCIBs will be cancelled or used in connection with certain equity settled incentive arrangements.
For the year ended December 31, 2025, we purchased and cancelled an aggregate of approximately 20.7 million common shares (2024 — 11.5 million common shares) at an average price per share of $82.24 (2024 — $74.27) for a total amount of $1,707 (2024 — $855) under the NCIBs and incurred tax on net repurchases of equity of $33 (2024 — $16). The total amount paid to purchase the shares pursuant to the NCIBs and the tax incurred is recorded in our Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity. The amount allocated to Common shares is based on the average cost per common share and amounts paid above the average cost are allocated to Retained earnings.
| 90 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
14.B Preferred Shares and Other Equity Instruments
On June 30, 2025, 2.7 million of the 5.0 million Class A Non-Cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares Series 9QR (the "Series 9QR Shares") were converted into Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 8R (the "Series 8R Shares") on a one-for-one basis. As a result, as of June 30, 2025, SLF Inc. has approximately 8.9 million Series 8R Shares and 2.3 million Series 9QR Shares issued and outstanding.
There were no other changes in preferred shares issued and outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Further information on the preferred shares outstanding as at December 31, 2025, is as follows:
| (in millions of shares) | Issue date | Annual<br>dividend<br>rate | Annual<br>dividend<br>per share | Earliest par call or<br><br>redemption date(1) | Number<br>of shares | Face<br>amount | Net<br><br>amount(2) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class A Preferred shares | ||||||||||||
| Series 3 | January 13, 2006 | 4.45% | $ | 1.11 | Any time | 10.0 | $ | 250 | $ | 245 | ||
| Series 4 | October 10, 2006 | 4.45% | $ | 1.11 | Any time | 12.0 | 300 | 293 | ||||
| Series 5 | February 2, 2007 | 4.50% | $ | 1.13 | Any time | 10.0 | 250 | 245 | ||||
| Series 8R(3) | May 25, 2010 | 4.23% | (3) | $ | 0.76 | June 30, 2030 | (4) | 8.9 | 222 | 152 | ||
| Series 9QR(5) | June 30, 2015 | Floating | (6) | Floating | June 30, 2030 | (7) | 2.3 | 58 | 122 | |||
| Series 10R(3) | August 12, 2011 | 2.967% | (3) | $ | 0.74 | September 30, 2026 | (4) | 6.8 | 171 | 167 | ||
| Series 11QR(5) | September 30, 2016 | Floating | (6) | Floating | September 30, 2026 | (7) | 1.2 | 29 | 28 | |||
| Other equity instruments | ||||||||||||
| Series 2021-1(8) | June 30, 2021 | 3.600% | n/a | June 30, 2026 | 1.0 | 1,000 | 987 | |||||
| Total preferred shares and other equity instruments | 52.2 | $ | 2,280 | $ | 2,239 |
(1) Redemption of all preferred shares and other equity instruments is subject to regulatory approval.
(2) Net of after-tax issuance costs.
(3) 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.
(4) Redeemable on the redemption date and every five years thereafter, in whole or in part, at $25.00 per share.
(5) On the earliest redemption date and every five years thereafter, holders will have the right, at their option, to convert those shares into the series that is one number lower than their existing series.
(6) Holders 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 a spread specified for each series. The specified spread for Class A shares is: Series 9QR – 1.41% and Series 11QR – 2.17%.
(7) Redeemable on the redemption date and every five years thereafter, in whole or in part, at $25.00 per share, and on any other date at $25.50 per share.
(8) On the earliest redemption date and every five years thereafter, the interest rate will reset to an annual rate equal to the Government of Canada bond yield plus 2.604%.
| 15. Interests in Other Entities |
|---|
15.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 primarily in Canada, the U.S., 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 14 and 20.
15.B Joint Ventures and Associates
We have interests in various joint ventures and associates that principally operate in India, Malaysia, China, and the Philippines. We also have interests in joint ventures related to certain real estate investments in Canada. Our interests in these joint ventures and associates range from 24.99% to 50%. The following table summarizes, in aggregate, the financial information of these joint ventures and associates:
| For the years ended and as at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying amount of interests in joint ventures and associates | $ | 1,651 | $ | 1,796 |
| Our share of: | ||||
| Net income (loss) | 120 | 19 | ||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | (195) | 194 | ||
| Total comprehensive income (loss) | $ | (75) | $ | 213 |
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 91 | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
In 2025, we increased our investment in our joint ventures and associates by $44, primarily in Asia (2024 — $17). During 2025, we received dividends and other proceeds relating to our joint ventures and associates of $55 (2024 — $160). We also incurred rental expenses of $19 (2024 — $19) related to leases with our joint ventures and associates, with the remaining future rental payments payable to our joint ventures and associates totaling $132 over 7 years. As at December 31, 2025, we held $107 in redeemable subordinate debentures issued by an associate (December 31, 2024 — $115). These debentures carry coupon rates ranging from 7.3% to 8.2% and have maturity dates between 2031 to 2034.
15.C Joint Operations
We invest jointly in investment properties and owner-occupied properties which are co-managed under contractual relationships with the other investors. We share in the revenues and expenses generated by these properties in proportion to our investment. The carrying amount of these jointly controlled assets, which is included in Investment properties and in Other assets for owner-occupied properties, is $1,852 as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $2,060). The fair value of these jointly controlled assets is $1,897 as at December 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 — $2,114).
15.D Unconsolidated Structured Entities
SLF Inc. and its subsidiaries have interests in various structured entities that are not consolidated by us. A structured entity is an entity that has been designed so that voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, such as when any voting rights relate to administrative tasks only and the relevant activities are directed by means of contractual arrangements. We have an interest in a structured entity when we have a contractual or non-contractual involvement that exposes us to variable returns from the performance of the entity. Our interest includes investments held in securities or units issued by these entities and fees earned from management of the assets within these entities.
Information on our interests in unconsolidated structured entities is as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type of structured entity | Type of investment held | Consolidated Statements of Financial Position line item | Carrying<br>amount | Maximum<br><br>exposure to<br><br>loss(1) | Carrying<br>amount | Maximum<br><br>exposure to<br><br>loss(1) | ||||||||
| Securitization entities — third-party managed | Debt securities | Debt securities | $ | 14,197 | $ | 14,197 | $ | 12,406 | $ | 12,406 | ||||
| Securitization entities — third-party managed | Short-term securities | Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | $ | 991 | $ | 991 | $ | 1,048 | $ | 1,048 | ||||
| Investment funds — third-party managed | Investment fund units | Equity securities | $ | 11,080 | $ | 11,080 | $ | 8,494 | $ | 8,494 | ||||
| Investment funds — company managed(2) | Investment fund units and Limited partnership units | Equity securities, Other financial invested assets, and Other non-financial invested assets | $ | 4,229 | $ | 4,229 | $ | 4,119 | $ | 4,119 | ||||
| Limited partnerships — third-party managed | Limited partnership units | Other financial invested assets and Other non-financial invested assets | $ | 3,396 | $ | 3,396 | $ | 3,292 | $ | 3,292 |
(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 $88 (2024 — $99).
15.D.i Securitization Entities
Securitization entities are structured entities that are generally financed primarily through the issuance of debt securities that are backed by a pool of assets, such as mortgages or loans.
Third-Party Managed
Our investments in third-party managed securitization entities consist of asset-backed securities, such as commercial mortgage-backed securities, residential mortgage-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs"), and commercial paper. These securities are generally large-issue debt securities designed to transform the cash flows from a specific pool of underlying assets into tranches providing various risk exposures for investment purposes. We do not provide financial or other support to these entities other than our original investment and therefore our maximum exposure to loss on these investments is limited to the carrying amount of our investment. We do not have control over these investments since we do not have power to direct the relevant activities of these entities, regardless of the level of our investment.
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.
15.D.ii Investment Funds and Limited Partnerships
Investment funds and limited partnerships are investment vehicles that consist of a pool of funds collected from a group of investors for the purpose of investing in assets such as money market instruments, debt securities, equity securities, real estate, and other similar assets. The preceding table includes our investments in all investment funds, including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and segregated funds, and our investments in certain limited partnerships. Some of these investment funds and limited partnerships are structured entities. For all investment funds and limited partnerships, our maximum exposure to loss is equivalent to the carrying amount of our investment in the fund
| 92 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
or partnership. Investment funds and limited partnerships are generally financed through the issuance of investment fund units or limited partnership units.
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 16. 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 15.B.
15.E Consolidated Structured Entities
We control and consolidate structured entities related to CLOs, which are described in more detail in Note 5.A.i, and investment funds managed by SLC Management and its affiliate managers. The investment funds invest primarily in investment properties and entities which invest in renewable energy projects.
| 16. Fee Income | | --- || For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Fee income from service contracts: | | | | | | | | Distribution fees | | | $ | 1,079 | $ | 1,026 | | Fund management and other asset-based fees | | | 6,391 | | 6,089 | | | Administrative service and other fees | | | 1,589 | | 1,466 | | | Total fee income | | | $ | 9,059 | $ | 8,581 |
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 and U.S. segments. The fee income by business segment is presented in Note 4.
| 17. Operating Expenses and Commissions | | --- || For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | | | 2024 | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Operating expenses incurred (insurance and non-insurance): | | | | | | | | Employee expenses(1) | | $ | 6,927 | | $ | 6,629 | | Premises and equipment | | 198 | | | 197 | | | Capital asset depreciation | | 266 | | | 262 | | | Service fees | | 1,311 | | | 1,350 | | | Amortization and impairment of intangible assets and goodwill | | 508 | | | 678 | | | Other expenses | | 3,612 | | | 2,944 | | | Total operating expenses incurred (insurance and non-insurance) | | 12,822 | | | 12,060 | | | Commissions incurred: | | | | | | | | Insurance | | 2,597 | | | 2,243 | | | Non-insurance | | 1,070 | | | 1,014 | | | Total commissions incurred (insurance and non-insurance) | | 3,667 | | | 3,257 | | | Total operating expenses and commissions incurred (insurance and non-insurance) | | 16,489 | | | 15,317 | | | Less: Amounts directly attributable to the acquisition and fulfillment of insurance contracts | | 7,462 | | | 6,551 | | | Total operating expenses and commissions | | $ | 9,027 | | $ | 8,766 |
(1) See table below for further details.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 93 |
|---|
Employee expenses consist of the following:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries, bonus, employee benefits | $ | 6,384 | $ | 5,977 | ||
| Share-based payments (Note 18) | 498 | 610 | ||||
| Other personnel costs | 45 | 42 | ||||
| Total employee expenses | $ | 6,927 | $ | 6,629 | ||
| 18. Share-Based Payments | ||||||
| --- |
18.A Stock Option Plans
SLF Inc. has granted stock options to eligible employees under the Executive Stock Option Plan. These options are granted at the closing price of the common shares on the TSX on the grant date. The options granted under the stock option plans vest over a four-year period. All options have a maximum exercise period of 10 years. The maximum number of common shares that may be issued under the Executive Stock Option Plan is 29,525,000 shares.
The activities in the stock option plans for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of stock options (thousands) | Weighted average exercise price | Number of <br>stock options (thousands) | Weighted average <br>exercise price | |||||||
| Balance, January 1, | 3,120 | $ | 65.01 | 3,428 | $ | 62.54 | ||||
| Granted | 494 | $ | 79.16 | 488 | $ | 73.19 | ||||
| Exercised | (654) | $ | 58.30 | (708) | $ | 58.13 | ||||
| Forfeited | — | $ | — | (88) | $ | 69.25 | ||||
| Balance, December 31, | 2,960 | $ | 68.86 | 3,120 | $ | 65.01 | ||||
| Exercisable, December 31 | 1,088 | $ | 63.25 | 1,390 | $ | 60.32 |
The weighted average share price at the date of exercise of stock options for the year ended December 31, 2025 was $86.53 (2024 — $79.09).
Compensation expense for stock options was $6 for the year ended December 31, 2025 (2024 — $6).
The stock options outstanding as at December 31, 2025, by exercise price, are as follows:
| Range of exercise prices | Weighted average remaining contractual life (years) | Weighted average exercise price | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48.20 to 58.00 | 157 | 2.47 | $ | 51.01 | ||
| 58.01 to 68.00 | 1,311 | 5.75 | $ | 65.88 | ||
| 68.01 to 79.16 | 1,492 | 7.77 | $ | 73.35 | ||
| Total stock options | 2,960 | 6.60 | $ | 68.86 |
All values are in US Dollars.
The weighted average fair values of the stock options, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, granted during the year ended December 31, 2025 was $12.43 (2024 — $12.22). The Black-Scholes option pricing model used the following assumptions to determine the fair value of options granted during the years ending December 31:
| Weighted average assumptions | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Risk-free interest rate | 2.9 | % | 3.5 | % | ||
| Expected volatility | 23.0 | % | 22.7 | % | ||
| Expected dividend yield | 4.0 | % | 4.0 | % | ||
| Expected life of the option (in years) | 6.8 | 6.8 | ||||
| Exercise price | $ | 79.16 | $ | 73.19 |
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.
| 94 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
18.B Employee Share Ownership Plan
In Canada, we match eligible employees’ contributions to the Sun Life Financial Employee Stock Plan. Employees may elect to contribute from 1% to 50% of their target annual compensation (to a maximum eligible compensation of 100,000 dollars). Under this plan, the match is provided for all eligible employees and is equal to 50% of the employee’s contributions up to 5% of an employee’s target annual compensation. The match is further capped by a two thousand five hundred dollar annual maximum. Our contributions vest immediately and are expensed. Prior to July 1, 2024, eligible employees were able to elect to contribute from 1% to 20% of their target annual compensation (to a maximum eligible compensation of 100,000 dollars). Under this previous version of the plan, the match was provided for all eligible employees and was equal to 50% of the employee’s contributions up to 5% of an employee’s annual compensation. The match was further capped by a one thousand five hundred dollar annual maximum.
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 $18 for the year ended December 31, 2025 (2024 — $14).
18.C Other Share-Based Payment Plans
All other share-based payment plans use notional units that are valued based on the common share price on the TSX. Any fluctuation in the common share price changes the value of the units, which affects our share-based payment compensation expense. Upon redemption of these units, payments are made to the employees with a corresponding reduction in the accrued liability. We use equity swaps and forwards to hedge our exposure to variations in cash flows due to changes in the common share price for all of these plans.
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 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:
| Number of units (in thousands) | Sun Shares | DSUs | Total | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Units outstanding December 31, 2025 | 5,212 | 705 | 5,917 | ||||
| Units outstanding December 31, 2024 | 5,013 | 684 | 5,697 | ||||
| Liability accrued as at December 31, 2025 | $ | 324 | $ | 52 | $ | 376 | |
| Liability accrued as at December 31, 2024 | $ | 306 | $ | 49 | $ | 355 |
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.
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compensation expense | $ | 135 | $ | 206 |
| Income tax expense (benefit) | $ | (35) | $ | (54) |
18.D Share-Based Payment Plans of MFS
Share-based payment awards within MFS are based on their own shares. Restricted share awards are settled in MFS shares and restricted stock unit awards are settled in cash. Restricted share awards and restricted stock unit awards generally vest over a four-year period and continued employment is generally the only service requirement for these awards. Holders of restricted share awards and restricted stock unit awards are entitled to receive non-forfeitable dividend equivalent payments during the vesting period at the same rate as the dividends on MFS’s shares.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 95 |
|---|
Although restricted share 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 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, 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, 2025 was $903 (December 31, 2024 — $1,040) which includes a liability of $716 (December 31, 2024 — $827) for the restricted shares and outstanding MFS shares.
Compensation expense and the Income tax expense (benefit) for these awards for the years ended December 31 are shown in the following table:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compensation expense | $ | 339 | $ | 384 |
| Income tax expense (benefit) | $ | (66) | $ | (69) |
| 19. Income Taxes | ||||
| --- |
19.A Deferred Income Taxes
The following represents the deferred tax assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deferred tax assets(1) | $ | 3,803 | $ | 3,910 |
| Deferred tax liabilities(1) | 301 | 286 | ||
| Net deferred tax asset | $ | 3,502 | $ | 3,624 |
(1) Our deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.
The movement in net deferred tax assets for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
| Investments | Policy<br><br>liabilities(1) | Deferred<br>acquisition<br>costs | Losses<br>available<br>for carry<br>forward | Pension<br>and other<br>employee<br>benefits | Other(2) | Total | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance, January 1, 2024 | $ | (102) | $ | 2,479 | $ | 76 | $ | 976 | $ | 327 | $ | (159) | $ | 3,597 | |||||
| Acquisitions (disposals) through business combinations | — | — | — | (7) | — | 8 | 1 | ||||||||||||
| Charged to statement of operations | (101) | 193 | 7 | (296) | 11 | 123 | (63) | ||||||||||||
| Charged to other comprehensive income | 2 | — | — | (31) | (7) | (5) | (41) | ||||||||||||
| Charged to equity, other than other comprehensive income | 84 | — | — | 10 | — | — | 94 | ||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements and Other | (6) | 5 | 6 | (1) | 24 | 8 | 36 | ||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2024 | $ | (123) | $ | 2,677 | $ | 89 | $ | 651 | $ | 355 | $ | (25) | $ | 3,624 | |||||
| Acquisitions (disposals) through business combinations | — | — | — | 10 | — | (18) | (8) | ||||||||||||
| Charged to statement of operations | (346) | 418 | 9 | (186) | (16) | 163 | 42 | ||||||||||||
| Charged to other comprehensive income | (28) | (17) | — | (8) | (4) | 4 | (53) | ||||||||||||
| Charged to equity, other than other comprehensive income | (87) | — | — | 10 | — | — | (77) | ||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements and Other | 38 | (16) | (5) | (11) | (12) | (20) | (26) | ||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2025 | $ | (546) | $ | 3,062 | $ | 93 | $ | 466 | $ | 323 | $ | 104 | $ | 3,502 |
(1) Consists of Insurance contract assets and liabilities, Reinsurance contract held assets and liabilities, and Investment contract liabilities.
(2) Includes unused tax credits.
We have accumulated non-capital tax losses, primarily in Canada, Indonesia and Vietnam, totaling $2,243 (2024 — $3,205). The benefit of these tax losses has been recognized to the extent that it is probable that the benefit will be realized. In addition, in the U.S., we have net capital losses of $67 (2024 — $10) for which a deferred tax asset of $14 (2024 — $2) has been recognized. Unused tax losses for which a deferred tax asset has not been recognized amount to $349 as of December 31, 2025 (2024 — $629) primarily in Indonesia and Vietnam. We also have capital losses of $255 in Canada (2024 — $343) for which a deferred tax asset of $6 (2024 — $18) has been recognized and a deferred tax asset of $28 (2024 — $27) 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.
| 96 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
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 2035 and the capital losses 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.
The Global Minimum Tax ("GMT") rules apply to us effective January 1, 2024. The Canadian GMT legislation requires the ultimate parent entity of a group to pay top-up tax, on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis, on profits of its subsidiaries that are taxed below 15%. Some jurisdictions have enacted a Qualifying Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax ("QDMTT") which requires the GMT top-up tax to be paid in the local jurisdiction rather than to the ultimate parent entity's jurisdiction. In response to the GMT rules, Bermuda has enacted a Corporate Income Tax ("CIT") regime, including a corporate income tax rate of 15%, which applies to us effective January 1, 2025. The Bermuda CIT is not a QDMTT for the purposes of GMT. Top-up tax may still be payable by the ultimate parent entity under the Income Inclusion Rule, depending on the effective tax rate in Bermuda. Our other subsidiaries that are currently subject to a statutory tax rate or to a tax regime that could result in taxing profits at a rate below 15% include those in Hong Kong and Ireland, which have both enacted a QDMTT. The Current income tax expense (benefit) for the year ended December 31, 2025 includes tax expense related to Pillar Two income taxes of $5 (2024 — $98).
The IASB issued amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes in May 2023, which provided a mandatory temporary exception to the recognition and disclosure of information about deferred taxes arising from Pillar Two, and we have applied this temporary exception. Our deferred taxes will not reflect impacts of Pillar Two while the mandatory exception is applicable.
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 foreseeable future. As at December 31, 2025, temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches, joint ventures and associates for which a deferred tax liability has not been recognized amount to $4,960 (2024 — $3,947).
19.B Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
In our Consolidated Statements of Operations, Income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31 has the following components:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current income tax expense (benefit): | ||||
| Current year | $ | 1,164 | $ | 1,186 |
| Adjustments in respect of prior years, including resolution of tax disputes | (106) | (209) | ||
| Total current income tax expense (benefit) | 1,058 | 977 | ||
| Deferred income tax expense (benefit): | ||||
| Origination and reversal of temporary differences | (90) | (163) | ||
| Adjustments in respect of prior years, including resolution of tax disputes | 51 | 203 | ||
| Tax expense (benefit) arising from unrecognized tax losses | (15) | 23 | ||
| Tax rate and other legislative changes | 12 | — | ||
| Total deferred income tax expense (benefit) | (42) | 63 | ||
| Total income tax expense (benefit) | $ | 1,016 | $ | 1,040 |
Income tax benefit (expense) recognized directly in equity for the years ended December 31:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recognized in other comprehensive income: | ||||
| Current income tax benefit (expense) | $ | — | $ | (2) |
| Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | (53) | (41) | ||
| Total recognized in other comprehensive income | (53) | (43) | ||
| Recognized in equity, other than other comprehensive income: | ||||
| Current income tax benefit (expense) | (33) | (16) | ||
| Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | (77) | 94 | ||
| Total recognized in equity, other than other comprehensive income | (110) | 78 | ||
| Total income tax benefit (expense) recorded in equity, including tax benefit (expense) recorded in Other comprehensive income | $ | (163) | $ | 35 |
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 97 | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
Our effective income tax rate differs from the combined Canadian federal and provincial statutory income tax rate as follows:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| % | % | |||||
| Total net income (loss) | $ | 3,782 | $ | 3,299 | ||
| Add: Income tax expense (benefit) | 1,016 | 1,040 | ||||
| Total net income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 4,798 | $ | 4,339 | ||
| Taxes at the combined Canadian federal and provincial statutory income tax rate | $ | 1,331 | 27.8 | $ | 1,204 | 27.8 |
| Increase (decrease) in rate resulting from: | ||||||
| Higher (lower) effective rates on income subject to taxation in foreign jurisdictions | (188) | (3.9) | (248) | (5.7) | ||
| Tax-exempt or low-taxed investment (income) loss | (26) | (0.5) | 16 | 0.4 | ||
| Adjustments in respect of prior years, including resolution of tax disputes | (55) | (1.2) | (6) | (0.1) | ||
| Tax (benefit) cost of unrecognized tax losses and tax credits | (15) | (0.3) | 23 | 0.5 | ||
| Tax rate and other legislative changes | 12 | 0.3 | — | — | ||
| Other | (43) | (1.0) | 51 | 1.1 | ||
| Total tax expense (benefit) and effective income tax rate | $ | 1,016 | 21.2 | $ | 1,040 | 24.0 |
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, earnings arising in tax jurisdictions with statutory rates lower than the Canadian statutory rate of 27.75% (rounded to 27.8% in the table above) reduce our tax expense and these differences are reported in Higher (lower) effective rates on income subject to taxation in foreign jurisdictions.
Tax-exempt or low-taxed 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.
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 2024, it included the finalization of the prior year's Hong Kong tax filings and an accrual relating to tax matters in the Philippines.
Tax (benefit) cost of unrecognized tax losses and tax credits primarily reflects unrecognized losses in Asia.
In 2025, tax rate and other legislative changes reflects impacts relating to the deductibility of US executive compensation, pursuant to the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Act which was enacted on July 4, 2025.
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. In 2025, Other included the impact of a non-taxable gain on the acquisition of the additional interest in Bowtie. In 2024, Other included the tax impact of a non-deductible impairment charge on an intangible asset in Vietnam.
| 20. Capital Management |
|---|
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, 2025, SLF Inc.’s LICAT ratio exceeded the regulatory minimum target as set out by the OSFI.
| 98 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
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 140% as at December 31, 2025, 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, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
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, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
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, 2025 and December 31, 2024. 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.
Our capital base presented in the table below consists mainly of common shareholders’ equity, preferred shares and other equity instruments, equity in the participating account, NCI’s equity, CSM, and certain other capital securities that qualify as regulatory capital.
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subordinated debt | $ | 8,171 | $ | 6,179 |
| Innovative capital instruments(1) | 200 | 200 | ||
| Equity: | ||||
| Preferred shares and other equity instruments | 2,239 | 2,239 | ||
| Common shareholders’ equity(2) | 22,293 | 23,318 | ||
| Equity in the participating account | 696 | 496 | ||
| Non-controlling interests’ equity | 264 | 76 | ||
| Contractual Service Margin | 14,492 | 13,366 | ||
| Total capital(3) | $ | 48,355 | $ | 45,874 |
(1) Innovative capital instruments are SLEECS issued by SLCT I (Note 12). SLCT I is not consolidated by us.
(2) Common shareholders' equity is equal to Total shareholders' equity less Preferred shares and other equity instruments.
(3) For regulatory reporting purposes under the LICAT framework, there were further adjustments, including goodwill, non-life investments, and others as prescribed by OSFI, to the total capital figure presented in the table above.
| 21. Segregated Funds |
|---|
We have segregated fund products, including variable annuities, unit-linked products and variable 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 and other net investment income earned 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 and sometimes insurance risk as a result of these guarantees. Further details on these guarantees and our risk management activities related to these guarantees are included in Notes 6 and 7.
Segregated fund contracts are classified as insurance contracts or investment contracts depending on whether there is significant insurance risk in the guarantees we provide. Segregated funds that are classified as insurance contracts are insurance contracts with direct participation features, and therefore measured using the VFA.
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. Fees from segregated fund contracts that are classified as investment contracts are reported as Fee Income on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Fees from segregated fund contracts that are classified as insurance contracts are reflected in the measurement of CSM of those contracts, which is reported as revenue as insurance contract services are provided.
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, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
| Type of fund | % | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Money market | 1 to 5 | |||||
| Fixed income | 5 to 10 | |||||
| Balanced | 40 to 45 | |||||
| Equity | 45 to 50 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 99 | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
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.
21.A Segregated Funds Classified as Investment Contracts
21.A.i Investments for Account of Segregated Fund Holders — Investment Contracts
The carrying value of investments for account of segregated fund holders for contracts classified as investment contracts are as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Segregated and mutual fund units | $ | 144,766 | $ | 126,867 | ||
| Equity securities | 1,149 | 1,049 | ||||
| Debt securities | 532 | 773 | ||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | 3 | 3 | ||||
| Other | 8 | (3) | ||||
| Total investments for account of segregated fund holders | $ | 146,458 | $ | 128,689 |
21.A.ii Changes in Account of Segregated Fund Holders — Investment Contracts
| For years ended and as at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 128,689 | $ | 109,411 | ||
| Additions to segregated funds: | ||||||
| Deposits | 16,754 | 12,922 | ||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | 7,573 | 11,412 | ||||
| Other investment income | 10,362 | 7,487 | ||||
| Total additions | 34,689 | 31,821 | ||||
| Deductions from segregated funds: | ||||||
| Payments to policyholders and their beneficiaries | 15,976 | 11,718 | ||||
| Management fees | 880 | 784 | ||||
| Taxes and other expenses | 60 | 49 | ||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | 4 | (8) | ||||
| Total deductions | 16,920 | 12,543 | ||||
| Net additions (deductions) | 17,769 | 19,278 | ||||
| Balance, end of year | $ | 146,458 | $ | 128,689 |
21.B Segregated Funds Classified as Insurance Contracts
21.B.i Investments for Account of Segregated Fund Holders — Insurance Contracts
The carrying value of investments for account of segregated fund holders for contracts classified as insurance contracts, which are the underlying items for the insurance contracts, are as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Segregated and mutual fund units | $ | 15,628 | $ | 15,084 | |||||||
| Equity securities | 2,512 | 3,113 | |||||||||
| Debt securities | 1,741 | 1,607 | |||||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and short-term securities | 302 | 394 | |||||||||
| Mortgages | 6 | 7 | |||||||||
| Other assets | 41 | 52 | |||||||||
| Total assets | 20,230 | 20,257 | |||||||||
| Less: Liabilities arising from investing activities | 122 | 160 | |||||||||
| Total investments for account of segregated fund holders | $ | 20,108 | $ | 20,097 | 100 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
21.B.ii Changes in Account of Segregated Fund Holders — Insurance Contracts
Changes by Measurement Component
The following reconciliation illustrates the insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders by measurement component. For insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders, the entire amount is included in the estimates of PV of future cash flows. Reconciliations for the net liabilities of segregated fund insurance contracts that are not backed by investments for account of segregated fund holders are included as part of the insurance contract liabilities in Note 10.B.i.
| For years ended and as at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 20,097 | $ | 19,041 | ||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses | 1,901 | 2,316 | ||||
| Foreign currency translation | (431) | 388 | ||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||
| Premiums received | 2,098 | 2,016 | ||||
| Amounts paid to policyholders and other insurance service expenses paid | (2,744) | (2,814) | ||||
| Management fees, taxes and other expenses | (813) | (850) | ||||
| Total cash flows | (1,459) | (1,648) | ||||
| Balance, end of year | $ | 20,108 | $ | 20,097 |
Changes by Remaining Coverage and Incurred Claims
The following table shows the changes in the liabilities for insurance contracts for account of segregated fund holders by LRC and LIC. Reconciliations for the remainder of liabilities for segregated funds that are classified as insurance contracts are in Note 10.B.i.
| For the years ended and as at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net liabilities for remaining coverage: | ||||||||||||
| Balances, beginning of year | $ | 20,097 | $ | 19,041 | ||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses | 1,901 | 2,316 | ||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (431) | 388 | ||||||||||
| Total changes | 1,470 | 2,704 | ||||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||
| Premiums received | 2,098 | 2,016 | ||||||||||
| Management fees, taxes and other expenses | (813) | (850) | ||||||||||
| Total cash flows | 1,285 | 1,166 | ||||||||||
| Expected investment component excluded from insurance revenue | (2,744) | (2,814) | ||||||||||
| Balances, liability for remaining coverage, end of year | $ | 20,108 | $ | 20,097 | ||||||||
| Liability for incurred claims: | ||||||||||||
| Balances, beginning of year | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||
| Amounts paid to policyholders and other insurance service expenses paid | (2,744) | (2,814) | ||||||||||
| Total cash flows | (2,744) | (2,814) | ||||||||||
| Actual investment component excluded from insurance service expense | 2,744 | 2,814 | ||||||||||
| Balances, liability for incurred claims, end of year | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
| Total net insurance contract liability: | ||||||||||||
| Balances, beginning of year | $ | 20,097 | $ | 19,041 | ||||||||
| Insurance finance (income) expenses | 1,901 | 2,316 | ||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | (431) | 388 | ||||||||||
| Total changes | 1,470 | 2,704 | ||||||||||
| Cash flows: | ||||||||||||
| Premiums received | 2,098 | 2,016 | ||||||||||
| Amounts paid to policyholders and other insurance service expenses paid | (2,744) | (2,814) | ||||||||||
| Management fees, taxes and other expenses | (813) | (850) | ||||||||||
| Total cash flows | (1,459) | (1,648) | ||||||||||
| Balances, total net insurance contract liability, end of year | $ | 20,108 | $ | 20,097 | ||||||||
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 101 | |||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||||||
| 22. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies | ||||||||||||
| --- |
22.A Lease Commitments
We lease offices and certain equipment. These are leases with rents charged to operations in the year to which they relate. Total future rental payments for the remainder of these leases and the payments by year are included in Note 6.C.ii.
22.B Contractual Commitments
In the normal course of business, various contractual commitments are outstanding, which are not reflected in our Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition to loan commitments for debt securities and mortgages included in Note 6.A.i, we have equity, investment property, and property and equipment commitments. The contractual commitments outstanding as at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, and the expected maturities of these commitments are included in Note 6.C.ii.
22.C Letters of Credit
We issue commercial letters of credit in the normal course of business. As at December 31, 2025, we had credit facilities of $1,034 available for the issuance of letters of credit (December 31, 2024 — $1,077), from which a total of $77 in letters of credit were outstanding (December 31, 2024 — $120).
22.D Commissions on Release
Commissions on Release ("CORe") is a program designed to facilitate the transfer of the right to service Clients between advisors in order to provide ongoing service and advice to our Clients. We facilitate and administer these transactions including payment and collection streams. Under the CORe program, when an eligible advisor releases Clients they are servicing, we are contractually obligated to pay them the associated CORe value, based on a specified formula as stipulated in the advisor contract. The value of the CORe commitment will vary for Clients which have not been released by an active advisor. The occurrence of future events that will trigger an advisor to release their right to service Clients and the value of the related CORe commitment at that future release date is difficult to predict. As a result of uncertainty in the timing of the triggering event, we cannot reliably estimate our commitment under the CORe program. Due to the nature of the program, in the normal course of business, the commitment related to the future payment to advisors on release of their right to service Clients would be expected to be matched or partially matched by a corresponding amount related to the receivable on the assignment of the right to service the Client by the new advisors, resulting in an immaterial impact to earnings and liquidity in any reporting period.
22.E Indemnities and Guarantees
In the normal course of our business, we have entered into agreements that include indemnities in favour of third parties, such as confidentiality agreements, engagement letters with advisors and consultants, outsourcing agreements, leasing contracts, trade-mark licensing agreements, underwriting and agency agreements, information technology agreements, distribution agreements, financing agreements, the sale of equity interests, and service agreements. 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, changes in regulations (including tax matters), or as a result of litigation claims or statutory sanctions that may be suffered by the counterparty as a consequence of the transaction. We have also agreed to indemnify our directors and certain of our officers and employees in accordance with our by-laws. These indemnification provisions will vary based upon the nature and terms of the agreements. In many cases, these indemnification provisions do not contain limits on our liability, and the occurrence of contingent events that will trigger payment under these indemnities is difficult to predict. As a result, we cannot estimate our potential liability under these indemnities. We believe that the likelihood of conditions arising that would trigger these indemnities is remote and, historically, we have not made any significant payment under such indemnification provisions. In certain cases, we have recourse against third parties with respect to the aforesaid indemnities, and we also maintain insurance policies that may provide coverage against certain of these claims.
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, 2025, 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.
Guarantees made by us that can be quantified are included in Note 6.A.i.
22.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 preferred shares issued from time to time by Sun Life Assurance, 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.
| 102 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|
The following tables set forth certain consolidating summary financial information for SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance (consolidated):
| For the year ended | SLF Inc.(unconsolidated) | Sun Life<br>Assurance<br>(consolidated) | Other<br>subsidiaries of<br>SLF Inc.<br>(combined) | Consolidation<br>adjustments | SLF Inc.<br>(consolidated) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance revenue | $ | — | $ | 20,602 | $ | 5,026 | $ | (1,646) | $ | 23,982 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) excluding result for segregated fund holders | 489 | 8,276 | 824 | (730) | 8,859 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fee income | 1 | 2,226 | 7,417 | (585) | 9,059 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenue | $ | 490 | $ | 31,104 | $ | 13,267 | $ | (2,961) | $ | 41,900 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shareholders’ net income (loss) | $ | 3,551 | $ | 2,306 | $ | 1,065 | $ | (3,371) | $ | 3,551 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance revenue | $ | — | $ | 19,389 | $ | 4,841 | $ | (1,593) | $ | 22,637 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income (loss) excluding result for segregated fund holders | 305 | 7,138 | 242 | (270) | 7,415 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fee income | 1 | 1,992 | 7,128 | (540) | 8,581 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other income | — | — | 163 | — | 163 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenue | $ | 306 | $ | 28,519 | $ | 12,374 | $ | (2,403) | $ | 38,796 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shareholders’ net income (loss) | $ | 3,128 | $ | 1,501 | $ | 1,675 | $ | (3,175) | $ | 3,129 | Assets and liabilities as at | SLF Inc.(unconsolidated) | Sun Life<br>Assurance<br>(consolidated) | Other<br>subsidiaries of<br>SLF Inc.<br>(combined) | Consolidation<br>adjustments | SLF Inc.<br>(consolidated) | ||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |||||||||||||||||
| December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Invested assets | $ | 29,520 | $ | 182,490 | $ | 12,447 | $ | (25,282) | $ | 199,175 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets | $ | — | $ | 6,156 | $ | 1 | $ | (19) | $ | 6,138 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets | $ | — | $ | 267 | $ | 1,221 | $ | (1,153) | $ | 335 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total other general fund assets | $ | 10,663 | $ | 14,674 | $ | 22,663 | $ | (21,759) | $ | 26,241 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investments for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 166,501 | $ | 64 | $ | 1 | $ | 166,566 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities excluding those for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 155,818 | $ | 112 | $ | (20) | $ | 155,910 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities | $ | — | $ | 3,202 | $ | — | $ | (1,153) | $ | 2,049 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities | $ | — | $ | 11,796 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 11,796 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total other general fund liabilities | $ | 15,651 | $ | 15,871 | $ | 26,273 | $ | (21,153) | $ | 36,642 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 20,043 | $ | 64 | $ | 1 | $ | 20,108 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 146,458 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 146,458 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Invested assets | $ | 28,494 | $ | 175,508 | $ | 12,449 | $ | (26,634) | $ | 189,817 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held assets | $ | — | $ | 6,353 | $ | — | $ | (35) | $ | 6,318 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract assets | $ | — | $ | 227 | $ | 1,583 | $ | (1,455) | $ | 355 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total other general fund assets | $ | 4,639 | $ | 13,979 | $ | 10,299 | $ | (3,472) | $ | 25,445 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investments for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 148,720 | $ | 66 | $ | — | $ | 148,786 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities excluding those for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 147,196 | $ | 108 | $ | (35) | $ | 147,269 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reinsurance contract held liabilities | $ | — | $ | 3,281 | $ | — | $ | (1,456) | $ | 1,825 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities | $ | — | $ | 11,677 | $ | 1 | $ | — | $ | 11,678 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total other general fund liabilities | $ | 7,576 | $ | 16,191 | $ | 15,589 | $ | (4,322) | $ | 35,034 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 20,031 | $ | 66 | $ | — | $ | 20,097 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment contract liabilities for account of segregated fund holders | $ | — | $ | 128,689 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 128,689 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 103 | ||||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
22.G Legal and Regulatory Proceedings
We are regularly involved in legal actions, both as a defendant and as a plaintiff. Legal actions naming us as a defendant ordinarily involve our activities as a provider of insurance protection and wealth management products, as an investor and investment advisor, and as an employer. In addition, government and regulatory bodies in Canada, the U.S., the UK, and Asia, including federal, provincial, and state securities and insurance regulators, tax authorities, and other government authorities, from time to time, make inquiries and require the production of information or conduct examinations or investigations concerning our compliance with tax, insurance, securities, and other laws.
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 were 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 were 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) was issued 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 dismissal of all of the claims. The plaintiffs have brought a cross-motion for summary judgement. The other action (Alamwala v Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada) has been dismissed on consent. We will continue to vigorously defend against the claims in the Fehr action. 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 the Fehr lawsuit result in a loss, Sun Life Assurance will seek recourse against MLIC under that indemnity through arbitration.
An Ontario class action lawsuit has been certified against Sun Life Assurance regarding the administration of disability benefits under the Government of Canada employee benefits plan (Belec v Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada). Notice of the class action has been sent to potential class members. The Company has substantive defences to the claims and is defending this lawsuit.
Management does not believe that the probable conclusion of any current legal, regulatory or tax 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.
| 23. 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 15. 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.
23.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:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Executive team | Directors | Executive team | Directors | |||||||||
| Number of individuals | 14 | 12 | 14 | 13 | ||||||||
| Base salary and annual incentive compensation | $ | 27 | $ | — | $ | 24 | $ | — | ||||
| Additional short-term benefits and other | $ | 1 | $ | 1 | $ | 1 | $ | — | ||||
| Share-based long-term incentive compensation | $ | 42 | $ | 3 | $ | 47 | $ | 4 | ||||
| Value of pension and post-retirement benefits | $ | 3 | $ | — | $ | 2 | $ | — | ||||
| Severance | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 5 | $ | — |
23.B Other Related Party Transactions
We provide investment management services for our pension plans. The services are provided on substantially the same terms as for comparable transactions with third parties. We also hold units of investment funds managed by certain of our joint ventures. The carrying amount of our investment in these funds is included in Note 15.D.
| 104 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24. Pension Plans and Other Post-Retirement Benefits | |||
| --- |
We sponsor defined benefit pension plans and defined contribution plans for eligible employees. All of our significant defined benefit plans worldwide are closed to new entrants with new hires participating in defined contribution plans. Significant defined benefit plans are located in Canada and the U.S. 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 of December 31, 2014, there are no active members in 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. 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.
24.A Risks Associated with Employee Defined Benefit Plans
With the closure of the significant 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 significant defined benefit pension plans Company-wide by shifting the pension asset mix away from equities and into more fixed income and liability-matching investments. The target for our significant funded defined benefit pension plans is to minimize volatility in funded status arising from changes in discount rates and exposure to equity markets.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 105 |
|---|
24.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:
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pension | Other post-retirement | Total | Pension | Other post-retirement | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Change in defined benefit obligations: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Defined benefit obligation, January 1 | $ | 2,499 | $ | 221 | $ | 2,720 | $ | 2,483 | $ | 215 | $ | 2,698 | |||||||||
| Current service cost | 35 | 9 | 44 | 35 | 8 | 43 | |||||||||||||||
| Interest cost | 119 | 11 | 130 | 116 | 11 | 127 | |||||||||||||||
| Actuarial losses (gains) | (63) | (5) | (68) | (35) | (4) | (39) | |||||||||||||||
| Benefits paid | (155) | (12) | (167) | (134) | (14) | (148) | |||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | (23) | (4) | (27) | 34 | 5 | 39 | |||||||||||||||
| Defined benefit obligation, December 31 | $ | 2,412 | $ | 220 | $ | 2,632 | $ | 2,499 | $ | 221 | $ | 2,720 | |||||||||
| Change in plan assets: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | $ | 2,427 | $ | — | $ | 2,427 | $ | 2,393 | $ | — | $ | 2,393 | |||||||||
| Administrative expense | (1) | — | (1) | (1) | — | (1) | |||||||||||||||
| Interest income on plan assets | 116 | — | 116 | 114 | — | 114 | |||||||||||||||
| Return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest expense) | (43) | — | (43) | (13) | — | (13) | |||||||||||||||
| Employer contributions | 51 | 12 | 63 | 34 | 14 | 48 | |||||||||||||||
| Benefits paid | (155) | (12) | (167) | (134) | (14) | (148) | |||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | (24) | — | (24) | 34 | — | 34 | |||||||||||||||
| Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | $ | 2,371 | $ | — | $ | 2,371 | $ | 2,427 | $ | — | $ | 2,427 | |||||||||
| Amounts recognized on Statement of Financial Position: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair value of plan assets | $ | 2,371 | $ | — | $ | 2,371 | $ | 2,427 | $ | — | $ | 2,427 | |||||||||
| Defined benefit (obligation) | (2,412) | (220) | (2,632) | (2,499) | (221) | (2,720) | |||||||||||||||
| Net recognized (liability) asset, December 31 | $ | (41) | $ | (220) | $ | (261) | $ | (72) | $ | (221) | $ | (293) | |||||||||
| Components of net benefit expense recognized: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Current service cost | $ | 35 | $ | 9 | $ | 44 | $ | 35 | $ | 8 | $ | 43 | |||||||||
| Administrative expense | 1 | — | 1 | 1 | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||
| Net interest expense (income) | 3 | 11 | 14 | 2 | 11 | 13 | |||||||||||||||
| Other long-term employee benefit losses (gains) | — | (5) | (5) | — | 5 | 5 | |||||||||||||||
| Net benefit expense | $ | 39 | $ | 15 | $ | 54 | $ | 38 | $ | 24 | $ | 62 | |||||||||
| Remeasurement of net recognized (liability) asset: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest expense) | $ | (43) | $ | — | $ | (43) | $ | (13) | $ | — | $ | (13) | |||||||||
| Actuarial gains (losses) arising from changes in demographic assumptions | — | (3) | (3) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
| Actuarial gains (losses) arising from changes in financial assumptions | 73 | 5 | 78 | 36 | 2 | 38 | |||||||||||||||
| Actuarial gains (losses) arising from experience adjustments | (10) | (2) | (12) | (1) | 7 | 6 | |||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange rate movements | (1) | 4 | 3 | — | (5) | (5) | |||||||||||||||
| Components of defined benefit costs recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss) | $ | 19 | $ | 4 | $ | 23 | $ | 22 | $ | 4 | $ | 26 | 106 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
24.C Principal Assumptions for Significant Plans
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada % | U.S. % | Canada % | U.S. % | ||
| To determine defined benefit obligation at end of year: | |||||
| Discount rate for pension plans | 5.00 | 5.55 | 4.70 | 5.70 | |
| Rate of compensation increase | 2.70 | n/a | 2.80 | n/a | |
| Pension increases | 0.00-0.20 | n/a | 0.00-0.20 | n/a | |
| To determine net benefit expense for year: | |||||
| Discount rate for pension plans | 4.70 | 5.70 | 4.60 | 5.35 | |
| Rate of compensation increase | 2.80 | n/a | 2.70 | n/a | |
| Pension increases | 0.00-0.20 | n/a | 0.00-0.20 | n/a | |
| Health care trend rates: | |||||
| Initial health care trend rate | 4.93 | 8.00 | 5.02 | 7.00 | |
| Ultimate health care trend rate | 4.00 | 5.00 | 4.00 | 5.00 | |
| Year ultimate health care trend rate reached | 2040 | 2038 | 2040 | 2033 | |
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| Canada | U.S. | Canada | U.S. | ||
| Mortality rates: | |||||
| Life expectancy (in years) for individuals currently at age 65: | |||||
| Male | 24 | 22 | 24 | 22 | |
| Female | 25 | 24 | 25 | 23 | |
| Life expectancy (in years) at 65 for individuals currently at age 45: | |||||
| Male | 25 | 23 | 25 | 23 | |
| Female | 26 | 25 | 26 | 25 | |
| Average duration (in years) of pension obligation | 13.2 | 9.6 | 13.6 | 9.6 |
Discount Rate, Rate of Compensation Increase and Health Care Cost
The major economic assumptions which are used in determining the actuarial present value of the accrued benefit obligations vary by country.
The discount rate assumption used for significant 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.
24.D Sensitivity of Key Assumptions
The following table provides the potential impact of changes in key assumptions on the defined benefit obligation for pension and other post-retirement benefit plans as at December 31, 2025. These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be used with caution. The impact of changes in each key assumption may result in greater than proportional changes in sensitivities.
| Pension | Post-retirement<br>benefits | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interest/discount rate sensitivity:(1) | ||||||
| 1% decrease | $ | 331 | $ | 21 | ||
| 1% increase | $ | (269) | $ | (18) | ||
| Rate of compensation increase assumption: | ||||||
| 1% decrease | $ | (41) | n/a | |||
| 1% increase | $ | 46 | n/a | |||
| Health care trend rate assumption: | ||||||
| 1% decrease | n/a | $ | (11) | |||
| 1% increase | n/a | $ | 12 | |||
| Mortality rates:(2) | ||||||
| 10% decrease | $ | 50 | $ | 3 |
(1) Represents a parallel shift in interest rates across the entire yield curve, resulting in a change in the discount rate assumption.
(2) Represents 10% decrease in mortality rates at each age.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 107 |
|---|
24.E Fair Value of Plan Assets
The composition of fair value of plan assets is as follows:
| As at December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equity investments | 5 | % | 4 | % |
| Fixed income investments | 76 | % | 76 | % |
| Real estate investments | 11 | % | 12 | % |
| Other | 8 | % | 8 | % |
| Total composition of fair value of plan assets | 100 | % | 100 | % |
The fair value of our equity investments in 2025 and 2024 are consistent with Level 1 or Level 2 fair value hierarchy. In 2025, 3% of our fixed income investments (2024 — 3%) 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 significant defined benefit pension plans by shifting the pension asset mix away from equities and into more fixed income and liability-matching investments. 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.
24.F Future Cash Flows
The following tables set forth the expected contributions and expected future benefit payments of the defined benefit pension and other post-retirement benefit plans:
| Pension | Post-retirement | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expected contributions for the next 12 months | $ | 50 | $ | 18 | $ | 68 |
Expected Future Benefit Payments
| 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | 2030 | 2031 to 2035 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pension | $ | 136 | $ | 141 | $ | 146 | $ | 148 | $ | 152 | $ | 813 | |
| Post-retirement | 18 | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 119 | |||||||
| Total | $ | 154 | $ | 160 | $ | 165 | $ | 168 | $ | 173 | $ | 932 |
24.G Defined Contribution Plans
We expensed $234 in 2025 (2024 — $206) with respect to defined contribution plans.
| 25. Earnings (Loss) Per Share |
|---|
Details of the calculation of the net income (loss) and the weighted average number of shares used in the EPS computations are as follows:
| For the years ended December 31, | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common shareholders’ net income (loss) for basic earnings per share | $ | 3,472 | $ | 3,049 | ||
| Add: Increase in income due to convertible instruments(1) | 10 | 10 | ||||
| Common shareholders’ net income (loss) on a diluted basis | $ | 3,482 | $ | 3,059 | ||
| Weighted average number of common shares outstanding for basic earnings per share (in millions) | 563 | 579 | ||||
| Add: Dilutive impact of stock options(2) (in millions) | 1 | — | ||||
| Dilutive impact of convertible instruments(1) (in millions) | 2 | 3 | ||||
| Weighted average number of common shares outstanding on a diluted basis (in millions) | 566 | 582 | ||||
| Basic earnings (loss) per share | $ | 6.17 | $ | 5.27 | ||
| Diluted earnings (loss) per share | $ | 6.15 | $ | 5.26 |
(1) The convertible instruments are the SLEECS B issued by SLCT I.
(2) Excludes the impact of nil stock options for the year ended December 31, 2025 (2024 — 1 million) because these stock options were anti-dilutive for the period.
| 108 | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | |||
| --- |
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes, are as follows:
| For the year ended | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance,<br><br>beginning<br><br>of year | (1) | Other<br>comprehensive income (loss) | Balance,<br><br>end of<br><br>year | Balance,<br><br>beginning<br><br>of year | (1) | Other<br>comprehensive<br>income (loss) | Balance,<br><br>end of<br><br>year | (1) | |||||||||||||
| Items that may be reclassified subsequently to income: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses), net of hedging activities | $ | 2,696 | $ | (899) | $ | 1,797 | $ | 1,350 | $ | 1,346 | $ | 2,696 | |||||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) on FVOCI assets | (250) | 255 | 5 | (354) | 104 | (250) | |||||||||||||||
| Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges | 4 | (3) | 1 | (1) | 5 | 4 | |||||||||||||||
| Share of other comprehensive income (loss) in joint ventures and associates | (163) | (203) | (366) | (364) | 201 | (163) | |||||||||||||||
| Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Remeasurement of defined benefit plans | (198) | 19 | (179) | (217) | 19 | (198) | |||||||||||||||
| Share of other comprehensive income (loss) in joint ventures and associates | (5) | 8 | 3 | 2 | (7) | (5) | |||||||||||||||
| Revaluation surplus on transfers to investment properties | 144 | — | 144 | 143 | 1 | 144 | |||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 2,228 | $ | (823) | $ | 1,405 | $ | 559 | $ | 1,669 | $ | 2,228 | |||||||||
| Total attributable to: | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Participating account | $ | 3 | $ | 6 | $ | 9 | $ | 6 | $ | (3) | $ | 3 | |||||||||
| Non-controlling interests | 11 | — | 11 | 1 | 10 | 11 | |||||||||||||||
| Shareholders | 2,214 | (829) | 1,385 | 552 | 1,662 | 2,214 | |||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 2,228 | $ | (823) | $ | 1,405 | $ | 559 | $ | 1,669 | $ | 2,228 |
(1) Balances have been restated. Refer to Note 2.
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | Sun Life Financial Inc. | December 31, 2025 | 109 |
|---|
Document
Annual Information Form
Sun Life Financial Inc.
For the Year Ended December 31, 2025
February 11, 2026
Annual Information Form 2025
Table of Contents
| Annual Information Form | Management's Discussion & Analysis(1) | Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes(1) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Structure | 3 | ||
| Development of the Business | 3 | Section B | |
| Business of Sun Life | 5 | Section B | |
| Financial Performance | Section B | Notes 8 – 13 | |
| Investments | Section I | Note 5 | |
| Risk Management | Section K | Note 6 | |
| Capital Structure | 7 | Section J | Note 20 |
| Dividends | 10 | Section J | Note 14 |
| Security Ratings | 11 | Section G | |
| Transfer Agents and Registrar | 14 | ||
| Directors and Executive Officers | 15 | ||
| Code of Conduct | 18 | ||
| Principal Accountant Fees and Services | 19 | ||
| Interests of Experts | 20 | ||
| Regulatory Matters | 20 | Section B | |
| Risk Factors | 34 | Section K | Notes 6-7 |
| Legal and Regulatory Proceedings | 34 | ||
| Additional Information | 34 | ||
| Appendix A - Charter of the Audit Committee | 35 |
(1) As indicated, parts of the Company’s MD&A, consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2025 are incorporated by reference in this AIF. The 2025 MD&A (as defined below) and the 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements (as defined below) may be accessed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively.
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Annual Information Form 2025
The following defined terms are used in this document.
| Abbreviation | Description | Abbreviation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| AIF | Annual Information Form | OSFI | Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, Canada |
| Board | The Board of Directors of SLF Inc. | SEC | United States Securities and Exchange Commission |
| IFRS | International Financial Reporting Standards | Sun Life Assurance | Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada |
| LICAT | Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test | SLF Inc. | Sun Life Financial Inc. |
| MD&A | Management's Discussion & Analysis | Superintendent | The Superintendent under the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Act |
| NAIC | National Association of Insurance Commissioners, United States |
Presentation of Information
In this AIF, SLF Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries are collectively referred to as "Sun Life", the "Company", "we", "us" or "our" and also includes, where applicable, our joint ventures and associates.
Unless otherwise indicated, all information in this AIF is presented as at and for the year ended December 31, 2025, and amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars. Financial information is presented in accordance with IFRS and the accounting requirements of OSFI.
Documents Incorporated by Reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in and form part of this AIF:
(i)SLF Inc.'s MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2025 (our "2025 MD&A"), and
(ii)SLF Inc.'s Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2025 (our "2025 Consolidated Financial Statements").
These documents have been filed with securities regulators in Canada and with the SEC and may be accessed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively.
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. Certain statements in this AIF and the documents incorporated by reference herein including, (i) statements relating to our strategies, (ii) statements relating to the new structure of our asset management pillar; (iii) statements relating to demographic, economic, and technological trends that impact our business, (iv) statements relating to the competitive environment we operate within; (v) statements that are predictive in nature, (vi) statements that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and (vii) statements that include words such as "achieve", "aim", "ambition", "anticipate", "aspiration", "assumption", "believe", "continue", "could", "estimate", "expect", "goal", "initiatives", "intend", "may", "objective", "outlook", "plan", "potential", "project", "seek", "should", "strategy", "strive", "target", "will" and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include 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. 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 matters set out in this AIF under the heading Risk Factors and in our annual MD&A under the heading Forward-Looking Statements, and the factors detailed in our annual and interim financial statements and other filings with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators, which are available for review at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively.
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. 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; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; and inflation; insurance risks - related to mortality experience, morbidity experience and longevity; policyholder behaviour; 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 geopolitical 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; shifts
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Annual Information Form 2025
in investing trends and Client preference towards products that differ from our investment products and strategies; changes in the legal or regulatory environment, including capital requirements and tax laws; environmental and social issues and their related 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 - changes to accounting standards in the jurisdictions in which we operate; risks associated with 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 judgments used in calculating taxes.
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.
Corporate Structure
SLF Inc. was incorporated under the Insurance Companies Act, Canada (the "Insurance Act") on August 5, 1999, to become the holding company of Sun Life Assurance in connection with the demutualization of Sun Life Assurance.
Sun Life Assurance was incorporated in 1865 as a stock insurance company and was converted into a mutual insurance company in 1962. On March 22, 2000, Sun Life Assurance implemented a plan of demutualization under which it converted back to a stock company pursuant to Letters Patent of Conversion issued under the Insurance Act. Under this plan of demutualization, Sun Life Assurance became a wholly-owned subsidiary of SLF Inc.
The head and registered office of SLF Inc. is located at 1 York Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 0B6.
SLF Inc. conducts its business worldwide through direct and indirect operating subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates. SLF Inc.’s principal subsidiaries are included in the subsidiaries listed in SLF Inc.’s annual report and that list of subsidiaries is incorporated herein by reference. That list includes the percentage of voting shares owned by SLF Inc., directly or indirectly, and where those companies are incorporated, continued, formed or organized. SLF Inc.’s current annual report is accessible on www.sedarplus.ca, www.sec.gov and www.sunlife.com.
We manage our operations and report our financial results in five business segments: Asset Management, Canada, United States ("U.S."), Asia and Corporate.
Development of the Business
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 U.S., the United Kingdom ("UK"), Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2025, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1.60 trillion.
Three Year History: Acquisitions, Disposals, and Other Developments
We assess our businesses and corporate strategies on an ongoing basis to ensure that we make optimal use of our capital and maximize shareholder value. The following summary outlines our major acquisitions, dispositions and other developments over the past three years across our business segments. Additional information is provided in Note 3 to SLF Inc.'s 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Asset Management
Effective January 1, 2026, we extended and formalized our asset management pillar in Sun Life Asset Management. In addition to MFS(1) and SLC Management, Sun Life Asset Management includes Sun Life's stake in Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset Management, previously part of the Asia business segment, as well as Sun Life's pension risk transfer business, previously part of the Canada business segment. This new structure will help accelerate growth between our asset management, insurance, and wealth businesses and drive strategic partnerships. Effective January 1, 2026, Sun Life's asset management financial results will reflect this new structure.
(1) MFS Investment Management ("MFS").
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Annual Information Form 2025
On August 22, 2024, we acquired the remaining 20% interest in InfraRed Capital Partners ("lnfraRed"). Since our initial acquisition of the majority stake in InfraRed on July 1, 2020, InfraRed has broadened SLC Management’s suite of alternative investment solutions while also creating the opportunity for InfraRed to access North American investors through our distribution networks.
On February 1, 2023, we completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Advisors Asset Management, Inc. ("AAM"), a leading independent retail distribution firm in the U.S. AAM provides access to U.S. retail distribution for SLC Management, and will allow SLC Management to meet the growing demand for alternative assets among U.S. high-net-worth investors. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Canada
On October 3, 2023, we completed the acquisition of Dialogue Health Technologies Inc. ("Dialogue"), increasing our ownership interest from 23% (as at December 2021 following an additional investment in Dialogue) to 95% for cash proceeds of $272 million (for equity not currently owned by Sun Life or rolled by certain members of Dialogue's executive management). Dialogue is a Canadian-based health and wellness virtual care platform and telemedicine provider. Dialogue forms a part of the Canada business segment. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements.
On February 1, 2023, we completed the sale of the sponsored markets business from Sun Life Assurance to Canadian Premier Life Insurance Company (re-branded to Securian Canada). For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Asia
On March 21, 2024, to meet regulatory obligations, we completed the sale of 6.3% of our ownership interest in Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited ("ABSLAMC"). Subsequently, on May 31, 2024, we sold an additional 0.2% of our ownership interest. As a result of the transactions, our ownership interest in ABSLAMC was reduced from 36.5% to 30.0%. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements.
On September 14, 2023, we announced an increase to our strategic investment in Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), Hong Kong's first virtual insurer. Subsequently, on July 15, 2025, we completed an additional $55 million cash investment in Bowtie, which increased our ownership interest, excluding dilution, by approximately 11%, and resulted in a total ownership interest of 55.8%. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Effective July 1, 2023, we commenced a 15-year exclusive bancassurance partnership in Hong Kong with Dah Sing Bank ("Dah Sing"). Under this partnership, Sun Life is the exclusive provider of life insurance solutions to Dah Sing's retail banking customers, helping to fulfill their savings and protection needs at different life stages. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements.
UK
On April 3, 2023, we completed the sale of SLF of Canada UK Limited ("Sun Life UK") to Phoenix Group Holdings plc ("Phoenix Group"). We retained our economic interest in Sun Life UK's payout annuities business, which was moved from the Corporate business segment to the U.S. business segment. As part of the sale, we established a long-term partnership to become a strategic asset management partner to Phoenix Group. As a result of the sale, we are no longer subject to the insurance or financial services regulatory regime in the UK. For additional information, refer to Note 3 of our 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other Developments
On April 8, 2024 Timothy Deacon was appointed as Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer, succeeding Manjit Singh, who was previously appointed as President of Sun Life Asia.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Business of Sun Life
Information about our business and operating segments, our strategy, products and methods of distribution, risk management policies and investment activities is included in the 2025 MD&A, which is incorporated by reference in this AIF.
The global financial services industry continues to evolve in response to demographic, economic, and technological trends. Specific trends that have an impact on our businesses include:
Demographic
•Major demographic shifts in developed markets include the aging of baby boomers and the growth of millennials as a Client segment. Aging baby boomers are generating greater demand for retirement and health solutions as they retire, contributing to the expansion of the retiree market, sometimes referred to as the "silver economy". This shift highlights the need to enhance advisor relationships and expertise to support their complex estate planning needs. Historic intergenerational wealth transfer is accelerating, reinforcing the importance of establishing trust with pre-retirees to support their evolving needs. In contrast, many millennials seek holistic financial advice, protection, and wealth accumulation solutions as they plan for major life events.
•The number of High-Net-Worth Individuals ("HNWI") and their pool of wealth continues to expand. Within this segment, Asia will continue to be a growth engine for HNWI while North America remains the largest market. Opportunities exist for financial service providers as HNWI seek solutions that enable them to optimally transfer wealth to future generations as well as an increasing need for more integrated and holistic wealth and asset management strategies.
•HNWI continue to allocate more assets to alternatives in order to generate yield, increase total returns, and enhance diversification. Alternative asset managers are evolving their product and distribution capabilities to serve this heightened demand. The continued rise of alternative asset management platforms is reshaping the industry, as firms broaden investment capabilities and distribution reach to meet the needs of institutional, retail, and HNWI seeking diversification and private access.
•Growing prosperity in Asia continues to expand the young middle class, driving long-term demand for insurance, savings, and investment products. Financial literacy needs and limited market penetration emphasize the importance of financial education, advice and scalable digital distribution.
•Consumers are more proactively managing both physical and mental health and wellness, leading to an increased demand for accessible and affordable solutions across their health journey. This has in turn led to increased demand for tools and products to support mental health and well-being. Rising medical costs (especially specialty drugs) highlight the need for strategic differentiation through comprehensive health solutions that aim to close the gaps in care and affordability.
•Clients’ focus on transparency and value for money continues to drive demand for low-cost investment solutions such as index funds. This trend challenges active managers to demonstrate performance and value, fostering innovation in product design and pricing models.
•Workforce expectations are also evolving as employees are demanding more holistic offerings, and an emphasis on health and well-being, values, purpose, and culture. Companies will have to offer a unique value proposition to win and retain top talent. Simultaneously, workforce composition is shifting with Gen Z representing a greater proportion of the workforce, and baby boomer's retiring. Organizations need to focus on preservation of institutional knowledge and bringing in the necessary digital tools to enable the new workforce. There is an increasing emphasis on career development that aligns with employee expectations, helping to ensure a satisfied, skilled, and “future-ready” workforce.
Economic
•Rising global geopolitical tensions are fueling economic concerns and instability worldwide. Recent indicators suggest that many countries face increased geopolitical risks amidst a shifting global landscape. The evolving situation underscores the importance of maintaining a strong capital position and diversified business portfolio.
•Although headline inflation has eased from recent highs, structural inflationary pressures persist. Individual and business purchasing power continues to be limited with rising credit risk remains under pressure amid higher costs of borrowing and tightening credit conditions.
•Shifting economic indicators are leading to changing investor sentiment and strategies. Many investors are looking towards traditional fixed income products given high yields, and others are seeking inflationary protection through inflation-hedged investments or alternatives. However, the underlying investment thesis remains largely unchanged, with investors continuing to prioritize yield and inflation protection in their portfolio allocations.
•Equity market volatility, which can be attributed to several factors such as economic growth, higher inflation, and interest rate movements, can lead to impacts on net flows and assets under management for asset management and wealth businesses. Generally, strong global equity market returns tend to result in an increase in earnings for asset management and wealth businesses, as higher market performance drives higher net flows and assets under management.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Technological
•Advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence ("AI") are enabling unprecedented levels of personalization in digital interactions. Companies are leveraging these technologies to create frictionless user experiences, anticipate Client needs, and deliver tailored solutions, resulting in improved engagement and satisfaction.
•The emergence of generative AI ("GenAI") and agentic AI represents a significant leap in technological innovation, offering organizations unprecedented opportunities to create quicker and more seamless end-to-end Client experiences, and significantly boost employee productivity. It has the potential to dramatically improve select use cases, while offering more incremental improvements across a wide range of applications.
•The rapid advancement of GenAI technologies presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant risks. Potential challenges include the proliferation of misinformation, privacy breaches, and algorithmic bias. Concurrently, AI governance frameworks are struggling to keep pace with the swift evolution of these technologies. Discrepancies in regulatory rollout speed raise concerns about the ethical implications and potential societal impacts of widespread AI adoption. Navigating this landscape requires balancing innovation with responsible development and implementation of AI systems.
•Consumers continue to be concerned about the protection and use of their data in an environment of increasing collection and data use, and more wide-spread data breaches. Meeting those Client concerns and expectations will be key to maintaining their trust and continued digital engagement. Increased adoption of AI also calls for an increased focus on improving cyber security and risk management.
•The long-term shift toward hybrid and distributed work models has made digital collaboration, cybersecurity, and automation foundational to business continuity. These technologies are also reshaping talent expectations and productivity dynamics across financial institutions.
Competition
The markets in which Sun Life participates remain highly competitive and continue to evolve. We compete against other insurance companies, banks, asset managers, mutual fund companies, financial planners, managed care companies, and other financial services and benefits providers. Frequently, competition is based on factors including price, the ability to provide value-added products and services, financial strength and consistent delivery of an excellent experience to distributors and Clients through both traditional and more innovative digital channels.
Evolving regulatory requirements, economic volatility, rising geopolitical uncertainty and the evolution of Client needs and requirements continue to be challenges for our industry and have forced insurers and financial services providers to review their businesses, re-focus their operations and, in some cases, discontinue or divest non-core lines of business, as well as acquire businesses with higher growth potential. Various factors continue to inform the nature of risks that need to be managed in a global financial institution, spanning from issues such as geopolitical to environmental to cyber. As these risks become more and more understood in the industry, institutions are required to invest increasing resources in resiliency in order to identify and manage against them.
The markets in which we compete are diverse and at different stages of development:
•In Canada, the financial services industry is relatively mature and the three largest life insurance companies serve more than two-thirds of the Canadian life insurance and group benefits markets. In the wealth space, we face competition from Canadian retail banks and investment dealers and from emerging disruptors. From a regulatory perspective, open banking (consumer-driven banking) is gradually evolving and may change data access, distribution models, and competitive dynamics across banking, wealth, and insurance services. In the health space, we face competition from in-market insurers but also indirect competitors, as companies look for ways to complement the public health system. We are continuing to monitor how these developments will affect the financial services landscape and Sun Life.
•In the U.S., the largest insurance market in the world, the market is highly fragmented, with competition spanning both traditional insurers and new entrants leveraging technology and data analytics. We face strong competition from established players in the group life and disability, dental, vision, stop-loss, and voluntary markets, all of which are crowded and price-sensitive segments where differentiation increasingly depends on service quality, digital experience, and integrated health solutions. In the turnkey disability market, there is one other primary competitor and competition is expected to remain stable. In general, the U.S. health landscape faces substantial uncertainty, adding complexity to our planning and creating the need for us to place enhanced focus on embedding adaptability into our path forward.
•In Asia, the life insurance markets in countries where we participate are still evolving. The growth potential for insurance in Asian markets has created strong competition from both domestic and international insurers. We are observing the pan-Asia insurers grow at a clip, with consolidation occurring in many markets. Additionally, some of the Asian markets that we operate in have foreign ownership restrictions, which may place constraints on our ability to operate or grow in these markets. In the High-Net-Worth ("HNW") life insurance market (which for Sun Life operates out of our Asia business group), competition is increasing including competitive product offering and new entrants. HNW and Ultra High-Net-Worth Clients are also driving competition for sophisticated wealth transfer and estate planning solutions, requiring insurers to strengthen advisory expertise and cross-border capabilities.
•In Asset Management, despite some consolidation, we face strong competition from a variety of players including large global asset managers, small local managers specializing in niche markets/products, multi-national and local
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Annual Information Form 2025
banks as well as other insurance companies. In addition, there has been a trend among retail and institutional investors towards lower-cost passive investment products, including index and other types of exchange-traded funds, which has led to a decreased allocation of investor assets to active investment strategies. At the same time, there has been an increased demand for fixed-income, liability-driven investing and yield-oriented alternative products among institutional and HNW investors. To meet the increased demand for alternative assets, traditional asset managers are increasingly acquiring alternative assets, while alternative managers are deepening focus on the retail HNW market. Competition is also rising across multi-asset and private-market platforms as firms seek to leverage permanent capital and global distribution to expand Client access to alternative investments. This evolving landscape underscores a growing convergence between traditional and alternative managers, driving new competitive dynamics centered on product innovation, diversification, and partnership ecosystems.
Seasonality
Some of our businesses are subject to seasonal factors. In Canada, sales of investment products spike during the first quarter of the year due to a contribution deadline for Registered Retirement Savings Plans. Timing of sales campaigns also influences sales of individual products in Canada and Asia. In the U.S., the sales pattern of our Group Benefits business largely reflects the renewal timing of employee benefit plans of our corporate Clients, many of which begin on January 1 each year. This often results in higher sales in the fourth quarter. In India, the sales of individual insurance products usually peak in the first quarter of each year due to tax planning by Clients. Overall, the impact of seasonal trends is not material to Sun Life.
Number of Employees
As at December 31, 2025, we had 32,151 full-time equivalent employees across our operations, excluding joint ventures and associates and temporary staffing.
| Business Segment | Employees(1) |
|---|---|
| Asset Management | 4,673 |
| Canada | 7,451 |
| U.S. | 6,008 |
| Asia | 4,157 |
| Corporate(2) | 9,862 |
(1) As at December 31, 2025, we had approximately 68,835 employees across our operations, including our Asia joint ventures and associates and temporary staffing.
(2) Corporate includes employees supporting enterprise operations.
Capital Structure
General
SLF Inc.'s authorized capital consists of unlimited numbers of Common Shares, Class A Shares and Class B Shares, each without nominal or par value.
The Class A Shares and Class B Shares may be issued in series as determined by SLF Inc.'s Board. The Board is authorized to fix the number, consideration per share, designation and rights and restrictions attached to each series of shares. The holders of Class A Shares and Class B Shares are not entitled to any voting rights except as described below or as otherwise provided by law. Additional information concerning our capital structure is included in SLF Inc.'s 2025 MD&A under the heading Capital and Liquidity Management and in Notes 12-14 and 20 to the 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements.
Common Shares
SLF Inc.’s Common Shares are listed on the Toronto, New York and Philippines stock exchanges, under the ticker symbol "SLF". Each Common Share is entitled to one vote at meetings of the shareholders of SLF Inc., except for meetings at which only holders of another specified class or series of shares are entitled to vote separately as a class or series.
Common Shares are entitled to receive dividends if and when declared by the Board. Dividends must be declared and paid in equal amounts per share on all Common Shares, subject to the rights of holders of the Class A Shares and Class B Shares. Holders of Common Shares will participate in any distribution of the net assets of SLF Inc. upon its liquidation, dissolution or winding-up on an equal basis per share, subject to the rights of the holders of the Class A Shares and Class B Shares. There are no pre-emptive, redemption, purchase or conversion rights attaching to the Common Shares.
Class A Shares
The Class A Shares of each series rank on parity with the Class A Shares of each other series with respect to the payment of dividends and the return of capital on the liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of SLF Inc. The Class A Shares are entitled to preference over the Class B Shares, the Common Shares and any other shares ranking junior to the Class A Shares with respect to the payment of dividends and the return of capital. The special rights and restrictions attaching to the Class A
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Annual Information Form 2025
Shares as a class may not be amended without such approval as may then be required by law, subject to a minimum requirement of approval by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the votes cast at a meeting of the holders of Class A Shares held for that purpose.
The following table provides information on SLF Inc.'s issued and outstanding Class A Shares (the "Class A Preferred Shares"). These Class A Preferred Shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), with the exception of Series 14.
| Series | Number of <br>Shares Issued | TSX Ticker Symbol | Quarterly Dividend ($) | Redemption Date | Prospectus Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series 3 | 10,000,000 | SLF.PR.C | 0.278125 | Any time | January 6, 2006 |
| Series 4 | 12,000,000 | SLF.PR.D | 0.278125 | Any time | October 2, 2006 |
| Series 5 | 10,000,000 | SLF.PR.E | 0.281250 | Any time | January 25, 2007 |
| Series 8R | 8,880,847 | SLF.PR.G | 0.264375 | June 30, 2030 | May 13, 2010 |
| Series 9QR | 2,319,153 | SLF.PR.J | Floating | June 30, 2030 | May 13, 2010 |
| Series 10R | 6,838,672 | SLF.PR.H | 0.185438 | September 30, 2026 | August 5, 2011 |
| Series 11QR | 1,161,328 | SLF.PR.K | Floating | September 30, 2026 | August 5, 2011 |
| Series 14 | 1,000,000 | n.a. | n.a. | June 30, 2026 | June 24, 2021 |
With the exception of Series 14, the shares in each series of Class A Preferred Shares were issued for $25 per share and holders are entitled to receive the non-cumulative quarterly dividends outlined in the preceding table. Subject to regulatory approval, SLF Inc. may redeem: (i) the Series 3, 4 or 5 shares at any time; (ii) the Series 8R, 9QR, 10R and 11QR on the redemption date noted above and every five years thereafter for $25 per share; and (iii) the Series 9QR and 11QR at any other time for $25.50 per share, in each case in whole or in part. The Series 14 shares were issued as part of the offering of 3.60% Limited Recourse Capital Notes Series 2021-1 (the "Series 2021-1 Notes"), for $1,000 per share and are held by a consolidated trust (the "Limited Recourse Trust") as trust assets in connection with the Series 2021-1 Notes. Series 2021-1 Notes are classified as equity in SLF Inc.’s 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements. 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 the Series 14 shares (except in limited circumstances). At this time the limited recourse trustee, as trustee of the Limited Recourse Trust, has waived its right to receive any and all dividends on the Series 14 shares. Accordingly, no dividends are expected to be declared or paid on the Series 14 shares while the Series 14 shares are held by the Limited Recourse Trust. Additional information concerning these shares is contained in the Investor Relations section of www.sunlife.com and in the prospectus and prospectus supplement under which the shares were issued, which may be accessed at www.sedarplus.ca.
Class B Shares
The Class B Shares of each series rank on a parity with the Class B Shares of each other series with respect to the payment of dividends and the return of capital on the liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of SLF Inc. The Class B Shares are entitled to preference over the Common Shares and any other shares ranking junior to the Class B Shares with respect to the payment of dividends and the return of capital, but are subordinate to the Class A Shares and any other shares ranking senior to the Class B Shares with respect to the payment of dividends and return of capital. The special rights and restrictions attaching to the Class B Shares as a class may not be amended without such approval as may then be required by law, subject to a minimum requirement of approval by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the votes cast at a meeting of the holders of Class B Shares held for that purpose. No Class B Shares have been issued.
Constraints on Shares
The Insurance Act contains restrictions on the purchase or other acquisition, issue, transfer and voting of the shares of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance. Information on those restrictions can be found in this AIF under the heading Regulatory Matters - Canada - Restrictions on Ownership.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Market for Securities
The following tables set out the price range and trading volumes of SLF Inc.'s Common Shares and Class A Preferred Shares on the TSX during 2025:
| Common Shares | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Price () | Trading volume | ||
| High | Close | (thousands) | |
| January | 86.05 | 83.81 | 24,471 |
| February | 85.09 | 80.46 | 69,820 |
| March | 82.85 | 82.36 | 55,829 |
| April | 84.16 | 82.15 | 30,230 |
| May | 89.40 | 88.40 | 59,819 |
| June | 91.11 | 90.61 | 40,107 |
| July | 90.59 | 84.48 | 24,598 |
| August | 85.10 | 80.22 | 47,541 |
| September | 83.76 | 83.57 | 41,486 |
| October | 87.91 | 85.31 | 28,028 |
| November | 87.29 | 82.83 | 52,031 |
| December | 86.39 | 85.68 | 37,429 |
All values are in US Dollars.
| Class A Preferred Shares | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series 3 | Series 4 | |||||
| Price () | Trading volume | Price () | Trading volume | |||
| High | Close | (thousands) | High | Close | (thousands) | |
| January | 20.92 | 20.78 | 228 | 20.76 | 20.76 | 105 |
| February | 21.50 | 20.95 | 156 | 21.20 | 20.82 | 107 |
| March | 21.13 | 20.52 | 163 | 20.97 | 20.47 | 174 |
| April | 20.67 | 19.79 | 64 | 20.64 | 19.62 | 101 |
| May | 21.04 | 20.63 | 66 | 20.97 | 20.44 | 235 |
| June | 20.80 | 20.53 | 159 | 20.82 | 20.47 | 80 |
| July | 21.70 | 21.68 | 193 | 21.43 | 21.43 | 152 |
| August | 22.44 | 21.76 | 165 | 22.29 | 21.59 | 139 |
| September | 22.00 | 21.35 | 116 | 21.78 | 21.18 | 203 |
| October | 22.47 | 22.47 | 45 | 22.37 | 22.37 | 80 |
| November | 23.00 | 21.61 | 106 | 22.39 | 21.47 | 120 |
| December | 22.35 | 21.87 | 72 | 21.95 | 21.84 | 97 |
| Series 5 | Series 8R | |||||
| Price () | Trading volume | Price () | Trading volume | |||
| High | Close | (thousands) | High | Close | (thousands) | |
| January | 20.95 | 20.84 | 134 | 18.31 | 17.83 | 223 |
| February | 21.30 | 20.86 | 51 | 17.91 | 17.15 | 96 |
| March | 21.15 | 20.65 | 178 | 17.40 | 17.10 | 91 |
| April | 20.67 | 19.76 | 94 | 17.10 | 15.95 | 90 |
| May | 21.00 | 20.76 | 23 | 17.59 | 17.26 | 231 |
| June | 20.98 | 20.71 | 34 | 18.88 | 18.88 | 99 |
| July | 21.55 | 21.55 | 191 | 18.83 | 18.77 | 900 |
| August | 22.44 | 21.90 | 161 | 18.84 | 18.84 | 347 |
| September | 21.90 | 21.20 | 70 | 18.86 | 18.60 | 195 |
| October | 22.49 | 22.49 | 188 | 18.92 | 18.81 | 758 |
| November | 22.50 | 21.65 | 182 | 19.60 | 19.59 | 500 |
| December | 22.14 | 21.80 | 57 | 20.05 | 19.80 | 237 |
All values are in US Dollars.
Sun Life Financial Inc. | sunlife.com 9
Annual Information Form 2025
| Series 9QR | Series 10R | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price () | Trading volume | Price () | Trading volume | |||
| High | Close | (thousands) | High | Close | (thousands) | |
| January | 18.08 | 17.80 | 99 | 21.21 | 21.14 | 67 |
| February | 17.66 | 17.25 | 47 | 21.08 | 21.08 | 143 |
| March | 17.25 | 17.15 | 34 | 21.08 | 20.39 | 48 |
| April | 17.06 | 16.05 | 90 | 20.10 | 18.75 | 97 |
| May | 17.52 | 17.30 | 56 | 21.04 | 21.04 | 38 |
| June | 17.84 | 17.40 | 92 | 21.54 | 21.21 | 140 |
| July | 18.06 | 17.80 | 22 | 21.94 | 21.94 | 133 |
| August | 17.85 | 17.85 | 18 | 22.49 | 22.11 | 26 |
| September | 17.85 | 17.44 | 14 | 22.32 | 22.20 | 95 |
| October | 18.39 | 18.00 | 41 | 23.15 | 23.15 | 35 |
| November | 18.20 | 18.10 | 33 | 23.20 | 22.90 | 16 |
| December | 18.70 | 18.65 | 44 | 23.25 | 22.62 | 75 |
| Series 11QR | ||||||
| Price () | Trading volume | |||||
| High | Close | (thousands) | ||||
| January | 20.98 | 20.72 | 23 | |||
| February | 20.65 | 20.35 | 10 | |||
| March | 20.50 | 20.40 | 1 | |||
| April | 20.40 | 19.01 | 22 | |||
| May | 20.70 | 20.70 | 8 | |||
| June | 22.00 | 22.00 | 6 | |||
| July | 22.05 | 22.05 | 7 | |||
| August | 22.49 | 22.00 | 10 | |||
| September | 22.00 | 21.76 | 1 | |||
| October | 22.39 | 22.15 | 8 | |||
| November | 23.49 | 23.15 | 5 | |||
| December | 23.50 | 23.50 | 9 |
All values are in US Dollars.
Sales of Unlisted Securities
SLF Inc. has issued the following unlisted securities since January 1, 2025:
On September 11, 2025, SLF Inc. issued $1,000 million principal amount of Series 2025-1 Subordinated Unsecured 4.14% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2037.
On December 3, 2025, SLF Inc. issued $1,000 million principal amount of Series 2025-2 Subordinated Unsecured 4.56% Fixed/Floating Debentures due 2040.
Dividends
The declaration, amount and payment of dividends by SLF Inc. is subject to the approval of its Board and is dependent on our results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements, regulatory and contractual restrictions and other factors considered by the Board.
The dividends declared by SLF Inc. in the three years ended December 31, 2025 are set out in the 2025 MD&A under the heading Capital and Liquidity Management - Shareholder Dividends, which is incorporated by reference in this AIF.
The Insurance Act prohibits the declaration or payment of dividends on shares of an insurance company if there are reasonable grounds for believing a company does not have, or the payment of the dividend would cause the company not to have, adequate capital or liquidity, or upon any direction made by the Superintendent. The Insurance Act also requires that an insurance company notify the Superintendent of the declaration of a dividend at least fifteen days before the dividend payment date.
As a holding company, SLF Inc. depends primarily on the receipt of funds from its subsidiaries to pay shareholder dividends, interest payments and operating expenses. The source of these funds is primarily dividends and capital repayments that SLF Inc. receives from its subsidiaries. The inability of its subsidiaries to pay dividends or return capital in the future may
Sun Life Financial Inc. | sunlife.com 10
Annual Information Form 2025
materially impair SLF Inc.'s ability to pay dividends to shareholders or to meet its cash obligations. Additional information concerning legislation regulating the ability of SLF Inc.'s subsidiaries in Canada, the U.S. and Asia to pay dividends or return capital can be found in this AIF under the heading Regulatory Matters.
SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance have each covenanted that, if a distribution is not paid when due on any outstanding Sun Life ExchangEable Capital Securities ("SLEECS") issued by Sun Life Capital Trust, Sun Life Assurance will not pay dividends on its Public Preferred Shares, if any are outstanding. If Sun Life Assurance does not have any Public Preferred Shares, then SLF Inc. will not pay dividends on its preferred shares or Common Shares until the twelfth month following the failure to pay the required distribution in full, unless the required distribution is paid to the holders of the 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 million. Sun Life Assurance has not issued any shares that qualify as Public Preferred Shares as at the date of this AIF.
The terms of SLF Inc.'s outstanding Class A Preferred Shares provide that for so long as Sun Life Assurance is a subsidiary, no dividends on such preferred shares may be declared or paid if Sun Life Assurance’s minimum regulatory capital ratio falls below the applicable threshold.
Security Ratings
SLF Inc.'s Class A Preferred Shares, senior unsecured debentures, and subordinated unsecured debentures are rated by independent rating agencies. Security ratings assigned to securities by the rating agencies may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the applicable rating agency and are not a recommendation to purchase, hold or sell these securities as such ratings do not comment as to market price or suitability for a particular investor. Security ratings are intended to provide investors with an independent measure of the credit quality of an issue of securities.
The table below provides the security ratings for SLF Inc.'s securities as at February 11, 2026. All rating agencies currently have stable outlooks on SLF Inc. issuer credit ratings:
| Security Ratings | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A.M. Best(1) | DBRS(2) | Fitch(3) | S&P(4) | |||||
| Rating | Rank | Rating | Rank | Rating | Rank | Rating | Rank | |
| Subordinated Unsecured Debentures: | ||||||||
| Series 2007-1, 2020-1, 2020-2, 2021-1, 2021-2, 2021-3, 2022-1, 2023-1, 2024-1, 2025-1 and 2025-2 | a- | 7 of 21 | A | 6 of 26 | A- | 7 of 21 | A | 6 of 22 |
| Limited Recourse Capital Notes ("LRCNs"): | ||||||||
| Series 2021-1 | NR(5) | - | A (low) | 7 of 26 | BBB | 9 of 21 | A- | 7 of 22 |
| Class A Preferred Shares:<br><br>Series 3 - 5, 8R, 9QR, 10R<br><br>and 11QR | bbb+ | 8 of 21 | Pfd-2 (high) | 4 of 16 | BBB | 9 of 21 | P-1<br><br>(low)<br><br>/A-(6) | 3 of 18/ 5 of 20(6) |
(1) A.M. Best Company, Inc.
(2) DBRS Limited (Canada), part of Morningstar DBRS group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Morningstar, Inc. (Nasdaq: MORN).
(3) Fitch Ratings, Inc., part of Fitch Group, is majority owned by Hearst. We do not participate in Fitch’s ratings process, or provide additional information to Fitch Ratings, beyond our available public disclosures.
(4) S&P Global Inc. (NYSE: SPGI).
(5) Not Rated.
(6) Canada national scale rating/global scale rating for preferred shares.
SLF Inc. has made payments in the ordinary course to DBRS and Standard and Poor's ("S&P") in connection with the assignment of ratings on the securities of SLF Inc. In addition, SLF Inc. has made customary payments to A.M. Best, DBRS and S&P in respect of certain other services provided to SLF Inc. by the applicable rating agencies during the last two years.
The descriptions of the ratings below are sourced from public information as disclosed by each rating agency.
A.M. Best
A.M. Best’s issue credit rating ("IR") provides an independent opinion of credit quality assigned to issues that gauges the ability to meet the terms of the obligations. An IR assigned to a specific issue is A.M. Best’s opinion of the issuer’s ability to meet the ongoing financial obligations to security holders when due. As such, an IR is an opinion regarding the relative future credit risk. Credit risk is the risk that a debt issuer may not meet its contractual financial obligations as they come due. The rating does not address any other risk, including, but not limited to, liquidity risk, market value risk or price volatility of rated obligations.
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Annual Information Form 2025
A.M. Best assigns long-term IR in a range of rating categories from "aaa" to "c". Ratings from "aa" to "ccc" may be enhanced with a "+" (plus) or "-" (minus) to indicate whether credit quality is near the top or bottom of a category. The absence of either a plus or minus designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category.
Select SLF Inc.’s Subordinated Unsecured Debentures (Series 2007-1, Series 2020-1 and Series 2020-2) have been assigned "a-" ratings. An "a" rating denotes an issuer’s excellent ability to meet the terms of the obligation.
SLF Inc.’s Class A Preferred Shares have been assigned "bbb+" ratings. A "bbb" rating denotes an issuer’s good ability to meet the terms of the obligation, however, the issue is more susceptible to changes in economic and other conditions.
DBRS
The DBRS long-term rating scale provides opinions on risk of default which is the risk that an issuer will fail to satisfy its financial obligations in accordance with the terms under which an obligation has been issued. Credit ratings are based on quantitative and qualitative considerations relevant to the issuer, and the relative ranking of claims. DBRS assigns long-term ratings in a range from AAA to D, and "(high)" and "(low)" designations indicate standing within the major rating categories. The absence of either a "(high)" or "(low)" designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category. There are no "(high)" or "(low)" designations for AAA and D ratings.
SLF Inc.’s Subordinated Unsecured Debentures and LRCNs have been assigned A and A (low) ratings, respectively. A ratings, reflecting a good credit quality, are assigned to issues when the capacity for the payment of financial obligations is substantial, but of lesser credit quality than AA, and the issue may be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
DBRS assigns ratings for preferred shares in a range from Pfd-1 to D. Reference to "high" and "low" designations indicate standing within the major rating categories. The absence of either a "(high)" or "(low)" designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category. There are no "(high)" or "(low)" designations for D ratings. The DBRS preferred share rating scale is used in the Canadian securities market and is meant to give an indication of the risk that a borrower will not fulfill its full obligations in accordance with the terms under which the relevant preferred shares were issued, with respect to both dividend and principal commitments. SLF Inc.’s Class A Preferred Shares have been assigned a Pfd-2 (high) rating, the second highest among rating categories used by DBRS. Preferred shares rated Pfd-2 are generally of good credit quality. Protection of dividends and principal is still substantial, but earnings, the balance sheet and coverage ratios are not as strong as Pfd-1 rated companies. Generally, Pfd-2 ratings correspond with issuers with an A category or higher.
Fitch
Fitch’s credit ratings are forward-looking opinions on the relative ability of an entity or obligation to meet financial commitments. Issue-level ratings often include an expectation of recovery, which may be notched above or below the issuer-level rating. Credit ratings are indications of the likelihood of repayment in accordance with the terms of the issuance. Credit ratings express risk in relative rank order, which is to say they are ordinal measures of credit risk and are not predictive of a specific frequency of default or loss. Fitch’s credit ratings do not directly address any risk other than credit risk.
Fitch assigns long-term ratings for debt and preferred shares in a range from AAA to C. The modifiers + or - may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. The absence of either a plus or minus designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category. Such modifiers are not added to the AAA rating or to ratings below CCC.
SLF Inc.’s Subordinated Unsecured Debentures have been assigned A- ratings. An A rating denotes expectations of low credit risk and the capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings. SLF Inc.’s LRCNs and Class A Preferred Shares have been assigned a BBB rating. A BBB rating indicates that expectations of credit risk are currently low and the capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
Standard & Poor's
An S&P issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). The opinion reflects S&P's view of the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.
S&P’s long-term credit ratings for securities are based, in varying degrees, on S&P's analysis of the following considerations:
•Likelihood of payment - capacity and willingness of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation;
•Nature of and provisions of the obligation and the promise imputed by S&P; and
•The protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors' rights.
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Annual Information Form 2025
These ratings are an assessment of default risk, but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect the lower priority in bankruptcy.
S&P assigns long-term ratings in a range from AAA to D. The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the rating categories. The absence of either a plus or minus designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category.
SLF Inc.’s Subordinated Unsecured Debentures and LRCNs have been assigned A and A- ratings, respectively. An A rating category indicates that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is strong.
S&P has Canadian and global rating scales for preferred shares. S&P assigns ratings for Canadian preferred shares in a range from P-1 to D on the Canadian scale and from AA to D on the global rating scale. S&P uses "high" and "low" designations to indicate standing within the rating categories on the Canadian rating scale and plus or minus designations to indicate the relative standing of securities within a particular rating category on the global rating scale. The absence of either a "high" and "low" or a plus or minus designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category. There are no plus and minus or "high" and "low" designations for rating categories below P-5/CCC, and no plus designation for an AA rating category.
S&P’s preferred share rating on the Canadian scale is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific preferred share obligation issued in the Canadian market, relative to preferred shares issued by other issuers in the Canadian market. There is a direct correspondence between the specific ratings assigned on the Canadian preferred share scale and the various rating levels on the global debt rating scale of S&P. S&P presents an issuer's preferred share ratings on both the global rating scale and on the Canadian national scale when listing the ratings for a particular issuer.
SLF Inc.’s Class A Preferred Shares have been assigned a P-1 (low) rating on the Canadian scale an A- rating on the global scale. P-1 is the highest among rating categories for preferred share ratings on the Canadian scale used by S&P. A rating category on the global scale indicates that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is strong.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Transfer Agents and Registrars
Common Shares
TSX Trust Company is the principal transfer agent and the registrar for SLF Inc.'s Common Shares. The central securities register is maintained in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The transfer agent and co-transfer agents for SLF Inc.’s Common Shares are as follows (opposite their applicable jurisdictions):
| Transfer Agent | |
|---|---|
| Canada | TSX Trust Company<br><br>301 - 100 Adelaide Street West<br><br>Toronto, Ontario<br><br>Canada M5H 4H1 |
| Co-Transfer Agents | |
| United States | Equiniti Trust Company, LLC<br><br>Attn: OnBase<br><br><br><br>Regular mail:<br><br>PO Box 500<br><br>Newark, NJ 07101<br><br>United States<br><br><br><br>Overnight or courier mail:<br><br>1110 Centre Point Curve, Suite 101<br><br>Mendota Heights, MN 55120<br><br>United States |
| United Kingdom | MUFG Corporate Markets (UK) Limited<br><br>Central Square<br><br>29 Wellington Street<br><br>Leeds LS1 4DL<br><br>United Kingdom |
| Philippines | RCBC Trust Corporation<br><br>Stock Transfer Processing Section<br><br>Ground Floor, West Wing<br><br>GPL (Grepalife) Building<br><br>221 Senator Gil Puyat Avenue<br><br>Makati City, Metro Manila<br><br>Philippines 1200 |
| Hong Kong | Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited<br><br>17th Floor, Hopewell Centre<br><br>183 Queen's Road East<br><br>Wanchai, Hong Kong |
Preferred Shares and Debentures
TSX Trust Company is the transfer agent and the registrar for SLF Inc.'s Class A Preferred Shares, and Computershare Advantage Trust of Canada is the trustee and the registrar for SLF Inc.'s senior unsecured debentures, and its subordinated unsecured debentures, Series 2007-1, 2020-1, 2020-2, 2021-1, 2021-2, 2021-3, 2022-1, 2023-1, 2024-1, 2025-1 and 2025-2. Computershare Trust Company of Canada is the trustee and registrar for SLF Inc.'s LRCNs. The registers for those securities are maintained in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Directors and Executive Officers
Board of Directors
As of the date of this AIF, the Board of SLF Inc. had four standing committees: Audit Committee, Governance Committee, Management Resources Committee and Risk Committee.
The following table sets out the directors of SLF Inc. as of the date of this AIF and, for each director, the province or state and country of residence, principal occupation, years as a director, and membership on Board committees. The term of each director expires at the close of business of the Annual Meeting in 2026. Each director of SLF Inc. is an independent director as defined in the Company's Director Independence Policy, except Mr. Strain, the President & Chief Executive Officer of SLF Inc.
| Name and<br><br>Province/State and Country of Residence | Principal<br>Occupation | Director Since | Board Committee Membership |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deepak Chopra<br><br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2021 | Audit<br><br>Governance |
| Stephanie L. Coyles<br><br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2017 | Governance<br><br>Management Resources |
| Patrick P.F. Cronin<br><br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2024 | Audit<br><br>Risk |
| Ashok K. Gupta<br><br>London, England | Corporate Director | 2018 | Management Resources<br><br>Risk |
| David H. Y. Ho<br><br>Shenzhen, China | Corporate Director | 2021 | Governance<br><br>Management Resources |
| Laurie G. Hylton<br>Massachusetts, U.S.A. | Corporate Director | 2022 | Audit<br><br>Governance |
| Stacey A. Madge<br><br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2024 | Audit<br><br>Governance |
| Helen M. Mallovy Hicks<br><br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2021 | Audit<br><br>Risk |
| Marie-Lucie Morin<br><br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2021 | Management Resources<br><br>Risk |
| Joseph M. Natale<br>Ontario, Canada | Corporate Director | 2023 | Management Resources<br><br>Risk |
| Scott F. Powers<br><br>Massachusetts, U.S.A. | Chair of the Board, SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance | 2015 | None |
| Kevin D. Strain<br><br>Ontario, Canada | President & Chief Executive Officer,<br><br>SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance | 2021 | None |
Each director of SLF Inc. has been engaged for more than five years in his or her present principal occupation or in other capacities with the company or organization (or predecessor thereof) in which he or she currently holds his or her principal occupation, except:
(i)Mr. Cronin, who from 2001 to 2024 held various senior positions at Bank of Montreal, including Chief Risk Officer, BMO Financial Group from 2018 to 2022, and most recently as Special Advisor to the CEO, BMO Financial Group;
(ii)Ms. Hylton, who from 1994 to 2021 held various senior positions at Eaton Vance Corp., including most recently as Chief Financial Officer;
(iii)Ms. Madge, who from 2017 to 2024 was President & Country Manager, Canada, Visa Canada Corporation;
(iv)Ms. Mallovy Hicks, who from 1999 to 2021 held various executive positions at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, including most recently as Global Valuation Business Line Leader; and
(v)Mr. Natale, who from 2017 to 2021 was President and Chief Executive Officer, Rogers Communications Inc.
Audit Committee
The responsibilities and duties of the Audit Committee are set out in its charter, a copy of which is attached as Appendix A. The Board has determined that each member of its Audit Committee is independent as defined in the Company's Director Independence Policy and is financially literate. In the Board's judgment, a member of the Committee is financially literate if, after seeking and receiving any explanations or information from senior financial management of the Company or the auditors of the Company that the member requires, the member is able to read and understand the consolidated financial statements of the Company to the extent sufficient to be able to intelligently ask, and to evaluate the answers to, probing questions about the material aspects of those financial statements.
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Annual Information Form 2025
The members of the Audit Committee as of the date of this AIF and their qualifications and education are set out below:
Deepak Chopra is a corporate director and most recently served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Canada Post Corporation from 2011 to 2018. He has more than 30 years of global experience in the financial services, technology, logistics and supply-chain industries. Prior to joining Canada Post, he held various senior positions during his 23-year career with Pitney Bowes Inc., a NYSE-traded technology company known for postage meters, mail automation and location intelligence services, including President & Chief Executive Officer, Canada & Latin America, President, Asia Pacific & Middle East and Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer, Europe, Africa & Middle East. Mr. Chopra joined the Board of Directors, the Audit Committee and the Governance Committee of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance in May 2021. He is currently a director and a member of the audit committee of The Descartes Systems Group Inc. Mr. Chopra was a director and a member of audit committee of Celestica Inc. from 2018 to July 2024, and was a director of The North West Company Inc. from 2018 to June 2024 and a member of its audit committee from 2018 to 2021. He has previously served on the boards of Canada Post Corporation, Purolator Inc., SCI Group, the Canada Post Community Foundation, the Toronto Region Board of Trade and the Conference Board of Canada. Mr. Chopra is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Honours) and a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management.
Patrick P.F. Cronin is a corporate director. He is a seasoned financial executive with 30 years of substantive experience in the banking and financial services industries across Canada, U.S. and international markets. Mr. Cronin joined BMO Financial Group in 1993 and most recently served as Special Advisor to the CEO until his retirement in May 2024. Prior to this role, he was the Chief Risk Officer of the bank overseeing enterprise-wide risk activities and related matters. From 2001 to 2018, he held progressively senior roles in BMO Capital Markets including Head of Trading Products, President & Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Executive Officer & Group Head. Mr. Cronin joined the Board of Directors, the Audit Committee and the Risk Committee of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance in July 2024. He is currently a director of Public Sector Pension Investment Board, and serves on the Campaign Cabinet of SickKids Foundation and the Ivey Advisory Board of Western University. Mr. Cronin also served on the boards of Canadian Derivatives Clearing Corporation, The Canadian Depository for Securities Limited and Loran Scholars Foundation, and was with United Way Greater Toronto as Sector Chair, Campaign Cabinet as well as Chair, Major Individual Giving Campaign and Co Chair, BMO Employee Giving Campaign. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and History from the University of Toronto and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Ivey Business School at Western University.
Laurie G. Hylton is a corporate director. She was a senior finance executive with more than 30 years of global experience in asset management, banking and public accounting. Prior to her retirement in March 2021, Ms. Hylton held various senior positions during her 27-year career with Eaton Vance Corp. ("Eaton Vance"), most recently served as Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer, a key part of the executive team leading the company’s strategic planning and business transformations, and had regular exposure to its board and audit committee. Prior to that, she was Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer and Head of Internal Audit, where she was responsible for internal controls and management of finance functions, and oversaw complex integrations of these functions in major acquisitions. Prior to joining Eaton Vance, Ms. Hylton was a Senior Auditor with Deloitte & Touche, where she covered financial services companies. She joined the Board of Directors and the Audit Committee of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance in December 2022. Ms. Hylton was a member of the Risk Committee from her appointment until July 2024. She became a member of the Governance Committee in July 2024. Ms. Hylton is currently a director and chair of the audit committee of FactSet Research Systems Inc., and a director, treasurer and member of the finance committee of Theater In the Open, and a director of Newburyport Art Association. She was formerly a director and Chair of the finance committee of The Pike School. Ms. Hylton holds a Master of Business Administration degree and was a Certified Public Accountant from 1994 to June 2022.
Stacey A. Madge is a corporate director. She is a professional executive with 30 years of international experience in financial services and technology. Before her retirement in March 2024, she was President and Country Manager of Visa Canada from 2017, where her strong leadership accomplished substantial growth in revenues, Big Tech & Fintech partnerships and innovations in payments. Prior to this, Ms. Madge served as Head and Senior Vice-President, International Retail & Small Business Banking of the Bank of Nova Scotia and previous to that, she held various executive positions in the bank’s International Banking function. From 1998 to 2009, she was with McKinsey & Company and lastly served as Principal. Ms. Madge joined the Board of Directors, the Audit Committee and the Governance Committee of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance in July 2024. She is a director of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and an advisory board member of Georgian Partners Growth LP. Previously, Ms. Madge served as a member of the Latin America Advisory Board of Mastercard Inc. from 2015 to 2017. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Queen’s University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Chicago. Ms. Madge is also a Chartered Financial Analyst and has a certificate in Corporate Governance from INSEAD.
Helen M. Mallovy Hicks is a corporate director. Prior to her retirement in 2021, she was a partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP ("PwC") with over 30 years of global business management and advisory experience. She most recently served as PwC’s Global Valuation Business Line Leader from 2016 to 2021 and prior to that held various executive positions, including, Canada GTA Deals Leader, Canada Valuation Leader and Deals Valuation Partner. She has advised boards and executives on complex transactions, value creation, capital allocation, business transformation and restructuring matters. Ms. Mallovy Hicks joined the Board of Directors, the Audit Committee and the Risk Committee of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance in October 2021. She is currently a director and member of the audit committee of Northland Power Inc. and a director and member of the audit
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Annual Information Form 2025
committee of Public Sector Pension Investment Board, and a director and Chair of the audit & risk committee of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Ms. Mallovy Hicks was formerly a director and Chair of the finance, audit & risk committee of Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, a trustee of Toronto Symphony Foundation, and a director of the Canadian Partnership Board of PwC and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. She is a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Business Valuators and a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree.
Executive Officers
The following table sets out the executive officers of SLF Inc. as of the date of this AIF:
| Name | Province/State and<br><br>Country of Residence | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Kevin D. Strain | Ontario, Canada | President & Chief Executive Officer |
| Timothy Deacon | Ontario, Canada | Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer |
| Linda M. Dougherty | Ontario, Canada | Executive Vice-President, Chief Strategy and Enablement Officer |
| Jacques Goulet | Ontario, Canada | Executive Vice-President and Chief Risk Officer |
| David J. Healy | Massachusetts, USA | President, Sun Life U.S. |
| Melissa J. Kennedy | Ontario, Canada | Executive Vice-President & Chief Legal and Public Policy Officer |
| Laura A. Money | Ontario, Canada | Executive Vice-President, Chief Information and Technology Innovation Officer |
| Thomas P. Murphy | Massachusetts, USA | President, Sun Life Asset Management |
| Helena J. Pagano | Ontario, Canada | Executive Vice-President, Chief People and Culture Officer |
| Manjit Singh | Hong Kong, China | President, Sun Life Asia |
| Sin Yin (Jessica) Tan | Ontario, Canada | President, Sun Life Canada |
| Christopher B. Wei | Hong Kong, China | Executive Vice-President, Chief Client and Innovation Officer |
Each executive officer of SLF Inc. has held his or her current position or other senior positions with the Company during the past five years with the following exceptions:
(i)Prior to joining the Company in April 2024, Mr. Deacon was Chief Financial Officer, Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan from April 2021 to April 2024, and prior to that held the following position with Manulife Financial Corporation: Group Controller and Global Chief Accounting Officer from May 2020 to April 2021;
(ii)Prior to joining the Company in March 2021, Mr. Singh was Executive Vice President, Finance, Enterprise Finance, TD Bank Group, The Toronto-Dominion Bank, from August 2019 to March 2021;
(iii)Prior to joining the Company in September 2024, Ms. Tan held the following positions with Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd.: Executive Director from April 2020 to December 2023, Group Co-Chief Executive Officer from December 2018 to December 2023 and Group Executive Vice-President from January 2016 to December 2023 ; and
(iv)Prior to joining the Company in August 2022, Mr. Wei held the following positions with Aviva plc: Global Chairman, Aviva Digital and Executive Chairman, Aviva Asia & Friends Provident International, from October 2014 to July 2021.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Cease Trade Orders, Bankruptcies, Penalties and Sanctions
To the best of SLF Inc.’s knowledge, as at the date of this AIF, except as set out below, no director or executive officer of SLF Inc.:
(i)is or has been, in the last ten years, a director, chief executive officer or chief financial officer of a company (including SLF Inc.) that, while that person was acting in that capacity,
(a) was the subject of a cease trade or similar order or an order that denied the company access to any exemption under Canadian securities legislation, for a period of more than 30 consecutive days, or
(b) was subject to an event that resulted, after that person ceased to be a director, chief executive officer or chief financial officer, in the company being the subject of a cease trade or similar order or an order that denied the company access to any exemption under Canadian securities legislation, for a period of more than 30 consecutive days.
(ii) is or has been, in the last ten years, a director or executive officer of a company (including SLF Inc.) that, while that person was acting in that capacity or within a year of that person ceasing to act in that capacity, became bankrupt, made a proposal under any legislation relating to bankruptcy or insolvency or was subject to or instituted any proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors or had a receiver, receiver manager or trustee appointed to hold its assets,
(iii) has, within the last ten years, become bankrupt, made a proposal under any legislation relating to bankruptcy or insolvency, or become subject to or instituted any proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors, or had a receiver, receiver manager or trustee appointed to hold the assets of the director or executive officer; and
(iv) has been subject to (a) any penalties or sanctions imposed by a court relating to securities legislation or by a securities
regulatory authority or has entered into a settlement agreement with a securities regulatory authority or (b) any other penalties or sanctions imposed by a court or regulatory body that would likely be considered important to a reasonable investor in making an investment decision.
Ms. Coyles was a director of Postmedia Network Canada Corp. while it completed a restructuring following an arrangement plan under the Canada Business Corporation Act in October 2016. Ms. Coyles is no longer a director of Postmedia Network Canada Corp.
Shareholdings of Directors and Executive Officers
To the knowledge of SLF Inc., as at December 31, 2025, SLF Inc.'s directors and executive officers, as a group, owned, directly or indirectly, or had voting control or direction over 141,357 Common Shares of SLF Inc., or less than 1% of the total Common Shares outstanding.
Code of Conduct
We have cultivated a strong organizational foundation grounded in ethical conduct, high business standards, integrity and mutual respect. The Board plays a critical role in setting the "tone from the top," ensuring that Senior Management consistently models and promotes these expectations across the organization.
The Board has established our Code of Conduct (the "Code") to apply to every employee, temporary or contingent worker, and contract staff of Sun Life and its subsidiaries and controlled joint ventures; as well as our Board of Directors. Adherence to the Code is mandatory and a condition of employment and directorship. Annually, everyone is required to complete mandatory Code training and a declaration confirming a commitment to and compliance with the Code.
Our Code encourages transparency and accountability by promoting speaking up and requiring all employees and Board members to report known or suspected breaches. Reports can be made through multiple channels, including our Ethics Hotline, which allows for anonymous submissions. The Ethics Hotline is operated by a third-party service provider who provides the reporting platform, while Sun Life is responsible for the review and investigation of any report submissions. Our Code reinforces our zero-tolerance stance on intimidation and retaliation, and we are firmly committed to protecting individuals who report concerns.
Our Code is also a foundational element of how we conduct ourselves ethically and a key enabler of sustainable success. Through ongoing education, clear communication, and consistent enforcement, it fosters a culture rooted in integrity, transparency, and accountability. The Code is not just a policy - it is a living framework that guides behaviour and decision making across the organization.
The Governance Committee ("GC") of the Board is responsible for overseeing the effectiveness of the Code. This includes monitoring compliance with and reporting of findings to the Board annually. The Chief Compliance Officer provides quarterly updates to the GC, detailing breaches of the Code and review of the effectiveness of related controls and compliance measures. No waivers of the Code have been granted for the members of the Board of Directors or Executive Officers, underscoring our commitment to consistent ethical standards at all levels of leadership.
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Annual Information Form 2025
The most recent copy of the Code is available on our website (www.sunlife.com). The Code has been filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators ("CSA") in Canada on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") in the United States on EDGAR (www.sec.gov/EDGAR).
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The following table shows the fees related to services provided by the Company's external auditors, Deloitte LLP, for the past two years:
| ($ millions) | 2025 | 2024(1) |
|---|---|---|
| Audit Services | 28.5 | 26.7 |
| Audit-Related Services | 2.7 | 1.7 |
| Tax Services | 0.7 | 1.0 |
| Other Services | 2.7 | 2.1 |
(1) Adjustments to 2024 fees of $0.3 million for Tax Services.
Audit fees relate to professional services rendered by the auditors for the audit of our Annual Consolidated Financial Statements, the statements for our segregated funds and services related to statutory and regulatory filings. Audit fees of $16.1 million (2024 - $15.8 million) relates to the audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements of SLF and its subsidiaries to support the audit opinions expressed in the Independent Auditor's Report; the remaining Audit Services fees of $12.4 million (2024 - $10.9 million) relates to audit of the statements of segregated funds and statutory and regulatory filings. The increase in audit fees in 2025 compared to 2024 is primarily due to the additional audit services related to the Bowtie acquisition, the transition of the segregated fund audit from other accounting firms to Deloitte LLP to enhance cost efficiency, and foreign exchange impacts.
Audit-related fees include assurance services not directly related to performing the audit of the Annual Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company. These include internal control reviews, specified procedure audits and employee benefit plan audits. The increase in audit-related fees in 2025 compared to 2024 primarily reflects the transition of service organization audits (e.g. SOC 1 and SOC 2) from other accounting firms to Deloitte LLP as part of cost management initiatives.
Tax fees relate to tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
All other fees relate to products and services other than audit, audit-related and tax as described above.
Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
The Audit Committee of SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance have adopted a policy restricting the use of the external auditor (the "Policy"). The objective of the Policy is to ensure that the independence of the external auditor is not compromised by certain engagements. The Policy is based on the following principles, which specify that the external auditor cannot:
•function in the role of management of the Company;
•audit its own firm’s work; or
•serve in an advocacy role for the Company.
The Policy requires that any services to be provided by the external auditor be pre-approved by the Audit Committees of SLF Inc. and/or Sun Life Assurance, as applicable, and the audit committee of any affected subsidiary that is itself directly subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. If a service has not been pre-approved by the Audit Committee, specific approval must be obtained from the committee before an engagement letter can be issued and the related work commenced. The committee has, subject to reporting requirements, pre-approved certain audit, audit-related and other permissible non-audit services that are consistent with maintaining the independence of the external auditor. These pre-approved services are reviewed annually by the committee. The Policy prohibits engaging the external auditor to provide certain services, including:
•bookkeeping or other services related to accounting records or financial statements;
•financial information systems design or implementation services;
•appraisal or valuation services, fairness opinions or contribution in kind reports;
•actuarial services;
•internal audit outsourcing services;
•management functions or human resources services;
•broker or dealer, investment adviser, underwriting, securities or investment banking services;
•legal services and expert services unrelated to an audit;
•any service for which no fee is payable unless a specific result is obtained;
•any non-audit tax services that recommend the Company engage in confidential transactions or aggressive tax position transactions, as defined by the U.S. Public Company Accountability Oversight Board; and
•any other service that governing regulators or professional bodies determine to be impermissible.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Fees paid to SLF Inc.'s external auditors have been approved by the Audit Committee of the Board of SLF Inc. or otherwise in accordance with the Policy. None of the services provided by the Company's external auditors described above were approved pursuant to a waiver of pre-approval provisions under SEC rules (paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2 - 01 of Regulation S-X).
Interests of Experts
Deloitte LLP is the auditor of SLF Inc. and is independent of SLF Inc. within the meaning of the Rules of Professional Conduct of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario and within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the applicable rules and regulations thereunder adopted by the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (U.S.) ("PCAOB").
Brennan Kennedy, the Appointed Actuary of SLF Inc., has provided an opinion on the value of policy liabilities of SLF Inc. and its subsidiary for its Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. Mr. Kennedy owned beneficially, directly or indirectly, less than 1% of all outstanding securities or other property of SLF Inc. or its affiliates when he prepared that opinion, and after that opinion was prepared, and he does not expect to receive any such securities or other property in excess of that amount in the future.
Regulatory Matters
Sun Life is subject to regulation and supervision by government authorities in the jurisdictions in which it does business.
Canada
Regulation of Insurance Operations
SLF Inc. is incorporated under and governed by the Insurance Act. OSFI administers the Insurance Act and supervises the activities of SLF Inc. SLF Inc. has all the powers and restrictions applicable to life insurance companies governed by the Insurance Act, which permits insurance companies to offer, directly or through subsidiaries or networking arrangements, a broad range of financial services, including:
•Insurance and reinsurance;
•Investment counselling and portfolio management;
•Mutual funds and segregated funds;
•Trust services;
•Banking services;
•Real property brokerage and appraisal; and
•Merchant banking services.
The Insurance Act requires the filing of annual and other reports on the financial condition of insurance companies, provides for periodic examinations of insurance companies' affairs, imposes restrictions on transactions with related parties, and sets out requirements governing certain aspects of insurance companies' businesses.
OSFI supervises SLF Inc. on a consolidated basis to ensure that it has an overview of activities of SLF Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries. This consolidated supervision includes the ability to review insurance and non-insurance operations of SLF Inc. and subsidiaries and supervisory power to bring about corrective action. OSFI has extensive powers to intervene in the affairs of regulated insurance companies, including the power to request information or documents, to conduct investigations, to require that appropriate actions are taken to address issues identified by OSFI, to levy fines, and in some circumstances, to intervene and assume control of a company.
Investment Powers
Under the Insurance Act, a life insurance company must maintain a prudent portfolio of investments, subject to certain overall limitations on the amount it may invest in certain classes of investments, such as commercial loans, real estate and stocks. Additional restrictions (and, in some cases, the need for regulatory approvals) limit the type of investments which SLF Inc. can make in excess of 10% of the voting rights or 25% of the equity of a corporation, or in excess of 25% of the ownership interests of an unincorporated entity, subject to certain available exceptions under the Insurance Act.
Capital and Surplus Requirements
SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance, SLF Inc.’s principal operating life insurance subsidiary in Canada, are subject to OSFI’s LICAT capital framework.
The LICAT Guideline uses a risk-based approach for measuring specific life insurer risks and for aggregating the results to calculate the amount of a life insurer’s regulatory required capital to support these risks. LICAT measures the capital adequacy of an insurer using a Total Ratio and a Core Ratio and is one of several indicators used by OSFI to assess an insurer’s financial condition. The Total Ratio is the Qualifying Regulatory Available Capital ("Available Capital") plus Surplus Allowance and Eligible Deposits divided by a Base Solvency Buffer as described below.
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Annual Information Form 2025
The principal elements included in determining Available Capital under LICAT include common shares, contributed surplus, retained earnings, contractual service margin, the participating account, accumulated currency translation account, unrealized gains and losses on available for sale equity and debt securities, qualifying preferred shares, innovative capital instruments and subordinated debt.
The calculation of the Total Ratio takes into consideration other aspects of the balance sheet that are available as loss absorbing capacity, including the Surplus Allowance and Eligible Deposits. The Surplus Allowance includes the risk adjustment reported in the financial statements for non-financial risks. The Eligible Deposits consist of the excess deposits held for unregistered reinsurers and claims fluctuation reserves.
The Base Solvency Buffer includes five risk components: (1) credit risk, (2) market risk, (3) insurance risk, (4) segregated funds guarantee risk, and (5) operational risk. Credits to the base solvency buffer are available for: (1) qualifying in-force participating and adjustable products, (2) other risk mitigation and risk transfer, and (3) risk diversification.
The LICAT Guideline sets a Supervisory Target Total Ratio of 100% and a minimum Total Ratio of 90%. The supervisory target provides a cushion above the minimum requirements, provides a margin for other risks, and facilitates OSFI’s early intervention process. The supervisory target is not applicable to regulated insurance holding companies and non-operating insurance companies. The Company has established capital targets in excess of the supervisory target set by OSFI.
Restrictions on Dividends and Capital Transactions
The Insurance Act prohibits the declaration or payment of dividends on shares of an insurance company if there are reasonable grounds for believing the company does not have, or the payment of the dividend would cause the company not to have, adequate capital or liquidity, or upon any direction made to the Company by the Superintendent. The Insurance Act also requires that an insurance company notify the Superintendent of the declaration of a dividend at least fifteen days before the dividend payment date.
The Insurance Act also prohibits the purchase for cancellation of shares issued by an insurance company or the redemption of redeemable shares or other similar capital transactions, if there are reasonable grounds for believing that the company does not have, or the payment would cause the company not to have, adequate capital or liquidity, or upon any direction made to the Company by the Superintendent. Further, any redemption or purchase for cancellation of shares issued by an insurance company or similar capital transactions are prohibited without the prior approval of the Superintendent.
Restrictions on Ownership
The Insurance Act contains restrictions on the purchase or other acquisition, issue, transfer and voting of the shares of an insurance company. Pursuant to these restrictions:
•No person is permitted to acquire any shares of SLF Inc. if the acquisition would cause the person to have a "significant interest" in any class of shares of SLF Inc., without the prior approval of the Minister of Finance (Canada);
•SLF Inc. is not permitted to record any transfer or issue of shares of SLF Inc. if the transfer or issue would cause the person to have a significant interest in SLF Inc., unless prior approval is obtained from the Minister of Finance (Canada); and
•If a person has acquired a significant interest in SLF Inc. without obtaining the requisite approval of the Minister of Finance (Canada), no person shall exercise any voting rights attached to those shares unless and until such approval has been obtained.
A person has a significant interest in a class of shares where the aggregate of any shares of that class beneficially owned by that person, any entity controlled by that person and any person acting jointly or in concert with that person exceeds 10% of all of the outstanding shares of that class of shares.
Under the Insurance Act, the Minister of Finance of Canada may approve only the acquisition of a significant interest of up to 30% of any class of non-voting shares and up to 20% of a class of voting shares, provided that the person acquiring those shares does not have direct or indirect influence over SLF Inc. that, if exercised, would result in that person having control in fact of SLF Inc. In addition, the Insurance Act prohibits life insurance companies, including SLF Inc., from recording a transfer or issuing shares of any class to His Majesty in right of Canada or of a province, an agent of His Majesty, a foreign government or an agent of a foreign government.
SLF Inc. is required to continue to control, but not wholly own, Sun Life Assurance. Any shares of Sun Life Assurance that are not owned by SLF Inc. are required to meet the widely-held criteria (no individual may own more than 10% of any class of shares without prior approval of the Minister of Finance of Canada). The 20% limit on voting share ownership and 30% limit on non-voting share ownership apply to the direct and indirect cumulative ownership of Sun Life Assurance, with the effect that no single investor will be able to use the holding company structure to exceed those ownership restrictions.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Appointed Actuary
In accordance with the Insurance Act, SLF Inc.'s Board has appointed a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries as its "Appointed Actuary". The Appointed Actuary must provide an opinion on:
•The value of the Company's consolidated policy liabilities as at the end of each fiscal period in accordance with accepted actuarial practice, including the selection of appropriate assumptions and methods;
•Whether the amount of policy liabilities makes appropriate provisions for all obligations to policyholders; and
•Whether the valuation of liabilities is fairly presented in the consolidated financial statements.
The Insurance Act requires that the Appointed Actuary meet with the Board or a delegated Committee of the Board at least once in each financial year to report, in accordance with accepted actuarial practice, on the Company's financial position and its expected future financial condition. The Appointed Actuary must report to the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of SLF Inc. any matters that, in the Appointed Actuary's opinion, could have material adverse effects on the financial condition of SLF Inc.
Prescribed Supervisory Information
The Supervisory Information (Insurance Companies) Regulations made under the Insurance Act prohibit regulated insurance companies, such as SLF Inc. and Sun Life Assurance, from disclosing, directly or indirectly, "prescribed supervisory information", as defined in those Regulations. Prescribed supervisory information includes assessments, recommendations, ratings and reports concerning a company made by or at the request of the Superintendent, orders of the Superintendent with respect to capital and liquidity, certain regulatory actions taken with respect to a company, prudential agreements between a company and the Superintendent, and directions of the Superintendent that a company cease or refrain from committing, or remedy, unsafe or unsound practices in conducting its business.
Provincial/Territorial Insurance Regulation
In Canada, life insurance is also subject to provincial/territorial regulation and supervision in each province and territory in Canada. Provincial/territorial insurance regulation is primarily concerned with market conduct matters, the rights and obligations under insurance contracts, and the licensing and oversight of insurance intermediaries. In addition to those regulations, guidelines adopted by the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association ("CLHIA"), of which Sun Life Assurance and Sun Life Insurance (Canada) Limited are members, govern several aspects of our business in Canada and a failure to comply with such guidelines may give rise to regulatory and reputational risk.
SLF Inc. is licensed as an insurance company in Canada under the Insurance Act and is the holding company for the Sun Life group of companies. SLF Inc. is not licensed to carry on life insurance business in any province or territory in Canada.
Sun Life Assurance and Sun Life Insurance (Canada) Limited are licensed to carry on life insurance and accident and sickness insurance business in each province and territory in Canada.
Regulation of Securities Operations
Several of SLF Inc.'s subsidiaries in Canada are registered with various Canadian Securities Administrators as dealers, advisors or managers under one or more of the following categories of registration: mutual fund dealer, investment dealer, investment fund manager, commodity trading manager, portfolio manager and exempt market dealer. These entities, their registered employees and their products and/or services are regulated in Canada under provincial and territorial securities laws which are administered and enforced by the various Canadian Securities Administrators, and certain entities are also subject to the rules of the applicable self-regulatory organization, including as of January 1, 2023, the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization ("CIRO"), the self-regulatory organization resulting from the amalgamation of the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. These entities may be subject to examinations or proceedings by the various Canadian Securities Administrators and self-regulatory organizations. These examinations or proceedings could subject our registered subsidiaries to a range of regulatory sanctions, including censure, limitations on the registrant's activities, and termination of registration, and could subject these entities to a cessation of sales or the rescission of a sale of securities.
Client Protection for Financial Institution Failure
Sun Life Assurance’s Canadian policyholders are provided protection from an insolvency through Assuris, a not-for-profit organization that is funded by its member insurance companies. Every life insurance company authorized to sell insurance policies in Canada is required, by the federal, provincial and territorial regulators, to become a member of Assuris. Assuris provides separate protection for individual, group, registered and non-registered, life insurance policies and annuity policies.
The Canadian Investor Protection Fund ("CIPF") provides Clients with protection, within defined limits, in the event of the insolvency of a CIRO member. The CIPF is funded by its members, including Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. and Sun Life Canada Securities Inc.
The Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation ("CDIC") is a federal crown corporation created to protect deposits made with member financial institutions in case of their failure. CDIC member institutions, including Sun Life Financial Trust Inc., fund deposit insurance through premiums paid on the insured deposits that they hold.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Other Regulatory Matters
Privacy of Client Information and Anti-Spam Legislation
Canadian federal, and some provincial, laws and regulations require organizations, including financial institutions, to protect the security and confidentiality of Client information. This includes financial institutions notifying Clients about their policies and practices relating to their collection, use and disclosure of Client information, including protection of that information. Requirements also include an obligation to notify individuals and report to privacy regulators when there is a real risk of significant harm to affected individuals resulting from a breach of security safeguards. In 2021, the Quebec government passed legislation that altered privacy legislation by introducing new rights for individuals, additional obligations for organizations and expansive enforcement powers and financial penalties for non-compliance. The Quebec privacy legislation became fully in force effective September 2024. Canadian anti-spam legislation imposes certain restrictions and formalities on the delivery of commercial electronic messages to existing and prospective Clients. This includes obtaining consent from recipients and providing the ability to unsubscribe from subsequent messages.
Anti-Money Laundering Legislation
The Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, Canada, contains measures to assist in detecting, deterring, and facilitating the investigation of money laundering, terrorist financing and sanctions evasion offences. This legislation and the associated regulations impose reporting, recordkeeping and "know your Client" obligations on SLF Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries.
OSFI Revised Guideline E-21: Operational Risk
On August 22, 2024, OSFI released Guideline E-21, which sets out revised operational risk management and new operational resilience requirements for financial institutions. Expectations in the Guideline are subject to phased implementation, with full adherence by September 1, 2026 , and further completion of testing against our critical operations by September 1, 2027. Sun Life is executing on a multi-year plan in respect of this regulatory development.
OSFI Revised Guideline E-23: Model Risk Management
On September 11, 2025, OSFI released Guideline E-23, which sets out model risk management requirements for the use of traditional actuarial and other financial models as well as emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning. This updated guideline applies to all federally regulated Banks, Trust & Loan and Insurance Companies, including Sun Life, with an effective date of May 1, 2027. Sun Life's robust model risk management framework is materially aligned with the Guideline's requirements. The company has developed a plan to ensure full compliance by the effective date.
United States
In the U.S., SLF Inc. does not carry on business and is not regulated as an insurance company. Sun Life Assurance and several indirect U.S. subsidiaries of SLF Inc. carry on business and are regulated as insurance companies in the U.S. Michigan is Sun Life Assurance's "state of entry" and is treated as the state of domicile for Sun Life Assurance's U.S. branch (the "U.S. Branch"). The U.S. Branch is licensed to transact business in every state in the U.S. except New York, plus in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries are, collectively, licensed to transact business in all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
Certain U.S. subsidiaries of SLF Inc. (including DentaQuest and its subsidiaries) offer products and services to federal and state health programs that are governed by federal law and subject to regulation by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ("CMS"). The state health programs are also governed by state health care laws administered by state Medicaid agencies.
In addition, some of SLF Inc.'s U.S. subsidiaries (including MFS and certain of its subsidiaries; Sun Life Capital Management (U.S.) LLC; BentallGreenOak ("BGO"), Crescent Capital Group LP ("Crescent"), AAM and certain of their respective subsidiaries; and some subsidiaries of InfraRed) and various contracts, policies and funds issued, offered or managed by them are subject to regulation under federal securities laws administered by the SEC and under certain state securities laws.
Regulation of Insurance Operations - State Level
In the U.S., all states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories and possessions have insurance laws that apply to companies licensed to carry on an insurance business in the jurisdiction. The primary regulator of an insurance company, however, is the state insurance department or equivalent body located in its state of domicile. Most jurisdictions have laws and regulations governing the financial aspects of insurers, including standards of solvency, reserves, reinsurance, and capital adequacy, as well as the business conduct of insurers. In addition, the laws of the various states provide state insurance regulators with broad administrative powers to approve policy forms and related materials and approve rates for certain lines of insurance, grant and revoke licenses to transact business, regulate trade practices, license agents, and require statutory financial statements. The primary purpose of such regulation is the protection of policyholders and consumers, rather than shareholders.
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The NAIC is the U.S. standard-setting and regulatory support organization created and governed by the chief insurance regulators from the 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. Through the NAIC, state insurance regulators establish standards and best practices, conduct peer review, and coordinate their regulatory oversight. NAIC members, together with the central resources of the NAIC, form the national system of state-based insurance regulation in the U.S.
The U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries are subject to the insurance holding company laws and regulations in the states in which they are domiciled (or deemed to be commercially domiciled). Most states' insurance holding company laws require each insurer that is domiciled therein and that is a member of a holding company system to register with the insurance regulatory authority of that state and, annually, to furnish those authorities with reports that include information concerning capital structure, ownership, financial condition, certain intercompany transactions, enterprise risk management and general business operations. In addition, under most states' holding company laws, transactions within the holding company system to which the domestic insurer is a party must be fair and equitable and the insurer's policyholder surplus following any such transaction must be both reasonable in relation to its outstanding liabilities and adequate for its needs. Most states require prior regulatory approval of the change of control of the domestic insurer or an entity that controls the domestic insurer and prior notice or regulatory approval of certain intercompany transfers of assets or other material affiliate transactions to which a domestic insurer is a party. Generally, under such laws, a state insurance authority must approve in advance the direct or indirect acquisition of 10% or more of the voting securities of an insurance company domiciled in the state.
SLF Inc.'s U.S. captive insurance companies are subject to the laws and regulations applicable to captive insurers in their states of domicile, as well as the terms of the business plans approved by, and the licensing orders issued by, the companies' domestic regulators. Generally, a captive insurance company is required to seek regulatory approval prior to taking any action that would deviate from the activities described in its approved business plan or specifically permitted by the licensing order issued by its domestic regulator.
The U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries are required to file detailed annual and quarterly financial statements with state insurance regulators in each of the states in which they are licensed, and their business and accounts are subject to examination by such regulators at any time. Regulators have authority to limit or prohibit the ability to issue new policies if, in their judgment, an insurer is not maintaining sufficient surplus or capital or if the further transaction of business would be detrimental to policyholders.
As part of their oversight process, state insurance departments conduct detailed examinations periodically (generally, every three to five years) of the financial condition and market conduct of insurance companies domiciled in their states. The latest published examination reports of the U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries did not raise any material issues or adjustments. In addition to the periodic examinations, states will on occasion perform targeted market conduct reviews that may cover, among other things, content of disclosures, advertising, sales practices and complaint handling. Examinations are periodically conducted in cooperation with the departments of other states under guidelines published by the NAIC.
Restrictions on Dividends
The amount of dividends that an insurance company may pay to its parent without prior regulatory approval is regulated under the U.S. state insurance holding company laws and regulations and under the terms of licensing orders issued by various states.
NAIC IRIS Ratios
The NAIC has developed a set of financial relationships or "tests" known as the Insurance Regulatory Information System ("IRIS") to assist state regulators in monitoring the financial condition of insurance companies and identifying companies that may require special attention or action by insurance regulatory authorities. A second set of confidential ratios, called the Financial Analysis Solvency Tracking System, is also used for monitoring. Insurance companies generally submit data to the NAIC, which in turn analyzes the data using prescribed financial data ratios, each with defined "usual ranges". Having ratios that fall outside the usual range does not necessarily indicate that a company experienced unfavourable results. Generally, if four or more of an insurance company's ratios fall outside the usual ranges, regulators will begin to investigate or monitor the company. Regulators have the authority to impose remedies with various degrees of supervision, ranging from increased monitoring to certain business limitations. For the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2024, the most recent period for which results are available, SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries were within the usual ranges for most of the IRIS ratios. The U.S. Branch had two ratios outside of the usual ranges. The ratios that were outside the usual ranges did not indicate any adverse solvency issues.
Risk-based Capital Ratio Requirements
All states have risk-based capital ("RBC") ratio requirements for insurance companies. The NAIC RBC system was created to provide a capital adequacy standard that is related to risk, raises a safety net for insurers, is uniform among the states, and provides regulatory authority for timely action. The RBC system requires an insurer to calculate a minimum amount of capital that it must maintain to support the various risks to which it is exposed. A separate factor is used across each major risk category, and may vary by primary insurance type. RBC focuses on the material risks that are common for the particular insurance type. For life and health insurance, RBC considers investment risk, insurance risk, interest rate risk, and other
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market and business risks, by applying factors to various amounts presented in the company's statutory financial statements. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the RBC ratios for the U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries are expected to exceed the levels under which any remedial or regulatory action would be required.
Statutory Reserves
State insurance laws require life and health insurance companies to analyze the adequacy of their reserves annually. The appointed actuary for the U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s other U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries must submit an opinion that such reserves, when considered in light of the assets held with respect to those reserves, make adequate provision for the associated contractual obligations and related expenses of the U.S. Branch and each of SLF Inc.’s life and health insurance subsidiaries. If such opinion cannot be provided, the affected insurer must set up additional reserves.
Under NAIC rules, life and health insurance companies must maintain an asset valuation reserve ("AVR"), which is a provision for potential asset credit defaults. The size of the AVR depends upon the composition and results of a company’s investment portfolio. These reserves are recorded for purposes of statutory accounting practices; they are not recorded under the provisions of IFRS and therefore have no impact on SLF Inc.'s reported results of operations or financial position. The AVR affects the determination of statutory surplus, and changes in such reserves may affect the ability of SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries to pay dividends or other distributions to their respective parents and also may affect the amounts required to be maintained in trust by the U.S. Branch (see discussion below under Minimum Statutory Surplus and Capital).
Minimum Statutory Surplus and Capital
The U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries are required to have minimum statutory surplus and capital of various amounts, depending on the states in which they are licensed and the types of business that they transact.
The U.S. Branch is required to maintain a certain amount of assets in trust with a financial institution acceptable to the Director of Michigan's Department of Insurance and Financial Services (the "Michigan Director") in an amount at all times at least equal to the sum of the U.S. Branch's reserves and other liabilities, the minimum required capital and surplus, and any additional amounts considered necessary by the Michigan Director to cover the U.S. Branch's liabilities. Generally, these assets are available only to meet the obligations of Sun Life Assurance to its U.S. policyholders, claimants and other U.S. Branch creditors. Amendments to the trust agreement must be approved by the Michigan Director. The U.S. Branch monitors the trust closely to ensure that it holds assets in excess of Michigan’s requirements.
Investments of Insurance Companies
The U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.'s other U.S. life and health insurance subsidiaries are subject to state laws and regulations that require diversification of their investment portfolios and limit the amount of investments in certain investment categories such as below-investment-grade fixed income securities, equity real estate, foreign investments and equity investments. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations would cause investments exceeding regulatory limits to be treated as non-admitted assets for purposes of measuring surplus and, in some instances, would require divestiture of such non-qualifying investments.
State Guaranty Association Assessments
All states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico require insurers to participate in the local insurance guaranty association. The association may levy assessments for policyholder losses incurred by impaired or insolvent insurers. Generally, assessments up to certain prescribed limits are based upon the proportionate share of premiums written by member insurers in the lines of business in which the impaired or insolvent insurer is engaged. A large part of the assessments paid by SLF Inc.'s U.S. insurance subsidiaries pursuant to these laws may be used as credits for a portion of its U.S. premium taxes.
Regulation of Insurance Operations - Federal Level
Although the U.S. federal government does not directly regulate the insurance business, federal legislation and administrative policies in several areas apply to the conduct of the insurance business, including age and sex discrimination, investment company regulation, financial services regulation, health care regulation, employee benefit plan regulation, foreign corrupt practices regulation and federal taxation. For example, the U.S. Congress has, from time to time, considered legislation related to limitations on antitrust immunity and the alteration of the federal income tax structure.
DentaQuest and certain other U.S. subsidiaries of SLF Inc. administer dental and vision benefits for federal and state health programs that are governed by federal law, including Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance programs, Medicare Advantage plans, and offerings on federal and state exchanges under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. CMS is the U.S. federal agency that regulates each of these programs. Each U.S. state administers its own Medicaid program and has its own laws and regulations in place. The exchange in each state is operated by CMS, a state agency, or a partnership between the two.
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Regulation of Securities Operations
The investment management activities of SLF Inc.'s U.S. subsidiaries are subject to federal and state laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where they conduct business. MFS and certain of SLF Inc.'s other U.S. subsidiaries are registered as investment advisers under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act"), which imposes various obligations on registered investment advisers, including fiduciary duties, and disclosure, operational, recordkeeping and reporting requirements.
Several of SLF Inc.'s U.S. subsidiaries issue or have issued products that are registered with the SEC as investment companies under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and which issue securities that are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"). Certain of SLF Inc.'s U.S. subsidiaries provide investment management services to affiliated funds, which similarly are registered as investment companies under the 1940 Act and which issue securities that are registered under the 1933 Act. The 1940 Act and the 1933 Act impose various obligations on registered investment companies and with respect to the securities that they issue, including disclosure, operational, recordkeeping and reporting requirements and, in the case of the 1940 Act, prohibitions or restrictions on certain transactions with affiliates.
Registered investment companies and investment advisers are regulated by and subject to examination by the SEC. The SEC is authorized to institute proceedings and impose sanctions for violations of the U.S. federal securities laws. Failure to comply with applicable securities laws could subject SLF Inc.'s investment companies and investment adviser subsidiaries to a range of regulatory sanctions, including censure, limitations on the registrant's activities, and termination of registration, and could subject its registered investment companies to a cessation of sales or rescission of securities sold.
To the extent that any products are deemed to be securities under U.S. federal or state securities laws, they are qualified for sale as needed in certain states in the U.S. and the District of Columbia. Marketing and sales of securities products are subject to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), and regulations promulgated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA").
Certain of SLF Inc.'s U.S. subsidiaries are registered with the SEC as broker-dealers under the 1934 Act and are subject, for example, to the SEC's net capital rules, and are members of, and subject to regulation by FINRA. Certain other U.S. subsidiaries of SLF Inc. are registered with the SEC as transfer agents under the 1934 Act.
MFS, BGO, Crescent and InfraRed also conduct business in the EU that is also subject to securities laws and regulations. The revised Markets in Financial Instruments Directive and Regulation ("MiFID II") became effective on January 3, 2018 and applies across the EU and member states of the European Economic Area ("EEA"). Some of the main changes introduced under MiFID II include applying enhanced disclosure requirements, enhancing conduct of business and governance requirements, broadening the scope of pre and post trade transparency, increasing transaction reporting requirements, transforming the relationship between Client commissions and research, and further regulation of trading venues. Implementation of MiFID II has had a significant impact on both the structure and operation of EU financial markets. In response to MiFID II, MFS is paying for all external investment research for all Clients (including non-European Clients).
Other U.S. Regulatory Matters
Cybersecurity, Privacy of Client Information and Artificial Intelligence
U.S. regulators at the federal and state level are increasing their focus on privacy, cybersecurity and AI. In particular, the New York Department of Financial Services (“NYDFS”) amended its existing regulations designed to enhance cybersecurity controls of financial institutions, and it includes cybersecurity programs within the scope of examination. The NAIC has developed a model cybersecurity regulation based on New York's rule and states continue to adopt similar measures. These regulations require licensees, including certain of SLF Inc.’s U.S. insurance subsidiaries, to implement risk-based information security programs; establish detailed procedures for investigating cybersecurity events, assessing risk, and overseeing third-party service providers; and comply with increased regulatory reporting requirements.
More than half of the U.S. states have enacted laws relating to AI, and many have adopted the NAIC’s model bulletin on the use of AI by insurers. These laws and guidance establish regulatory standards for responsible use of AI, address issues such as data inaccuracies and vulnerabilities, and safeguard consumers against unfair biases, with a goal of achieving balance between accelerating innovation and mitigating the risk of harm to consumers associated with the technology.
Further, U.S. federal and state laws require financial institutions, including insurers, investment companies and investment dealers, to protect the security and confidentiality of Client information and to notify Clients about the institution’s policies and practices relating to its collection, use and disclosure of Client information. In recent years, U.S. state privacy legislation has become more robust, significantly changing data privacy requirements in the U.S., imposing greater penalties for non-compliance, and providing consumer rights to access, delete and correct their personal information and, in some states, provide a private right of action.
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These laws and regulations may increase the costs and compliance obligations associated with the Company’s information security and administration activities.
The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001
The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 (the "PATRIOT Act") seeks to promote cooperation among financial institutions, regulators and law enforcement agencies in identifying parties that may be involved in terrorism, money laundering or other illegal activities. Regulations applicable to the insurance industry require insurance companies issuing "covered products" to implement anti-money laundering programs and file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury Department. Financial institutions are also required to perform screening to identify any parties subject to Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctions. SLF Inc.'s U.S. subsidiaries that issue covered products and its U.S. broker-dealer subsidiaries have implemented anti-money laundering control programs to comply with the PATRIOT Act regulations and with the Office of Foreign Assets Control requirements with respect to anti-terrorist financing.
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974
The U.S. Branch and certain of SLF Inc.’s U.S. life and health subsidiaries provide insurance products and administrative services to employee benefit plans. These plans are governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. SLC and its affiliate managers also act as a Qualified Professional Asset Manager when providing investment management services to ERISA-based pension plans. Both ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code impose reporting obligations and standards of conduct on plan fiduciaries and certain non-fiduciary service providers who are considered “parties in interest.” As a party in interest to these plans, we are subject to rules disallowing “prohibited transactions,” such as conflict of interest, self-dealing, and similar transactions between a benefit plan and the party in interest. The applicable provisions of ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code are subject to enforcement by the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, and enforcement can include penalties and excise taxes if a service provider is out of compliance with the prohibited transaction rules.
Paid Family and Medical Leave
A growing number of states have passed or are considering mandated paid family and medical leave ("PFML") programs. These programs generally provide partial income protection for an employee who is unable to work on account of his or her own serious health condition or for various family care reasons. There are a number of PFML proposals at the federal level as well. While PFML programs overlap with short term disability coverage and, as a result, could have a negative impact on the short term disability marketplace in which the U.S. Branch and SLF Inc.’s U.S. life and health subsidiaries operate, these programs also offer an opportunity for insurers to build new products to serve an emerging market.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Enacted on July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (PL 119-21) codified tax and spending policies impacting nearly every sector of the U.S. economy. Among other things, the law made several changes to Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, including eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms. These changes may pressure state Medicaid budgets, lead to reduced enrollment in these plans, and/or adjustments to benefits, which may, in turn, impact the products and services that DentaQuest and certain of its subsidiaries offer to federal and state health plans.
Asia
Sun Life carries on business through subsidiaries, joint ventures or associates in the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, China, India, Malaysia and Singapore. The operations of our subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates in Asia are subject to the local regulatory and supervisory schemes in the jurisdictions in which they operate, which varies from country to country, but the regulators typically grant (or revoke) licenses to operate and control the ability of a company to operate an insurance business in that country.
In general, the applicable legislation in a particular country includes features governing the registration of agents, regulation of product features and product approvals, asset allocation, minimum capital, the basis for calculating solvency and reserves, the valuation of policyholder liabilities, conditions for outsourcing core and non-core functions, policyholder and investor protection, change of directors or key management and money laundering, know-your-Client and terrorist financing requirements. Regulatory authorities may also regulate affiliations with other financial institutions, shareholder structures and may impose restrictions on declaring dividends and the ability to effect certain capital transactions and many jurisdictions require insurance companies to participate in policyholder protection schemes.
Philippines
Our operations in the Philippines, established in 1895, distribute a diverse range of life insurance, asset management and investment products and solutions largely through our career agency sales force, bancassurance channel and an investment management & trust company.
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We offer individual and group life and health insurance products to individuals and businesses through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. ("Sun Life Philippines"), and our joint venture with the Yuchengco Group, Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. ("Sun Life Grepa"), in which we have a 49% ownership stake. In addition, we offer mutual funds and unit investment trust fund products respectively through Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. ("SLAMCI") and Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation ("SLIMTC"). SLIMCTC also provides trust and investment management solutions. There are no foreign ownership restrictions applicable to life insurance, mutual funds, or pre-need and trust companies in Philippines.
Sun Life Philippines and Sun Life Grepa are life insurance companies incorporated in the Philippines and regulated by the Philippine Insurance Commission. Sun Life Philippines offers individual and group life and health insurance products through its agency sales force, brokers and fintech partners. Sun Life Grepa offers its individual and group life insurance products through an agency sales force and through bancassurance distribution arrangements. The Philippine Insurance Commission supervises and regulates the operations of life, non-life, and pre-need companies.
Life insurance companies in the Philippines are required at all times to maintain the minimum net worth requirements prescribed by Philippine Insurance Commission regulations. Current minimum net worth requirements are 1.3 billion Philippine Pesos. Net worth consists of the company's paid-up capital, retained earnings, unimpaired surplus, and other equity accounts under the Philippine Insurance Commission’s Financial Reporting Framework. In addition, life insurance companies must maintain a minimum Risk-Based Capital ratio of 100% as prescribed in the Risk-Based Capital Framework for the Philippine Life Insurance Industry.
SLAMCI is a mutual fund manager and distributor regulated by the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission. Sun Life Financial Plans, Inc. is a pre-need company that services existing Sun Life pension and education plans in the Philippines, and is regulated by the Philippine Insurance Commission.
SLIMTC is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas ("BSP") and is licensed to provide trust and investment management services. It was established to provide multi-strategy local and global portfolio management services and deliver superior risk-adjusted returns for both individual and institutional investors in the Philippines. Under BSP regulations, trust companies such as SLIMTC are required to have a minimum unimpaired combined capital accounts of (i) 300 million Philippine Pesos or (ii) 0.10% of the total book value of the company's total assets under management (as defined in BSP regulations), whichever is higher.
Indonesia
In Indonesia, we offer individual life and health insurance, as well as creditor life insurance through our wholly-owned subsidiary, PT Sun Life Financial Indonesia.
PT Sun Life Financial Indonesia is licensed to carry on life insurance business in Indonesia and can distribute life insurance products in Indonesia. PT Sun Life Financial Indonesia can additionally manufacture and distribute sharia products in Indonesia through its sharia business.
The Indonesian Financial Services Authorities (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan) ("OJK") is the regulator responsible for supervising and regulating the financial service industries in Indonesia, including the insurance industry. The Indonesia Life Insurance Association ("AAJI") continues to act as a conduit between life insurers and the OJK in terms of the development of new regulations and guidelines in relation to the life insurance sector. Life insurance sales forces (i.e. agents) are licensed by the AAJI and registered in OJK. The Indonesia Sharia Insurance Association acts in the similar capacity as AAJI in relation to the sharia insurance business. The implementation of anti-money laundering controls in the insurance industry is also monitored by the Indonesian Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center, in addition to it being under the general supervision of the OJK.
Life insurance companies in Indonesia are required to maintain a minimum solvency ratio of 120% of the minimum required risk-based capital. In December 2023, the OJK enacted regulations requiring conventional insurance companies to meet the following minimum equity requirements: (i) IDR 250 billion by December 31, 2026, and (ii) IDR 500 billion (for tier 1 insurance companies) or IDR 1 trillion (for tier 2 insurance companies) by December 31, 2028. In addition, conventional insurance companies must now meet higher paid-up capital requirements of at least IDR 1 trillion. PT Sun Life Financial Indonesia is required to adjust their issued and paid-up capital in accordance with such requirement prior to any acquisition transaction whereby it acquires control of a company.
In July 2023 and on September 27, 2024, the OJK issued regulations outlining the mechanism and procedures for the sharia unit spin-off. The deadline for insurers to spin-off sharia business units was extended from October 17, 2024 to December 31, 2026, and new requirements were also introduced, including a requirement to submit amendments to sharia spin-off plans to the OJK by December 31, 2023. The amended sharia spin-off plan of PT Sun Life Financial Indonesia was approved by the OJK on June 20, 2024.
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The OJK issued regulations effective as of June 23, 2025, which includes requirements relating to the provision of digital insurance services, including a requirement to obtain OJK approval to carry out digital insurance services. The regulation also introduces stricter requirements on the use of insurance agents, which will require insurance companies to implement robust oversight mechanisms to ensure agents comply with the new requirements.
In December 2025, the OJK issued a new regulation that will take effect on 22 March 2026. The regulation requires all health insurance products to implement a co-payment/risk-sharing mechanism whereby policyholders must bear at least 5% of the total claim amount. In addition, insurers must determine an annual deductible amount as agreed in the policy between the insurer and the policyholder.
Effective November 1, 2025, the AAJI issued a decree prohibiting certain practices by life insurance sales agents such as poaching, proxy agents, and twisting, with strict penalties for violations. This initiative aims to maintain good practices, protect customer trust, and ensure fair competition in Indonesia's life insurance sector.
Vietnam
In Vietnam, we offer a diverse range of insurance, savings, investment and pension products through our wholly owned subsidiary Sun Life Vietnam Insurance Company Limited. There are no foreign ownership restrictions applicable to Sun Life Vietnam, however, a transfer of 10% or more of the charter capital of any life insurer must be approved by the Ministry of Finance of Vietnam ("MOF").
In June 2022, the Vietnam National Assembly adopted a new Law on Insurance Business (the "Law on Insurance Business 2022") which took effect from January 1, 2023, with the exception of some requirements that have a transition period. In July 2023, the Government of Vietnam issued a new decree on the implementation of the Law on Insurance Business 2022 (“Decree No. 46”), which took effect from July 1, 2023 with a number of provisions taking retroactive effect from January 1, 2023.
Insurance operations in Vietnam are mainly regulated by the MOF, which sets the standards on all insurance business matters, including product approvals, limits on commission rates payable on insurance products, actuarial liability valuation, and solvency requirements. Life insurers have responsibility for minimum legal capital of Vietnamese Dong ("VND") 600 billion and that a security deposit equal to 2% of the legal capital be maintained at a commercial bank in Vietnam. Life insurers that sell pension products or unit-linked products are required to have a minimum legal capital of VND 800 billion. Life insurers that sell pension and unit-linked products are required to have a minimum legal capital of VND 1,000 billion. The equity of the owner of a life insurer must not be lower than the required minimum legal capital applicable to that insurer. Current minimum legal capital requirements of life insurers that sell pension products or unit-linked products will continue to apply to life insurers licensed before January 1, 2023 (including Sun Life Vietnam) until the end of 2027. Beginning January 2028, life insurers in Vietnam will be required to follow increased minimum legal capital requirements set out in Decree No. 46, including minimum requirements of VND 750 billion for life insurers generally, VND 1,000 billion for life insurers selling pension or unit-linked products and VND 1,300 billion for life insurers selling pension and unit-linked products.
The Required Solvency Margin ("RSM") is VND 300 billion over the minimum solvency margin for insurers selling pension products and VND 200 billion over the minimum solvency margin for insurers selling unit-linked and universal life products. The MOF also requires life insurers to maintain: (a) minimum reserves; (b) for unit-linked policies, a minimum solvency margin of 1.5% insurance reserves plus 0.3% of the sums at risk; (c) for universal life products and pension products, a minimum solvency margin of 4% of insurance reserves plus 0.3% of the sums at risk; and (d) for other life insurance policies and health policies, a minimum solvency margin of 4% of insurance reserves plus either (i) 0.1% of sums at risk for policies with a term of five years or less, or (ii) 0.3% of the sums at risk for policies with a term over five years. Life insurers must also establish a reserve fund to ensure their solvency. These minimum solvency margin requirements will continue to apply until the end of 2027, and thereafter life insurers will be required to maintain a RBC ratio (as further described below). Life insurers are to deduct 5% of annual profit after-tax to set up a compulsory reserve fund, the maximum of which is equal to 10% of the charter capital.
Sun Life Vietnam’s products are generally distributed through a career agency sales force, including individual agency, corporate agency and bank partners, for individual Clients and through a corporate agency for corporate Clients. Sun Life Vietnam has an option to contract with eligible insurance auxiliary service providers to support Sun Life Vietnam in selling Sun Life Vietnam's products to Clients. The insurance auxiliary services include insurance consultation, insurance risk assessment, insurance calculation, insurance loss assessment and insurance claim assistance.
Notably, the Law on Insurance Business 2022 allows 100% foreign ownership for onshore insurers and re-insurers. The Law on Insurance Business 2022 also provides for a clearer regime for market participants (including Sun Life Vietnam) to provide insurance services and products via online platforms, and introduces regulations on RBC in order to apply a RBC management model in the Vietnamese insurance market. Accordingly, an insurer’s solvency will be conditional on, among other things, maintaining a capital adequacy ratio based on the actual capital and the risk-based capital of the insurer. The risk-based capital will be determined based on the size and quantification of the impacts of various groups of risks on the business activities of the insurer including: (i) insurance risks, (ii) market risks, (iii) operational risks, (iv) other risks that have not been
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taken into account. The RBC regime is under development by the MOF with international and market consultation to ensure its full implementation by January 1, 2028.
On November 2, 2023, the MOF issued the New Circular No. 67, which took immediate effect and details a number of provisions of the Law on Insurance Business 2022 and Decree No. 46. Circular No. 67 provides new guidelines for the insurance sector, including requirements related to: (i) payment to distribution channels being tied to quality and persistency targets; (ii) a cap on the override compensation to the distribution channels from 2026; (iii) restrictions on selling investment-linked products to loan clients of the corporate agent; (iv) audio recording insurance consultations; and (v) having acknowledgement of policyholders in illustration materials, and for the sale of investment-linked products.
The new Law on Credit Institutions adopted by the Vietnam National Assembly on January 18, 2024 took effect on July 1, 2024 and has critical impacts on the bancassurance business of credit institutions (including banks, finance companies, micro finance companies, credit funds). Most importantly, credit institutions are prohibited from tying the selling of non-mandatory insurance products (such as life and health insurance products) with banking products/services. Circular No. 34 issued by the Governor of State Bank of Vietnam (“SBV”), and which took effect on July 1, 2024, regulates insurance agency activities through commercial banks and foreign bank branches. Under Circular No. 34, commercial banks and foreign bank branches licensed by the SBV are allowed to carry out insurance agency activities with respect to the types of insurance as stipulated in the Law on Insurance Business 2022, subject to compliance with provisions of the insurance business regulations and relevant laws. For existing bancassurance agreements between commercial banks/foreign bank branches and the insurer signed before July 1, 2024, commercial banks and foreign bank branches are allowed to continue collecting insurance premiums, collecting claim documents and paying insurance proceeds as agreed.
Hong Kong
Our operations in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region offer a full range of products to address insurance and savings needs. We offer individual life and health insurance, mandatory provident funds (the government-legislated pension system) and pension administration to individuals and businesses through a career sales agency force and independent financial advisors.
Sun Life Hong Kong Limited ("SLHK") is authorized by the Hong Kong Insurance Authority ("IA") under the Insurance Ordinance to carry on certain classes of long-term business in or from Hong Kong. On June 26, 2017, the IA took over from the previous governmental regulator, the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance, the functions of overseeing the authorization and regulation of insurance companies in Hong Kong. On September 23, 2019, the IA took over the regulation of insurance intermediaries from the then existing self-regulatory organizations through a new statutory licensing and intermediary supervision regime. The offer of our investment linked insurance products, pooled retirement funds, approved pool investment funds, mandatory provident fund schemes and occupational retirement schemes are also regulated by one or more of the financial services regulators, including the IA, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission and/or the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority. Our trustees and intermediaries who administer and distribute these products, funds and schemes are also supervised and regulated by one or more of the above regulators.
In Hong Kong, long-term insurance companies were required to maintain at all times a RSM. Prior to July 1, 2024, the RSM was the higher of $2 million Hong Kong dollars ("HKD") or the aggregate of two components: a percentage of the mathematical reserves and a percentage of the capital at risk as prescribed under the Insurance (Margin of Solvency) Rules (which was generally 4% of the mathematical reserves and 0.3% of the capital at risk). For a long-term insurer, the value of its assets had to be greater than the amount of its liabilities by at least the RSM. The minimum paid-up capital for insurers in Hong Kong was HKD$10 million. In practice, the actual capital requirement was much higher than what the law required, and would also depend on the business undertaken by the insurer. Despite the above, in practice, the IA imposed additional solvency requirements to ensure a sound and healthy insurance market.
The Insurance (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 (the “Amendment Ordinance”) came into force in Hong Kong on July 1, 2024 and substantially amended the capital base amount requirements applicable to Hong Kong insurers, amongst other requirements. The Amendment Ordinance introduces a statutory basis for the implementation of the RBC regime in Hong Kong, under which an insurer’s capital adequacy is assessed on the basis of its risk profile rather than on the basis of its solvency margins. For example, under the Insurance (Valuation and Capital) Rules, an applicable insurer’s capital base must now be not less than each of (a) a “prescribed capital amount” (which is an aggregate risk capital amount determined based on the risks faced by the insurer’s business, such as market risk, life insurance risk, counterparty default risk and operational risk); (b) a “minimum capital amount”, being 50% of the prescribed capital amount; and (c) HK$20,000,000. SLHK received approval from the IA for early adoption of the RBC regime on August 14, 2023.
On July 30, 2025, the IA introduced new remuneration spreading requirements for participating long-term insurance business effective January 1, 2026, which are aimed at enhancing policyholder protection and discouraging aggressive sales practices.
The IA also published guidelines effective March 31 which require insurers to, among other items: (i) establish a Participating Business Committee for independent advice to the board on (among other things) the management of participating business
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Annual Information Form 2025
and its fairness; and (ii) establish a corporate policy in relation to the allocation of distributable surplus/profits between shareholders and participating policyholders, and the declaration of dividends/bonuses to policyholders.
Hong Kong’s company re-domiciliation regime, effective on May 23, 2025, allows companies incorporated overseas to re-domicile to Hong Kong. A Non-HK Insurer must receive a letter of no-objection from the IA before it applies to the Hong Kong Companies Registry for re-domiciliation. The Non-HK Insurer must have a viable implementation plan of the re-domiciliation, and establish and maintain effective systems for a reasonable period of time to address inquiries or concerns from policyholders.
China
Sun Life Everbright Life Insurance Company Limited is a domestically-invested life insurance company in China, in which we have a 24.99% ownership stake. It operates a multi-distribution model that combines a direct career agency, brokerage, group insurance and bancassurance alliances to sell individual life and health insurance and savings products.
Sun Life Everbright Life Insurance Company Limited has a 99% ownership stake in Sun Life Everbright Asset Management Co., Ltd, which carries on business in China as an insurance asset management company.
The insurance industry in China is regulated by the newly created National Financial Regulatory Administration (“NFRA”), which replaces the former China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (“CBIRC”). The NFRA supervises the financial industry (with the exception of the securities sector) and is responsible for protecting the rights and interests of financial consumers, strengthening risk management and investigating and enforcing laws and regulations. The NFRA has taken over certain functions of the People’s Bank of China and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, including the routine supervision of financial companies and the protection of financial consumers and investors.
Currently, insurance companies established in China (including life insurance companies) are allowed to use their insurance funds (including their capital funds, reserve funds, undistributed profits, various reserves and other funds, whether dominated in RMB or a foreign currency) to invest in a range of assets (subject to the satisfaction of conditions prescribed for each form of investment) including but not limited to negotiable securities, stocks, financial derivatives and certain qualified financial products of financial institutions such as commercial banks, wealth management companies and other investment channels as approved by the State Council.
The minimum paid-up capital of an insurance company is RMB200 million (in cash only) and there are additional capital requirements when additional branches are established.
Insurance asset management companies are also regulated by the NFRA and may conduct the following businesses, among others: (i) managing insurance funds entrusted to them by their clients (including but not limited to their shareholders and the insurance companies controlled by their shareholders) and various assets generated therefrom; (ii) managing other funds (including basic endowment insurance funds, social security funds, enterprise annuity funds, occupational annuity funds and other funds of domestic and foreign qualified investors) and various assets generated therefrom; (iii) managing and utilizing their own funds in RMB or foreign currencies; and (iv) maintaining an asset-backed security business and offering insurance asset management products.
The management and utilization of insurance funds by insurance asset management companies is subject to requirements and limitations that are similar to those applicable to insurance companies. Currently, insurance asset management companies established in China are allowed to use the entrusted insurance funds to invest in a range of assets including but not limited to bank deposits, bonds, stocks and other investment channels as approved by the State Council. Independent custodians are designated for funds managed by insurance asset management companies and those custodians must be commercial banks or other financial institutions that satisfy regulatory requirements. The registered capital of an insurance asset management company must not be less than RMB100 million or the equivalent amount in a freely convertible foreign currency.
Insurance companies may, either by themselves or by entrusting qualified investment managers, use their insurance funds to make investments, and such "qualified investment managers" include insurance asset management companies and their subsidiaries. Insurance asset management companies are allowed to manage and utilize not only entrusted insurance funds, but also other entrusted funds of non-insurance clients.
Insurance asset management companies are also allowed to carry out insurance asset management product business in accordance with the regulator's rules and should complete the product issuance, registration, custody, transaction, settlement, information disclosure and other processes via an asset registration and transaction platform as approved by the regulator. The regulator is responsible for dynamically supervising the full process of the operation and management of such products and identifying the ultimate investors (beneficiaries) and the underlying assets.
Effective January 1, 2020, the former CBIRC lifted the previous 51% cap on foreign ownership in life insurance companies established in China, which means that a foreign investor is now permitted to wholly own a life insurance company in China. In
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Annual Information Form 2025
October 2019, the former CBIRC also implemented an amendment to the Administrative Regulations on Foreign-Invested Insurance Companies, which relaxes market access by removing the requirement that a foreign insurance company must have engaged in insurance business for more than 30 years and have maintained a representative office in China for at least two years before it can establish a foreign invested insurance company in China, and allows foreign insurance groups to invest in and establish an insurance company and other overseas financial institutions to make investments in insurance companies.
Effective September 1, 2022, the Regulations on the Management of Insurance Asset Management Companies no longer include restrictions on the shareholding ratio of foreign investors in insurance asset management companies.
Effective March 1, 2025, the NFRA requires insurers to proactively improve compliance governance by enhancing their compliance management organizational structure and functions and establishing the role of Chief Compliance Officer.
On April 2, 2025, the NFRA published a notice which refines the scope of industries eligible for major equity investments in unlisted enterprises by insurance funds, guiding insurance funds to strategic and emerging sectors relevant to the insurance industry. The notice also requires insurance institutions to strengthen overall management of invested enterprises, establish sound equity investment decision-making and authorization mechanisms and enhance internal management.
India
Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited ("ABSLI") is our life insurance joint venture with the Aditya Birla Group in India in which we have a 49% stake. ABSLI provides a full range of individual and group insurance, savings and retirement products through a multi-channel distribution network, including an agency sales force, bancassurance distribution, brokers and worksite marketing.
Insurance operations in India are regulated by the Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority of India ("IRDAI"), whose duties include issuing certificates of registration to insurance companies, protecting the interests of policyholders, and regulating, promoting and ensuring the orderly growth of the insurance industry. In recent years, a number of regulatory changes have been introduced, affecting matters that include product design and structure including commissions, distribution, investments, management expenses, risk management, corporate governance, insurer's registration, remuneration of non-executive directors and key management persons, actuarial, valuation and investment functions, advertising, opening and closure of places of business, policyholder interests and grievance-handling.
Life insurance companies in India are expected to maintain a minimum control level of solvency of 150% of the RSM at all times, where the RSM is an amount calculated by applying specified factors to mathematical reserves and amounts-at-risk. The RSM is required to be at least fifty percent of the minimum required paid-up capital, which is INR 1 billion for life insurance companies.
The foreign investment limit in the insurance sector in India is 74% of the equity share capital in an Indian insurance company. In addition, prior approval is required from the IRDAI for any sale or purchase of shares over 1% of the total equity share capital.
Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management Limited ("ABSLPFML") is a wholly owned subsidiary of ABSLI. ABSLPFML’s business offers pension solutions and acts as Pension Fund Manager under the National Pension Scheme Trust of the National Pension System ("NPS") to manage pension funds in the private sector according to the provisions of the NPS, the schemes, and the guidelines issued by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority.
Mutual funds and portfolio management services in India are regulated by the guidelines and regulations issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India and various other applicable statutes.
We, along with Aditya Birla Capital Limited, are the promoters of ABSLAMC, an asset management company in India. In 2024, to comply with India’s minimum public shareholding requirements applicable to Indian listed companies, we completed sales of 6.3% and 0.2% of our equity shares in ABSLAMC, which reduced our ownership interest from 36.5% to 30% (additional information on these transactions can be found in this AIF under the heading Three Year History: Acquisitions, Disposals, and Other Developments - Asia). The equity shares of ABSLAMC are listed on the National Stock Exchange of India Limited and BSE Limited.
ABSLAMC is primarily the investment manager of Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund, a registered trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882. ABSLAMC also operates multiple alternate strategies including Portfolio Management Services, Real Estate, Investments and Alternative Investment Funds. It is also registered as a Fund Management Entity with the International Financial Services Centres Authority in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT CITY). ABSLAMC has also set up wholly owned subsidiaries in Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius.
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Annual Information Form 2025
Malaysia
Our operations in Malaysia offer individual and group insurance and takaful products through Sun Life Malaysia Assurance Berhad ("SLMA") and Sun Life Malaysia Takaful Berhad ("SLMT"), respectively, our joint ventures with Renggis Ventures Sdn. Bhd. (a subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Berhad), in which we have a 49% ownership stake in each company. SLMA has an exclusive bancassurance agreement with CIMB Bank Berhad to distribute insurance products through its network across Malaysia, while SLMT has an exclusive bancatakaful agreement with CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad to distribute takaful products through its network across Malaysia. The companies have expanded their distribution channel to include other bancassurance and bancatakaful partners, agency distribution, direct marketing, government and corporate business, telemarketing, online and telco-assurance.
The central bank of Malaysia, Bank Negara Malaysia ("BNM"), regulates entities carrying on the insurance and takaful business in Malaysia and requires insurers and takaful operators to have a minimum paid-up capital of Ringgit Malaysia 100 million. BNM also requires insurers and takaful operators to maintain a capital adequacy level that is commensurate with their risk profiles under the risk-based capital frameworks and has set a minimum Supervisory Target Capital Level of 130%. Based on current Government policy, there is a 70% limit on foreign equity ownership in insurance companies and takaful operators in Malaysia.
On June 28, 2024, BNM issued its Exposure Draft on proposed changes to the Risk-Based Capital Framework for Insurers and Takaful Operators. This Exposure Draft takes into consideration the developments in global regulatory capital standards since the introduction of the current RBC framework, and aims to achieve greater alignment with key elements of such global regulatory capital standards, e.g. the Insurance Capital Standard issued by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors and the relevant standards issued by the Islamic Financial Services Board, with appropriate modifications for the Malaysian market. As part of the Exposure Draft, BNM has asked insurers and takaful operators to conduct a second quantitative impact study to assess the impact of the proposed new framework by December 31, 2024. BNM targets implementation of the revised RBC framework with a potential parallel run after the issuance of the final policy document, which is expected to be in 2026.
Singapore
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada Singapore Branch carries on a life insurance business in Singapore. It is licensed as a Direct Insurer (Life) with the Monetary Authority of Singapore ("MAS") pursuant to the Insurance Act 1966, to serve a defined market segment subject to certain conditions including its policies having a minimum policy size. The MAS is Singapore’s central bank and the supervisory and regulatory authority over financial institutions including insurance companies, and oversees matters including those relating to licensing and registration, business conduct, solvency and capital adequacy, product compliance requirements, and anti-money laundering matters.
In Singapore, an insurer licensed as a Direct Insurer (Life) is required to maintain at all times a paid-up ordinary share capital (or its equivalent recognized by the MAS as applicable under the laws of the insurer’s jurisdiction of incorporation) of no less than SGD10 million. Singapore has adopted the Risk-Based Capital 2 framework and as such, Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada Singapore Branch is also subject to ongoing fund solvency and capital adequacy requirements as set out in the Insurance (Valuation and Capital) Regulations 2004, MAS Notice 133 (Valuation and Capital Framework for Insurers), and any directives from the MAS, as amended from time to time.
Sun Life must comply with various anti money-laundering laws, notices and guidelines applicable to insurers in Singapore. Effective July 1, 2025, MAS Notice 314 (Prevention of Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism) and its accompanying Guidelines were revised and impact an insurer licensed as a Direct Insurer (Life) by (i) mandating proliferation financing assessments; (ii) clarifying required measures (such as screening and source of wealth and source of funds establishment); (iii) requiring the screening of customers for complex ownership structures; and (iv) updating the requirements for filing suspicious transaction reports.
Bermuda
Sun Life Assurance and certain SLF Inc. subsidiaries carry on insurance and investment business in or from Bermuda and are regulated as insurance or investment companies, as the case may be, in that jurisdiction. The Bermuda Monetary Authority ("BMA") is the primary regulator of domestic and international insurance and investment companies carrying on business in or from Bermuda, and has regulatory authority for licensing and registration matters. The BMA has broad supervisory powers to regulate licensees under the Insurance Act 1978 and the Investment Business Act 2003, and is also the designated supervisory authority over the financial services industry in respect of Bermuda’s Proceeds of Crime Act anti-money laundering legislation. In accordance with these and related laws, Sun Life Assurance and certain subsidiaries of SLF Inc. are subject to requirements governing their solvency, financial reporting, privacy and data security and business conduct.
Other Jurisdictions
In each of the countries in which our other subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates operate, local regulatory authorities supervise and monitor their business and financial condition. In a number of countries, certain insurance subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are required to meet specific minimum working and regulatory capital requirements. Certain of our
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Annual Information Form 2025
subsidiaries (including MFS, BGO, InfraRed, Crescent and/or their respective subsidiaries), joint ventures and associates, also conduct business in various jurisdictions, including the UK, Dubai, Japan and Australia, that are subject to applicable laws and regulations, which vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Risk Factors
The Risk Categories section under the Risk Management heading in our 2025 MD&A provides a summary of some of the significant risks that could affect (and, in some cases, are affecting) our business, reputation, financial condition or results of operations. As a large financial services organization operating in a complex industry, the Company encounters a variety of risks. 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. Volatility can exist around expected financial results and from short term variability of, trends over, and extreme events related to key risks. In addition, risk correlation, interconnected risks, terms of exposure and the risk horizon are important elements to consider while identifying risks.
These risk factors have been grouped as outlined in our Risk Management Framework into six major categories: market, insurance, credit, business and strategic, operational and liquidity risks. Other risks, not specified in the 2025 MD&A, may exist but are not considered to be material at the present time may also impact our business in the future. This information should be considered carefully together with other information in this AIF and in the 2025 MD&A, the 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements and other reports and materials that we file with securities regulators.
These risks may occur independently, in combinations, and/or may occur simultaneously or in an environment where one or more risks evolve rapidly. For example, a major pandemic could have a material adverse impact on mortality and morbidity claims experience. Such an event may also trigger adverse global capital markets developments, including a downturn in equity market levels and interest rates, increased market volatility and credit deterioration, and could also lead to operational risks such as disruptions within the organization and in third party service arrangements or a government or regulatory response.
While a number of risks that are described in the 2025 MD&A provide examples of inter-connectedness and relationships between risks, these do not represent a complete inventory. It should be noted that these relationships can continue to develop and change over time, and the combined adverse impact on our profitability, financial position, and reputation could be significantly greater than the sum of the individual parts. Our assessment of the impact and probability of these risks changes over time.
A description of our risk management approach can be found under the heading Risk Management in our 2025 MD&A. Many of the risk factors set out in the 2025 MD&A contain forward-looking statements.
Legal and Regulatory Proceedings
We are regularly involved in legal actions, both as a defendant and as a plaintiff. Information on legal and regulatory proceedings is provided in Note 22.G of our 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements and is incorporated herein by reference.
Since January 1, 2025, (i) no penalties or sanctions have been imposed against Sun Life by a court or regulatory body that would likely be considered important to a reasonable investor in making an investment decision; (ii) Sun Life has not entered into any settlement agreements with a court relating to Canadian securities legislation or with a Canadian securities regulatory authority and (iii) no penalties or sanctions have been imposed against Sun Life by a Canadian securities regulatory authority, other than nominal late filing fees, or by a court relating to Canadian securities legislation.
Additional Information
Additional information including directors' and officers' remuneration and indebtedness, principal holders of SLF Inc.'s securities, securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans and interests of informed persons in material transactions, if applicable, is contained in SLF Inc.'s information circular for its most recent annual meeting of security holders that involved the election of directors. Additional financial information is provided in SLF Inc.'s MD&A and consolidated financial statements for its most recently completed financial year.
Requests for copies of these documents may be sent to the Corporate Secretary of SLF Inc. at 1 York Street, 31st Floor, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 0B6. Copies of these documents and other additional information related to SLF Inc. are available at www.sunlife.com, www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov.
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APPENDIX A 
SUN LIFE FINANCIAL INC. AND SUN LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY OF CANADA (TOGETHER, "SUN LIFE")
Charter of the Audit Committee
The Audit Committee (the “Committee”) is responsible for assisting Sun Life’s Board of Directors (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 Committee also acts as the audit committee for certain subsidiaries of Sun Life that are federally regulated financial institutions in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Insurance Companies Act (Canada) and the Trust and Loan Companies Act (Canada).
1.Duties and Responsibilities
In assisting the Board with its oversight role, the Committee:
1.1Financial Reporting
a)Reviews with management and Sun Life’s external auditor (the “External Auditor”) and makes recommendations to the Board on the approval of the quarterly unaudited and the annual audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, quarterly and annual Management’s Discussion and Analysis and the related earnings news releases (collectively, the “Financial Disclosure Documents”).
b)In conducting its review of the Financial Disclosure Documents:
i.reviews the reported and underlying earnings;
ii.discusses with the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer any significant issues raised in connection with the certifications relating to financial disclosure and controls that those officers are required to file with securities regulatory authorities;
iii.reviews reports from the Chief Actuary on the parts of the Financial Disclosure Documents prepared by the Chief Actuary;
iv.reviews with management and the External Auditor Sun Life’s principal accounting and actuarial practices and policies;
v.reviews other non-financial disclosures required to be included in the Financial Disclosure Documents; and
vi.considers emerging industry, regulatory and accounting standards and the possible impact on Sun Life’s principal accounting practices and policies, including consideration of the use of non-International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) measures.
c)Periodically reviews tax matters.
d)Reviews, at least annually, a report on litigation matters.
e)At the request of the Chair of the Committee, reviews finance, accounting and tax related aspects of material transactions that are being proposed by Sun Life.
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1.2Internal Controls
a)Requires management to implement and maintain appropriate systems, processes, and controls to ensure accurate, complete, and timely reporting of financial and related information; evaluates the effectiveness of such systems, processes and controls; and ensures that appropriate action is being taken to address any material internal control deficiencies.
b)Requires management to implement and maintain appropriate systems, processes, and controls with respect to Sun Life’s sustainability reporting; evaluates the effectiveness of such systems, processes and controls; and ensures that appropriate action is being taken to address any material control deficiencies.
c)Reviews, at least annually, and makes recommendations to the Board on the approval of Sun Life’s Internal Control Framework.
d)Reviews, at least annually, procedures established to handle complaints received by Sun Life related to accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters and the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of any concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.
e)Reviews quarterly reports from the Chief Compliance Officer on complaints related to accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, if applicable.
f)Reviews management’s quarterly reports on the effectiveness of Sun Life’s internal controls over financial reporting, and any updates on evolving disclosure standards related to such controls.
g)Reviews, as required, management’s reports relating to emerging industry, regulatory and accounting standards, including their impacts on Sun Life’s principal accounting practices and policies, and the status of their implementation.
h)Meets, as required, with the Business Group Chief Financial Officers and Heads of Internal Audit to review the control environment, resources, organizational structure, and priorities.
1.3Internal Audit
a)Reviews the Chief Auditor’s quarterly reports on the effectiveness of Sun Life’s governance, risk management and internal controls, and performance of the internal audit function relative to its plan.
b)Reviews and approves the annual internal audit plan including resources, budget and expenses, reviews any significant changes to the internal audit plan, reviews any restrictions on the scope of activities or access to information during the audit, and oversees the coordination of the internal audit plan with the External Auditor’s audit plan.
c)Together with the Chair of the Committee, interacts with the Chief Auditor and senior management as required to support fulfilment of the Chief Auditor’s mandate.
d)Ensures the Chief Auditor reports on a functional basis to the Chair of the Committee and administratively to the President and Chief Executive Officer.
e)Reviews annually the internal audit quality assurance and improvement program including, when applicable, external quality assessments.
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1.4External Auditor
a)Reviews the External Auditor’s audit findings reports and:
i.seeks assurances from the External Auditor that the financial statements, including the notes thereto, fairly present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of Sun Life;
ii.assures itself that the External Auditor is satisfied that the accounting estimates and judgements made by management, and management’s selection of accounting principles, reflect an appropriate application of IFRS;
iii.discusses with the External Auditor any significant changes that were required in the external audit plan; and
iv.discusses any significant issues raised with management during the audit or review and oversees the resolution of any disagreements, including any restrictions on the scope of activities or access to information, and those matters that are required to be discussed under generally accepted auditing standards.
b)Reviews any assurance provided in respect of Sun Life’s sustainability reporting.
c)Discusses with the External Auditor on a quarterly basis the results of quarterly review procedures over the financial statements, including discussions on key areas of judgement, significant transactions in the quarter and the progress against the external audit plan.
d)Reviews the independence of the External Auditor, including the requirements relating to such independence under the laws governing Sun Life, the applicable rules of stock exchanges on which Sun Life’s securities are listed, and regulatory bodies with responsibility for establishing auditor independence requirements and policies and at least annually receives and reviews with the External Auditor its written statement delineating relationships with Sun Life and, if necessary, recommends that the Board take appropriate action to satisfy itself of the External Auditor’s independence and accountability to the Committee, the Board and shareholders.
e)Appraises the qualifications and performance of the External Auditor, including timing and implementation of the rotation of the lead audit partner, and recommends to the Board the appointment, or if so, determined by the Committee the replacement, of the External Auditor, subject to the approval of the shareholders.
f)Reviews and approves the scope and terms of the External Auditor’s engagement and reviews and recommends for approval by the Board the engagement letter and remuneration of the External Auditor.
g)Reviews and approves the Restricting Use of External Auditor Policy which outlines the services for which the External Auditor can be engaged, the approval process for such services and the policy regarding the employment of former employees of the External Auditor.
h)Determines, reviews, and approves the services to be performed by the External Auditor and the fees to be paid to the External Auditor for audit, audit-related and other services permitted by law and in accordance with the Restricting Use of External Auditor Policy.
i)Reviews with the External Auditor and management the overall scope of the external audit plan, quality control procedures and the resources that the External Auditor will devote to the audit.
j)Discusses with the External Auditor the financial and control-related aspects of material transactions that are being proposed by Sun Life.
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1.5Resources and Talent
a)Reviews, at least annually, and approves changes to the statements of mandate, responsibility and authority of the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor and Chief Financial Officer and the organizational structure of the Actuarial, Finance and Internal Audit functions.
b)Reviews, at least annually, the adequacy of the authority, independence and resources of the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor and Chief Financial Officer.
c)Reviews, at least annually, management’s reporting on the state of the information technology that delivers Sun Life’s finance and actuarial reporting.
d)Approves, at least annually, the objectives of the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor and Chief Financial Officer and reviews, at least annually, the effectiveness of the Actuarial, Internal Audit and Finance functions.
e)Reviews, at least annually, succession plans, for the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor, Chief Financial Officer, and other senior management roles overseen by the Committee.
f)Is consulted, through the Chair of the Committee in collaboration with senior management, in advance of any appointment, reassignment, replacement or dismissal of the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor or Chief Financial Officer, including to determine the qualifications and competencies required for those roles, and reviews annually the performance assessment of those individuals.
g)Requires the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor and Chief Financial Officer to report on any material disagreements with other members of senior management relating to the business, and reviews how such matters are being addressed.
1.6Regulatory
a)Reviews matters within its mandate that are addressed in the regular examination and similar reports received from regulatory agencies, including management’s responses and recommendations.
b)Reviews and discusses with the External Auditor and Chief Actuary such reports and regulatory returns of Sun Life as may be specified by law.
c)Reviews with the External Auditor any regulatory matters that pertain to the External Auditor.
2.Composition and Procedures
2.1Membership
a)The Committee is composed of not less than three directors, including the Committee Chair, appointed by the Board on an annual basis following each annual meeting.
b)Each member of the Committee shall be independent as defined in Sun Life's Director Independence Policy.
c)The Governance Committee will review Committee membership annually to ensure the Committee includes members with the competencies, experience and expertise required to fulfil the Committee’s mandate.
d)Each member of the Committee shall be financially literate. In the Board’s judgment, a member of the Committee is financially literate if, after seeking and receiving any explanations or information from senior financial management or the External Auditor of Sun Life that the member requires, the member is able to read and understand the consolidated financial statements of Sun Life to the extent sufficient to be able to
Sun Life | Charter of the Audit Committee 38
intelligently ask, and to evaluate the answers to, probing questions about the material aspects of those financial statements.
e)The Committee shall have at least one member that, in the Board’s judgement, qualifies as an audit committee financial expert (as defined by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission).
f)The Committee will discuss the qualifications for and determine whether a member of the Committee is a financial expert, and in conjunction with the Governance Committee, will ensure that all Committee members are financially literate.
g)Any member of the Committee may be removed or replaced at any time by the Board and the Board shall fill vacancies on the Committee.
2.2Meetings and Procedures
a)A meeting of the Committee may be called at any time by the Chair of the Board (the “Board Chair”) or by any member of the Committee.
b)The Committee meets as frequently as necessary, but not less than four times a year.
c)A quorum at any meeting of the Committee shall be three members.
d)The Chair of the Committee reports to the Board after each Committee meeting.
e)The External Auditor reports to the Committee and receives notice of and may attend all Committee meetings.
f)The Committee holds private sessions at each meeting of the Committee with Committee members only, and at each regularly scheduled meeting with each of the Chief Actuary, Chief Auditor, Chief Financial Officer, and representatives of the External Auditor, and with the Chief Risk Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, as appropriate, and those individuals have unrestricted access to Committee members between meetings.
g)The Committee will review its Forward Agenda as required, and on an annual basis, the Committee will review this Charter and, where necessary, recommend changes to the Board for approval.
h)The Committee will review the minutes and list of follow up items of each Committee meeting.
i)This Charter will be posted on Sun Life’s website, and the Committee will prepare a report on its activities for inclusion in the annual management information circular.
j)The Committee shall undertake and review with the Board an annual performance evaluation of the Committee and the Committee Chair.
3.Access to Management and Independent Advisors
The Committee:
a)Has full and unrestricted access to management and, in consultation with the Board Chair, may engage any special advisors it deems necessary to provide independent advice at the expense of Sun Life.
b)Establishes the scope and frequency of the independent reviews of the Actuarial, Finance and Internal Audit functions and determines whether any special advisors are engaged to conduct such independent reviews.
c)Reviews the results of any independent reviews of the Actuarial, Finance and Internal Audit functions conducted at the request of the Committee.
Sun Life | Charter of the Audit Committee 39
Document
Exhibit 99.4
CERTIFICATION
I, Kevin D. Strain certify that:
1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 40-F of Sun Life Financial Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the issuer as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the issuer and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the issuer, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the issuer's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the issuer's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer's internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the issuer's auditors and the audit committee of the issuer's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the issuer's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the issuer's internal control over financial reporting.
Date: February 11, 2026
/s/ Kevin D. Strain
Kevin D. Strain
President and Chief Executive Officer
CERTIFICATION
I, Timothy Deacon certify that:
1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 40-F of Sun Life Financial Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the issuer as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the issuer and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the issuer, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the issuer's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the issuer's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer's internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the issuer's auditors and the audit committee of the issuer's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the issuer's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the issuer's internal control over financial reporting.
Date: February 11, 2026
/s/ Timothy Deacon
Timothy Deacon
Executive Vice-President and
Chief Financial Officer
Document
Exhibit 99.5
Certification
pursuant to
18 U.S.C. Section 1350
as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 40-F of Sun Life Financial Inc. (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2025 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), each of the undersigned officers of the Company certifies pursuant to 18 U.S.C.§ 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to his respective knowledge:
(1) the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and
(2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
Date: February 11, 2026
/s/ Kevin D. Strain
Kevin D. Strain
President and
Chief Executive Officer
Date: February 11, 2026
/s/ Timothy Deacon
Timothy Deacon
Executive Vice-President and
Chief Financial Officer
This certificate has not been, and shall not be deemed to be, “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Document
Exhibit 99.6
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-284909, 333-269768, 333-105130, 333-229698 and 333-90292 on Form S-8 and to the use of our reports dated February 11, 2026 relating to the consolidated financial statements of Sun Life Financial Inc. (the “Company”) and the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting appearing in this Annual Report on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2025.
/s/ Deloitte LLP
Chartered Professional Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
Toronto, Canada
February 11, 2026
Document
Exhibit 99.7
CONSENT OF APPOINTED ACTUARY
I consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-284909, 333-269768, 333-105130, 333-229698 and 333-90292 on Form S-8 and use and incorporation by reference in this Annual Report on Form 40-F of Sun Life Financial Inc. (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2025 of the Appointed Actuary’s Report to the Shareholders and Directors dated February 11, 2026 (the “Report”).
In the Report, I have valued the policy liabilities of the Company and its subsidiaries for its Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
_/s/ Brennan Kennedy_______________
Brennan Kennedy
Fellow, Canadian Institute of Actuaries and Society of Actuaries
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
February 11, 2026