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AIA Group Limited

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FY2013 Annual Report · AIA Group Limited
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AIA GROUP LIMITED  友邦保險控股有限公司
ANNUAL REPORT 2013

STOCK CODE : 1299

MEETING 
REAL 
NEEDS

The AIA Group seeks to  
provide its customers with 
financial protection, security 
and a comfortable future.  
The Real Life Company brand 
position speaks to our long  
and remarkable history,  
to the wealth of customer 
insights we have gained along 
our journey and to the help  
we have provided to millions  
of people around the Asia-
Pacific region in good times  
and in challenging times.  
AIA will continue to protect 
generations of people, for many 
years to come, whatever life 
brings them. 

VISION
AIA is the pre-eminent life insurance provider in the 
Asia-Pacific region, differentiated from our competitors 
by the combination of our Asia regional focus, the scale, 
quality and profitability of our operations across the region, 
and the standards of service and benefits we deliver to our 
customers. Our vision is to grow our business prudently and 
profitably in all the markets we serve in order to optimise 
returns for our shareholders over time.

ABOUT AIA

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries 
(collectively “AIA” or “the Group”) comprise 
the largest independent publicly listed pan-
Asian life insurance group. It has operations 
in 17 markets in Asia-Pacific – wholly-owned 
branches and subsidiaries in Hong Kong, 
Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Korea, 
the Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, Taiwan, 
Vietnam, New Zealand, Macau, Brunei, a 97 
per cent subsidiary in Sri Lanka, a 26 per cent 
joint venture in India and a representative 
office in Myanmar.

The business that is now AIA was first 
established in Shanghai over 90 years ago.  
It is a market leader in the Asia-Pacific region 
(ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums 
and holds leading positions across the 
majority of its markets. It had total assets of 
US$147 billion as of 30 November 2013.

AIA meets the savings and protection needs 
of individuals by offering a range of products 
and services including life insurance, accident 
and health insurance and savings plans. The 
Group also provides employee benefits, credit 
life and pension services to corporate clients. 
Through an extensive network of agents and 
employees across Asia-Pacific, AIA serves 
the holders of more than 28 million individual 
policies and over 16 million participating 
members of group insurance schemes.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board 
of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited 
under the stock code “1299” with American 
Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-
the-counter market (ticker symbol: “AAGIY”).

Notes:
(1)  Explanations of certain terms and abbreviations used in this report are set forth in the Glossary.

(2)  Unless otherwise specified, 2012 and 2013 refer to the financial year of AIA Group Limited, which ends on 30 November of the year indicated.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

001

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…as the largest and longest-
established independent  
pan-Asian insurer, operating  
in 17 geographical markets.  
The scale, reach and strength  
of our distribution platforms and 
brand, our unrivalled financial 
strength, and our depth of 
experience derived from our 
long history in the Asia-Pacific 
region leave us well positioned 
to capture the enormous 
growth opportunities this region 
provides. 

002

AIA GROUP LIMITED

OVERVIEWContents

OVERVIEW

008

010

012

Financial Highlights

Chairman’s Statement

Group Chief Executive and 
President’s Report

 FINANCIAL AND  
OPERATING REVIEW

Financial Review

Business Review

Risk Management

Our People

 Corporate Social Responsibility

 CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities

 Board of Directors and Executive Committee

Report of the Directors

Corporate Governance Report

Remuneration Report

018

032

054

062

064

072

073

078

083

091

 FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

101

Independent Auditor’s Report

10 3 

Consolidated Income Statement

10 4

10 5

10 7

10 8

10 9 

204

207

2 31

233

234

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 
and Significant Accounting Policies

Financial Statements of the Company

Supplementary Embedded Value Information

 ADDITIONAL 
INFORMATION

Information for Shareholders

Corporate Information

Glossary

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

003

Key Milestones

1919
AIA put down its 
corporate roots 
in Asia when the 
group founder Mr. 
Cornelius Vander 
Starr established an 
insurance agency in 
Shanghai.

1921
Mr. Cornelius Vander 
Starr founded Asia 
Life Insurance 
Company, his first life 
insurance enterprise 
in Shanghai.

1931 
Mr. Cornelius Vander 
Starr founded 
International 
Assurance Company, 
Limited (INTASCO), in 
Shanghai.

INTASCO established 
branch offices in 
Hong Kong and 
Singapore.

1938
INTASCO entered 
Siam, later renamed 
Thailand.

1947
The Philippine 
American Life and 
General Insurance 
Company (Philam 
Life) was founded in 
the Philippines. 

INTASCO moved its 
head office to Hong 
Kong and changed 
its name to American 
International 
Assurance Company, 
Limited.

1948
We entered Malaysia.

1957
We registered in 
Brunei.

1972
We formed a 
subsidiary in 
Australia.

1981
Our New Zealand 
operations began as 
a branch of American 
Life Insurance 
Company (ALICO).

1982
We entered Macau.

1984
We entered Indonesia.

1987
Korean operations 
began.

1990
Our operations 
in Taiwan were 
established as a 
branch of ALICO.

1992
We re-established 
our presence in China 
through a branch 
office in Shanghai, 
the first foreign-
owned life business 
to receive a licence in 
the country.

1998
We celebrated the 
return to our former 
headquarters building 
on The Bund in 
Shanghai.

2000
We formed a 
subsidiary in Vietnam.

2001
A joint venture in 
India was established.

2009
ALICO Taiwan 
became our branch 
office. 

Philam Life became 
our operating 
subsidiary.

We completed the 
reorganisation driven 
by AIG’s liquidity 
crisis in 2008, leading 
to the positioning of 
the Company for a 
public listing.

2010
AIA Group Limited 
successfully listed on 
the Main Board of The 
Stock Exchange of 
Hong Kong Limited, 
the third-largest IPO 
ever globally at the 
time.

2011
AIA Group Limited 
became a constituent 
stock of the Hang 
Seng Index.

We launched a 
sponsored Level 1 
American Depositary 
Receipt programme.

2012
The divestment by 
AIG of its remaining 
shareholding in AIA 
marked the end of 
our association with 
AIG.

004

AIA GROUP LIMITED

The first life 
insurance 
policy issued 
in Shanghai.

1919
Mr. Cornelius 
Vander Starr 

1969

1984

We entered Indonesia.

1992

2010
AIA Group 
Limited 
successfully 
listed on the 
Main Board of 
The Stock 
Exchange of 
Hong Kong 
Limited.

2013
Celebrating 
the full 
integration of 
the businesses 
of AIA and ING 
Malaysia.

2013
We launched 
The Real Life 
Company brand 
positioning.

2013

ACQUISITION OF  
ING MALAYSIA
AIA’s transaction with ING closed in 
December 2012 and completed the full 
integration of the businesses of AIA 
and ING Malaysia in June 2013. 

EXPANSION INTO  
SRI LANKA
We commenced business in Sri Lanka 
through the acquisition of Aviva NDB 
Insurance. 

ENTRY INTO 
MYANMAR
We opened a representative office in 
Myanmar.

LAUNCH OF 
THE REAL LIFE 
COMPANY BRAND 
POSITIONING
The new brand positioning reflects  
our role in providing the right  
financial solutions and support for  
our customers and their families in  
a constantly changing world. 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

005

AIA At-a-Glance(1)

We have a diversified franchise 
across the Asia-Pacific region. 
Our long experience in the region 
allows us to tailor our strategies 
to the culture, demographics and 
insurance needs of each market  
in which we operate.

100% OWNERSHIP 
IN 15 OUT OF

17

GEOGRAPHICAL 
MARKETS

VIETNAM

MYANMAR

THAILAND

INDIA

SRI LANKA

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE

BRUNEI

INDONESIA

KOREA 

CHINA

TAIWAN

HONG HONG 

MACAU

THE  
PHILIPPINES

AUSTRALIA

NEW ZEALAND

Note:
(1) All the figures on pages 6 and 7 are as of 30 November 2013.

006

AIA GROUP LIMITED

SERVING THE HOLDERS 
OF MORE THAN

28

MILLION
INDIVIDUAL POLICIES 
AND

HISTORY 
OF OVER 

90  

YEARS
IN ASIA-PACIFIC 

EV EQUITY 
OF

34.9

BILLION 
US$

OVER

16

MILLION
PARTICIPATING MEMBERS  
OF GROUP INSURANCE  
SCHEMES

TOTAL ASSETS OF

147

BILLION US$

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

007

US$ 
millions

1,500

1,200

900

667

600

545

1,188

932

300

0

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

US$ 
millions

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,438

1,922

1,699

1,000

500

0

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Financial Highlights

2013 RESULTS AT-A-GLANCE*

Value of New Business (VONB)(1)

Annualised New Premium (ANP)(2)

1,490

+25% 

US$ 
millions

3,500

3,000

2,500

3,341

+24% 

2,696

2,472

2,000

1,878

2,025

1,500

1,000

500

0

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Operating Profit After Tax (OPAT)(3)

Total Weighted Premium Income (TWPI)(4)

2,504

2,159

+16% 

US$ 
millions

18,000

15,000

13,013

12,000

11,632

15,360

14,442

17,808

+16% 

9,000

6,000

3,000

0

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

EV Equity(5)

Total Assets and Total Liabilities

US$ 
millions

35,000

30,000

25,000

20,000

15,000

10,000

5,000

0

34,875

31,657

+10% 

27,464

24,948

21,162

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

US$ 
billions

150

120

90

60

30

0

147

122

134

114

108

108

88

93

91

76

TOTAL ASSETS

+9% 
+13% 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

* Percentages shown indicate changes in 2013 compared with 2012.

008

AIA GROUP LIMITED

OVERVIEW2013 BREAKDOWN BY SEGMENT

Value of New Business (VONB)(1)(6)

Annualised New Premium (ANP)(2)

6%

10%

7%

14%

16%

28%

19%

21%

23%

10%

7%

17%

10%

12%

Operating Profit After Tax (OPAT)(3)

Total Weighted Premium Income (TWPI)(4)

10%

6%

30%

8%

10%

15%

21%

16%

21%

12%

9%

19%

11%

12%

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets(7)

Notes:
(1)  Value of new business (VONB) is the present value, measured at point of sale, of projected 
after-tax statutory profits emerging in the future from new business sold in the period less 
the cost of holding required capital in excess of regulatory reserves to support this business.

(2)  Annualised new premium (ANP) is a measure of new business activity that is calculated as 
the sum of 100 per cent annualised first year premiums and 10 per cent of single premiums, 
before reinsurance ceded.

(5)  Embedded value (EV) is an actuarially determined estimate of the economic value of a life 
insurance  business  based  on  a  particular  set  of  assumptions  as  to  future  experience, 
excluding any economic value attributable to future new business. EV Equity is the total of 
embedded value, goodwill and other intangible assets.

(6)  Based  on  local  statutory  basis  and  before  unallocated  Group  Office  expenses,  VONB  by 

segment includes pension business.

(3)  Operating profit after tax (OPAT) percentages are shown after non-controlling interests.

(7)  The  results  of  our  joint  venture  in  India  are  accounted  for  using  the  equity  method.  For 

(4)  Total weighted premium income (TWPI) consists of 100 per cent of regular premiums and 

10 per cent of single premiums, before reinsurance ceded.

clarity, TWPI, ANP and VONB exclude any contribution from India.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

009

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONChairman’s Statement

I am proud that  
AIA continues to deliver 
strong results  
by providing  
high-quality products 
and services  
that address the vast 
and rapidly growing 
real life protection and 
savings needs of our 
customers throughout 
the region.

I am pleased to report that 
2013 was another year of 
considerable progress and 
strong growth for AIA.

Once again the Group has 
produced excellent results across 
all of our main financial metrics 
maintaining our established track 
record of executing our growth 
strategy to create sustainable 
value for our shareholders. I am 
proud that AIA continues to deliver 
strong results by providing high-
quality products and services 
that address the vast and rapidly 
growing real life protection and 
savings needs of our customers 
throughout the region.

Value of new business (VONB), our 
main measure of performance, 
reached another record level in 
2013 and now stands at US$1,490 
million, a 25 per cent increase 
compared with our previous high 
in 2012. IFRS operating profit after 
tax (OPAT) increased by 16 per 
cent to US$2,504 million.

These strong levels of profitable 
growth have been achieved 
alongside a further improvement 
in our solvency ratio and free 
surplus position. AIA also 
successfully integrated both the 

010

AIA GROUP LIMITED

OVERVIEWING Malaysia and Aviva NDB 
Insurance Sri Lanka acquisitions 
during 2013. Our ability to fund 
strategically aligned inorganic 
opportunities in addition to driving 
strong organic growth rates is 
a testament to the quality of the 
Group’s in-force business and 
the prudent management of our 
financial position.

While AIA is only three years old 
as an independent and publicly 
listed company, we believe that 
our unrivalled depth of experience 
in Asia and the quality and scale 
of our distribution and product 
platform position us well to play 
a major role in promoting the 
development of the private social 
welfare system in Asia.

We understand that AIA’s ongoing 
ability to finance new business 
growth and deliver progressive 
dividends is of great importance 
to our shareholders. In line with 
our previously-stated goal to 
deliver prudent, sustainable 
and progressive shareholder 
dividends, the Board has 
recommended a final dividend of 
28.62 Hong Kong cents per share, 
subject to shareholders’ approval 
at the AGM. This represents an 
increase of 16 per cent compared 
with the final dividend in 2012 
reflecting the strength of our 
results and brings the total dividend 
for 2013 to 42.55 Hong Kong cents 
per share. 

The Board is committed to 
upholding the highest standards 
of corporate governance and risk 
management controls, which are 
fundamental to AIA’s sustainable 
development and to maintaining 

investor and customer confidence 
in our organisation. I am privileged 
to have the opportunity to lead a 
Board composed of high-calibre 
individuals who are keenly 
committed to the Group’s success. 

As at 30 November 2013, our 
share price has outperformed 
the Hang Seng Index (HSI) by 94 
per cent since Iisting and AIA 
remains the largest Hong Kong 
headquartered and incorporated 
company in the HSI. I would like 
to thank all of our shareholders 
for their support and who believe, 
as we do, in AIA’s outstanding 
prospects.

I would like to convey my deepest 
thanks on behalf of the Board 
to everyone involved in AIA’s 
continued success including AIA’s 
employees, agents, partners 
and customers for their ongoing 
support. Particular thanks go to 
your Group Chief Executive and 
President Mark Tucker and his 
team for their skilled leadership. 
AIA’s outstanding achievements 
in 2013 are a function of their 
outstanding execution against 
the backdrop of the Group’s 
exceptional position as the leading 
life insurance franchise in the 
Asia-Pacific region.

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse 
Non-executive Chairman 

21 February 2014

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

011

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGroup Chief Executive and President’s Report

Our large-scale 
growth year-on-year 
demonstrates the 
strength and diversity 
of AIA’s franchise,  
our financial strength 
and our ability to 
generate sustainable 
value for our 
shareholders.

It gives me great pleasure 
to report that 2013 was 
another very successful 
year for AIA.

Our focus remains on executing our 
clear growth strategy to sustain our 
core competitive advantages, as we 
continue to build on AIA’s unrivalled 
position as the leading pan-Asian 
life insurance company.

perform strongly across other key 
performance metrics with IFRS 
operating profit after tax up by 16 
per cent to US$2,504 million and 
growth in EV Equity by 10 per cent 
to a new high of US$34,875 million.

Our ability to achieve large-scale 
growth year-on-year demonstrates 
the strength and diversity of AIA’s 
franchise, our rigorous financial 
discipline and our ability to convert 
the considerable opportunities 
in the Asia-Pacific region into 
sustainable value for shareholders. 
It is this rare and powerful 
combination that differentiates AIA 
from its competitors and ensures 
that we remain well positioned for 
the future.

2013 PERFORMANCE 
HIGHLIGHTS
Value of new business (VONB) – 
our main performance measure 
– increased by 25 per cent to 
US$1,490 million – a result 
achieved by careful management 
of the mix of new business volume 
and margin. Annualised new 
premium (ANP) increased by 24 
per cent compared with 2012 and 
margin remained healthy at 44.1 
per cent. The Group continued to 

We also achieved double-digit 
growth in VONB in each of our 
reported market segments 
highlighting the strength through 
geographical diversity of AIA’s 
regional platform. At the same 
time as achieving strong growth 
in new business profitability, our 
free surplus generation increased 
substantially. This is another 
indication of the quality of our 
existing portfolio of businesses. 
The solvency ratio of our main 
operating company, AIA Co., on the 

012

AIA GROUP LIMITED

OVERVIEWprudent HKICO basis, improved by 
80 pps to 433 per cent as at the end 
of November 2013. The increase 
reflected strong earnings and the 
benefit of rising interest rates.

Our focus continues to be on 
organic growth but our scale 
presence and financial strength 
also place us in a strong position 
to capture any value-enhancing 
inorganic opportunities that arise. 
To this end, we completed two 
transactions in December 2012 
when we significantly expanded 
our presence in Malaysia with the 
acquisition of ING Malaysia and 
entered Sri Lanka as the second-
largest life insurance company in 
the country.

ASIAN GROWTH 
OPPORTUNITY
Asia offers one of the most 
attractive and robust life insurance 
markets in the world and our 
business continues to be well 
positioned to take advantage of 
the major drivers of growth in the 
region. Asia has a comparatively 
young and upwardly mobile 
population and this is driving the 
rapidly-rising rates of urbanisation 
and growth in disposable incomes 
across the region. Coupled with 
relatively low levels of state-funded 
social welfare provision, the need 
for the private sector to provide 
regular savings and life and health 
protection coverage to ensure the 
social well-being of the people 
in our markets is substantial. 
Additionally, existing levels of 
private provision are recognised 
generally as being insufficient and 
a large proportion of the Asian 
population does not have adequate 
savings or protection cover in place.

These demographic trends and 
significant levels of underinsurance 

combine to create a vast latent 
need for life insurance – and 
one that can best be served and 
serviced by well-established 
companies with the distribution 
reach and the expertise across 
the broad spectrum of product 
design, investment management, 
policy administration and financial 
discipline to be able to deliver value 
consistently to the customer.

OUR ADVANTAGED 
PLATFORM
AIA’s advantaged platform across 
our markets derives from our long 
history in Asia and provides us with 
a unique presence, scale and depth 
of experience. This experience 
combined with our exclusive focus 
on the dynamic Asia-Pacific region 
means that we are well placed to 
understand and respond to the 
needs of our customers locally.

AIA’s trusted brand and large-scale 
proprietary distribution offer  
direct access to these customers 
enabling us to provide advice 
across our product range and to 
benefit from the significant growth 
opportunities our markets offer. 
Our financial strength also places 
us in a strong position to finance 
our growth while maintaining 
a prudent, sustainable and 
progressive dividend policy. Our 
100 per cent ownership structures 
allow us to capture the full 
economics of this growth for our 
shareholders.

Our exceptional team of employees 
is fully committed to executing our 
strategy of developing ever more 
effective distribution channels, 
more targeted products and 
greater customer engagement to 
sustain the track record we have 
established.

Premier Agency and 
Partnership Distribution
Our core business as a life insurer 
is to protect the financial health and 
welfare of our customers through 
the provision of regular savings 
and protection products. High-
quality, large-scale distribution is 
required to market these products 
effectively. We strive to reach as 
many people as possible to raise 
awareness of the need for adequate 
levels of savings and protection 
cover for the long term.

AIA’s proprietary tied agency 
network has been built up over 
many years and remains the 
cornerstone of our distribution 
platform in the region. The scale 
and quality of our agency force 
allows AIA to develop long-term 
face-to-face relationships with our 
customers and their families with, 
in many cases these relationships 
enduring from generation to 
generation. We remain committed 
to sustaining the highest standards 
of service and advice to our new 
and existing customers through 
high-quality agent recruitment 
combined with outstanding training 
and development programmes as 
part of the execution of our Premier 
Agency strategy. We continue to see 
this as one of AIA’s fundamental 
strengths and critically important to 
sustaining our advantaged platform 
and business model in the region.

Our partnership distribution 
business has been very 
successful in further expanding 
our distribution reach through 
bancassurance, direct marketing 
and other intermediated channels 
while meeting our profitability 
requirements. These sources of 
growth complement our agency 
business and our aim is to build 
strong relationships with our 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

013

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGroup Chief Executive and President’s Report

new and existing partners that 
achieve the right returns for our 
customers, our partners and AIA. 
As part of our ongoing strategy, 
we signed a landmark distribution 
agreement with Citibank, N.A. 
(Citibank) in December 2013. This 
exclusive 15-year agreement is the 
widest-reaching bancassurance 
distribution partnership ever 
secured in Asia covering 11 
markets and 13 million customers 
in the region and builds on our 
established bancassurance 
capabilities.

Brand Management and The 
Real Life Company
AIA has the leading insurance 
brand in Asia and the introduction 
of our new brand positioning as The 
Real Life Company in June 2013 
marked a significant milestone for 
us. The Real Life Company brand 
was the culmination of extensive 
analysis and research with 
customers, agents and employees 
across the region. It has been 
launched across 15 of our markets 
using a multi-channel media 
communication strategy including 
television, print, digital and social 
media. The Real Life Company 
brand communicates to our current 
and potential customers that we 
are genuinely engaged in their lives 
and that we will provide the right 
financial solutions and support for 
them and their families through 
life’s ups and downs.

In August 2013, AIA completed 
its first major sponsorship deal 
when we announced our Cup Shirt 
partnership with English Premier 
League Football Club, Tottenham 
Hotspur. Our partnership continues 
to differentiate the AIA brand 
and offers another opportunity to 
engage with our customers, agents 

and employees through three major 
cup competitions in the United 
Kingdom and Europe, commanding 
over 1.5 billion television viewers 
across Asia.

Product Innovation
AIA offers a wide range of products 
to meet the life and health 
protection needs and long-term 
wealth creation goals of our 
customers. Consumers are looking 
for better healthcare services 
and deeper levels of protection. 
The general increase in longevity, 
inflation of living costs and a 
move away from long-standing 
family support relationships will 
also increase the importance of 
planning ahead for retirement. 
In 2013, we continued to promote 
the use of insurance cover as 
a more effective alternative to 
self-funding and we launched a 
number of new initiatives across 
our markets to help increase the 
levels of protection cover that 
people have in place. We also 
focused on the use of regular 
savings as a more disciplined and 
efficient way to accumulate funds 
while often addressing protection 
needs, for example, for education 
and retirement planning. Our next 
generation unit-linked products are 
playing an increasingly important 
role in this area.

Our approach to innovation 
goes beyond traditional product 
development. This year, we 
launched AIA Vitality, a science-
backed wellness programme that 
provides participants with the 
knowledge, tools and motivation to 
help them achieve their personal 
health goals. The programme, 
which is part of AIA’s commitment 
to healthy living, is a joint venture 
between AIA and Discovery Limited, 
a specialist insurer headquartered 

in South Africa. AIA Vitality is 
a transformational initiative to 
support healthy-living practices, 
signalling AIA’s commitment to 
engaging with our customers in 
ways that both encourage and 
empower them to make real 
improvements in their health and to 
reward them for doing so.

ENGAGEMENT WITH 
PEOPLE
Employees and Agents
The diligence, professionalism and 
commitment of our employees 
and agents are essential to AIA’s 
continued success.

In 2012, we communicated our 
Operating Philosophy of “Doing 
the Right Thing, in the Right Way, 
with the Right People” and our 
Operating Principles that help 
guide and shape our employees’ 
actions and behaviours across 
all of AIA’s markets. Throughout 
2013, we continued to build on 
these fundamental principles to 
refine and enhance the way in 
which we engage and empower 
our people to create a distinctive 
culture for AIA. We look to develop 
and reward employees and agents 
who not only meet or exceed their 
individual performance goals but 
who also exemplify our Operating 
Principles in the way they interact 
with each other and our external 
stakeholders. We listen to feedback 
from our employees to help shape 
our work practices and we have 
conducted an annual employee 
engagement survey each year 
since 2011 that is independently 
measured by Gallup. The survey 
had a participation rate of 96 per 
cent in 2013 and engagement 
scores have improved each year 
since its inception.

014

AIA GROUP LIMITED

OVERVIEWOur wide-ranging training and 
development programmes are 
designed to provide learning 
opportunities for our employees at 
all levels of seniority to increase 
their professionalism and broaden 
their skills. We continued to expand 
our mentoring programme in 
2013 and also further accelerated 
both our secondment and transfer 
efforts to promote best practices by 
sharing of ideas and building closer 
relationships among employees 
in different business units and 
functional roles to develop our next 
generation of leaders.

Our compensation structure is 
designed to reward performance 
based on individual, business 
unit and group-wide delivery 
against defined goals and to do 
so without creating incentives to 
encourage employees to expose 
the business to inappropriate 
short-term risks. Employees also 
have the opportunity to participate 
in our Employee Share Purchase 
Plan that was launched in 2011. In 
2013 we extended the opportunity 
for participation in this plan to 
encompass 13 of the territories in 
which we operate. I was particularly 
pleased to report last year that we 
had introduced a share ownership 
scheme for agents equivalent to 
that for employees and this had 
been launched in seven locations 
by 2013. We are encouraged to see 
increasing numbers of employees 
and agents enrolling in the plans 
each year.

Customers and Communities
AIA actively supports our local 
communities in many ways that 
fit alongside our core business 
as a life insurer. Our business is 
about helping people achieve their 
goals to provide a better future 

for themselves and their families. 
Such aspirations include the desire 
to lead a longer, healthier life and 
encouraging people across the 
region to lead healthier lives is the 
main focus of AIA’s corporate social 
responsibility strategy. Based on 
the results of AIA’s Healthy Living 
Index Survey, which included more 
than 10,000 respondents across 15 
markets in the Asia-Pacific region, 
our offices have implemented both 
internal initiatives to encourage 
healthy-living practices among our 
employees and external projects 
through a range of well-being and 
fundraising programmes.

Contributing to local communities 
and their well-being is therefore 
very much a core value of AIA 
and an integral part of our long-
term commitment to the region. 
While Healthy Living is our main 
group-wide priority, we encourage 
and support our employees and 
agents to engage in charitable and 
community activities that connect 
our people and our businesses 
more closely to their local 
communities, as well as providing 
emergency aid in times of crises.

One example of this in 2013 was in 
response to the impact of Typhoon 
Haiyan across Southeast Asia and, 
particularly in the Philippines. 
AIA acted both locally and across 
the region, led by our team in 
the Philippines, to aid immediate 
relief efforts and long-term 
reconstruction through numerous 
initiatives to raise funds for victims 
of the typhoon. To support this 
effort, our local business Philam 
Life donated US$500,000 to the 
Philam Foundation to provide food, 
shelter, medical care, clean water, 
safe sanitation, and kick-start 
the rebuilding process including 
the building of schools for those 
affected by the typhoon.

OUTLOOK
While debate over the timing of 
withdrawal of supportive U.S. 
monetary policy caused market 
volatility over 2013 and tested 
those countries running current 
account deficits, Asian central 
banks responded appropriately 
and successfully. They have the 
ability, capacity and resolve to 
respond proactively and effectively 
to contain any future global 
liquidity challenges. Exchange 
rates have begun to stabilise and 
macroeconomic fundamentals in 
Asia remain robust.

I have said many times that we 
at AIA are exceptionally well 
positioned by the quality and scale 
of our advantaged platform to 
capitalise on the opportunities 
that Asia offers. We also have a 
clear strategy in place and our 
dedicated team remains focused 
on the right priorities. We have 
established a strong track record 
of delivery as demonstrated by our 
financial performance in 2013 and 
our consistent execution since our 
IPO. The opportunities available 
to us are truly exceptional and I 
am confident of AIA’s continued 
success in deriving growth in 
shareholders’ value.

There is much more to come!

Mark Edward Tucker 
Group Chief Executive and 
President 

21 February 2014

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

015

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION03:00

04:00

05:00

06:00

07:00

08:00

09:00

10:00

11:00

12:00

13:00

14:00

15:00

16:00

17:00

18:00

19:00

20:00

21:00

22:00

23:00

00:00

01:00

02:00

…from every person within  
our organisation. At AIA, business 
is about doing the right thing in  
the right way with the right people 
and knowing that when we get  
that right, success will come.  
That is the way to build sustainable 
growth…and that is the way we 
are working to ensure that we are 
a truly great company. 

016

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWANNUAL REPORT 2013

017

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFinancial Review

AIA has delivered another year of excellent financial results, building on our track record of 
profitable growth, through the consistent execution of our strategy and prudent management 
of our balance sheet. The Group has achieved record results for each of our key performance 
metrics driven by strong operating performances against a backdrop of weaker Asian equity 
markets.

VONB grew by 25 per cent to US$1,490 million and IFRS OPAT increased by 16 per cent to 
US$2,504 million. EV Equity was up by US$3,218 million or 10 per cent to US$34,875 million. This 
large-scale growth was achieved while reducing our new business strain as a proportion of VONB. 
We also delivered an increase in free surplus generated over the year through the disciplined 
management of our in-force portfolio and a positive effect from rising interest rates. Our 
regulatory solvency ratio for AIA Co. stands at 433 per cent on the prudent Hong Kong Insurance 
Companies Ordinance basis, which is an increase of 80 pps compared with 2012.

Our financial performance in 2013 once again demonstrated the powerful combination of  
AIA’s significant growth opportunities, the effective execution of our clear strategy and the 
rigorous financial discipline that underscores AIA’s ability to continue to deliver sustainable 
value for our shareholders.

SUMMARY
Value Creation
VONB grew by 25 per cent compared with 2012 to US$1,490 
million, net of tax, with each of our market segments 
delivering double-digit growth over the year.

We continued to focus on optimising the mix of volume 
and margin to deliver sustainable growth in new business 
profitability with an increase of 24 per cent in ANP compared 
with 2012 to US$3,341 million and VONB margin to 44.1 per 
cent from 43.6 per cent in 2012.

EV Equity is the total of embedded value, goodwill and other 
intangible assets. EV Equity grew by US$3,218 million to 
US$34,875 million at 30 November 2013, mainly as a result of 
strong EV operating profit. This represents an increase of 10 
per cent from US$31,657 million at 30 November 2012.

EV Equity included goodwill and other intangible assets 
of US$1,053 million at 30 November 2013 compared with 
US$249 million at 30 November 2012, with the increase 
arising principally from acquisitions.

EV grew to US$33,822 million at 30 November 2013, an 
increase of 8 per cent over the year from US$31,408 million 
at 30 November 2012. The growth in EV of US$2,414 million 
was mainly driven by a strong operating performance and is 
shown after a deduction of US$808 million for the effect of 
acquisitions in the year.

EV operating profit grew by 14 per cent to US$3,975 million 
compared with 2012. The strong performance reflected a 
combination of a higher VONB of US$1,490 million, increased 
expected return on EV of US$2,387 million and positive 
operating experience variances and operating assumption 
changes which totalled US$124 million, less interest costs 
of US$26 million on medium term notes and an acquisition 
credit facility.

018

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA has achieved 
record results for each 
of our key performance 
metrics driven by 
strong operating 
performances against 
a backdrop of weaker 
Asian equity markets.

Non-operating EV movements included a positive contribution 
of US$620 million from investment return variances and 
changes in economic assumptions mainly due to an increase 
in interest rates and negative other non-operating variances. 
This was offset by the payment of total shareholder dividends 
of US$595 million, negative other capital movements of US$18 
million and negative foreign exchange movements of US$760 
million.

IFRS Profit
IFRS operating profit after tax (OPAT), grew by 16 per cent 
compared with 2012 to US$2,504 million. The increase was 
a result of strong business growth in each of our market 
segments, improvements in investment income and a positive 
contribution from acquisitions.

AIA’s IFRS net profit definition includes mark-to-market 
movements from our equity portfolio. Net profit decreased by 
7 per cent compared with 2012 to US$2,822 million, reflecting 

the decline in equity markets in the second half of 2013. Net 
gains from equities, net of tax, contributed US$424 million in 
2013 compared with US$787 million in 2012.

Shareholders’ equity reduced by 8 per cent to US$24,686 
million at 30 November 2013 from US$26,697 million at 30 
November 2012 mainly due to the accounting effect of rising 
interest rates on the treatment of debt securities that are 
classified as available for sale under the IFRS basis that AIA 
has adopted.

IFRS OPAT exceeded US$2.5 billion for the first time and has 
increased by around half over the period since our IPO in 
2010. This significant increase is a direct result of the strong 
underlying growth we have delivered across our businesses 
and our focus on improving operating margins through 
writing higher-quality new regular savings and protection 
business.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

019

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFinancial Review

Capital and Dividends
At 30 November 2013, the total available regulatory capital 
for AIA Co., our main regulated entity, was US$6,057 million 
as measured under the HKICO basis. AIA Co. has a solvency 
ratio of 433 per cent of the minimum regulatory capital 
requirement, which is an increase of 80 pps compared with 
353 per cent at the end of November 2012. The positive 
movement included retained earnings generated during 
the year and the effect of rising interest rates. Our local 
businesses remitted US$1,733 million to the Group Corporate 
Centre in 2013, which is an increase of 9 per cent compared 
with 2012.

The Board of Directors has recommended a final dividend 
of 28.62 Hong Kong cents per share in line with our prudent, 

sustainable and progressive dividend policy and subject to 
shareholders’ approval at the Company’s forthcoming AGM. 
This represents an increase of 16 per cent compared with the 
final dividend in 2012 reflecting the strength of our results and 
brings the total dividend for 2013 to 42.55 Hong Kong cents 
per share, an increase of 15 per cent compared with 2012.

ACQUISITIONS
As previously announced, AIA’s acquisitions of ING Malaysia 
and Aviva NDB Insurance (ANI) completed in December 2012, 
the first month of the Group’s financial year. The financial 
results of the two newly-acquired businesses are therefore 
accounted for in the Group’s 2013 financial results from the 
respective dates of completion. Further details are disclosed 
in note 5 to the financial statements.

NEW BUSINESS GROWTH

Value of New Business (VONB) and Annualised New Premium (ANP) by Segment

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Subtotal

2013 (1)

VONB
Margin

57.6%

56.3%

67.3%

37.8%

66.4%

26.8%

32.0%

48.9%

VONB

468

319

269

120

166

91

220

1,653

2012 (1) (3)

VONB
Margin

58.4%

53.9%

65.1%

46.0%

57.5%

28.5%

27.0%

47.8%

ANP

VONB

781

565

400

319

249

338

689

366

287

220

69

124

68

167

3,341

1,301

VONB
Change

ANP
Change

28%

11%

22%

74%

34%

34%

32%

27%

29%

6%

18%

111%

16%

43%

11%

24%

ANP

604

532

339

151

215

237

618

2,696

Adjustment to reflect additional Hong Kong 

reserving and capital requirements (2)

(67)

n/m

n/m

(41)

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

After-tax value of unallocated  

Group Office expenses 

Total

Notes:
(1)  ANP and VONB margin exclude pension business.

(96)

n/m

1,490

44.1%

n/m

3,341

(72)

n/m

1,188

43.6%

n/m

2,696

n/m

25%

n/m

24%

(2)  Adjustment to VONB for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International, as described in Section 4.4 of the Supplementary Embedded Value Information.

(3)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB and VONB margin results to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification 

has no impact on the total VONB and VONB margin of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2012.

020

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWVONB grew by 25 per cent to US$1,490 million, an increase of 
US$302 million compared with 2012.

We achieved significant growth across both agency and 
partnership distribution channels in 2013 with agency 
VONB up by 24 per cent to US$1,166 million and VONB for 
partnership distribution growing by 35 per cent to US$469 
million compared with 2012.

Each of our market segments delivered double-digit growth 
in VONB. China, Korea and Other Markets reported excellent 
VONB growth in excess of 30 per cent compared with 2012. 
Hong Kong and Singapore delivered strong performances 
with increases of 28 per cent and 22 per cent respectively 
driven by growth in active agents and improved productivity. 
Thailand delivered a solid performance with VONB growth 
of 11 per cent, as our agency distribution adjusted to 
modifications made to their compensation structure over the 
year to align more closely with our long-term emphasis on 
productivity, quality recruitment and sales. Finally, Malaysia 
reported an uplift in VONB of 74 per cent including the 
consolidation of ING Malaysia.

ANP grew by 24 per cent to US$3,341 million compared with 
US$2,696 million in 2012. In particular, Hong Kong and Korea 
reported excellent growth of 29 per cent and 43 per cent 
respectively with ANP in Malaysia more than double the prior 
year figure reflecting the consolidation of ING Malaysia.

VONB margin increased to 44.1 per cent compared with 
43.6 per cent in 2012. The positive change in margin was 
mainly due to product and channel mix improvements of 0.6 
pps, offset by a reduction of 0.4 pps from geographical mix 
changes primarily reflecting the growth in our operations in 
Korea following the restructuring and the consolidation of our 
acquisition of ING Malaysia. Economic assumption changes 
and other items improved margin by 0.3 pps in total.

VONB is reported after a deduction of US$163 million of 
which US$67 million is for additional Hong Kong reserving 
and capital requirements above local statutory requirements 
and US$96 million is for unallocated Group Office expenses, 
representing the expenses incurred by the Group Office which 
are not already allocated by business unit.

EMBEDDED VALUE (EV)

EV Equity

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

EV

Goodwill and other intangible assets(1)

EV Equity

As at 
  30 November 
2013

As at 
  30 November 

2012  

Change

33,822

1,053

34,875

31,408

249

31,657

8%

323%

10%

Note:
(1)  Consistent with the IFRS financial statements, net of tax, amounts attributable to participating funds and non-controlling interests.

EV Equity grew by US$3,218 million to US$34,875 million at 30 
November 2013, an increase of 10 per cent over the year from 
US$31,657 million at 30 November 2012, mainly as a result of 
strong EV operating profit.

EV Equity included goodwill and other intangible assets 
of US$1,053 million at 30 November 2013 compared with 
US$249 million at 30 November 2012, with the increase 
arising principally from acquisitions.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

021

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
Financial Review

Analysis of EV Movement
An analysis of the movements in EV is shown as follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

2013

ANW

13,170

(1,865)

683

(1,182)

11,988

(957)

3,087

(255)

(83)

(26)

1,766

335

–

361

2,462

(595)

(18)

(371)

13,466

ANW

10,906

(924)

2,807

(116)

(20)

1,747

554

–

410

2,711

(530)

(42)

125

13,170

VIF

18,238

–

374

374

18,612

2,447

(700)

369

93

–

2,209

10

429

(515)

2,133

–

–

(389)

20,356

2012

VIF

16,333

2,112

(615)

256

(9)

1,744

379

(105)

(523)

1,495

–

–

410

18,238

EV

31,408

(1,865)

1,057

(808)

30,600

1,490

2,387

114

10

(26)

3,975

345

429

(154)

4,595

(595)

(18)

(760)

33,822

EV

27,239

1,188

2,192

140

(29)

3,491

933

(105)

(113)

4,206

(530)

(42)

535

31,408

Opening EV

Purchase price

Acquired EV

Effect of acquisitions

EV post acquisitions

Value of new business

Expected return on EV

Operating experience variances

Operating assumption changes

Interest costs on medium term notes and acquisition credit facility

EV operating profit

Investment return variances

Effect of changes in economic assumptions

Other non-operating variances

Total EV profit

Dividends

Other capital movements

Effect of changes in exchange rates

Closing EV

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening EV

Value of new business

Expected return on EV

Operating experience variances

Operating assumption changes

EV operating profit

Investment return variances

Effect of changes in economic assumptions

Other non-operating variances

Total EV profit

Dividends

Other capital movements

Effect of changes in exchange rates

Closing EV

022

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWEV grew to US$33,822 million at 30 November 2013, an 
increase of 8 per cent over the year from US$31,408 million 
at 30 November 2012. The growth in EV of US$2,414 million 
was mainly driven by a strong operating performance and is 
shown after a deduction of US$808 million for the effect of 
acquisitions in the year.

EV operating profit grew by 14 per cent to US$3,975 million 
compared with 2012. The strong performance reflected a 
combination of a higher VONB of US$1,490 million, increased 
expected return on EV of US$2,387 million and positive 
operating experience variances and operating assumption 
changes which totalled US$124 million, less interest costs 
of US$26 million on medium term notes and an acquisition 
credit facility.

Non-operating EV movements included a positive  
contribution of US$620 million from investment return 
variances and changes in economic assumptions mainly 
due to rising interest rates and negative other non-operating 
variances. This was offset by the payment of total shareholder 
dividends of US$595 million, negative other capital 

movements of US$18 million and negative foreign exchange 
movements of US$760 million.

EV includes the adjusted net worth (ANW) and value of 
in-force business (VIF). ANW increased by 2 per cent to 
US$13,466 million at 30 November 2013 from US$13,170 
million at 30 November 2012 with an increase of US$1,478 
million offset by the deduction of US$1,182 million for the 
effect of acquisitions. After deducting the cost of holding 
required capital, VIF increased by 12 per cent to US$20,356 
million at 30 November 2013, compared with US$18,238 
million at 30 November 2012.

Total undiscounted after-tax distributable earnings of 
US$14,132 million are expected to emerge from the VIF over 
the next five years compared with US$11,870 million reported 
in 2012.

EV and VONB Sensitivities
Sensitivities to EV and VONB arising from changes to central 
assumptions from equity market and interest rate movements 
are shown below.

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Central value

Equity market risk

10 per cent increase in equity prices

10 per cent decrease in equity prices

Interest rate risk

50 basis points increase in interest rates

50 basis points decrease in interest rates

EV as at 
  30 November  
2013  

EV as at 
  30 November  
2012  

2013 VONB

2012 VONB

33,822

1,490

31,408

1,188

34,459

33,168

34,031

33,418

n/a

n/a

1,564

1,399

31,961

30,846

31,605

31,007

n/a

n/a

1,261

1,099

Please refer to Section 3 of the Supplementary Embedded Value Information for additional information.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

023

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
Financial Review

IFRS PROFIT

Total Weighted Premium Income (TWPI) by Segment

IFRS Operating Profit After Tax (OPAT) (1) by Segment 

US$ millions, unless 
otherwise stated

2013

2012(2) 

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Group Corporate 

Centre

Total

770

526

396

250

205

150

244

732

471

345

150

151

125

207

(37)

2,504

(22)

2,159

YoY

5%

12%

15%

67%

36%

20%

18%

n/m

16%

Notes:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited.

(2)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year OPAT 
result to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification has no 
impact on the total OPAT of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2012. 
Further details are disclosed in note 8 to the financial statements.

OPAT grew by 16 per cent compared with 2012 to US$2,504 
million. The increase was a result of strong business growth 
in each of our market segments, improvements in investment 
income and a positive contribution from acquisitions.

OPAT growth in Hong Kong of 5 per cent and in Thailand of 
12 per cent was due to growth in the underlying businesses, 
partly offset by lower investment income following net funds 
remitted to the Group Corporate Centre. Singapore reported 
15 per cent growth in OPAT mainly from strong investment 
income and Malaysia reported 67 per cent growth in OPAT 
including the consolidation of ING Malaysia. China achieved 
36 per cent growth in OPAT from a combination of underlying 
growth in the business, strong investment income and a lower 
effective tax rate and Korea’s OPAT grew by 20 per cent due 
to favourable claims experience. OPAT growth of 18 per cent 
in Other Markets was mainly attributable to strong results in 
Indonesia and the Philippines.

US$ millions, unless 
otherwise stated

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Total

2013

3,770

3,364

2,150

2,036

1,599

2,049

2,840

17,808

2012  

3,372

3,119

2,035

964

1,446

1,942  

2,482

15,360

YoY

12%

8%

6%

111%

11%

6%

14%

16%

TWPI increased by 16 per cent to US$17,808 million, reflecting 
growth in each of our market segments and the consolidation 
of ING Malaysia. Persistency remained strong and stable at 
94.3 per cent in 2013.

Investment Income (1)

US$ millions, unless 
otherwise stated

Interest income

Dividend income

Rental income

Total

Note:
(1)  Excluding unit-linked contracts.

2013

4,445

398

115

4,958

2012  

3,864

316

97

4,277

YoY

15%

26%

19%

16%

Investment income increased by 16 per cent to US$4,958 
million compared with 2012, reflecting the higher level of 
invested assets at the start of 2013 and higher rental yields 
achieved over the year.

Operating Expenses

US$ millions, unless 
otherwise stated

Operating expenses

2013  

1,577

2012  

1,340

YoY

18%

Operating expenses increased by 18 per cent to US$1,577 
million compared with 2012 mainly as a result of acquisitions. 
The expense ratio increased slightly to 8.9 per cent in 2013 
from 8.7 per cent in 2012.

024

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW 
 
 
Net Profit (1)

US$ millions, unless 
otherwise stated

OPAT

Net gains from 

equities,  
net of tax

Other non-operating 

investment 
experience  
and other items,  
net of tax

Total

2013

2,504

2012  

2,159

YoY

16%

424

787  

(46)%

(106)

2,822

73

3,019  

n/m

(7)%

Note:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited.

Earnings Per Share – Basic

Profit (US$ millions)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (millions)

Basic earnings per share (US cents)

Note:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited.

Earnings Per Share – Diluted

Profit (US$ millions)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (millions) (2)

Diluted earnings per share (US cents)

Notes:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited.

AIA’s IFRS net profit definition includes mark-to-market 
movements from our equity portfolio. Following a decline in 
equity markets in the second half of 2013, net profit decreased 
by 7 per cent compared with 2012 to US$2,822 million with net 
gains from equities, net of tax, contributing US$424 million in 
2013 compared with US$787 million in 2012. Negative other 
non-operating investment experience and other items, net of 
tax, of US$106 million primarily included a net realised loss 
from debt securities of US$46 million and integration and 
restructuring expenses of US$54 million.

EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)
OPAT earnings per share increased by 16 per cent to 20.91 US 
cents in 2013 from 18.00 US cents in 2012.

EPS based on net profit attributable to shareholders of AIA 
Group Limited decreased to 23.57 US cents in 2013 from 25.16 
US cents in 2012 following mark-to-market movements in 
equity markets mentioned above.

Net Profit (1)

OPAT (1)

2013  

2012  

2013  

2,822

11,974

23.57

3,019

11,997

25.16

2,504

11,974

20.91

2012

2,159

11,997

18.00

Net P rofit (1)

OPAT (1)

2013  

2012  

2013  

2,822

12,006

23.50

3,019

12,008

25.14

2,504

12,006

20.86

2012

2,159

12,008

17.98

(2)  Diluted earnings per share including the dilutive effects, if any, of the awards of share options, restricted share units, restricted stock purchase units and restricted 
stock subscription units granted to eligible employees, directors, officers and agents under the share-based compensation plans as described in note 39 to the 
financial statements.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

025

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
Financial Review

BALANCE SHEET

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Assets

  Financial investments

Investment property

  Cash and cash equivalents

Invested assets

  Deferred acquisition and origination costs

  Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities

Insurance and investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Other liabilities

Less total liabilities

Equity

  Total equity

  Less non-controlling interests

Total equity attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited

As at 
  30 November
2013

As at 
  30 November

2012  

Change

120,648

1,128

2,228

124,004

15,738

6,843

146,585

112,099

2,126

7,529

121,754

24,831

145

24,686

111,581

1,035

8%

9%

2,948  

(24)%

115,564

14,161

4,714

134,439

99,439

766

7,406

107,611

26,828  

131

26,697  

7%

11%

45%

9%

13%

178%

2%

13%

(7)%

11%

(8)%

Assets
Total assets grew by 9 per cent to US$146,585 million at 30 
November 2013 compared with US$134,439 million at 30 
November 2012 reflecting positive net flows from underlying 
growth in the business and from acquisitions.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased by 24 per cent to 
US$2,228 million at 30 November 2013 compared with 
US$2,948 million at 30 November 2012, reflecting increased 
investments in financial assets and the payment of 
shareholder dividends totalling US$595 million.

Deferred acquisition and origination costs increased by 11 per 
cent to US$15,738 million at 30 November 2013 compared 
with US$14,161 million at 30 November 2012 from growth in 
new business and acquisitions.

Other assets grew by 45 per cent to US$6,843 million mainly 
due to the addition of goodwill of US$1,009 million and other 
assets of US$335 million arising from acquisitions, and 
US$295 million associated with the acquisition of a property in 
Hong Kong in December 2012.

026

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
Total liabilities increased by 13 per cent to US$121,754 million 
at 30 November 2013 compared with US$107,611 million at 30 
November 2012. Insurance and investment contract liabilities 
grew by 13 per cent to US$112,099 million at 30 November 
2013 compared with US$99,439 million at 30 November 2012, 
reflecting the underlying growth of the in-force portfolio and 
from acquisitions.

Borrowings increased by 178 per cent to US$2,126 million at 
30 November 2013 mainly from the issue in March 2013 of two 
medium term notes of a combined nominal amount of US$1.0 
billion and the drawdown of a credit facility relating to the 
financing of a property acquisition in Hong Kong.

Details of commitments and contingencies are included in 
note 42 to the financial statements.

Equity – Movement in Shareholders’ Equity of AIA Group Limited

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening shareholders’ equity

Net profit

Fair value (losses)/gains on assets

Foreign currency translation adjustments

Purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts

Dividends

Other capital movements

Total movement in shareholders’ equity

Closing shareholders’ equity

2013

26,697

2,822

(3,712)

(508)

(87)

(595)

69

(2,011)

24,686

2012

21,313

3,019

2,565

372

(84)

(530)

42

5,384

26,697

Shareholders’ IFRS equity excluding non-controlling interests 
reduced by 8 per cent to US$24,686 million at 30 November 
2013 from US$26,697 million at 30 November 2012 mainly 
due to the accounting effect of rising interest rates on the 
treatment of debt securities that are classified as available 
for sale leading to a reduction in the fair value reserve of 
US$3,712 million. Other negative movements included foreign 
currency translation reserves of US$508 million and the 
payment of shareholder dividends of US$595 million.

Sensitivities to IFRS profit before tax and net assets arising 
from foreign exchange rate, interest rate and equity market 
risk are included in note 37 to the financial statements.

Total Invested Assets

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Total policyholder and shareholder

Total unit-linked contracts

Total invested assets

INVESTED ASSETS
The carrying value of invested assets, including financial 
investments, investment property and cash and cash 
equivalents, increased by 7 per cent to US$124,004 million at 
30 November 2013 compared with US$115,564 million at 30 
November 2012. Invested assets include total assets held in 
respect of policyholders and shareholders, and those backing 
unit-linked contracts.

As at 
30 November
2013

Percentage 
of total

As at 
30 November
2012

Percentage 
of total

105,174

18,830

124,004

85%

15%

100%

98,240

17,324

115,564

85%

15%

100%

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

027

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFinancial Review

Details of the investment mix are as follows:

Policyholder and Shareholder Invested Assets

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Participating funds

  Government and government agency bonds

  Corporate bonds and structured securities

  Loans and deposits

  Subtotal – Fixed income investments

  Equities

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivatives

Investment property

Subtotal participating funds

Other policyholder and shareholder

  Government and government agency bonds

  Corporate bonds and structured securities

  Loans and deposits

  Subtotal – Fixed income investments

  Equities

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivatives

Investment property

Subtotal other policyholder and shareholder

Total policyholder and shareholder

Unit-linked Contracts

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Unit-linked contracts

  Debt securities

  Loans and deposits

  Equities(1)

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivatives

Total unit-linked contracts

Note:
(1)  Including third-party interests in equities.

028

AIA GROUP LIMITED

As at 
  30 November
2013

Percentage 
of total

As at 
  30 November
2012

Percentage 
of total

7,041

11,150

1,944

20,135

4,569

269

215

95

25,283

32,109

33,283

5,393

70,785

6,315

1,531

227

1,033

79,891

105,174

7%

11%

2%

20%

4%

–

–

–

24%

31%

32%

5%

68%

6%

1%

–

1%

76%

100%

6,011

9,842

1,303

17,156

3,534

316

317

15

21,338

32,072

30,893

5,047

68,012

5,656

1,897

317

1,020

76,902

98,240

6%

10%

2%

18%

4%

–

–

–

22%

33%

31%

5%

69%

6%

2%

–

1%

78%

100%

As at 
  30 November
2013

Percentage 
of total

As at 
  30 November
2012

Percentage 
of total

2,168

147

16,084

428

3

12%

1%

85%

2%

–

18,830

100%

2,044

75

14,466

735

4

17,324

12%

–

84%

4%

–

100%

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Invested assets held in respect of policyholders and 
shareholders increased by 7 per cent to US$105,174 million 
at 30 November 2013 compared with US$98,240 million at 
30 November 2012. The increase was mainly a result of the 
investment of operating cash flows generated by the business 
over the year and acquisitions.

reflecting increased investments in financial assets and the 
payment of shareholder dividends totalling US$595 million.

Invested assets held in respect of unit-linked contracts 
totalled US$18,830 million at 30 November 2013 compared 
with US$17,324 million at 30 November 2012.

Fixed income investments, including debt securities, loans, 
and term deposits, held in respect of policyholders and 
shareholders, totalled US$90,920 million at 30 November 
2013 compared with US$85,168 million at 30 November 2012. 
The increase was mainly from new purchases partly offset by 
increases in interest rates.

Government and government agency bonds represented 43 
per cent of our fixed income investments at 30 November 
2013 compared with 45 per cent held at 30 November 2012. 
Corporate bonds and structured securities accounted for 49 
per cent of fixed income investments at 30 November 2013 
compared with 48 per cent at 30 November 2012.

Total equity securities held in respect of policyholders and 
shareholders totalled US$10,884 million at 30 November 
2013, compared with US$9,190 million at 30 November 
2012. The increase in carrying value was attributable to new 
purchases as well as gains in market values. Equity securities 
totalling US$4,569 million were held in participating funds.

Cash and cash equivalents held in respect of policyholders 
and shareholders totalled US$1,800 million at 30 November 
2013 compared with US$2,213 million at 30 November 2012 

CAPITAL
Free Surplus Generation
The Group’s free surplus at 30 November 2013 represented 
the excess of adjusted net worth over liabilities and required 
capital calculated on the HKICO basis.

Free surplus generated increased by 33 per cent compared 
with 2012 to US$3,784 million from strong growth in our in-
force business and a positive effect from rising interest rates.

This was partially offset by investment in new business of 
US$1,510 million, which increased by 7 per cent compared 
with VONB growth of 25 per cent. Other deductions included 
unallocated Group Office expenses and interest costs of 
US$142 million, the payment of shareholder dividends of 
US$595 million and negative other capital movements of 
US$18 million.

Overall, free surplus before the effect of acquisitions and 
others increased by US$1,519 million over the year. Total free 
surplus increased by US$88 million to US$6,731 million at 30 
November 2013 with the increase of US$1,519 million offset by 
the effect of acquisitions and others of US$1,431 million.

The following table shows the change in free surplus:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated 

Opening free surplus

Effect of acquisitions and others

Free surplus post acquisitions and others

Free surplus generated

Free surplus used to fund new business

Unallocated Group Office expenses (1)

Dividends

Other capital movements

Closing free surplus

2013  

6,643

(1,431)

5,212

3,784

(1,510)

(142)

(595)

(18)

6,731

2012

5,930

–

5,930

2,845

(1,412)

(148)

(530)

(42)

6,643

Note:
(1)  Unallocated Group Office expenses for the year ended 30 November 2013 included interest costs of US$26 million on medium term notes and an acquisition credit 

facility.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

029

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Financial Review

Net Funds to Group Corporate Centre
Working capital comprises debt and equity securities, 
deposits and cash and cash equivalents held by Group 
Corporate Centre. Working capital, after payment of 
shareholder dividends, was US$5,556 million at 30 November 
2013 compared with US$5,185 million at 30 November 2012. 
Our business units remitted US$1,733 million to the Group 
Corporate Centre, which was an increase of 9 per cent 
compared with 2012.

Movements over the year also included a reduction in working 
capital from payments made for acquisitions partially offset 
by an increase in borrowings mainly due to the issue of 
medium term notes as discussed before and the drawdown 
of a credit facility relating to the financing of a property 
acquisition in Hong Kong.

The movements in working capital are summarised as 
follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening working capital

Group Corporate Centre net losses

Capital flows from business units

  Hong Kong

  Thailand

  Singapore

  Malaysia

  China

  Korea

  Other Markets

Net funds remitted to Group Corporate Centre

Payment for acquisitions

Increase in borrowings

Change in fair value reserve

Payment of dividends

Purchase of shares held by the employee share-based trusts

Change in share-based compensation reserve

Other changes in working capital

Closing working capital

2013  

5,185

(31)

2012(1)

3,912

(14)

839

700

222

118

(101)

27

(72)

1,733

(1,865)

1,441

(232)

(595)

(87)

75

(68)

5,556

1,104

503

23

98

(100)

–

(45)

1,583

–

–

217

(530)

(84)

41

60

5,185

Note:
(1)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification has no impact on the closing 

working capital for the year ended 30 November 2012. Further details are disclosed in note 8 to the financial statements.

030

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW 
REGULATORY CAPITAL
The Group’s lead insurance regulator is the Hong Kong Office 
of the Commissioner of Insurance (HKOCI). The Group’s 
principal operating company is AIA Co., a Hong Kong-
domiciled insurer. At 30 November 2013, the total available 
regulatory capital for AIA Co. amounted to US$6,057 million 
as measured under the HKICO basis. AIA Co. has a solvency 
ratio of 433 per cent of the minimum regulatory capital 

requirement, which is an increase of 80 pps compared with 
353 per cent reported at the end of November 2012. The 
positive movement included retained earnings generated 
during the year and the effect of rising interest rates.

A summary of the total available regulatory capital and 
solvency ratios of AIA Co. is as follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Total Available Regulatory Capital

Regulatory Minimum Required Capital (100%)

Solvency ratio (%)

As at 
  30 November
2013

As at 
  30 November
2012

6,057

1,399

433%

4,811

1,362

353%

AIA has given an undertaking to the HKOCI that it will maintain 
a solvency ratio of not less than 150 per cent in each of AIA Co. 
and AIA International. The Group’s individual branches and 
subsidiaries are also subject to supervision in the jurisdictions 
in which they operate. This means that local operating 
units, including branches and subsidiaries, must meet the 
regulatory capital requirements of their local prudential 
regulators. The various regulators overseeing the Group’s 
branches and subsidiaries actively monitor their capital 
position. The local operating units were in compliance with 
the capital requirements of their respective local regulators in 
each of our geographical markets at 30 November 2013.

respectively. Additional notes were issued in November 2013 
including a 3-year floating rate note at a nominal amount of 
HK$1,160 million (approximately US$150 million) that bears 
interest based upon HIBOR and a 10-year unsecured floating 
rate note at a nominal amount of US$60 million that bears 
interest based upon LIBOR.

CREDIT RATINGS
At 30 November 2013, AIA Co. had published financial 
strength ratings of AA- (Very Strong) with a stable outlook and 
the AIA Group Limited rating is A (Strong) with stable outlook 
from Standard & Poor’s.

MEDIUM TERM NOTE PROGRAMME
AIA established a US$2 billion Medium Term Note (MTN) 
programme on 27 February 2013. A total nominal amount 
of US$1.21 billion has been drawn down through the 
programme including an inaugural public offering of two 
senior unsecured fixed rate notes that was successfully 
completed in March 2013. The notes are for terms of 5 years 
and 10 years at nominal amounts of US$500 million each 
and bear annual interest of 1.750 per cent and 3.125 per cent 

DIVIDENDS
The Board of Directors has recommended a final dividend 
of 28.62 Hong Kong cents per share in line with our prudent, 
sustainable and progressive dividend policy and subject to 
shareholders’ approval at the Company’s forthcoming AGM. 
This represents an increase of 16 per cent compared with the 
final dividend in 2012 reflecting the strength of our results and 
brings the total dividend for 2013 to 42.55 Hong Kong cents 
per share, an increase of 15 per cent compared with 2012.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

031

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
Business Review

DISTRIBUTION
Agency
AIA’s proprietary tied agency network is a major source 
of growth and competitive advantage for the Group. The 
combination of scale and quality across our markets is one 
of AIA’s fundamental strengths and underpins our unique 
presence in the region.

In 2013, we continued to implement our successful 
Premier Agency strategy that helps AIA’s agents provide 
our customers with professional, high-quality advice and 
products that serve their evolving needs. Our agency model 
is fundamentally aligned with our focus on developing 
regular savings and protection products, which require 
high-calibre and well-trained agents to distribute effectively 
to our customers. We remain committed to ensuring that the 
highest standards of knowledge, skills and best practices are 
developed, maintained and shared across our entire network 
of agents in order to provide the best available service to our 
customers.

The execution of our strategy has delivered excellent agency 
VONB growth of 24 per cent compared with 2012 to US$1,166 
million and contributed 71 per cent of the Group’s total VONB 
in 2013. ANP increased by 25 per cent with a sustained VONB 
margin of 53.9 per cent compared with 2012. Our growth 
was the result of an increased number of active agents 
and strong gains in agency productivity during the year. 
Our newly-acquired businesses in Malaysia and Sri Lanka 
also contributed to the overall performance following their 
successful integration into the Group.

Note:
VONB and VONB margin by distribution channel are based on local statutory 
reserving and capital requirements and exclude pension business. 

032

AIA GROUP LIMITED

03:00

04:00

05:00

06:00

07:00

08:00

09:00

10:00

11:00

12:00

13:00

14:00

15:00

16:00

17:00

18:00

19:00

20:00

21:00

22:00

23:00

00:00

01:00

02:00

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW…between each of our geographical 
markets. What they each do have in  
common is AIA’s high-quality people  
who are deeply committed to serving  
the holders of more than 28 million  
individual policies and creating  
sustainable value for our shareholders.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

033

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

The cornerstone of our strategy for sustained 
growth in our agency channel remains 
focused recruitment backed by best-in-class 
training programmes. Our high-quality agent 
selection is driving our recruitment of younger, 
highly-educated and dynamic candidates into 
our agency business. Dedicated recruitment 
teams have been established to identify and 
recruit people who fit this profile, alongside 
innovative selection tools and upgraded new 
agent induction programmes developed 
through our interaction with LIMRA, a global 
leader in insurance training and recruitment 
practices.

Our training programmes have been 
developed over time to improve our agency 
training competency through our AIA 
Premier Academies. In 2013, we entered into a new 
strategic partnership with GAMA International, an association 
dedicated to supporting the professional development of 
field leaders in the insurance and financial services industry. 
Our aim is to further extend our competitive advantage 
regionally by developing our agency leaders through skills-
based professional development experience, peer-to-peer 
networking and enhancing our proven agency management 
practices. These initiatives have helped the number of active 
new agents in 2013 grow by 27 per cent compared with 2012.

Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) qualification is an 
important external global industry measure of the top 
financial planners and advisers and remains a benchmark 
for our Premier Agency platform. We continue to promote 
qualification through regional events that recognise sales 
performance and inspire and encourage the highest possible 
levels of productivity and quality. AIA is the number one 
ranked Asia-based insurer for MDRT members and our 
MDRT qualifiers grew by 20 per cent compared with 2012 
demonstrating the depth and quality of the growth in our 
agency force.

AIA continued to invest in iPoS, our industry-leading 
interactive point-of-sale technology. This pioneering 
technology enables our agents to reduce their administrative 
work and optimise their time spent advising existing and 
potential customers. iPoS has now been deployed to our 
agents in eight markets – Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, 
Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Vietnam. 
Following the successful implementation of this first phase of 
the regional roll-out, we have begun the development of the 

034

AIA GROUP LIMITED

AIA Premier Academy organised an annual kick-off seminar to help agents and agency leaders plan ahead in their 
pursuits of MDRT qualification during the year.

second phase which incorporates additional tools that assist 
our agents and agency leaders to manage their agency teams 
still more effectively.

Partnerships
AIA’s partnership distribution business expands our 
distribution reach and creates additional growth opportunities 
through bancassurance, direct marketing and other 
intermediated distribution channels. Our partnership strategy 
is built around establishing mutually beneficial relationships 
with our partners that allow us to maintain our disciplined 
approach to the types of products we sell so that we can 
achieve the right returns for our customers, our partners and 
AIA.

This deliberate strategy of balancing growth in the breadth 
of our distribution channels while meeting our profitability 
targets has once again delivered excellent results, with 
partnership VONB growth of 35 per cent compared with 2012 
to US$469 million. This growth was driven by increased ANP 
of 23 per cent and further VONB margin expansion of 3.4 pps 
to 39.8 per cent compared with 2012, as we improved our 
productivity and enhanced our business mix by achieving a 
higher proportion of protection product sales through our 
partners. Overall, our partnership business accounted for 29 
per cent of the Group’s total VONB in 2013.

Bancassurance
In recent years, we have transformed our bancassurance 
business through the ongoing development of collaborative 
partnerships with highly-regarded regional and local 
banks, so that it now represents a substantial part of our 

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWoverall partnership distribution. We have continued to work 
closely with our bank partners to increase sales force 
productivity from the proactive management and expansion 
of our in-branch specialists, greater network coverage and 
improvements to our product mix. In 2013, we also began the 
roll-out of iPoS to partners to further enhance the productivity 
of our specialists and to broaden the product range available 
to bank customers.

The successful execution of our bancassurance strategy 
continued to produce excellent results in 2013, maintaining 
our strong track record of delivering financially-disciplined 
growth with an increase in VONB for this channel of 57 per 
cent compared with 2012 including a margin uplift of 4.0 pps.

Our new exclusive relationship with Public Bank provided an 
important contribution to bancassurance VONB in Malaysia. 
Public Bank is one of Malaysia’s largest banking groups with 
over five million customers.

Direct Marketing
Our direct marketing business has continued to make good 
progress as a result of continuing investments in our people, 
products and processes. In Korea, we have progressively 
restructured our operations to target best-in-class 
direct marketing capabilities with successful recruitment 
campaigns to attract quality telesales representatives (TSRs). 
We continued to implement our training and development 
programmes during the year to bring newly-recruited TSRs 
up to required levels of productivity.

Other Partnership Channels
AIA’s additional partnership channels include independent 
financial advisers (IFAs), brokers, private banks and 
specialist advisers. We delivered solid overall growth in these 

channels during 2013. We continued to develop our Premier 
IFA model in Australia and this has delivered strong sales 
growth combined with attractive margins in the individual 
retail protection market to supplement our group insurance 
business.

Group Insurance
For more than 60 years, AIA has operated in the group 
insurance market in the Asia-Pacific region with currently 
more than 120,000 existing corporate clients and 16 million 
insured members. Our market expertise and distribution 
relationships have enabled AIA to build long-standing 
partnerships with companies through our market-leading 
products, comprehensive advice and regional support 
provided to a wide range of local domestic and multinational 
corporations.

Our group insurance business is organised around two main 
channels. Our Regional Employee Benefits Partnership 
Platform provides the broad geographical footprint to work 
strategically with key specialist global brokers to deliver 
group insurance products and services to multinational 
organisations across the region. Our Premier Agency 
distribution channel continues to focus on increasing the 
penetration of group insurance in small-and-medium sized 
enterprises (SMEs) that are widespread across Asia.

The successful execution of our strategy has delivered group 
insurance VONB growth of 26 per cent compared with 2012 
and established our market-leading positions in Singapore, 
Thailand, Hong Kong, Australia and Malaysia, while continuing 
to build our presence in other growth markets such as China, 
Indonesia and the Philippines.

We remain optimistic about the continuing success of our 
group insurance business and believe there is vast potential 
for the future growth of this segment. A combination of 
favourable demographic trends, increased urbanisation, 
rising income levels, increasing demand for labour and more 
sophisticated human resources practices will continue to 
drive an increasing need for group insurance cover. This is 
occurring against a market backdrop where overall coverage 
remains very low compared with that offered in more 
developed markets. AIA’s advantaged platform combined 
with the market’s potential scale and clear capacity for 
further expansion provide us with significant opportunities for 
profitable growth.

AIA continued to provide training and development programmes to its TSRs. Our TSRs in 
Korea attended a direct marketing workshop in June 2013.

Note:
VONB and VONB margin by distribution channel are based on local statutory reserving and capital requirements and exclude pension business. 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

035

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

The Real Life Company brand positioning was the most comprehensive branding programme in AIA’s history.

MARKETING
AIA has the leading Asian insurance brand and is one of the 
most recognised and trusted insurance companies in the 
industry. Our aim is to lead in the evolving market for regular 
savings and protection products, through our unrivalled 
depth of understanding gained from our extensive customer 
experience programmes. This allows us to help inform and 
educate customers of the importance of planning for the 
future and tailor products to meet their evolving needs.

The Real Life Company
Reflecting our aspiration to provide all of our stakeholders 
with a better understanding of what AIA stands for, we 
launched our new brand positioning as The Real Life 
Company in 2013. This was the most comprehensive branding 
programme in AIA’s history and was the culmination of 
extensive analysis and research with customers, agents and 
employees across the region.

Our new brand positioning reflects the wealth of customer 
insights gleaned from AIA’s long and remarkable history 
supporting millions of people in the Asia-Pacific region. 
The Real Life Company brand communicates that we are 

genuinely engaged in the lives of our customers allowing 
them to rely on AIA to provide them with the right financial 
solutions and support throughout their lives.

The Real Life Company brand has been launched internally 
and externally across 15 markets using a multi-channel 
media communication strategy including television, print, 
digital and social media. Our local markets have adapted and 
tailored our very successful regional campaign to reflect local 
context and culture, which has led to deeper engagement with 
our businesses, employees, customers and communities.

This year also marked AIA’s entry into major sponsorship 
promotion with the aim of increasing the profile and 
significance of the AIA brand across Asia and internationally. 
In August 2013, we announced our Cup Shirt partnership with 
English Premier League Football Club, Tottenham Hotspur 
(Spurs). The cup shirt sponsorship encompasses three 
major competitions in the United Kingdom and Europe that 
commands over 1.5 billion television viewers across Asia. 
Additionally, Spurs have around 80 million fans in the region. 
This major partnership provides AIA with a strong point of 
brand differentiation from our industry competitors and offers 
yet another opportunity to engage with a younger market 
segment alongside our other customer segments.

036

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOur marketing teams have introduced advanced customer 
data analytics to help our agents and employees improve 
their engagement with our existing customers. In 2013 we 
continued to realise this important source of new business 
growth and we have seen positive results with a 78 per cent 
increase in VONB from new sales to existing customers 
compared with 2012. 

As part of our aim to create powerful new ways of actively 
engaging with our customers and making the benefits of 
life insurance products more tangible, we launched a new 
wellness programme in July 2013 called “AIA Vitality”. AIA 
Vitality is a strategic joint venture with Discovery Limited, 
a specialist insurer headquartered in South Africa, and 
combines AIA’s brand, distribution and product leadership 
with Discovery Limited’s wellness-based expertise and 
experience. This innovative and science-backed programme 
enables us to offer protection products designed to 
encourage and reward sustained changes in healthy living 
while improving claims and persistency experience for AIA 
to further differentiate our proposition in the market and 
enhance sustainable value creation.

Engagement with Social Media
One of the many ways our marketing teams increase 
customer engagement is through the use of digital and social 
media. Increasing our social media presence has been one 
of our main digital marketing objectives in 2013. AIA now 
has a substantial and growing presence across a range of 
global and regional social media platforms with over 5.2 
million followers using LINE in Thailand, 600,000 followers on 
Facebook and over 500,000 fans on Kakao Talk in Korea.

Delivering The Right Products
AIA’s core business is to offer our customers financial 
security through protection against life’s risks and efficient 
regular savings plans to build up funds for the future. AIA 
offers an extensive range of products to meet the medical 
and healthcare, life cover, long-term wealth accumulation, 
retirement and legacy planning needs of our customers, 
with insurance providing a more effective means of securing 
protection than reliance on self-funding and a more reliable 
route to wealth accumulation than casual savings.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

037

The Cup Shirt partnership with Tottenham Hotspur provides AIA with strong point of brand 
differentiation from industry competitors.

Improving Customer Experience and Advocacy
Our customer experience programmes are designed to 
help us focus on the areas of service that matter most 
to our customers. Customer experience in each of our 
markets is monitored on an ongoing basis through customer 
assessments, mystery shopping and customer dashboards. 
We have used the insights gained from this detailed analysis to 
influence a number of major strategic and product initiatives. 
For example, our “Early Care” programme introduced 
simplified and integrated communications to build stronger 
relationships with our customers from their first contact 
with AIA. We also launched a “Customer Understanding” 
initiative in each of our markets to monitor and assess a 
number of specific areas including brand health and customer 
advocacy. This work has helped us generate tailored products 
for a range of customer segments including young families, 
women, overseas workers, high-net-worth individuals and 
seniors.

Better Engagement with Our Customers
AIA’s large-scale existing customer base of over 28 million 
individual policies and 16 million group insurance scheme 
members places us in a unique and advantaged position 
to generate new business growth from meeting evolving 
customer needs through cross-selling and upselling new 
products.

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

Our primary focus in protection is on raising the awareness 
of the need for additional cover to address the significant 
shortfall that exists between the levels of cover people 
need to protect the wealth and income of their families and 
the amounts they currently have in place. This shortfall 
exists globally but it is particularly significant in many Asian 
countries because of the low level of state welfare provision. 
As well as encouraging the take-up of new policies, we 
have also adopted a systematic approach to advising our 
customers of the need to increase their existing levels of cover 
to keep pace with their changing financial circumstances.

We have developed and launched new products in this area, 
such as multiple-payment and early-payment comprehensive 
critical illness products in Hong Kong, simplified issue health 
products in Korea, enhanced critical illness rider covers in 
Singapore and a comprehensive protection product in China.

We also see a major aspect of our business as providing 
customers with products to meet their long-term wealth 
creation goals, sometimes combined with additional 
protection, such as pre-funding education and retirement 
planning. For example, the value of new business generated 
from our unit-linked product range, which includes higher 
levels of protection cover, increased by 64 per cent compared 
with 2012.

TECHNOLOGY AND OPERATIONS
In 2013, we continued to drive further improvements in our 
technology systems and business processes across the 
Group. We introduced a series of strategic, organisational 
and operational initiatives to increase our operating 
efficiency, enhance the quality of our service and improve 
our engagement with customers, agents and distribution 
partners.

Major initiatives during the year included:

•  Strengthening our technology and operations leadership by 
improving the structure and depth of expertise of our teams;

•  Modernising our technology platforms with a focus on 

operating efficiency, business continuity and information 
security;

•  Providing operational support to our local markets to 

improve business efficiency and enhancing the service 
quality of our shared service centres in China and 
Malaysia; and

•  Increasing employee and agent productivity while at the 

same time improving customer experience.

Improvements in Technology
The organisational changes undertaken in 2013 streamlined 
Group accountabilities for technology governance, 
applications and infrastructure. A number of senior 
appointments were made during the year to strengthen our 
expertise in each of these areas. AIA continued to invest 
in upgrading technology and infrastructure to support our 
growth ambitions while maintaining cost efficiency. Early 
in the year we launched a major programme to replace our 
core policy administration systems in Hong Kong, Malaysia 
and Singapore and to retire our remaining mainframe 
platforms. A number of applications and processes are being 
replaced and upgraded as part of the ongoing roll-out of the 
programme. We expect improvements in operating efficiency 
and customer service, while reducing time to market for new 
products as the new systems come on stream.

We accelerated the modernisation of our server 
infrastructure using a “virtualization” process that allows 
us to pool our hardware resources making IT more flexible 
and cost effective as part of the first phase of a group-wide 
data centre upgrade programme. Over 90 per cent of our 
servers were converted during the year delivering significant 
performance and efficiency gains. We also automated many of 
our technology security processes to enhance the monitoring 
of potential security risk and events.

Enhanced Operational Support
The purpose of our newly-formed Group Office business 
process transformation team is to support our local 
businesses by providing specialist expertise, experience 
and resources and working with them to apply shared best 
practices. During 2013, we supported a number of new 
initiatives from our local businesses, in particular those in 
Singapore and Thailand. As a result of the introduction of new 
service performance metrics and management information 
systems, turnaround times and staff productivity levels have 
significantly improved across these markets. For example, 
in Singapore average underwriting processing time for 
individual new business reduced by 25 per cent during the 
year and Thailand improved its average claims processing 
times for group insurance business by 84 per cent.

We continued to invest in proprietary shared service centres 
to improve operating efficiency and lower expenses where 
possible. During 2013, we continued to expand the capacity 
and scope of our shared service centres that provide finance, 
actuarial, information technology and insurance processing 
back-office support services to Group Office and local 
business units.

038

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA’s proprietary iPoS technology is a first-of-its-kind, industry-leading sales tool.

Our technology shared service centres in China supported 
enhancements to existing systems and the roll-out of new 
ones, such as iPoS, across all of AIA’s markets during 2013. 
We continued to drive material productivity gains in both 
new business underwriting and claims processing from our 
operations shared service centre in Malaysia. This allowed 
us to meet the increasing business demands from the Group 
Office and our operations in Singapore, Hong Kong and 
Australia. Overall, more than 8 million transactions were 
processed at this centre in 2013 which is an increase of 10 per 
cent compared with 2012.

Supporting Employee and Agent Productivity
AIA’s internal enterprise community network, “Wave”, 
was launched in 2012. It has been extensively adopted 
in 2013 and it has become our principal platform for 
internal communication, collaboration and innovation. It 
allows employees to share documents, knowledge and 
ideas; participate in group discussions; manage projects; 
approach subject-matter experts and keep up with the 
latest company news. More than 10,000 employees 
across the Group are registered users of Wave making up 
more than 1,000 interest groups spanning a full range of 
business, technical and social subject areas across the 
region.

AIA’s proprietary iPoS technology is a first-of-its-kind, 
industry-leading sales tool. Using iPad mobile devices as 
the host device, iPoS improves the sales experience and 
allows our agents and partners to provide customers with a 
comprehensive financial advisory process including needs 

analysis, preparation of quotations, proposal generation, 
electronic signature and the secure electronic submission of 
policy applications.

Designed to be highly interactive and intuitive, iPoS provides 
customers with an entirely new experience, enabling our 
agents to identify their needs and to help them explore and 
buy life insurance products on the spot. For our agents, iPoS 
is a tool that greatly enhances their productivity and reduces 
the administrative workload as they conduct client meetings 
and process client applications with the aid of digitised forms 
and pre-validated data, resulting in fewer branch visits 
and less iterations in the underwriting and sale process. It 
also enables straight-through processing with the ability to 
enhance the customer experience and reduce administrative 
work in the back office, thereby shortening turnaround times 
and lowering overall processing costs.

The iPoS development team began a series of additional 
functionality and updates for our agents and agency leaders 
during the year that will further improve customer experience 
at the point of sale and also assist our agency leaders in 
managing agency productivity.

iPoS was first implemented in Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia 
and Indonesia with the majority of active agents now 
adopting the new technology. In the last quarter of 2013 
alone, over 100,000 new insurance applications were 
submitted through iPoS.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

039

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

GEOGRAPHICAL MARKETS
HONG KONG

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB(1)

2013

468

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

57.6%

2012(3)
366

YoY
28%

2012(3)
58.4%

YoY
(0.8) pps

ANP

2013

781

TWPI

2013

3,770

2012(3)
604

YoY
29%

2012(3)
3,372

YoY
12%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

770

2012(3)
732

YoY
5%

Notes:

(1) VONB figures shown in the tables are based on local statutory reserving and capital requirements and include pension business.

(2) VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP used within the calculation.

(3) Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit after tax results 
to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification has no impact on the total VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit 
after tax of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2012.

040

AIA GROUP LIMITED

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FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWIn 2013, AIA’s Hong Kong business once again achieved excellent VONB growth as a result of the 
continuing execution of our Premier Agency strategy and the progress we have made in expanding 
partnership distribution. Our rigorous approach to agency development has delivered improvements in 
the quality of agent recruitment, activity and productivity which combined to drive profitable growth and 
sustain one of our main competitive advantages in Hong Kong. The efficient and effective service provided 
by our distribution was backed by new products and targeted marketing designed to deliver a combination 
of high-quality advice and tailored products to meet the growing needs of our customers.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
VONB grew by 28 per cent compared with 2012 to US$468 
million. ANP increased by 29 per cent from improved agency 
productivity, the launch of new participating products and 
increased sales of accident and health benefit riders during 
the year. VONB margin for the year reduced by 0.8 pps 
compared with 2012. This represented an improvement in 
margin from the first half, which was due, in part, to new 
critical illness and regular savings products launched in 
the second half of the year. IFRS operating profit after tax 
increased by 5 per cent to US$770 million compared with 
2012. Hong Kong continued to be the largest contributor to the 
Group’s VONB and IFRS profit in 2013, accounting for 28 per 
cent of overall VONB and 30 per cent of IFRS operating profit 
after tax.

DISTRIBUTION
AIA’s agency sales force is the largest in Hong Kong and the 
leader in terms of MDRT qualifiers with an increase of 31 
per cent compared with 2012 and 13 per cent of our agents 
qualifying for MDRT status in 2013. Our Premier Agency 
strategy is predicated on the recruitment of high-quality 
candidates, comprehensive training, development and 
support for our agents and agency leaders.

Our “Road to MDRT” programme, designed by our AIA 
Premier Academy for high-potential recruits new to the 
insurance industry, continued to set the standard for agency 
development in Hong Kong with more than 1,000 graduates 
since inception. New business productivity levels were twice 
that of the average new recruit in Hong Kong and over 10 
per cent of graduates qualified for MDRT in 2013. We also 
launched new programmes targeted at the middle tier 
of agents to reward activity levels and drive increases in 
productivity. Overall active agent productivity increased by  
19 per cent compared with 2012.

We have built on this success by launching our “Executive 
Development Programme” and “Future Leader Programme” 
also through the AIA Premier Academy. These new 
programmes offer clear agency leader career paths to 

young professionals with a strong track record in sales 
management and who are committed to developing their own 
agency teams within the life insurance industry.

We introduced new manager training and assessment 
schemes that were highly successful in increasing the 
recruitment activity levels and in supporting the validation of 
newly-promoted unit managers. As a result of our initiatives, 
our number of active new agents increased by 18 per cent 
compared with 2012 and more than half of our new recruits in 
2013 were below the age of 30.

While our agency network remained our major distribution 
channel in Hong Kong, our partnership business also 
delivered excellent growth as we improved our protection 
product mix in the IFA channel and continued to invest in our 
service proposition to brokers. Our group insurance business 
VONB grew by 43 per cent compared with 2012 through the 
ongoing development of our broker partnerships and a focus 
on driving group insurance sales through our experienced 
agency force.

PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMERS
The success of our product strategy is built on our ability to 
innovate and deliver quality regular savings and protection 
products that meet the evolving needs of the Hong Kong 
market. Our primary focus remains on the integration of 
protection cover within our product range. We upgraded our 
flagship multiple-payment and early-payment critical illness 
products during the year to further extend our market-leading 
position in this area.

In 2013, we continued to improve the analysis and 
segmentation of our large-scale existing customer base to 
support our integrated marketing and product campaigns. 
As a result, we extended our product range to target two 
customer segments, in particular young families and 
pre-retirees. We introduced regular savings participating 
products specifically designed to help pre-fund education 
needs for young families and address retirement planning 
and income distribution needs for our pre-retiree customer 
segment.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

041

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

THAILAND
AIA has the market-leading life insurance business in Thailand, which is the result of our nationwide 
agency network, leading industry brand and product expertise that has been built up over our 75-year 
history in the country. We continued to build on our advantaged position through the execution of our 
Premier Agency strategy with our focus on high-quality recruitment and enhanced training to improve 
activity levels and productivity. We launched a revised agency compensation and leadership structure 
towards the end of 2013 to encourage and reward performance aligned more closely with our emphasis 
on productivity and quality recruitment. We extended our product range with the introduction of our first-
to-market next generation unit-linked product and strengthened our brand awareness with the launch of 
our new brand positioning during the year. Our new Chief Executive Officer in Thailand joined in July 2013 
and the execution of our strategy to reinforce AIA’s significant competitive advantages in Thailand delivered 
a solid performance in 2013.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
VONB grew by 11 per cent to US$319 million compared 
with 2012. VONB margin improved by 2.4 pps to 56.3 per 
cent following the launch of new products and the proactive 
management of our product portfolio. ANP increased by 6 
per cent to US$565 million as the agency force adjusted to 
the design of a new compensation structure during the year. 
IFRS operating profit after tax grew by 12 per cent compared 
with 2012 to US$526 million from underlying growth in the 
business.

As previously disclosed in our Annual Report 2012, the 
corporate tax rate in Thailand is assumed to be 20 per cent for 
assessment year 2014 and we have assumed a return to 30 
per cent from assessment year 2015 onward.

DISTRIBUTION
Our main focus in 2013 was on transforming our approach to 
recruitment through improving the efficiency of our agency 
leaders and increased training of new agents to improve 
activity levels. We established a new specialist recruitment 
department to work closely with our AIA Premier Academy 
and we also completed the full-scale implementation of our 
candidate profiling tools during the year. These tools are 
designed to determine those candidates that are best suited 
for a full-time career as a professional life insurance agent. 
By the end of 2013, around 90 per cent of new hires were 
undertaking this process prior to joining AIA.

Changes in our agency compensation structure were 
launched towards the end of the year and we believe that 
these will be positive for the business in the longer term by 
encouraging higher quality and more consistent recruitment 
and sales productivity. We also changed the agency 

leadership structure at the middle management levels to 
encourage promotion by helping agents build their teams 
and transition to managers. Our number of active new agents 
increased by 14 per cent compared with 2012 contributing to 
AIA retaining its position as the number one ranked agency 
distribution for MDRT members in Thailand in 2013.

While agency remains our main distribution channel in 
Thailand and a clear competitive advantage, we made good 
progress in expanding partnership distribution in 2013. In 
particular, our bancassurance business delivered a strong 
result from the launch of new products and our direct 
marketing operation benefited from increased investment 
in call centre capacity. We maintained our market-leading 
position in group insurance in Thailand from our focus on 
sales through our broker relationships and our agency 
channel to the SME segment.

PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMERS
AIA has continued to build on its product leadership position 
by developing innovative ways of attracting new customers 
and improving the level of protection cover for our large-scale 
existing customer base. In the first half of 2013, we launched 
our next generation unit-linked product, which was the first 
of its kind in Thailand and was well received by the market. 
We also introduced a new comprehensive health plan in 
October 2013. The new plan is an upmarket health product 
enabling our agents to target a more affluent segment of the 
Thai market, leading to higher rider attachment ratios. The 
launch was also accompanied by existing customer marketing 
campaigns to upgrade the amounts and types of cover for our 
in-force policyholders.

042

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWUS$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB(1)

2013

319

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

56.3%

2012(3)
287

YoY
11%

2012(3)
53.9%

YoY
2.4 pps

ANP

2013

565

2012(3)
532

YoY
6%

TWPI

2013

3,364

2012(3)
3,119

YoY
8%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

526

2012(3)
471

YoY
12%

Notes:

(1) VONB figures shown in the tables are based on local statutory reserving and capital requirements 

and include pension business.

(2) VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP used within the 

calculation.

(3) Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB, VONB margin and 
IFRS operating profit after tax results to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification 
has no impact on the total VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit after tax of the Group for 
the year ended 30 November 2012.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2013

043

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

SINGAPORE

ANP

2013

400

2012(3)
339

YoY
18%

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

67.3%

YoY
22%

2012(3)
65.1%

YoY
2.2 pps

VONB(1)

2013

269

2012(3)
220

TWPI

2013

2,150

2012(3)
2,035

YoY
6%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

396

2012(3)
345

YoY
15%

Notes:

(1) VONB figures shown in the tables are based on local statutory reserving and capital requirements and include pension business.

(2) VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP used within the calculation.

(3) Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit after tax results 
to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification has no impact on the total VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit 
after tax of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2012.

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AIA GROUP LIMITED

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FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWSingapore sustained strong growth momentum with an excellent performance in 2013. Our Premier 
Agency platform is an important competitive advantage for AIA and the main driver of our growth. We 
achieved a significant increase in our number of active agents, new recruits and agency productivity levels 
from the strong execution of our Premier Agency strategy. We continued to build on the success of our 
partnership distribution model and market-leading position in group insurance to complement our agency 
growth. The strong progress we have made in our distribution channels was supported by the roll-out 
of our new brand positioning and targeted new products that reinforced our position as a leader in the 
protection insurance market in Singapore.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
VONB grew by 22 per cent compared with 2012 to US$269 
million. VONB margin expanded by 2.2 pps to 67.3 per cent as 
a result of strong sales of new health protection products that 
were weighted towards the first half of the year partially offset 
by a higher proportion of savings products in the second half. 
ANP increased by 18 per cent to US$400 million driven by 
excellent growth in our agency force and strongly supported 
by our partnership distribution channel. IFRS operating profit 
after tax increased by 15 per cent to US$396 million compared 
with 2012 due to underlying growth in the business and strong 
investment income.

DISTRIBUTION
Our commitment to the recruitment of the next generation of 
Premier Agents to reinforce the strength of our distribution 
platform has delivered excellent results in 2013. The launch 
of new initiatives during the year included innovative agency 
referral and recruitment programmes and we continued to 
build on the success of our new agency leadership career 
structure that was introduced towards the end of 2012. 
Together, our recruitment programmes delivered a 44 per 
cent increase in the number of active new agents compared 
with 2012. Our successful recruitment strategy, alongside 
training programmes from our AIA Premier Academy and 
targeted sales campaigns, achieved higher active agent 
productivity levels and 15 per cent growth in the number of 
active agents during the year.

AIA also launched iPoS, a fully mobile and secure interactive 
point-of-sale system for iPad mobile devices. It has quickly 
become a valuable sales tool for our Premier Agents with well 
over half of our active agents submitting applications through 
the system. Our commitment to enhancing efficiency through 
adopting this new technology in Singapore earned AIA the 
“Innovation of the Year” award by Asia Insurance Review.

Our partnership distribution channel accounts for around a 
quarter of our new business profitability in Singapore and 
continued to deliver strong growth through our relationships 
with regional and domestic banking partners and brokers 
targeting the more affluent segment. We maintained our 
position as the market leader in group insurance business 
by focusing on developing our broker partnerships through 
our regional platform and targeting SMEs using our Premier 
Agency network. Our research shows that 89 per cent of 
Singaporeans believe that companies should do more to help 
employees lead healthier lives. To this end, we launched a 
new group insurance product through our agency channel in 
the second half of the year, which included a simple menu of 
comprehensive protection plans to continue to differentiate 
our proposition in this attractive market.

PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMERS
We introduced a new range of products to help our customers 
meet their regular savings and protection needs and 
strengthen AIA’s position as a market leader in protection 
insurance in Singapore. Our HealthShield plans were 
aligned with the Singaporean government’s latest upgrade 
of its insurance scheme at the beginning of the year. These 
redesigned products were very well received and encouraged 
significant numbers of new and existing customers to 
upgrade their levels of cover.

We also launched AIA Vitality in Singapore in 2013. This 
innovative and science-backed programme enables us to 
offer protection products designed to encourage and reward 
sustained changes in healthy living. We offer premium 
discounts to participating customers as they progress against 
their own personal health goals, while improving claims and 
persistency experience for AIA. The programme is part of 
our aim of creating powerful new ways of actively engaging 
with our customers and further differentiating AIA within the 
market.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

045

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

MALAYSIA
Our primary focus in 2013 was on the successful integration of our newly-acquired business, ING Malaysia, 
following the close of the transaction on 18 December 2012. We achieved a major milestone in June 2013 
with the legal consolidation of the two businesses under a single licence and with the adoption of the 
AIA brand across the combined operation. We made further progress with the launch of a new, single 
unified range of products on a common new business administration platform and with the alignment of 
a single agency compensation structure in the second half of the year. While the work to complete the full 
integration continues, our progress in consolidating our leading position in the attractive Malaysian market 
is ahead of schedule and with realised expense synergies above our expectations. We remain committed to 
building a leading business in Malaysia that will deliver further opportunities for profitable growth.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Our Malaysian business reported a 74 per cent uplift in 
VONB to US$120 million following the consolidation of 
ING Malaysia’s results with effect from the close of the 
transaction. We delivered ANP of US$319 million, which was 
more than double the amount of AIA’s stand-alone business 
in 2012. The VONB margin on a combined basis was 37.8 per 
cent reflecting the mix of lower-margin products from ING 
Malaysia, as disclosed in our interim results announced on 26 
July 2013. VONB margin in the second half of 2013 improved to 
40.2 per cent from a positive shift in product mix following the 
launch of our new product range in June 2013. IFRS operating 
profit after tax increased by 67 per cent to US$250 million 
following the consolidation of our newly-acquired business.

2013, over 70 per cent of our active agents were submitting 
new business applications through iPoS, improving agency 
productivity while enhancing customer experience.

Our new bancassurance partnership with Public Bank, one 
of the leading retail banking groups in Malaysia, has also 
made a successful start. We introduced a new product 
range to this channel earlier in the year accompanied by 
the launch of training programmes for in-branch insurance 
sales specialists. As a result, the improvements in product 
mix combined with sustained increases in productivity has 
delivered a material contribution to the VONB performance 
of our Malaysian business in 2013 with bancassurance 
accounting for around 18 per cent of the total VONB generated.

DISTRIBUTION
The acquisition of ING Malaysia has materially strengthened 
the scale and breadth of our distribution capabilities in 
Malaysia. The transaction broadened the geographical 
coverage of our agency distribution and doubled the size of 
our agency force. We extended our Premier Agency strategy 
to incorporate our enlarged sales force during the year with a 
focus on improving recruitment and productivity.

We introduced a number of recruitment schemes in 
conjunction with a nationwide marketing campaign that was 
successful in utilising AIA’s new market leadership position 
to target young professionals. As a result, the number of 
new recruits trebled compared with 2012. We also increased 
active agent productivity at the same time as improving VONB 
margin with the introduction of our new range of products in 
June 2013.

Our Premier Agency strategy in Malaysia is strongly supported 
by our ongoing investment in industry-leading point-of-sale 
technology, as we continued to roll out iPoS to our enlarged 
agency force during the year. AIA launched the system in 
December 2012 to our agency in Malaysia. By the end of 

PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMERS
Our product development and customer campaigns during the 
year were in line with the overall group strategy and centred 
on raising customer awareness of the need for regular savings 
and protection cover. We withdrew existing products to enable 
us to introduce a new, single range of enhanced products 
under the AIA brand following the legal consolidation of the 
two businesses in June 2013. The new product range offers a 
comprehensive series of unit-linked and protection products 
administered on a single new business platform to help our 
agency distribution address the needs of our customers while 
improving the mix of our product portfolio.

We also launched our new “Empower” range of flexible unit-
linked plans through our partnership with Public Bank. These 
products offer a combination of increased protection and rider 
attachments combined with regular savings and sales in the 
second half of the year have been encouraging. 

We continued to engage the holders of our more than 3.9 million 
individual policies and launched a series of new paperless 
campaigns through our iPoS platform focused on cross-selling 
unit-linked products with higher protection content.

046

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWUS$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB(1)

2013

120

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

37.8%

2012(3)
69

YoY
74%

2012(3)
46.0%

YoY
(8.2) pps

ANP

2013

319

TWPI

2013

2,036

2012(3)
151

YoY
111%

2012(3)
964

YoY
111%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

250

2012(3)
150

YoY
67%

Notes:

(1) VONB  figures  shown  in  the  tables  are  based  on  local  statutory  reserving  and  capital  requirements  and  include 

pension business.

(2) VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP used within the calculation.

(3) Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit 
after tax results to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification has no impact on the total VONB, VONB 
margin and IFRS operating profit after tax of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2012.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2013

047

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

CHINA

ANP

2013

249

2012(3)
215

YoY
16%

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

66.4%

YoY
34%

2012(3)
57.5%

YoY
8.9 pps

VONB(1)

2013

166

2012(3)
124

TWPI

2013

1,599

2012(3)
1,446

YoY
11%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

205

2012(3)
151

YoY
36%

Notes:

(1) VONB figures shown in the tables are based on local statutory reserving and capital requirements and include pension business.

(2) VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP used within the calculation.

(3) Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit after tax results 
to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification has no impact on the total VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit 
after tax of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2012.

048

AIA GROUP LIMITED

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FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOur consistent strategy of improving the quality and professionalism of our agency distribution has 
delivered excellent financial results in 2013 with sustained profitable new business growth and a 
significant uplift in IFRS operating profit after tax. AIA has successfully positioned itself as a leader in the 
provision of comprehensive protection insurance products in China in addition to our established role as 
a provider of long-term savings products. The effective execution of our Premier Agency strategy has 
enabled us to recruit, develop and retain the high-calibre agents needed to provide the advice and service 
required to effectively distribute these products to our customers. Over the last three years, we have more 
than doubled our VONB and IFRS operating profit after tax in China and our differentiated approach has 
once again delivered profitable growth.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
VONB grew by 34 per cent compared with 2012 to US$166 
million. VONB margin increased by 8.9 pps to 66.4 per cent 
mainly driven by product mix improvements, lower expenses 
and a positive tax effect. ANP increased by 16 per cent to 
US$249 million from improved agency productivity combined 
with an increased number of active agents. IFRS operating 
profit after tax increased by 36 per cent compared with 2012 
to US$205 million from strong business growth, improved 
investment income and a lower effective tax rate compared 
with 2012.

DISTRIBUTION
Agency remained our core distribution channel and primary 
driver of growth in China. We continued to develop our 
Premier Agency leaders in 2013 with training designed to 
increase the effectiveness of our recruitment activities. We 
also launched a new induction programme for agents and 
agency leaders to provide better supervision and coaching 
of new agents. The number of active new agents grew by 35 
per cent compared with 2012 reflecting both the increase in 
recruitment and improvement in activity levels as a result of 
these initiatives.

Our aim is to provide our agents with the advisory skills and 
product range to enable them to build a long-term career as 
professional agents. AIA’s approach to agency training allows 
us to develop agents who can adapt to serve the evolving 
needs of our customers. It enables our agents to grow their 
incomes and increase productivity, which in turn enables AIA 

to recruit and retain Premier Agents. Average income levels 
and productivity per active agent increased notably in China 
in 2013, as demonstrated by the number of MDRT qualifiers 
growing by 30 per cent.

Our partnership distribution channel in China is an additional 
source of growth for AIA. Our bancassurance and direct 
marketing businesses delivered strong performances 
during the year with a significant improvement in VONB 
margin driven by our sales of protection and long-term 
regular premium savings products. We continue to focus 
on partnership business opportunities that generate 
appropriate returns for our customers, our partners and our 
shareholders.

PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMERS
Since AIA re-entered China more than two decades ago, we 
have established a track record of offering innovative new 
products to match the developing sophistication and needs of 
our customers. The provision of advice and solutions focused 
on insurance protection has remained at the forefront of our 
strategy and is a clear advantage for AIA within the Chinese 
life insurance market. Adding to the success of our bestselling 
All-in-One product offering comprehensive cover to middle-
income customers and our established regular premium 
savings products, we broadened our range to include a next 
generation unit-linked product with higher protection content, 
which became our third bestselling product in 2013. We also 
launched retirement savings products specifically designed to 
target the ageing population in China. 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

049

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

KOREA

The strategic decisions we have taken in our Korean business over the last two years have begun to lay 
a solid foundation for achieving our commitment of delivering quality growth in this market. While some 
other companies pursue market share through writing lower-margin business, our strategy is to focus 
on profitable growth by expanding the protection content of our products through our direct marketing 
and tied agency channels. AIA’s Korean operation delivered strong growth in 2013, as a direct result of 
the execution of this strategy. We have made good progress in repositioning our agency channel over this 
period and the ongoing transformation of our direct marketing business has also delivered a positive 
result in 2013.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
VONB increased by 34 per cent compared with 2012 to US$91 
million. ANP grew by 43 per cent as a result of strong growth 
in active agent numbers and a solid performance in our direct 
marketing channel following successful product launches and 
increased recruitment. In the first quarter of the year, we also 
benefited from strong sales through selected bancassurance 
partners preceding a one-time change in the local tax law.

VONB margin reduced by 1.7 pps compared with 2012 but 
improved in the second half of 2013 as we benefited from 
the launch of a new unit-linked packaged product with 
greater accident and health rider attachments in the agency 
channel and an increased proportion of higher-margin direct 
marketing sales. IFRS operating profit after tax increased 
by 20 per cent compared with 2012 to US$150 million due to 
improved claims experience.

DISTRIBUTION
AIA operates a multi-channel distribution strategy in Korea. 
The fundamental drivers of sustainable agency growth 
are quality recruitment and superior training and we have 
achieved good results in each of these areas in 2013. Our 
targeted approach to recruitment and improvements in 
training have delivered a 17 per cent increase in the number 
of active agents. We launched our “Next AIA” recruitment 
and development programme that builds on the success of 
the Hong Kong “Road to MDRT” initiative and demonstrates 
the new agency culture we are looking to embed in Korea. 
Over 200 agents were recruited through this programme in 
the second half of 2013 and early results showed that activity 
levels were 20 per cent higher than the average of our Korean 
business. The strong growth in active agents has been 
accompanied by improvements in productivity.

We delivered an improved performance in our direct 
marketing channel in 2013 from our strategy of growing 
distribution capacity while improving the productivity and 
retention levels of new recruits. The expansion of our four new 
call centres in 2012 enabled us to launch new recruitment 
campaigns that increased the number of telesales 
representatives (TSRs) in 2013 by 30 per cent compared 
with 2012. Our new training programmes have improved 
sales productivity levels and driven an improving trend in 
the retention rates of our TSRs, as we undertake stringent 
selection and better equip our sales leaders to train and 
coach new recruits.

While we have made positive progress during the year, we 
continue to prioritise improvements in our direct marketing 
operations, including our sales management systems to 
enhance the quality and allocation of our sales lead data 
and our performance management processes to improve 
productivity levels, in order to deliver a market-leading 
distribution platform.

PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMERS
AIA remains focused on segments of the Korean market 
that are aligned with the Group’s strategy of providing our 
customers with the ability to meet their long-term wealth 
creation goals while providing additional protection cover. 
AIA launched new products during the year including our 
simplified issue health product sold through our direct 
marketing channel and a new health product designed to 
reach the senior segment in Korea.

050

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW03:00

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US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB(1)

2013

91

2012(3)
68

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

26.8%

YoY
34%

2012(3)
28.5%

YoY
(1.7) pps

ANP

2013

338

2012(3)
237

YoY
43%

TWPI

2013

2,049

2012(3)
1,942

YoY
6%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

150

2012(3)
125

YoY
20%

Notes:

(1)  VONB figures shown in the tables are based on local statutory reserving and capital requirements 

and include pension business.

(2)  VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP used within the 

calculation.

(3)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year VONB, VONB margin and 
IFRS operating profit after tax results to conform to current year presentation. The reclassification 
has no impact on the total VONB, VONB margin and IFRS operating profit after tax of the Group for 
the year ended 30 November 2012.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

051

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBusiness Review

OTHER MARKETS

Other Markets refers to AIA’s operations in Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, 
Taiwan and Vietnam. Our 26 per cent share of the financial results from our joint venture in India is 
included in IFRS operating profit after tax on an equity accounted basis.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Our Other Markets delivered another strong performance 
with VONB growth of 32 per cent compared with 2012 to 
US$220 million. The result was driven by excellent growth 
in the Philippines and Indonesia and strong performances 
in Australia and Vietnam. Sri Lanka also made a positive 
contribution after its successful integration into the Group 
during the year.

VONB margin expanded by 5.0 pps to 32.0 per cent and ANP 
grew by 11 per cent to US$689 million with the positive growth 
in US dollar terms moderated by foreign exchange translation 
effects particularly in Australia and Indonesia. IFRS operating 
profit after tax grew strongly by 18 per cent compared 
with 2012 mainly driven by business growth and margin 
improvements in Indonesia and the Philippines.

BUSINESS UNIT PERFORMANCE
Australia: AIA’s Australian business delivered solid growth 
in VONB driven by the execution of our Premier IFA model 
and our prominent position as an independent risk specialist. 
The Australian life insurance market has one of the lowest 
protection penetration levels globally and a rapidly-growing 
protection gap. Our strategy is to drive future profitable 
growth by offering products that protect the financial health 
and welfare of our customers and to differentiate AIA by 
providing best-in-class service to our advisers.

In 2013, AIA also led the way in restructuring the design 
of group insurance schemes by working closely with 
our corporate clients to introduce new profit sharing 
arrangements. We continued to manage claims proactively 
and effectively over the year through our highly-experienced 
claims assessment and rehabilitation teams. These new 
arrangements enable us to work ever more closely with the 
human resources teams of our corporate clients to help 
claimants return to work efficiently benefiting the individuals 
concerned, the employers and AIA.

Indonesia: While reported growth in US dollar terms was 
affected by foreign currency exchange translation in the 
fourth quarter, AIA’s business in Indonesia achieved solid 

results in 2013. AIA benefits from a multi-channel distribution 
strategy to target the large and growing working population 
in Indonesia. Following the successful launch of our next 
generation unit-linked products in our agency channel in 2012, 
we introduced a similar range of products with accident and 
health riders through our bank partners in 2013. Product mix 
improvements contributed to a substantial increase in VONB 
margin compared with 2012.

Our Premier Agency strategy continued to focus on quality 
recruitment and training including the development of a new 
24-month comprehensive training roadmap for our agents 
and agency leaders. Our bancassurance business maintained 
its excellent track record of outstanding results with an 
increase in VONB of 67 per cent compared with 2012. The 
growth was driven by a 26 per cent increase in the number 
of active in-branch insurance specialists compared with 
2012, new additional bank partnerships and a strong margin 
increase from product mix improvements.

Philippines: AIA’s operations in the Philippines delivered 
another outstanding performance in 2013. The launch of new 
recruitment and activity management programmes as part 
of our overall Premier Agency strategy generated excellent 
results with a 79 per cent increase in the number of active 
new agents compared with 2012. As well as improvements 
in agency productivity and activity, the successful adoption 
of our next generation unit-linked products also significantly 
improved the new business margin in our agency channel. 
Our joint venture with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) 
also had another strong year. The introduction of new activity 
management and training programmes improved both the 
productivity and activity levels of our in-branch specialists 
driving strong ANP growth. The effective execution of our 
growth strategy across our distribution channels combined 
with the successful adoption of our next generation unit-
linked products delivered growth in VONB exceeding 90 per 
cent compared with 2012.

052

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWUS$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB(1)

2013

220

VONB MARGIN(2)

2013

32.0%

2012(3)
167

YoY
32%

2012(3)
27.0%

YoY
5.0 pps

ANP

2013

689

2012(3)
618

YoY
11%

TWPI

2013

2,840

2012(3)
2,482

YoY
14%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX

2013

244

2012(3)
207

YoY
18%

Notes:

(1) VONB figures shown in the tables are based on local statutory 
include  pension 

reserving  and  capital  requirements  and 
business.

(2) VONB margin excludes pension business to be consistent with 

the definition of ANP used within the calculation.

(3) Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior 
year  VONB,  VONB  margin  and  IFRS  operating  profit  after  tax 
results 
to  current  year  presentation.  The 
reclassification has no impact on the total VONB, VONB margin 
and  IFRS  operating  profit  after  tax  of  the  Group  for  the  year 
ended 30 November 2012.

to  conform 

New Zealand: AIA’s New Zealand business delivered strong 
VONB growth in 2013 as a direct result of the extensive work 
undertaken over the last two years to refocus our core IFA 
proposition. Our strategy is based on the delivery of a targeted 
service model using adviser segmentation and a redesigned 
product portfolio to improve margins. As part of our efforts 
to continue to diversify our distribution capabilities, we 
further expanded our direct marketing business in 2013 and 
introduced a new agency channel designed to engage with the 
fast-growing Asian communities in New Zealand.

Sri Lanka: AIA entered Sri Lanka with the completion of the 
acquisition of a 92 per cent stake in Aviva NDB Insurance 
(ANI) in December 2012 (further increased to 97 per cent in 
April 2013). Through the acquisition, AIA became the second-
largest life insurance company in Sri Lanka. Our high-quality 
agency force is our primary distribution channel and we 
have grown our active new agents by 69 per cent with 23 
new branch locations opened compared with 2012. We also 
continued to roll out our bancassurance distribution with our 
exclusive partner National Development Bank PLC (NDB), 
one of the largest financial conglomerates in the country. The 
results in Sri Lanka also benefited from product innovation 
and best practice sharing as part of the Group which included 
the launch of a range of new protection products aligned with 
the wider group strategy.

Taiwan: Our Taiwanese operation continued to develop 
its distribution platform in 2013 with the aim of creating a 
modern multi-channel insurance business using technology 
to deliver improved service levels and efficiencies. We 
continued to make progress in agency with an increased 
number of active agents and material improvements in new 
business margin compared with 2012. We launched new 
critical illness and next generation unit-linked products 
in the year to replace an existing lower-margin product. 
AIA has also secured important relationships with a 
number of prominent brokers that has led to growth in this 
emerging channel. Our direct marketing business has made 
progress through the recruitment of high-quality telesales 
representatives and the launch of a new hospital income 
product towards the end of the year.

Vietnam: AIA’s business in Vietnam delivered strong VONB 
growth compared with 2012. The training and recruitment 
programmes launched in 2013 have driven a material uplift 
in agency productivity leading to strong growth in ANP and 
higher new business margins. VONB from agency more than 
doubled compared with 2012 and the average case size per 
agent increased by 37 per cent. We also further expanded 
our product range with the first half launch of a new hospital 
benefit rider plan and a regular savings participating product 
meeting the rapidly-growing regular savings and protection 
needs of our customers in Vietnam.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

053

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRisk Management

OVERVIEW
The core of AIA’s business is accepting, pooling and 
managing risk for the benefit of policyholders, bondholders 
and shareholders. Effective risk management is vital in any 
organisation but especially in a life insurance business where 
it is a key driver of value. Accordingly, AIA does not seek to 
eliminate all risks but rather to identify, understand and 
manage them within acceptable limits in order to create long-
term value.

All business unit managers and executives are accountable 
for ensuring their businesses operate at all times within the 
Risk Appetite set by the Board. This is done by identifying 
the risks associated with their activities, understanding 
and seeking to manage and mitigate them effectively and 
achieving appropriate returns for the risks taken. In this they 
are supported at an operational level by specialist functions 
within each business and the Group’s financial, actuarial, 
investment, legal, compliance, risk management and 
underwriting teams.

The Group operates a risk management framework (RMF) 
with Group Risk and Compliance providing assurance to the 
Board and executive management that this framework is 
appropriate and effective.

AIA manages risk using a “three lines of defence” governance 
model described in the Risk Governance and Reporting 
Structure section that follows.

The Company’s Board retains overall responsibility for 
oversight of the Group’s risk management activities.

All risks that are undertaken by the Group are backed 
by appropriate levels of capital to support the ongoing 
business and protect policyholders. While AIA seeks capital 
efficiency, we do so within acceptable levels of risk without 
compromising either financial strength or the requirement for 
appropriate returns. We discuss below the principal risks and 
how these are managed.

RISK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
An effective RMF is the key to avoiding the financial and 
reputational damage that arises from inadequate or 
ineffective control of the risks in the business.

AIA’s RMF has the following components:

•  Risk Appetite;

•  Risk Governance;

•  Risk Metrics;

054

AIA GROUP LIMITED

•  Local Risk Functions; and the

•  Group Risk Function.

RISK APPETITE
AIA’s Risk Appetite is the foundation of its RMF. It establishes 
the risk boundaries within which the business will operate, 
sets stakeholder expectations in regard to the risks being 
run and assures policyholders, regulators, shareholders, 
bondholders and employees that the institution has a 
comprehensive approach to risk management and is thus well 
placed to deal with unexpected shocks.

Risk Appetite can be presented as a pyramid, with qualitative 
statements supported by quantitative metrics which are 
applied at each level within the business, as illustrated in the 
figure below:

Risk 
Appetite 
Statement

Risk  
Tolerances

Risk  
Principles

Risk  
Allocations

Risk  
Preferences

Risk  
Limits

Risk  
Controls

Quantitative Metrics

Qualitative Metrics

•  The Risk Appetite Statement (RAS) is an overarching 

comment on the enterprise’s attitude to risk;

•  Risk Principles are qualitative statements that expand  

the RAS;

•  Risk Tolerances are quantitative statements that validate 

the Risk Principles and thus the RAS;

•  Risk Allocations are the risk tolerances for each category 
of risk between specific risks, products or businesses;

•  Risk Preferences define the enterprise’s attitude to specific 

risks; and

•  Limits and Controls reflect the risk allocations and 

preferences in the business.

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA has adopted the following Risk Appetite Statement:

“The amount of risk taken by AIA in the ordinary course of its 
business will be sufficient to meet its customers’ reasonable 
requirements for protection and benefits while ensuring that 
the level and volatility of shareholder returns are in line with 
a broadly-based risk profile appropriate to an Asia ex-Japan-
focused life insurance company.”

This statement is consistent with AIA’s vision of being the 
pre-eminent life insurance provider in the Asia-Pacific region 
while contributing to the financial security of the people and 
the economic and social development of the region.

AIA supports its RAS with four Risk Principles, each 
addressing one of AIA’s risk and capital management 
priorities.

Priority

Risk Principle

Regulatory Capital

Financial Strength

Liquidity

Earnings Volatility

“We have no appetite for regulatory 
non-compliance and as such will 
ensure that we hold sufficient 
capital to meet our current statutory 
minimum solvency in all but the most 
extreme market conditions.”

“We will ensure the Group’s ability to 
meet all future commitments to our 
customers, both financial obligations 
and in terms of the promises we 
make to them. We will maintain 
sufficient capital to support a 
Financial Strength Rating that meets 
our business needs.”

“We will maintain sufficient liquidity 
to meet our expected financial 
commitments as they fall due.”

“We will seek to deliver reported 
operating earnings consistent with 
expectations and will implement 
policies, limits and controls to 
contain operational risks, risk 
concentrations and insurance risks 
within reasonable tolerances.”

Each of these Risk Principles is supported by a Risk 
Tolerance, a measurable financial benchmark that enables 
AIA to validate each of these principles such that assurance 
can be provided to the Board that AIA is operating within its 
Risk Appetite.

RISK GOVERNANCE AND REPORTING 
STRUCTURE
The “three lines of defence” model is embodied in the Group’s 
risk governance structure as illustrated in the chart below:

AIA Group Limited Board

Risk  
Committee

Audit  
Committee

Group 
Chief 
Executive

Executive 
Risk 
Committees
(Governance)

Executive 
Committee, 
Local Business 
Units and 
Group 
Functions

Group Risk 
Management 
and 
Compliance

Group  
Internal Audit

B
o
a
r
d
L
e
v
e
l

M
a
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
L
e
v
e
l

1st Line of Defence

2nd Line of Defence

3rd Line of Defence

The “first line of defence” is made up of the business units and 
the Finance, Actuarial and Investment functions. Executive 
management of each business unit is required to put in 
place processes, limits and controls for the identification, 
management and mitigation of all risks. These must be 
consistent with the Group’s policies so as to ensure that the 
business operates at all times within its Risk Appetite. All 
decisions at both a business unit and Group level are made 
by individual executives operating in the first line of defence 
under delegation from the Group Chief Executive. These 
executives are accountable for their decisions. Decisions 
regarding activities deemed to have significant risks attached 
or that are materially outside policy will be referred to the 
Group Chief Executive or, where appropriate, to the Board.

The “second line of defence” at Group level consists of two 
important functional areas, the Group’s Compliance functions 
and Group Risk. Though separate functions, their combined 
role is to provide effective and objective oversight of all risks 
being managed in the Company and to give assurance to 
executive management and the Board that risks are being 
managed satisfactorily within AIA’s Risk Appetite. The second 
line provides support to executive management through 
regular reporting to the executive risk committees described 
below, and to the Board via the Risk Committee. The Group 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

055

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
Risk Management

Risk function manages the RMF, ensuring that consistent 
policies and processes are adopted across the Group and 
that all decisions are made within policies and risk appetite 
following a full assessment of all risks associated with a 
business or transaction. Compliance supports these efforts 
by providing oversight to the programmes that ensure 
adherence to the high standards set by the Group in its 
various policies and procedures, as well as the regulatory 
requirements to which the Group and the businesses of which 
it is comprised are subject.

The “third line of defence” comprises Group Internal 
Audit, which provides assurance to the Board, through 
the Audit Committee, and executive management as to 
the effectiveness of risk management processes and 
internal controls. This assists the Board in maintaining an 
international standard of corporate governance.

AIA’s current risk governance and reporting structure was 
implemented in 2012 and is illustrated in the chart below:

AIA Group Limited  
Board

Audit 
Committee

Risk 
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination 
Committee

Operational Risk 
Committee

Financial Risk 
Committee

Non-Financial Risks
(Operational, Stategic)

Financial Risks 
(Credit, Market, Liquidity) 
and Insurance Risk

The Board
The Company’s Board retains overall responsibility for 
oversight of the Group’s risk management activities. In this 
regard the Board sets the Group’s Risk Appetite, agrees 
the RMF and monitors group-wide risks. In fulfilling these 
responsibilities the Board is supported and advised by the 
Risk Committee.

Risk Committee
The Risk Committee advises the Board on all risk-related 
issues requiring Board attention. The Risk Committee is 
also responsible for approving risk metrics used in the 
context of the Group’s Risk Appetite. The members of the 
Risk Committee are all Board directors, with the Chairman 
required to be an Independent Non-Executive Director. The 
Risk Committee meets at least four times a year.

The Risk Committee has oversight over all risk management 
activities in the Group. At each meeting it considers the 
general risk environment, reviews the activities of the 
Group’s executive risk committees and the Group’s financial 
position. The Risk Committee undertakes thorough reviews 
of the material risks undertaken by the Group and regularly 

conducts a more detailed review of both financial and 
operational risks. In 2013 the Risk Committee also reviewed, 
amongst other things, the Group’s development of new risk 
measures, its fraud prevention programme and the impact, 
both actual and potential, of specific market events in Asia and 
globally on the Group’s financial condition.

Operational Risk Committee (ORC)
The ORC provides oversight of non-financial risk activities 
within the Group. These include any activity that has the 
potential to weaken the business, whether strategic or 
reputational, and may include issues related to human, 
physical or technology resources. The ORC approves Group 
policies, processes and metrics related to the management of 
Operational Risk. The members of the ORC are predominantly 
members of the Group Executive Committee and the ORC is 
chaired by the Group Chief Financial Officer. The ORC meets 
at least four times a year.

At each meeting the operational risk environment is reviewed 
based on the Group’s defined key operating risks and the 
local business unit ORC reports with emerging risks deemed 
to have a Group dimension considered for inclusion on the 

056

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWGroup Watch List. In 2013 the ORC discussed, amongst other 
things, the Group’s arrangements for incident management 
and business resumption, changes in investment operations, 
the execution of integration plans for AIA in Malaysia and Sri 
Lanka and the Group’s major IT projects.

Financial Risk Committee (FRC)
The FRC provides oversight of financial and insurance 
risk activities within the Group. These include market and 
insurance risks as well as the Group’s balance sheet, liquidity 
and capital position. The FRC approves Group policies, 
processes and metrics related to the management of these 
risks. The members of the FRC include the Group Chief 
Investment Officer, Group Chief Financial Officer and Group 
General Counsel. The FRC is chaired by the Group Chief 
Executive. The FRC meets at least four times a year.

At each meeting the Group’s capital and balance sheet 
position are reviewed as well as the risks in the Group’s 
investment portfolio. Risk governance items, local business 
unit FRC reports and watch lists are standing agenda items 
with issues deemed to have a Group dimension placed on the 
Group Watch List. In addition, at each meeting a local risk 
officer leads a review of that country’s risk profile. In 2013 
the FRC discussed, amongst other things, risk tolerances to 
support the RAS, the risks associated with various investment 
diversification strategies, asset-liability management (ALM) 
and the Group’s underwriting risk management.

Where activities, proposals and/or reports are relevant 
to both the FRC and the ORC, the FRC is responsible for 
coordination.

LOCAL AND GROUP RISK FUNCTIONS
The primary role of the local and Group risk functions 
(working together) is to provide effective and objective 
oversight of all risks being managed in the Company and to 
provide assurance to management and boards, both locally 
and at Group, that risks are being managed satisfactorily and 
contained within AIA’s Risk Appetite. Oversight is the process 
of ensuring that appropriate controls and processes are in 
place for identifying and managing all risks and that through 
these processes emerging risks are being identified and, 
where appropriate, escalated.

AIA has adopted a local risk management structure 
consistent with its operating model with local risk functions 
reporting to local management. This also supports the 
direction being taken by local regulators and boards and holds 
local management accountable for risk management. While 
local risk functions report to local management, they operate 
and are benchmarked against standards set by the Group. 

Local risk functions work closely with Group Risk which is 
responsible for overseeing and ensuring their effectiveness.

Regulators and local Boards are demanding more from local 
risk functions and this, coupled with the increasing scale and 
complexity of the business, requires a broad and sophisticated 
risk function in all business units. We ensure that each 
business unit is appropriately resourced with the necessary 
experience and tools to oversee the risks detailed below.

Group Risk provides oversight of all risks across the Group. 
The identification and escalation of any risks that may be 
described as “having a Group dimension”, i.e. are of sufficient 
materiality to constitute a financial or reputational threat to 
the wider AIA Group, is a critical part of AIA’s RMF. This is 
achieved through:

•  Close oversight of local risk committees whose activities 

and risk watch lists are reviewed by the Group Risk function 
and form standing items on the FRC and ORC agendas;

•  A consistent process for escalating matters that fall 
outside existing policies, with a particular focus on 
materiality; and

•  Regular and consistent consultation among local risk, 
Group Compliance and Internal Audit functions with 
regular reporting to Group Executive Committee members 
to identify emerging issues.

More generally the Group Risk function will be expected to 
take the lead on specific issues, provide general guidance as 
to best practice and to intervene where significant issues may 
potentially occur.

RISK METRICS
Fundamental to sound risk management is the need to 
quantify risks effectively. Group Risk has a dedicated risk 
modeling function that works closely with the Finance, 
Actuarial and Investment functions to assess the various risks 
in the balance sheet. There are four principal risk modeling 
activities:

•  Stress Testing: Stress testing provides assurance that the 
Group and the business units are adequately capitalised 
to maintain regulatory solvency and withstand adverse 
financial risk events.

  We perform regular stress testing to monitor the potential 

impact of the changing investment and economic 
environment on the regulatory capital position of the Group 
and each of the business units. These tests show the 
financial impact the risks identified above are likely to have 
when considered individually and collectively. The ability to 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

057

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRisk Management

diversify risk is a key competitive advantage for a financial 
institution operating across a diverse set of economies. 
Accordingly, AIA closely monitors the correlations between 
risks across different countries.

Principal Risks
The principal risks and the Group’s approach to managing 
them are discussed below with further information provided 
in note 37 to the financial statements.

•  Economic Capital: Economic capital is widely used by 

large international financial services groups as a measure 
of financial strength and as a means of comparing the 
relative financial merits of different business strategies 
regardless of varying regulatory capital requirements.

Insurance Risk
Insurance risk is the potential loss resulting from mortality, 
morbidity, persistency, longevity and adverse expense 
experience. This includes the potential impacts from 
catastrophic events such as pandemics and natural disasters.

  AIA is developing an economic capital model based on best 
estimates of its liabilities to an agreed confidence level. The 
model draws on global industry best practices and takes 
into account the environment in the Asia-Pacific region, in 
particular in relation to the economic and market-related 
parameters adopted within the model.

•  Market Risk: Group Risk works closely with the Investment 

Analytics team to develop and implement quantitative 
techniques for measuring AIA’s market risks. For example, 
duration and other related measures are used to quantify 
interest rate risk, peak exposure is used to determine 
credit and liquidity risk, and Value At Risk measures are 
used to assess different investment strategies. These 
measures are used in the regular updates on investments 
provided to the Financial Risk Committee and in setting 
limits and defining actions to mitigate market risk.

•  Operational Risk: Where data is scarce, scenario modeling 
techniques are used to approximate the loss distribution 
associated with a particular event or set of circumstances.

  The operational risk team uses scenario modeling to 
estimate the potential for losses arising from major 
strategic and operational risks, and to quantify such losses.

RISK CATEGORISATIONS
Under the RMF, the Group adopts a common language in the 
description of risks at both the Group and the local business 
unit levels to proactively manage a wide spectrum of financial 
and non-financial risks as summarised in the chart below:

Insurance  
Risk

Financial  
Risks

Non-Financial  
Risks

Credit Risk

Operational  
Risk

Market Risk

Strategic Risk

Liquidity Risk

Note 27 to the financial statements details insurance 
contract liabilities, the nature of insurance products and their 
principal risks.

The Group manages its exposure to insurance risk at each 
stage of the process.

•  Product Design: The Group manages product design 

risk through the New Product Approval Process where 
products are reviewed against pricing, design and 
operational risk benchmarks agreed by the Group 
Financial Risk Committee (FRC). Local business units work 
closely with a number of Group functions including product 
management, actuarial, legal, compliance, risk and 
underwriting. The Group monitors closely the performance 
of new products and focuses on actively managing each 
part of the actuarial control cycle to minimise risk in the 
in-force book as well as for new products.

•  Underwriting, Claims & Expense Discipline: Professional 

underwriting together with active management of 
expenses reduces the risk of actual experience being 
adverse compared with the assumptions used in the 
pricing of products. We adhere to well-defined market-
oriented underwriting and claims guidelines and practices 
that have been developed based on extensive historical 
experience. Daily operations also follow a disciplined 
budgeting and control process that allows for the 
management of expenses within pricing estimates based 
on the Group’s very substantial experience within the 
markets in which we operate.

•  Sales Quality: Ensuring customers buy products that meet 
their needs is central to the Group’s operating philosophy. 
Through comprehensive sales training programmes and 
active monitoring and management of sales activities and 
persistency, the Group seeks to ensure that appropriate 
products are sold by sales representatives and that 
standards of service consistently meet or exceed our 
customers’ reasonable expectations. This allows the Group 
to meet customer needs while also delivering sustainable 
value to shareholders through the consistent income 

058

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWderived from a large and predictable in-force book of 
business across a broad set of markets.

•  Experience Management: The Group conducts regular 

experience studies of all the insurance risk factors in its in-
force block. These internal studies together with external 
data are used to identify emerging trends which can then 
be used to inform product design, pricing, underwriting, 
claims management and reinsurance needs.

•  Research: Through monitoring the development of both 
local and global trends in medical technology, health and 
wellness, the impact of legislation and general social, 
political and economic conditions the Group seeks to 
anticipate and respond promptly to potential adverse 
experience impacts on its products.

•  Reinsurance: The Group uses reinsurance solutions to 
help reduce concentration and volatility risk, especially 
with large policies or new risks, and as protection against 
catastrophic events such as pandemics or natural 
disasters.

Financial Risks
Financial risk is the potential loss resulting from adverse 
movements in financial markets, changes in the financial 
condition of counterparties and in market liquidity to buy and 
sell investments. Financial risk is subdivided into credit risk, 
market risk (which includes interest rate, credit spread, equity 
price, property price and foreign exchange rate risk) and 
liquidity risk.

The Group manages its exposure to financial risk within 
tolerances agreed by the FRC. Risk metrics such as those 
described above are used to identify exposure to each of the 
major financial risks. “First line” management of financial 
risk is primarily conducted by the Investment and Treasury 
functions with oversight provided by a dedicated Investment 
Risk function in Group Risk and financial risk management 
units in all major business units.

The Group also manages financial risk by periodically running 
specific scenario modeling exercises to gauge the potential 
impact of macro political and economic events on financial 
strength and profitability.

Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk that third parties fail to meet their 
obligations to the Group when they fall due. Credit risk occurs 
wherever reliance is placed on a third party to satisfy a 
financial obligation. Although the primary source of credit risk 
is the Group’s investment portfolio, such risk can also arise 
through reinsurance, procurement and treasury activities.

Note 21 to the financial statements provides further details 
of the Group’s financial investments in debt instruments, the 
credit quality of those instruments and the basis on which 
they are carried in the Financial Statements.

The management of all credit risk occurs on two levels within 
AIA. The Credit Research team in the Investment Department 
performs a detailed analysis of individual counterparties and 
recommends a rating within the internal ratings framework. 
The Group Risk function manages the Group’s internal ratings 
framework and reviews these recommendations and where 
appropriate makes recommendations for revisions from time 
to time. Agreed internal ratings are then used to determine 
the Group’s appetite for exposure to each counterparty.

A matrix of risk tolerances has been approved by the FRC 
that ensures that credit risk in the investment portfolio 
is contained within AIA’s Risk Appetite. These tolerances 
cover individual counterparty, segmental concentration and 
cross-border exposures. The Investment Department has 
discretion to shape the portfolio within those risk tolerances, 
seeking further Group approvals through the risk governance 
framework where they wish to invest outside those 
tolerances. If certain investments are technically within risk 
tolerances but there is a specific concern, Group Risk brings 
these to the attention of the FRC for inclusion in the Group 
Watch List.

Market Risk
Market risk is the risk of financial loss from adverse 
movements in the value of assets owing to market factors, 
including changes in interest and foreign exchange rates, 
as well as movements in the spread of credit instruments 
to corresponding government bonds, “Credit Spread Risk”, 
and in equity and property prices. Note 37 to the financial 
statements provides further detail relating to the market risks 
discussed below.

The FRC approves all policies and metrics associated with the 
evaluation of market risk exposures.

Interest Rate Risk
The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk predominantly 
arises from any difference between the duration of the 
Group’s liabilities and assets, in particular in relation to 
the reinvestment of maturing assets to meet the Group’s 
commitments, predominantly its insurance liabilities. In 
insurance companies this is often known as ALM risk. This 
exposure can be heightened in products with inherent options 
or guarantees. Since the majority of the Group’s investments 
are in fixed income securities interest rate risk is the Group’s 
largest market risk.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

059

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRisk Management

Exposure to interest rate risk is summarised in note 37 to the 
financial statements, which shows the split of financial assets 
and liabilities between variable, fixed and non-interest bearing 
investments.

The Group manages interest rate risk by ensuring appropriate 
insurance product design and underlying assumptions as 
part of the product approval process and by matching, to the 
extent possible and appropriate, the duration of investment 
assets with the duration of insurance policies. For in-force 
policies, we regularly review the policyholder bonus payout 
and crediting rates applicable to policyholder account 
balances, considering amongst other things bond yields and 
policyholders’ reasonable expectations.

Credit Spread Risk
Credit Spread Risk arises from changes in the market value 
of non-government securities as a result of a change in 
perception as to their likelihood of repayment. These price 
changes are distinct from those resulting from changes in 
interest rates. AIA invests in non-government securities in a 
number of its portfolios. Because these securities are mostly 
held to maturity, Credit Spread Risk is only taken to the extent 
that the Group may be forced to sell those securities before 
they mature.

AIA nonetheless manages its Credit Spread Risk carefully, 
focusing on overall portfolio quality and diversification and 
seeking to avoid excessive volatility in the mark-to-market 
value of its investment portfolios.

Equity Price Risk
Equity price risk arises from changes in the market value of 
equity securities and equity funds. Investment in equity assets 
on a long-term basis is expected to provide diversification 
benefits and enhance returns.

The extent of exposure to equities at any time is at the 
discretion of the Investment Department operating within the 
terms of the Group’s and local business units’ strategic asset 
allocations.

From a risk perspective, particular emphasis is placed on 
managing concentrations and volatility in the Group’s equity 
exposures. The Group’s “Margin of Safety Investment” approach 
is designed to target value in equity selection. Equity exposures 
are also included in the aggregate credit exposure reports on 
individual counterparties to ensure concentrations are avoided. 
Note 21 to the financial statements provides further details of 
the Group’s financial investments in equity securities, including 
the basis on which they are carried in the Financial Statements. 
Note 37 to the financial statements indicates the sensitivity of 
profit and net assets to changes in equity prices.

Property Price Risk
Property price risk arises from interests in real estate assets, 
which form part of the Group’s investment portfolios and are 
subject to market value changes due to general or specific 
factors. A considerable number of such real estate assets are 
self-occupied and used for operating purposes. Real estate 
assets are expected to provide useful diversification benefits 
and a long-term return with some inflation protection.

The price risk in property can be driven by broader economic 
and social factors, notably tenant supply and demand, liquidity 
of individual buildings, evolving infrastructure or government 
actions that may directly or indirectly influence the market. It 
can also be driven by the characteristics of specific holdings: 
their location within an area, the competitiveness of their 
facilities and their physical condition.

Foreign Exchange Rate Risk
At the Group level, foreign exchange rate risk arises mainly 
from the Group’s operations in multiple geographical markets 
in the Asia-Pacific region and the translation of multiple 
currencies to US dollars for financial reporting purposes. 
Note 37 to the financial statements shows the Group’s 
currency exposures and the sensitivity of shareholders’ equity 
and profit to movements in those currencies.

Foreign exchange rate risk is managed at a Group level 
through modeling and monitoring the currency of earnings 
and business unit dividend remittances together with other 
earnings from operations. At a local level the Group seeks to 
match the currency applicable to its local liabilities and assets 
excluding foreign equity holdings. This includes the matching 
of US$ and HK$ assets and liabilities in the Hong Kong 
businesses. In this respect cross-currency swaps or foreign 
exchange forward contracts are sometimes used.

Generally, working capital at the Group level is held in US 
dollars and is not matched proportionally to the currency of 
the Group’s risks.

Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk occurs in two ways. In the first instance it is 
the risk that insufficient cash is available to meet payment 
obligations to counterparties as they fall due. This covers 
the need to ensure that cash or cash equivalent assets are 
available to cover expected insurance liabilities including any 
volatility in those liabilities arising from experience variance 
or from insurance products that permit surrender, withdrawal 
or other forms of early termination for a cash surrender 
value. Note 37 to the financial statements provides a maturity 
analysis of the Group’s financial assets and its liabilities and 
insurance contracts.

060

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWThe local business units seek to manage liquidity risk 
through insurance product design and by matching near-
term expected cash flows from liabilities and assets. In this 
respect, the positive cash flows from the business provide an 
important source of liquidity.

At the Group level we hold sufficient cash and liquid assets to 
cover expected Group obligations and commitments.

In order to maximise returns to policyholders and 
shareholders the Group seeks to remain as fully invested 
as prudent. A US$300 million committed bank facility has 
therefore been put in place and bond repurchase markets 
will also be used to manage short-term liquidity needs where 
it is in the Group’s interest to remain fully invested. This 
can be used in conjunction with the Group’s Medium Term 
Note programme which provides ready access to the capital 
markets subject to market conditions.

Liquidity risk also occurs more generally in relation to the 
ability to buy and sell investments. This is a function of the 
size of the Group’s holdings relative to the availability of 
counterparties willing to buy or sell these holdings at any 
given time. In times of stress, market losses will generally 
be compounded by forced sellers seeking unwilling buyers. 
While life insurance companies benefit from the relatively low 
need for liquidity to cover those of their liabilities which are 
directly linked to mortality and morbidity, this risk is managed 
by regularly assessing the relative liquidity of the Group’s 
assets and managing the size of individual holdings through 
risk tolerances. As disclosed in note 21 to the financial 
statements, most assets are in the form of marketable 
securities, which can typically be converted to cash quickly 
should the need arise.

Non-Financial Risks
Non-financial risks cover the potential for AIA’s business 
to suffer through either key control failures, changes 
in the business environment or inadequate planning or 
management of infrastructure. While ultimately all losses 
are financial, in the case of non-financial risks the loss may 
initially take the form of damage to the Group’s reputation. 
The risk of such damage, or reputational risk, is that negative 
publicity regarding a company’s business practices, whether 
true or not, could have adverse consequences, including but 
not limited to a loss of customers, financial loss, sanction by 
regulators, damage to the brand and litigation.

Consideration of reputational risk is a key element in the 
Group’s operational risk checklists and is actively monitored 
by the operational risk teams working closely with Group Law, 
Group Compliance, Group Corporate Communications and 
business unit management.

The Group’s non-financial risks comprise operational risk and 
strategic risk.

Operational Risk
Operational risk is the risk of direct or indirect loss resulting 
from inadequate or failed internal processes, personnel and 
systems or from external events.

Operational risk is broken down into a common classification 
which is used across the Group. At the Group level, 
operational risk is overseen through 11 defined risk areas or 
Key Operational Risks (KORs). Each KOR is measured using 
Key Risk Indicators (KRIs), with a designated “first line” owner 
for each KOR. The ORC reviews these risks regularly, placing 
items that are seen to have a Group dimension on the Group 
Watch List for further action and heightened review.

The ORC also reviews new activities where there is deemed 
to be the potential for material operational risk. For all new 
products, derivative instruments, large property projects 
and “Restricted Investments”(generally non-generic or 
illiquid traded investments such as hedge funds, structured 
credits or instruments containing embedded derivatives) an 
operational risk checklist is completed including potential 
reputational issues, operational readiness and technical 
dependencies.

The Group’s Risk and Control Self-Assessment (RCSA) 
process is used to identify and assess the impact of 
operational risks. The RCSA is an exercise whereby 
management considers possible or actual risk events, 
ascribes likelihood of occurrence and potential severity, and 
then agrees mitigation strategies to reduce these risks. These 
strategies are then monitored and the exercise repeated, with 
the results stored in a dedicated operational risk database.

AIA protects itself against financial losses by purchasing 
insurance coverage against a range of operational loss events 
including business disruption, property damage and internal 
fraud. The excess amounts and extent of coverage are 
determined taking into consideration the results of scenario 
modeling.

Strategic Risk
Strategic risk refers to adverse impacts from unexpected 
changes to the Group’s operating and market environment. 
Strategic risk is addressed as part of the business planning 
process and ongoing monitoring of and response to economic, 
political, regulatory, competitive and technical changes that 
may impact AIA’s business.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

061

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOur People

Our employees and agents have been at the heart of our 
promise to customers since our establishment in Asia in 1919. 
They remain genuinely engaged in the lives of our customers 
– providing the right protection, savings and investment 
solutions for them and their families. Today, our AIA team of 
agents and 20,000 employees delivers The Real Life Company 
brand promise with the same dedication and professionalism 
that have helped many generations of families to realise their 
life goals.

AIA’s culture is guided by our Operating 
Philosophy: “Doing the Right Thing, in the Right 
Way, with the Right People” and the Operating 
Principles derived from these.

To support our values we continued in 2013 to 
reward employees and agents that have brought our 
Operating Principles to life or acted as inspiring role 
models. 

At AIA, we also pride ourselves on an environment that 
connects employees with senior management and each 
other through open dialogue. Our Group Chief Executive 
and President Mark Tucker, members of the Board and 
the Executive Committee have regular conversations with 
employees at frequent events such as town hall meetings, 
board visits and at the Leadership Conference, which once a 
year brings together around 300 of our most senior leaders 
from across the region. In addition, AIA enables dialogue, 
collaboration and sharing across the organisation through 
numerous employee events as well as internal electronic 
media such as the employee newsletter “Inside AIA” and the 
enterprise social network “Wave”. Launched in December 
2012, Wave has also provided a valuable platform for senior 
management to engage with the more than 10,000 employees 
who registered throughout 2013.

LISTENING TO OUR PEOPLE
We believe that AIA is best able to deliver on its promises 
to customers and shareholders by harnessing the energy 
and ideas of its employees. This is achieved in part by 
listening to our employees through an annual employee 
engagement survey. In 2013, the overall participation rate 
for the survey was 96 per cent – a total of over 15,000 voices. 
While engagement scores have improved each year since 
the inception of the survey in 2011, the real value is in the 
opportunity for employees to shape the environment in which 
they work.

062

AIA GROUP LIMITED

To support our values we continued in 2013 to reward 
employees and agents that have brought our Operating 
Principles to life or acted as inspiring role models.

DEVELOPING OUR PEOPLE 
We know that excellence in people development is key  
to realising our vision, achieving our strategy and meeting  
our goals.

Operating under the 70/20/10 framework (i.e. 70 per cent 
stretch assignments and learning on the job, 20 per cent 
learning through coaching and mentoring, and 10 per cent 
through structured learning curriculum), we seek to provide 
learning opportunities for employees at all levels. Personal 
accountability is critical to successful development and 
therefore beginning in 2012, we mandated that each employee 
should take on at least one development action per year as 
part of their personal development plans.

Our comprehensive range of learning and development 
programmes touches employees at every stage of their career; 
from a thorough employee orientation curriculum for new 
employees through learning and development for our most 
senior leaders. Complementing classroom learning is a series 
of online learning modules that allow employees to learn and 
absorb new concepts at their own pace. 

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA encourages dialogue, collaboration and sharing across the organisation through numerous 
employee events and internal communications channels.

Our two-tiered managerial programme – “The AIA Manager” 
and “The AIA Manager As Coach” – supports our focus on 
continuous improvement for middle and senior managers, 
while engaging and empowering their teams toward achieving 
long-term success.

A new programme – “The Best of Me” – was launched to help 
non-managers better understand how they can leverage 
their own style of work as they grow both personally and 
professionally in their career journey.

The Company also continued to expand its mentoring 
programme throughout 2013. Senior managers from across 
the Group are actively involved in the programme as mentors 
to employees from the Group Office and markets.

We also believe in making the most of the opportunities 
available for cross-border development in a Group operating 
across 17 markets. Our development programmes include 
mobilising our people to take on new job opportunities 
through transfers between functions and to different 
operating units within the Group. More than 290 such 
transfers, including project secondments (three to six 
months), business assignments (two years) and permanent 
transfers, were recorded across the Group in 2013.

DEVELOPING OUR LEADERS FOR THE FUTURE
AIA is a meritocracy and we believe strongly in developing 
leaders from within by providing them with the opportunities 
they need to grow into new and challenging roles.

Our senior management is drawn from most of the countries 
in which we operate. The diversity of our management team – 
representing over 20 nationalities – reflects our commitment 
to hire, coach, develop and promote people from within the 
AIA community.

To ensure strong and sustainable leadership and robust 
succession, we conduct an annual Organisation and People 
Review. The exercise involves a systematic and rigorous 
evaluation of the organisation’s leadership requirements 
and capabilities, emerging talent and other human capital 
considerations. Over 860 top leadership positions – across all 
business units and 11 functions – were reviewed in 2013.

REWARDING PERFORMANCE
Our compensation programme has a strong emphasis on 
rewarding performance. We offer compensation and benefits 
that are fair and competitive, recognise the importance of 
creating sustainable value for shareholders and embed 
delivery firmly within our framework of customer-centric 
values. Accordingly, our compensation programme rewards 
employees based on a combination of individual performance, 
the performance of their business unit and the performance 
of the Group as a whole.

The Performance Development Dialogue in AIA ensures that 
employees grow with the Company through constant dialogue 
with their managers on their performance and development 
needs. Rewards are linked to the delivery of both the 
performance (“what”) and the behaviour (“how”). Leaders are 
also given the opportunity to share directly in AIA’s corporate 
success via performance-related share schemes. Staff, 
Premier Agents and Premier Agency Leaders are encouraged 
to participate in the Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
and Agent Share Purchase Plan (ASPP) where available in 
their locations, the details of which are set out on pages 194 
and 195 of this Annual Report.

Since their launch in 2011, both Plans have increased their 
scope of adoption within the region with the ESPP adopted in 
13 locations and the ASPP adopted in seven locations, with 
growing numbers of eligible employees and agents enrolling 
in the Plans in each successive year of their availability.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

063

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCorporate Social Responsibility

To celebrate AIA’s 65th anniversary in Malaysia, close to 1,000 employees visited hospitals, care facilities and orphanages as part of the “AIA Touching Lives” initiative.

AIA’s business is focused on contributing to the well-being 
of customers, employees and agents but beyond that we 
have a deep commitment to fostering the well-being of the 
communities in which we operate. Better personal, workplace, 
community and environmental health benefit all and that is why 
the primary focus of AIA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) 
programme is Healthy Living – encouraging, enabling and 
empowering people across the region to lead healthier lives.

We have rolled out a diverse range of healthy living-related 
initiatives across the region to promote these goals.

HEALTHY LIVING – PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, 
ENVIRONMENTAL
We take the view that well-being involves physical and mental 
health as well as environmental issues. Based on this broad 
platform, all our offices are empowered to implement both 
internal programmes to encourage healthy living amongst our 
employees and external projects selected with their relevance 
to our local communities in mind.

Our internal programmes include encouraging employees to 
take part in well-being initiatives through such activities as 
healthy meals in staff canteens; workshops encouraging better 
physical and mental health; and a wide range of company-
sponsored fitness and weight-loss activities – including our 
very own AIA Olympics, boot camps and yoga.

Our employees and agents also reach out to their communities 
with a variety of fundraising, health-promotion, environmental 
and well-being projects. For example we sponsor initiatives to 
address the physical and emotional impact of heart defects, as 
well as cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities by 
paying for the necessary surgeries and providing support to the 
families whose children are affected.

In addition, in 2013, many of our activities were focused 
on helping people achieve a more balanced frame of 
mind (another important facet of healthy living), including 
programmes that nurture young artists.

064

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWIn 2013, we conducted our comprehensive Healthy Living Index Survey for the second time 
interviewing 10,245 respondents across 15 Asia-Pacific markets.

Healthy Living Index Survey –  
Increasing awareness, promoting action
AIA’s Healthy Living platform has a solid empirical foundation. 
This year we conducted our comprehensive Healthy Living 
Index Survey for the second time. 10,245 respondents across 
15 Asia-Pacific markets were interviewed about their overall 
health, their health concerns and their hopes for a healthier 
way of life.

73 per cent of survey respondents said that their health was 
not as good as it had been five years ago and most agreed 
that there were many areas where they needed to do more, 
including improving their eating, sleeping and exercise habits. 
Importantly, the survey also identified emerging threats to 
health such as food safety, obesity, environmental pollution and 
Internet addiction, where more than half of the adults admitted 
that the Internet and social networking is becoming addictive, 
and two-thirds said it prevented them from getting enough 
exercise and sleep.

These and other survey findings help inform individuals and 
society at large on areas for improvement; and at AIA, we are 
also using the findings to fine-tune our CSR initiatives and 
develop other activities that will motivate people across the 
region to adopt healthier habits.

Providing Opportunities for People  
to Engage in Healthy Activities
AIA continues to support and fund participation in a wide variety 
of sports-related charity events, encouraging the general 
public, our employees and our agents to get involved. The great 
level of uptake has shown that these are very popular. For 
example AIA was Action Partner for the annual Médecins Sans 
Frontières (MSF) Orienteering Competition in Hong Kong which 
attracted a record of nearly 3,000 participants in 2013 and saw 
more than 700 AIA financial planners raise record donations to 
support MSF’s worldwide humanitarian work.

AIA also supported three corporate teams’ participation in 
Oxfam Trailwalker 2013, one of the territory’s most challenging 
sporting events attracting more than 4,000 participants. The 
AIA teams completed the 100km MacLehose Trail within 48 
hours and raised over US$24,500 to support Oxfam’s poverty 
alleviation and emergency relief projects in Asia and in Africa.

Our joint venture in India, Tata AIA, sponsored the Mumbai 
Marathon 2013 to provide support to a children’s education and 
protection charity. More than 40,000 people from all walks of 
life took part in what is now one of Asia’s largest marathons.

In Indonesia, our employees and agents continued to support 
The Jakarta Race. Over 2,800 participants joined this race in 
2013 to raise funds for the Indonesian Cancer Foundation. 
Similarly for the second consecutive year, AIA in Singapore 
was a Presenting Sponsor of the Jurong Lake Run. More than 
15,000 participants took part in this flagship running event held 
with the objective of promoting healthy living.

AIA  in  Singapore  was  a  Presenting  Sponsor  of  the  Jurong  Lake  Run  for  the  second 
consecutive year.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

065

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCorporate Social Responsibility

AIA  was  Action  Partner  for  the  annual  Médecins  Sans  Frontières  (MSF)  Orienteering 
Competition in Hong Kong to support MSF’s worldwide humanitarian work.

Our employees also participated in the 2013 “Around the Bay 
In A Day” cycling race, Australia’s largest one-day bicycle 
ride. The race raised sufficient funds to help more than 2,400 
disadvantaged primary school students.

In Thailand, special football clinics were held for the second 
year in a row to provide basic training to over 1,400 youths.

In New Zealand, AIA encouraged employees to lead a more 
active and healthier lifestyle through participation in an action-
packed game known as Turbo Touch by forming a corporate 
team to enter the 12-week North Shore Turbo competition. 

Promoting Good Healthcare Habits
In Hong Kong, AIA held a series of “Love Your Heart!” 
roadshows, providing free heart health assessments to 
members of the public. Agents, employees and the Group 
Office also took up the Lifeline Express cause, and the funds 
raised will allow more than 200 patients in rural China to have 
much-needed cataract surgery. Partnering with the non-
governmental organisations, including Against Child Abuse 
and Christian Action, our employees extended to families in 
need free tickets to one of Hong Kong’s leading attractions, 
Ocean Park.

In Korea, AIA donated over US$210,000 to the EWHA Women’s 
Cancer Centre to subsidise medical fees for low-income cancer 
patients and also to provide free cancer screening for women. 

066

AIA GROUP LIMITED

In Indonesia, AIA distributed nutritious food to students and 
held a sports competition for approximately 200 elementary 
school students in Jonggol, West Java. Through the AIA Mobile 
Clinic, free medical services were provided to communities in 
Yogyakarta.

In China, AIA promoted health and well-being in local 
communities with a special focus on disadvantaged children. 
In Jiangsu, in addition to organising a sports day for migrant 
workers’ children, AIA volunteers visited a charity bakery to 
help raise funds for the mentally retarded. In Guangdong, AIA 
cooperated with New Express Daily to hold a painting contest 
for children with proceeds from auctioning the top 10 paintings 
donated to congenital heart disease treatment.

Our Employees and Agents Lending a Helping Hand
Supporting our employees and agents as they help others is 
also a priority, and this has led to many new AIA-led community 
initiatives and to our deeper involvement in existing events.

In Malaysia, we officially launched “AIA Touching Lives” with 
seed funds of approximately US$110,000 which included 
donations raised by employees. In conjunction with this launch, 
AIA reaffirmed its commitment towards two worthy causes it 
has championed over the years by disbursing US$25,000 to 
children with congenital heart illness and pledging US$15,000 
to children born with cleft lip and palate conditions.

In Indonesia, AIA launched “Real Action for AIA Village” with 
its employees renovating a number of facilities in the public 
primary school in Jonggol, West Java. Bicycles and sports 
equipment were also donated to schools in underprivileged 
areas in Indonesia.

In Australia, employees’ participation in many charity-driven 
sports events was funded by the Company. Additionally, every 
AIA office in Australia participated in Australia’s Biggest 
Morning Tea, raising funds for cancer research and prevention.

In Sri Lanka, AIA sponsored a free wheelchair service for 
hundreds of elderly Buddhist pilgrims visiting sacred sites, and 
around 60 employees volunteered to clean, paint and garden 
at Lady Ridgeway Hospital, the largest hospital in the world 
that serves children free-of-charge. Financial support was also 
provided to the Sanhinda orphanage and 40 foster children 
received direct financial support for a year.

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCaring for the Environment
2013 saw the opening of the AIA Financial Centre, the first 
commercial building in Foshan, China to be certified a “green 
building” by the official authority, Leadership in Energy and 
Environmental Design (LEED).

AIA continues to invest in environmentally friendly construction 
with two new commercial buildings in Bangkok, the AIA Capital 
Centre and the AIA Sathorn Tower. Both designed to meet the 
standards required for “green building” certification by LEED.

Across the region, energy-saving devices have been installed in 
many AIA offices.

In Hong Kong, continuing the momentum of a survey on 
electronic waste (e-waste) commissioned jointly by AIA and the 
Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) in 2012, a series of 
electronic device (e-device) collection days were held at AIA and 
at CUHK to promote proper disposal and recycling habits. Over 
600 old e-devices ranging from computers, laptops, mobile 
phones to cameras were collected.

Our staff in Malaysia expressed their appreciation and gratitude to various communities by 
bringing cheer and treats to patients in hospitals and care facilities.

To support autistic children in China, our employees and 
agents received professional volunteering training through 
our cooperation with Shanghai Aihao Children Rehabilitation 
Centre.

As a mark of their concern for vulnerable community 
members, and to extend tangible care to those in need, 
our employees and agents in Australia, China, Hong Kong, 
India, the Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand participated 
enthusiastically in blood donation drives. They also mobilised 
their families, friends, policyholders and even the general 
public to support this worthwhile cause.

Our pension unit in Hong Kong also showed its care for the 
environment by joining the stationary bicycle challenge to 
generate electricity for the Konica Minolta Green Concert 2013. 
The event raised money for local charities and a new Guinness 
World Record was set for the most participants in a static 
cycling relay in 12 hours. The AIA team won first runner-up 
prize for its efforts.

Using Healthy Activities to Commemorate Special 
Occasions
To celebrate AIA’s 65th anniversary in Malaysia, close to 
1,000 employees devoted their time and energy to express 
their appreciation and gratitude to various communities by 
bringing cheer and treats to patients in hospitals and care 
facilities and also to children in orphanages as part of the 
AIA Touching Lives initiative.

In August 2013, we announced our Cup Shirt partnership 
with English Premier League Football Club, Tottenham 
Hotspur. In addition to other benefits, this sponsorship has 
provided a very good platform to promote the role of sports 
in Asia-Pacific as a key element of healthy living. Celebrating 
the third anniversary of AIA’s public listing, Hong Kong held 
a special AIA-Tottenham Hotspur Youth Football Day, allowing 
local youth the opportunity to meet and play with two football 
legends from Spurs.

In  Hong  Kong,  AIA  continued  the  collaboration  with  the  Chinese  University  of  Hong  Kong  to 
promote proper disposal of electronic devices and recycling habits amongst youngsters.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

067

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCorporate Social Responsibility

In China, AIA held its third annual drawing competition for 
children to promote a low-carbon life and raise awareness 
on environmental protection and received close to 1,000 
submissions. 220 children were shortlisted for the final 
round of the competition and their families were invited 
to join an energy saving and environmental protection 
winter camp held at the Beijing Energy Conservation and 
Environmental Protection Center. We also partnered with the 
non-governmental organisation, Roots & Shoots, to sponsor 
mini-organic farms at middle schools and to plant trees in 
Inner Mongolia. In Hong Kong, employees volunteered to do 
conservation work at Wetland Park.

In Vietnam, we donated 130 water filters to help provide clean 
water to the local communities.

EXTENDING THE POWER OF EDUCATION
In China, we have developed the AIA Young Leaders 
Development Programme to provide funding and training to 
university students to encourage them to develop their own 
creative CSR and charity initiatives. In 2013, in line with our 
objective to help develop a generation of more caring leaders, 
over 5,000 students from 13 universities participated in our 
CSR competition. 57 projects were shortlisted and 10 winning 
campaigns were selected. These campaigns have since moved 
to implementation with online fundraising platforms already up 
and running.

AIA in China received the “Annual Impactful Project” award for 
its Young Leaders Development Programme at the Financial 
Industry CSR Award Ceremony and Summit 2013, co-organised 
by the management committee of Shanghai Lujiazui Finance 
Trade Zone and the national financial media group China 
Business News. The Young Leaders initiative also won AIA 
“the Best Social Responsibility Company” title in China at the 
Competitiveness and Credibility Survey of Listed Companies.

In Thailand, the “AIA School Libraries” project continued to 
offer valuable educational support for the ninth consecutive 
year. In 2013, three libraries were provided for needy schools 
benefitting 2,000 students and other people in the community.

In Vietnam, our scholarship programmes benefitted almost 
1,000 students across the country.

In the Philippines, we partnered with the Department of 
Education through our Philam Paaralan Programme to 
build fully-furnished classrooms in underserved areas. 
This year Philam Foundation has completed two additional 
classrooms in Lemery, Batangas. This brought the total 
number of classrooms completed to 23 since the launch of the 
programme in 2011.

Nurturing youngsters’ artistic talent has also been promoted by 
AIA in Hong Kong through a new major international art contest 
for children, Brushstrokes Over Hong Kong: International 

Children Painting Competition in Hong Kong, 
organised by the Promotion of Young Artists 
Foundation. More than 10,000 submissions 
were received from 52 countries and regions. 
The judging was undertaken in Hong Kong in 
January 2013 by 11 internationally renowned 
children’s art experts with the winners being 
honoured in an award ceremony.

OTHER COMMUNITY SUPPORT
While Healthy Living is our main focus, AIA’s 
CSR strategy also includes long-standing 
local initiatives worthy of support as well as 
providing emergency aid in times of crises and 
natural disasters.

In China, we have developed the AIA Young Leaders Development Programme to provide funding and training to 
university students and 10 winning campaigns were selected.

068

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWIn Thailand, the “AIA School Libraries” project continued to offer valuable educational support for the ninth consecutive year.

In Thailand, sufficient funds were raised for Operation Smile to 
repair facial deformities for 200 children, and 200 prostheses 
were donated through the “New Legs, New Life” campaign to 
needy recipients.

In Taiwan, AIA worked in conjunction with the Taiwan 
Children’s Welfare League Foundation on the “Help Kids Grow” 
programme. Over US$210,000 was raised between August 
and October to cover food and education expenses for more 
than 2,000 needy children. To help build awareness of the 
programme, we also released a documentary highlighting how 
hard it is for underprivileged families in Taiwan to cover the 
nutrition and education expenses of their children.

Clinic; the women’s cervical health screening and support 
programme; and the provision of nutritious food to elementary 
students in Jonggol.

In the Philippines, we supported the launch of 
“GiveBackPhilippines” to raise funds for the victims of the 
Typhoon Haiyan disaster. Beneficiaries of the online donation 
campaign are Philam Foundation, Action Against Hunger 
and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). With Typhoon 
Haiyan damaging more than 3,000 schools, the need to rebuild 
classrooms is an urgent priority. To support this effort, Philam 
Life donated US$500,000 to Philam Foundation to kick-start the 
building process.

In Vietnam, AIA continued to help minimise paediatric 
drowning, one of the leading causes of accidental deaths for 
children in Vietnam, by donating 1,000 lifesaver school bags.

In Indonesia, we received the prestigious Corporate Social 
Responsibility 2013 award which recognises companies with 
CSR at their core. It was conferred by the Ministry of Women’s 
Empowerment and Child Protection in a ceremony broadcast 
on Seputar Indonesia, the country’s most-watched newscast. 
The award acknowledges the contribution AIA in Indonesia 
has made through many initiatives, including: the AIA Mobile 

Relief was also provided to storm and flood victims in Vietnam. 
In Thailand, employees and agents volunteered to pack 
and distribute 2,000 survival kits to flood victims in several 
provinces affected by floods.

SUMMARY
We are very proud of the work being done by our employees 
and agents throughout the region, and of the positive impact 
this is having on people’s lives. In 2013, more than 26,000 of 
our employees and agents as well as over 220,000 members 
of the general public participated in our health-oriented 
activities.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

069

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION03:00

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070

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE…will continue to unfold.  
Asia-Pacific region provides  
one of the most attractive and resilient  
life insurance markets in the world. 
The demographic drivers in the 
region coupled with low levels of 
social welfare provision and the rapid 
expansion in the numbers of middle- 
and high-income households provide 
enormous growth opportunities, 
and all of this is happening on an 
unprecedented scale. 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

071

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONStatement of Directors’ Responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Company’s 
consolidated financial statements in accordance with 
applicable laws and regulations.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting 
records that give a true and fair view of the state of the 
Company’s affairs and explain its transactions.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements of the 
Company, the Directors are required to:

•  Select suitable accounting policies and apply them 

consistently;

•  Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and 

prudent;

The Directors are responsible for taking reasonable steps 
to safeguard the assets of the Group and to prevent and 
detect fraud and other irregularities. The Directors are also 
responsible for preparing a Report of the Directors and the 
Corporate Governance Report on pages 78 to 90 of this  
Annual Report.

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

•  State whether the financial statements have been prepared 

in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards and Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards; 
and

•  Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis, 
unless it is not appropriate to make the presumption that 
the Group will continue in business.

1.  the consolidated financial statements of the Company, 
prepared in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards and Hong Kong Financial Reporting 
Standards, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, 
financial position, cash flows and results of the Company 
and its undertakings included in the consolidated financial 
statements taken as a whole; and

2.  the section headed “Financial and Operating Review” 

included in this Annual Report presents a fair review of 
the development and performance of the business and the 
position of the Company and the undertakings included in 
the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, 
together with a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties the Company faces.

072

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Board of Directors and Executive Committee

From left to right: Mr. John Barrie Harrison, Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So, Mr. Mark Edward Tucker, Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse, 

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo, Mr. Chung-Kong Chow, Dr. Qin Xiao, Tan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya

NON-EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN AND  
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Aged 76, is the Non-executive Chairman and a Non-executive 
Director of the Company. He is also the Chairman of The 
Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company. 
Amongst Mr. Tse’s appointments during more than 50 years 
with the Group, he served as Honorary Chairman of AIA 
Co. from July 2009 to December 2010, Chairman and Chief 
Executive Officer of AIA Co. from 2000 to June 2009 and its 
President and Chief Executive Officer from 1983 to 2000.  
Mr. Tse is a Non-executive Director of PCCW Limited and 
PICC Property and Casualty Company Limited. He has also 
been a Non-executive Director of PineBridge Investments 
Limited since May 2012. In recognition of his outstanding 
contributions to the development of Hong Kong’s insurance 
industry, Mr. Tse was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star by the 
HKSAR Government in 2001. Mr. Tse received an honorary 
fellowship and an honorary degree of Doctor of Social 
Sciences from The University of Hong Kong in 1998 and 2002 
respectively. In 2003, Mr. Tse was elected to the prestigious 
Insurance Hall of Fame. Mr. Tse was appointed as a Non-
executive Director of the Company on 27 September 2010 and 
Non-executive Chairman on 1 January 2011.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker
Aged 56, is an Executive Director and the Group Chief 
Executive and President of the Company. For the period from 
12 October 2010 to 31 December 2010, he served as Group 
Executive Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of 
the Company. Mr. Tucker joined the Group in July 2010 and 
is also Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AIA Co. and 
AIA International. He is responsible for the strategic direction 
and overall management and performance of the Group. In 
addition to his responsibilities with the Group, Mr. Tucker has 
been an Independent Director of The Goldman Sachs Group, 
Inc. since November 2012. Prior to joining the Group,  
Mr. Tucker served as Group Chief Executive of Prudential plc 
from 2005 to 2009, first joining that group in 1986. Amongst 
the leadership positions that Mr. Tucker occupied during his 
time at Prudential, he was the founder and Chief Executive of 
Prudential Corporation Asia Limited from 1994 to 2003 and 
an Executive Director of Prudential plc from 1999 to 2003. 
During the period from 2004 to 2005, Mr. Tucker was Group 
Finance Director of HBOS plc. Mr. Tucker was a Non-executive 
Director of the Court of The Bank of England from June 
2009 to May 2012, also serving as a member of its Financial 
Stability Committee and Audit and Risk Committee.  
Mr. Tucker qualified as a Chartered Accountant (ACA) in 1985.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

073

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Board of Directors and Executive Committee

INDEPENDENT NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So 
Aged 68, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. From August 2007 to September 2010, Mr. So 
served as an Independent Non-executive Director of AIA Co., 
a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. He is currently an 
Independent Non-executive Director of Cathay Pacific Airways 
Limited and an independent Senior Advisor to Credit Suisse, 
Greater China. Mr. So also served as an Executive Director of 
the Hong Kong Trade Development Council from 1985 to 1992 
and was appointed as its Chairman in October 2007. He was 
also appointed as Chairman of the Consultative Committee 
on Economic and Trade Co-operation between Hong Kong 
and the Mainland in October 2013, served as the Chairman 
of the Hong Kong Film Development Council from April 2007 
to March 2013 and was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star by 
the HKSAR Government in 2011. He has been a member of 
the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference since 
2008. He is an International Business Advisor to the Mayor 
of Beijing and the Honorary Consultant to the Mayor of San 
Francisco. Mr. So was appointed as a Non-executive Director 
of the Company on 28 September 2010 and re-designated as 
an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company on  
26 September 2012.

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow
Aged 63, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. Mr. Chow is the Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges 
and Clearing Limited. He has been an Independent Non-
executive Director of Anglo American plc since 2008.  
Mr. Chow was Chief Executive Officer of MTR Corporation 
Limited from 2003 to 2011 and Chief Executive Officer of 
Brambles Industries plc, a global support services company, 
from 2001 to 2003. From 1997 to 2001, Mr. Chow was the Chief 
Executive of GKN plc, a leading engineering company based in 
the United Kingdom. Mr. Chow has been appointed as a non-
official member of the Executive Council of Hong Kong from  
1 July 2012 and the Chairman of the Independent Commission 
Against Corruption’s Advisory Committee on Corruption from 
1 January 2013. He is the Chairman of the Hong Kong General 
Chamber of Commerce. He has also been a Steward of The 
Hong Kong Jockey Club since March 2011. In 2000, Mr. Chow 
was knighted in the United Kingdom for his contribution to 
industry. Mr. Chow was appointed as an Independent Non-
executive Director of the Company on 28 September 2010.

Dr. Qin Xiao
Aged 66, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. Dr. Qin served as Chairman of China Merchants 
Bank Co., Ltd. from April 2001 to September 2010 and as 
Chairman of China Merchants Group Limited from December 
2000 to August 2010; President of China International Trust 
and Investment Corporation (CITIC) from April 1995 to July 
2000; Vice Chairman of CITIC from July 2000 to December 
2001 and Chairman of CITIC Industrial Bank from 1998 to 
2000. Dr. Qin has been appointed as Non-executive Chairman 
of Amex Resources Limited since April 2012. He has served 
as Independent Non-executive Director of China Telecom 
Corporation Limited, HKR International Limited and China 
World Trade Center Co., Ltd. since 2008, 2009 and 2010, 
respectively. He has been a member of Lafarge’s International 
Advisory Board since 2007 and a member of the Financial 
Services Development Council since 17 January 2013. Dr. Qin 
was appointed as an Independent Non-executive Director of 
the Company on 28 September 2010.

Mr. John Barrie Harrison
Aged 57, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. Mr. Harrison is currently an Independent Non-
executive Director of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing 
Limited, The London Metal Exchange Limited and LME Clear 
Limited. He is also an Independent Non-executive Director of 
BW Group Limited and has been appointed Vice Chairman of 
BW LPG Limited since 21 November 2013. He is a member 
of the Asian Advisory Committee of AustralianSuper Pty 
Ltd since 30 June 2012. Mr. Harrison is a council member, 
standing committee member and honorary treasurer of The 
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. From 2008 
to 2010, he was Deputy Chairman, KPMG International. In 
2003, Mr. Harrison was elected Chairman and Chief Executive 
Officer of KPMG, China and Hong Kong and Chairman of 
KPMG Asia Pacific. Mr. Harrison began his career with 
KPMG in London in 1977 and was made a partner of KPMG 
Hong Kong in 1987. Mr. Harrison is a Fellow of the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a member 
of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants. 
Mr. Harrison was appointed as an Independent Non-executive 
Director of the Company on 1 July 2011.

074

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCETan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya 
Aged 50, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. Tan Sri Azman is the Executive Chairman of 
Symphony Life Berhad and an executive director and Group 
Chief Executive of Symphony House Berhad; both listed 
entities on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities 
Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia”). He is an independent non-
executive director of Scomi Group Berhad which is also 
listed on Bursa Malaysia and a director of various companies 
including PLUS Expressways International Berhad. Tan Sri 
Azman was a director of Malaysian Airline System Berhad and 
AirAsia Berhad until May 2013 and April 2012, respectively. 
Tan Sri Azman started his career at KPMG in London and 
qualified as a chartered accountant before returning to 
Malaysia in 1988 where he worked in a variety of roles in 
investment banking, ultimately being named chief executive 
of Amanah Merchant Bank. In 1998, he was tasked by the 
Malaysian Government to set-up and head Danaharta, the 
national asset management company. He was also the 
Chairman of the Corporate Debt Restructuring Committee 
(“CDRC”), set up by Bank Negara Malaysia, to mediate and 
assist in debt restructuring programmes of viable companies. 
During his tenure with Danaharta and CDRC from 1998 to 
2003, he received a number of international recognitions 
including being named one of Asia’s “Most Influential 
Bankers” by Institutional Investor and “Restructuring Agency 
Chief of the Year” by Asiamoney. Tan Sri Azman is active in 
public service and sits on the boards of Khazanah Nasional 
Berhad, the Malaysian government investment arm and Ekuiti 
Nasional Berhad, a government linked private equity fund 
management company. He is also a member of the Financial 
Reporting Foundation, the trustee body that oversees the 
Malaysian Accounting Standards Board and a member of 
the Capital Market Advisory Group of Malaysian Securities 
Commission. He is a member of The Institute of Chartered 
Accountants in England and Wales, the Malaysian Institute of 
Accountants and a fellow of the Institute of Bankers Malaysia. 
Tan Sri Azman was appointed as an Independent Non-
executive Director of the Company on 24 February 2014.

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo
Aged 59, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. Mr. Yeo is currently the Vice-chairman of Kerry 
Group Limited and the Chairman of Kerry Logistics Network 
Limited. He is a member of the Foundation Board of the 
World Economic Forum and the Berggruen Institute on 
Governance (formerly known as Nicolas Berggruen Institute’s 
21st Century Council). In 2013, he was appointed a member 
of the Pontifical Commission for Reference on the Economic-
Administrative Structure of the Holy See. In 2012, Mr. Yeo 
was presented with the Order of Sikatuna by the Philippines 
Government and the Padma Bhushan by the Indian 
Government, and became an Honorary Officer of the Order 
of Australia. From 1988 to 2011, Mr. Yeo was a Member of the 
Singapore Parliament and held various Cabinet positions, 
including Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for Trade and 
Industry, Minister for Health, Minister for Information and the 
Arts and Minister of State for Finance. From 1972 to 1988,  
Mr. Yeo served in the Singapore Armed Forces and attained 
the rank of Brigadier-General in 1988 when he was Director of 
Joint Operations and Planning in the Ministry of Defence.  
Mr. Yeo was appointed as an Independent Non-executive 
Director of the Company on 2 November 2012.

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee 
Aged 68, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company. Dr. Narongchai is a former Minister of Commerce 
for Thailand and Senator and has acted as adviser to several 
Thai Prime Ministers. He retired as Chairman of the Export-
Import Bank of Thailand in June 2010. Dr. Narongchai 
also served as a Director of the Office of the Insurance 
Commission of Thailand during the period from October 
2007 to August 2012 and a Director of the National Economic 
and Social Development Board of Thailand from July 2009 to 
June 2013. He is currently Chairman of the Thailand National 
Committee for the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council and 
a member of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of 
Thailand. Dr. Narongchai also acts as a director for certain 
entities listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, including 
acting as Chairman of MFC Asset Management Public 
Company Limited, Chairman of Ananda Development Public 
Company Limited, Vice Chairman and an independent director 
of Thai-German Products Public Company Limited and as 
an independent director of Malee Sampran Public Company 
Limited. He is also Chairman and an independent director of 
The Brooker Group Public Company Limited, which is listed 
on the Stock Exchange of Thailand’s Market for Alternative 
Investment. Dr. Narongchai was appointed as an Independent 
Non-executive Director of the Company on 21 November 2012.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

075

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBoard of Directors and Executive Committee

From left to right: Ng Keng Hooi, Simeon Preston, Mitchell New, Gordon Watson, Mark Edward Tucker, Garth Jones, Paul Groves, John Tai-Wo Chu, Shulamite Khoo

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker 
Mr. Tucker’s biography is set out above.

Mr. Garth Jones 
Aged 51, is the Group Chief Financial Officer, responsible 
for leading the Group in all aspects of finance and risk 
management and oversight of the Group’s actuarial function 
as well as managing relationships with key external 
stakeholders, including regulators and rating agencies. He 
is also responsible for the Annual Business Planning and 
Budgeting process and the Group Corporate Transaction 
team which supports merger and acquisition activity across 
the Group. He is a director of various companies within the 
Group including AIA Co. and AIA International. He joined the 
Group in April 2011. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Jones was 
the Executive Vice President of CPIC Life, the life insurance 
arm of China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd. (CPIC). He 
also held a number of senior management positions during 
12 years with Prudential Corporation Asia Limited, including 
Chief Financial Officer of the Asian life insurance operations. 
Prior to joining Prudential, Mr. Jones led the development of 
reinsurer Swiss Re’s Asia life business. Mr. Jones is a Fellow 
of the Institute of Actuaries in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ng Keng Hooi 
Aged 59, is the Regional Chief Executive responsible for the 
Group’s businesses operating in Thailand, Singapore, Brunei, 
Malaysia, China and Taiwan as well as Group Agency and 
Group Product Strategy. He is a director of various companies 
within the Group including AIA Co. and AIA International. He 
joined the Group in October 2010. Prior to joining the Group,  
Mr. Ng was Group Chief Executive Officer and Director of  
Great Eastern Holdings Limited from December 2008.  
Mr. Ng worked for Prudential plc from 1989 to 2008, serving 
as a Managing Director of Insurance of Prudential Corporation 
Asia Limited from 2005 to 2008 responsible for its operations 
in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines. He has 
been a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (U.S.) since 1985.

Mr. Gordon Watson
Aged 50, is the Regional Chief Executive responsible for 
the Group’s businesses operating in Hong Kong, Korea, the 
Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam, New Zealand, 
Macau, India and Sri Lanka as well as the Group Corporate 
Solutions business, Group Partnership Distribution and the 
Vitality initiative. He is a director of various companies within 
the Group including AIA Co. and AIA International. Mr. Watson 
rejoined the Group in January 2011. He worked in various 
parts of AIG (including within AIA) for over 27 years, during 
which time he served as Global Vice Chairman of ALICO and 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ALICO Asia. He also 
served as Global Chief Operating Officer and as Chairman 
of ALICO Japan. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Insurance 
Institute and Chartered Institute of Marketing.

076

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCEMr. Mitchell New 
Aged 50, is the Group General Counsel, responsible for the 
provision of legal services and company secretarial services 
for the Group and providing support to legal and corporate 
governance functions within country operations. He is a 
director of various companies within the Group. He joined 
the Group in April 2011. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. New 
occupied various senior roles with Manulife Financial where 
he was most recently Senior Vice President & Chief Legal 
Officer for Asia, based in Hong Kong and with responsibility 
for providing legal services to its operations throughout 
Asia. He also managed several strategic initiatives including 
Manulife’s demutualisation in Asia, which led to the listing by 
Manulife of its shares on the stock exchanges of Hong Kong 
and the Philippines. In addition to the Asia division, he was 
also previously Senior Vice President and General Counsel to 
Manulife’s Canadian division.

Mr. John Tai-Wo Chu
Aged 74, is the Group Chief Investment Officer responsible 
for providing oversight to the management of the investment 
portfolios of the Group. He is a director of various companies 
within the Group. Mr. Chu joined the Group in June 1993 as 
Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of AIA Co. 
Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Chu spent 19 years with Bank 
of America in various senior management positions, including 
Country Senior Credit Officer, Head of Corporate Banking in 
Hong Kong and Country Manager of Bank of America in China.

Mr. Simeon Preston
Aged 43, is the Group Chief Strategy and Operations Officer 
responsible at the Group level for business strategy, 
technology and operations. He is a director of various 
companies within the Group. He joined the Group in 
September 2010. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Preston 
served as a senior partner in the financial services practice 
of global management consultants Bain & Company, where 
he specialised in the Asia life insurance sector. He previously 
spent almost nine years with consulting firm Marakon 
Associates and was named a partner in 2006.

Ms. Shulamite Khoo
Aged 52, is the Group Human Resources Director responsible 
for the development of human capital strategies and their 
implementation across the Group as well as leading and 
providing support to human resources functions in local 
market operations. She is also responsible for the Group 
Corporate Security function. She joined the Group in January 
2011. Prior to joining the Group, Ms. Khoo was Group 
Executive Vice President, Global Head of Human Resources of 
the AXA Group, based in Paris. Prior to AXA, she was Regional 
Head of Human Resources for Prudential Corporation Asia 
Limited based in Hong Kong. She is a Chartered Fellow of the 
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

Mr. Paul Groves
Aged 51, is the Group Chief Marketing Officer and leads the 
Group Marketing function providing support on marketing 
issues for country operations. He joined the Group in January 
2011. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Groves served as Senior 
Vice President, Head of International Marketing & Direct to 
Consumer Channel of MetLife International (formerly ALICO). 
Mr. Groves also worked with GE Money where he served as 
Chief Marketing Officer for the United Kingdom and Ireland. 
Mr. Groves spent 27 years with Barclays and Barclaycard 
in the United Kingdom, serving latterly as Chief Marketing 
Officer of Barclaycard International.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

077

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONReport of the Directors

The Board is pleased to present this Report and the audited 
consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year 
ended 30 November 2013.

whose names appear on the register of members of the 
Company at the close of business on Wednesday, 14 May 2014.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
The Company is an investment holding company. The 
principal activities of the Group are the provision of products 
and services to individuals and businesses for their insurance, 
protection, savings, investment and retirement needs.

Details of the activities and other particulars of the Company’s 
principal subsidiaries are set out in note 43 to the financial 
statements.

RESULTS
The results of the Group for the year ended 30 November 2013 
and the state of the Group’s affairs at that date are set out in 
the financial statements on pages 101 to 206 of this Annual 
Report.

DIVIDEND
An interim dividend of 13.93 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 
12.33 Hong Kong cents per share) was paid on 30 August 
2013. The Board has recommended a final dividend of 28.62 
Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 24.67 Hong Kong cents 
per share) in respect of the year ended 30 November 2013. 
Together with the interim dividend already paid, this will result 
in a total dividend of 42.55 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 
37.00 Hong Kong cents per share) for the year ended  
30 November 2013.

Under the Trust Deed of the Company’s Restricted Share 
Unit Scheme (RSU Scheme), shares of the Company are held 
by the trustee in either of two trust funds. These shares are 
held against the future entitlements of scheme participants. 
Provided the shares of the Company are held by the trustee 
and no beneficial interest in those shares has been vested in 
any beneficiary, the trustee shall waive any right to dividend 
payments or other distributions in respect of those shares 
(unless the Company determines otherwise).

As of 30 August 2013 (being the payment date of the interim 
dividend), 72,923,969 shares were held by the trustee. 
The amount of interim dividend waived was US$1 million. 
Pursuant to the Trust Deed, the trustee will waive the right to 
final dividend if it is declared.

Subject to shareholders’ approval at the AGM, the final dividend  
will be payable on Thursday, 29 May 2014 to shareholders 

DIRECTORS
The Directors of the Company during the year and up to the 
date of this Report are as follows:

Non-executive Chairman and Non-executive Director 

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Executive Director 

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker 
(Group Chief Executive and President)

Independent Non-executive Directors

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow

Dr. Qin Xiao 

Mr. John Barrie Harrison 

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo 

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee 

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (Note)

Note:
Mr. Cheung resigned as Independent Non-executive Director with effect from  
25 May 2013.

On 30 January 2014, the Board approved the appointment 
of Tan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya as Independent Non-
executive Director of the Company for a term of three years 
commencing on 24 February 2014. He will retire from office 
at the forthcoming annual general meeting pursuant to 
Article 105 of the Company’s Articles of Association and offers 
himself for re-election.

In accordance with Article 101 of the Company’s Articles of 
Association, Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse and Mr. Jack Chak-
Kwong So will retire from office by rotation at the forthcoming 
annual general meeting and offer themselves for re-election.

BIOGRAPHIES OF DIRECTORS AND MEMBERS OF 
THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Biographies of Directors and members of the Executive 
Committee are set out on pages 73 to 77 of this Annual 
Report. 

SHARE CAPITAL
Details of movements in share capital of the Company are set 
out in note 34 to the financial statements. 

078

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTERESTS AND SHORT POSITIONS IN SHARES AND UNDERLYING SHARES
As of 30 November 2013, the following are the persons, other than the Directors or Chief Executive of the Company, who had 
interests or short positions in the shares or underlying shares of the Company as recorded in the register of interests required 
to be kept by the Company pursuant to Section 336 of Part XV of the SFO: 

Name of Shareholder

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Citigroup Inc.

Citigroup Financial Products Inc.

Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.

Citigroup Global Markets

(International) Finance AG

  Number of shares  
 or underlying shares 
(Note 5) 
Long Position (L)
Short Position (S)
Lending Pool (P)

1,298,956,453(L) 
19,322,919(S) 
794,001,037(P)

1,083,128,432(L) 
6,083,940(S) 
3,703,592(P)

1,074,197,000(L) 
856,100(S)

1,074,197,000(L) 
856,100(S)

1,074,077,000(L)
856,100(S)

Class

Ordinary  

Ordinary  

Ordinary  

Ordinary  

Ordinary  

Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited

1,054,334,400(L)

Ordinary  

Percentage of the  
total number of  
shares in issue
Long Position (L)
Short Position (S)
Lending Pool (P)

10.79(L) 
0.16(S) 
6.59(P)

8.99(L) 
0.05(S) 
0.03(P)

8.92(L) 
0.01(S)

8.92(L)
0.01(S)

8.92(L)
0.01(S)

8.75(L)

Citigroup Global Markets Hong Kong
  Holdings Limited

Citigroup Global Markets Overseas 
  Finance Limited

1,054,334,400(L)

Ordinary  

8.75(L)

1,054,334,400(L)

Ordinary  

8.75(L)

The Capital Group Companies, Inc.

848,133,207(L)

Ordinary  

7.04(L)

BlackRock, Inc.

705,500,204(L)
4,258,000(S)

Ordinary  

5.85(L)
0.03(S)

Capacity 

Note 1

Note 2

Note 3

Note 3

Note 4

Interest 
of controlled 
corporation

Interest of 
controlled 
corporation

Interest of 
controlled 
corporation

Interest of 
controlled 
corporation

Interest of 
controlled 
corporation

Notes:
(1)  The interests held by JPMorgan Chase & Co. were held in the following capacities:

Capacity

Beneficial owner

Investment manager

Custodian corporation/approved lending agent

Number of shares

Number of shares

(Long position)

(Short position)

226,852,868  

19,322,919

278,102,548  

794,001,037  

–

–

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

079

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of the Directors

(2)  The interests held by Citigroup Inc. were held in the following capacities:

Capacity

Interests held jointly with another person

Interest of controlled corporation

Custodian corporation/approved lending agent

Security interest in shares

Number of shares

Number of shares

(Long position)

(Short position)

1,054,334,400  

10,009,240  

3,703,592  

15,081,200  

–

6,083,940

–

–

(3)  The interests held by each of Citigroup Financial Products Inc. and Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc. were held in the following capacities:

Capacity

Interest of controlled corporation

Security interest in shares

(4)  The interests held by Citigroup Global Markets (International) Finance AG were held in the following capacities:

Capacity

Interest of controlled corporation

Security interest in shares

(5)  The interests or short positions include underlying shares as follows:

Number of shares

Number of shares

(Long position)

(Short position)

1,059,115,800  

15,081,200  

856,100

–

Number of shares

Number of shares

(Long position)

(Short position)

1,058,995,800  

15,081,200  

856,100

–

Long position

Short position

Name of Shareholder

  Physically  
settled  
  equity listed  
  derivatives

Cash
settled  
  equity listed  
  derivatives

Physically  
  settled equity
unlisted
derivatives

Cash 
 settled equity 
unlisted 
  derivatives

  Physically  
settled  
  equity listed  
  derivatives

Cash
settled 
  equity listed 
  derivatives

  Physically  
settled equity 
unlisted 
  derivatives

Cash 
 settled equity 
unlisted 
  derivatives

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

3,694,000  

–   

8,923,628  

390,000

2,925,000  

2,765,600  

8,986,719  

2,000,000

Citigroup Inc. 

Citigroup Financial 

Products Inc.

Citigroup Global Markets 

Holdings Inc.

Citigroup Global Markets 

(International) Finance AG  

Citigroup Global Markets 

Asia Limited

Citigroup Global Markets 

Hong Kong Holdings 

Limited

Citigroup Global Markets 

Overseas Finance Limited  

BlackRock, Inc.

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–    1,059,562,240  

–    1,054,334,400  

–    1,054,334,400  

–    1,054,334,400  

–    1,054,334,400  

–    1,054,334,400  

–    1,054,334,400  

3,046,600  

–  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

3,676,000   

–   

5,227,840  

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–  

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

–   

– 

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Save as disclosed above, as at 30 November 2013, no person, other than the Directors and Chief Executive of the Company, 
whose interests are set out in the section “Directors’ and Chief Executive’s Interests and Short Positions in Shares and 
Underlying Shares” below, holds any interests or short positions in the shares or underlying shares of the Company as recorded 
in the register required to be kept by the Company pursuant to Section 336 of Part XV of the SFO. 

080

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S INTERESTS AND SHORT POSITIONS IN SHARES AND 
UNDERLYING SHARES 
As of 30 November 2013, the Directors’ and Chief Executive’s interests and short positions in the shares, underlying shares 
or debentures of the Company and its associated corporations as recorded in the register required to be kept by the Company 
under Section 352 of Part XV of the SFO, or as otherwise notified to the Company pursuant to the Model Code, are as follows: 

(i)  Interests and short positions in the shares and underlying shares of the Company:

  Number of shares or  

Name of Director

underlying shares  

Class

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker  

15,341,457(L) (1) 

Ordinary  

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse  

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow  

3,560,400(L) (2) 

Ordinary  

86,000(L) (2) 

Ordinary  

Percentage of the total  
number of shares in issue  

Capacity 

0.13  

Beneficial owner

  Interest of controlled  
corporation

0.03

< 0.01  

Beneficial owner

Notes:
(1)  The interests include 952,541 shares of the Company, 8,903,570 share options under the Share Option Scheme, 5,481,056 restricted share units under the 

Restricted Share Unit Scheme and 4,290 matching restricted stock purchase units under the Employee Share Purchase Plan.

(2)  The interests are ordinary shares of the Company.

(ii) Interests and short positions in the shares of associated corporation:

Name of Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse  

Associated  
Corporation

Philam Life  

Number of 

shares  

Class

  Percentage of the  
total number of  
shares in issue  

1(L)   

Ordinary  

< 0.01  

Capacity 

Trustee

Save as disclosed above, as at 30 November 2013, none of 
the Directors or Chief Executive of the Company holds any 
interests or short positions in the shares, underlying shares 
or debentures of the Company and its associated corporations 
as recorded in the register required to be kept by the Company 
under Section 352 of Part XV of the SFO, or as otherwise 
notified to the Company pursuant to the Model Code.

DIRECTORS’ BENEFITS FROM RIGHTS TO 
ACQUIRE SHARES OR DEBENTURES 
Under his service contract, Mr. Mark Edward Tucker (by 
virtue of his role as Group Chief Executive and President) is 
entitled to an annual discretionary earned incentive award, 
which includes payment in the form of shares of the Company. 
Details of Mr. Tucker’s incentive award are set out in the 
Remuneration Report.

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN CONTRACTS
No contracts of significance to which the Company or any of 
its subsidiaries was a party, and in which any Director of the 
Company had a material interest, subsisted at 30 November 
2013 or at any time during the year.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 
Details of acquisitions and other movements in property, plant 
and equipment are set out in note 16 to the financial statements. 

RESERVES 
As at 30 November 2013, the aggregate amount of reserves 
available for distribution to shareholders of the Company, as 
calculated under the provision Section 79B of the Companies 
Ordinance (Laws of Hong Kong, Chapter 32) was US$1,652 
million (2012: US$1,303 million).

Details of the movements in the reserves of the Group for the 
year ended 30 November 2013 are set out in the Consolidated 
Statement of Changes in Equity on page 107 of this Annual 
Report. 

BANK LOANS AND OTHER BORROWINGS 
Bank loans and other borrowings of the Group as at 30 
November 2013 amounted to US$2,126 million (2012: US$766 
million). Particulars of the borrowings are set out in note 30 to 
the financial statements. 

CHARITABLE DONATIONS
Charitable donations made by the Group during the year 
amounted to US$2 million (2012: US$1 million). 

SUBSIDIARIES AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES
Details of the Company’s principal subsidiaries and 
associated companies as at 30 November 2013 are set out in 
note 43 and note 15 to the financial statements respectively. 

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

081

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of the Directors

CHANGES IN EQUITY 
Details of changes in equity of the Group during the year ended 
30 November 2013 are set out in the Consolidated Statement 
of Changes in Equity on page 107 of this Annual Report.

MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND SUPPLIERS 
During the year ended 30 November 2013, the percentage 
of the aggregate purchases attributable to the Group’s five 
largest suppliers was less than 30 per cent of the Group’s 
total value of purchases and the percentage of the aggregate 
sales attributable to the Group’s five largest customers was 
less than 30 per cent of the Group’s total value of sales.

RETIREMENT SCHEMES 
The Group operates a number of defined benefit plans and 
defined contribution plans. Particulars of these plans are set 
out in note 38 to the financial statements. 

EVENTS AFTER THE REPORTING PERIOD
Details of significant events after the year ended 30 November 
2013 are set out in note 44 to the financial statements. 

SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE SCHEMES
Restricted Share Unit Scheme 
During the year ended 30 November 2013, 20,645,534 
restricted share units were awarded by the Company under 
the Restricted Share Unit Scheme adopted by the Company on 
28 September 2010 (as amended). Details of the awards are 
set out in the Remuneration Report. 

Share Option Scheme
During the year ended 30 November 2013, 7,490,459 share 
options were awarded by the Company under the Share 
Option Scheme adopted by the Company on 28 September 
2010 (as amended). Details of the awards are set out in the 
Remuneration Report. 

NON-EXEMPT CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS
During the year ended 30 November 2013, the Group had not 
entered into any connected transactions which are not exempt 
under either Rule 14A.31 or Rule 14A.33 of the Listing Rules.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Details of the related party transactions undertaken by the 
Group during the year in the ordinary course of business are 
set out in note 41 to the financial statements. 

As noted in note 41 to the financial statements, the amount 
due from the joint venture does not fall under the definition 
of connected transaction for the purpose of the Listing Rules 
while the remunerations of directors were exempt connected 
transactions.

082

AIA GROUP LIMITED

PURCHASE, SALE AND REDEMPTION OF THE 
SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY
Save for the purchase of 21,274,914 shares of the Company 
under the Restricted Share Unit Scheme and the Employee 
Share Purchase Plan at a total consideration of approximately 
US$87 million, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries 
purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company’s listed 
securities during the year ended 30 November 2013. These 
purchases were made by the relevant scheme trustees on 
the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. These shares are held on 
trust for participants of the relevant schemes and therefore 
were not cancelled. Please refer to note 39 to the financial 
statements for details.

PUBLIC FLOAT
Based on information that is publicly available to the Company 
and within the knowledge of the Directors, the Company has 
maintained the amount of public float as approved by the Hong 
Kong Stock Exchange and as permitted under the Listing 
Rules as at the date of this Annual Report. 

COMPLIANCE WITH THE CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE CODE
Details of the compliance by the Company with the Corporate 
Governance Code are set out in the Corporate Governance 
Report on page 83 of this Annual Report. 

MODEL CODE
Details of the compliance by the Company with the Model 
Code are set out in the Corporate Governance Report on page 
83 of this Annual Report. 

AUDITOR
PricewaterhouseCoopers was re-appointed as auditor of the 
Company in 2013. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers will retire and, being eligible, offer 
themselves for re-appointment. A resolution for the re-
appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers as auditor of the 
Company is to be proposed at the forthcoming annual general 
meeting. 

By Order of the Board

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Non-executive Chairman

21 February 2014

CORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Corporate Governance Report

CORE PRINCIPLES
The Board believes that strong corporate governance is 
essential for delivering sustainable value, enhancing a culture 
of business integrity and maintaining investor confidence. 
The Board is ultimately responsible for the performance 
of the Group, including the consistent achievement of 
business plans and compliance with statutory as well as 
corporate obligations. The Board is also responsible for the 
development and implementation of the Group’s corporate 
governance practices. This Corporate Governance Report 
explains the Company’s corporate governance principles and 
practices, including how the Board manages the business 
to deliver long-term shareholder value and to promote the 
development of the Group.

As a company listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong 
Stock Exchange, the Company is committed to high standards 
of corporate governance and sees the maintenance of good 
corporate governance practices as essential to its sustainable 
growth. It is vital that Board members, in aggregate, have 
their requisite skills and expertise supported by a structure 
that enables delegation, where appropriate, between the 
Board, its committees and management, whilst ensuring 
that the Board retains overall control. To promote effective 
governance across all of its operations, the Board has 
approved a governance framework, which maps out internal 
approval processes including those matters which may be 
delegated.

Throughout the year ended 30 November 2013, the Company 
complied with all the applicable code provisions set out in the 
Corporate Governance Code except for Code Provision F.1.3. 
Code Provision F.1.3 provides that the company secretary 
should report to the chairman of the board and/or the chief 
executive. The Company operates under a variant of this 
model whereby the Group Company Secretary reports to the 
Group General Counsel who is ultimately accountable for the 
company secretarial function and who in turn reports directly 
to the Group Chief Executive.

The Company has also adopted its own Directors’ and Chief 
Executives’ Dealing Policy on terms no less exacting than 
those set out in the Model Code in respect of dealings by the 
Directors in the securities of the Company. All of the Directors 
confirmed, following specific enquiry by the Company, that 
they have complied with the required standards set out in the 
Model Code and the Directors’ and Chief Executives’ Dealing 
Policy throughout the year ended 30 November 2013.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Roles and Responsibilities
The Board is accountable to shareholders for the affairs 
of the Company. It meets these obligations by ensuring 
the maintenance of high standards of governance in all 
aspects of the Company’s business, setting the strategic 
direction for the Group and maintaining appropriate levels 
of review, challenge and guidance in its relationship with 
Group management. It is also the ultimate decision-making 
body for all matters considered material to the Group and is 
responsible for ensuring that, as a collective body, it has the 
appropriate skills, knowledge and experience to perform its 
role effectively.

In these matters, the Board provides leadership to the 
Company in respect of operational issues through the Group 
Chief Executive, who is authorised to act on behalf of the 
Board in the day-to-day management of the Company. Any 
responsibilities not so delegated by the Board to the Group 
Chief Executive remain the responsibility of the Board.

During the period under review, the Board conducted a review 
of the Group’s corporate governance framework, adopted a 
Board Diversity Policy, updated the terms of reference of the 
Remuneration Committee to reflect best practice. The Board 
also reviewed the Company’s compliance with the Corporate 
Governance Code including the necessary disclosures in its 
reports to the shareholders.

Board Composition
As of the end of the financial period, the Board consists of 
eight members, comprising one Executive Director and seven 
Non-executive Directors, six of whom are Independent Non-
executive Directors. All Directors are expressly identified by 
reference to such categories in all corporate communications 
that disclose their names.

The composition of the Board is well balanced with each 
Director having sound board level experience and expertise 
relevant to the business operations and development of the 
Group. The Board is comprised of members with extensive 
business, government, regulatory and policy experience from 
a variety of backgrounds. There is diversity of nationality, 
ethnicity, educational background, functional expertise and 
experience.

A Board Diversity Policy was adopted by the Board during 
the period under review and is available on the Company’s 
website at www.aia.com.

Biographies of the Directors are set out on pages 73 to 75 of 
this Annual Report.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

083

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCorporate Governance Report

Board Independence
Each of the Independent Non-executive Directors of the 
Company meets the independence guidelines set out in Rule 
3.13 of the Listing Rules and has provided to the Company the 
requisite annual confirmation as to his independence. None 
of the Independent Non-executive Directors of the Company 
has any business with or significant financial interests in the 
Company or its subsidiaries and therefore all the Independent 
Non-executive Directors continue to be considered by the 
Company to be independent.

Board Meetings
During the period under review, there were five scheduled 
Board meetings, all of which were convened in accordance 
with the Articles of Association of the Company and attended 
by the Directors either in person or through electronic means 
of communication.

The attendance records of individual Directors are as follows:

Name of Director

Non-executive Chairman and 
Non-executive Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse 

Executive Director

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker 

Independent Non-executive 
Directors

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow 

Dr. Qin Xiao 

Mr. John Barrie Harrison

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo 

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee 

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (Note)  

No. of Board Meetings 
Attended /
Eligible to Attend 

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

2/2

Note:
Mr. Cheung resigned as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company 
with effect from 25 May 2013. He attended all Board meetings held during the 
period from 1 December 2012 to 24 May 2013.

Board Process
Board meetings are held at least four times a year to 
determine overall strategies, receive management updates, 
approve business plans as well as interim and annual results 
and to consider other significant matters. At these meetings, 
senior management also provide regular updates to the 
Board with respect to the business activities and development 

of the Group. During the year ended 30 November 2013, 
the Board conducted an evaluation survey of the Board’s 
performance including the structure and operation of its 
committees.

Minutes of the meetings of the Board and all committees are 
kept by the Company Secretary. Such minutes are open for 
inspection on reasonable notice by any Director.

Chairman and Group Chief Executive
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse, Non-executive Chairman of the 
Company, plays the critical role of leading the Board in its 
responsibilities. With the support of the Group Chief Executive 
and President and senior management, Mr. Tse seeks to 
ensure that all Directors are properly briefed on issues 
arising at Board meetings and that they receive adequate and 
reliable information in a timely manner. He is also responsible 
for making sure that good corporate governance practices 
and procedures are followed.

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker, Group Chief Executive and President 
of the Company, reports to the Board and is responsible for 
the overall leadership, strategic and executive management 
and profit performance of the Group, including all day-to-day 
operations and administration. Mr. Tucker attends Board 
meetings as the sole Executive Director and, in his capacity as 
Group Chief Executive and President, ensures that the Board 
is updated at least monthly in respect of material aspects 
of the Company’s performance. Mr. Tucker discharges his 
responsibilities within the framework of the Company’s 
policies, reserved powers and routine reporting requirements 
and is advised and assisted by the senior executive 
management of the Group.

The roles and responsibilities of the Board, the Chairman 
of the Board and the Group Chief Executive are set out in 
the Board Charter of the Company which is available on the 
Company’s website at www.aia.com.

Appointment of Directors
The Company uses a formal and transparent procedure for 
the appointment of new Directors. Recommendations for the 
appointment of new Directors are received by the Board from 
the Nomination Committee. The Board then deliberates over 
such recommendations prior to approval.

The Non-executive Director and Independent Non-executive 
Directors have been appointed for a specific term of three 
years, subject to re-nomination and re-election as required by 
the Articles of Association of the Company or pursuant to the 
Listing Rules at the general meetings of the Company.

084

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
During the period under review, Mr. Tse, Mr. So, Mr. Chow,  
Dr. Qin and Mr. Harrison have been re-appointed for a  
term of three years, subject to retirement by rotation in 
accordance with the Articles of Association of the Company 
or pursuant to the Listing Rules. Mr. Tse was re-elected as 
Non-executive Chairman for a further term of two years from 
1 January 2013.

of financial services companies, the Group’s governance 
arrangements, its investor relations programme and 
remuneration policies. The Directors are continually updated 
on the Group’s business and the latest developments to the 
Listing Rules and other applicable statutory requirements 
to ensure compliance and continuous good corporate 
governance practice.

On 30 January 2014, the Board approved the appointment 
of Tan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya as Independent Non-
executive Director of the Company for a term of three years 
commencing on 24 February 2014. He will retire from office 
at the forthcoming annual general meeting pursuant to Article  
105 of the Company’s Articles of Association and offers 
himself for re-election.

Induction and Ongoing Development
The Company provides each Director with personalised 
induction, training and development. On appointment, each 
Director receives a comprehensive and tailored induction 
covering, amongst other things, the principal basis of 
accounting for the Group’s results, the role of the Board and 
its key committees, and the ambit of the internal audit and 
risk management functions.

Each Director receives detailed briefings on the Group’s 
principal businesses, the markets in which it operates and 
the overall competitive environment. Other areas addressed 
include legal and compliance issues affecting directors 

During the year, the Company provided a number of briefings 
to the Directors to update them on the latest developments 
in the Group’s principal businesses and major products. The 
overseas Board visit in 2013 was to Kuala Lumpur, where 
Directors received an in-depth review of delivery against 
the Group’s strategic goals. The visit also provided an 
opportunity for the Directors to gain insight into the progress 
of integration of the recently acquired ING operations into 
AIA in Malaysia. As usual an annual Board Strategy Day was 
also held for the Directors, covering a wide range of topics 
including the external competitive environment, specific 
business unit strategies and major geographical and regional 
reviews. 

All Directors are encouraged to participate in continuous 
professional development to extend and refresh their 
knowledge and skills, and are required to provide their 
training records to the Company. The training received by the 
Directors during the period under review is summarised as 
follows:

Name of Director

Non-executive Chairman and Non-executive Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Executive Director, Group Chief Executive and President 

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

Independent Non-executive Directors 

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow

Dr. Qin Xiao

Mr. John Barrie Harrison

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee 

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (Note)

Types of Training 

Reading or attending  
briefings / seminars /  
conferences relevant  
to regulatory and  
governance updates 

 Attending corporate events /
Board visits / executive 
briefings relevant to
the Group’s business 

√  

√  

√  

√  

√  

√  

√  

√  

-  

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

Note:
Mr. Cheung resigned as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 25 May 2013.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

085

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
The Company’s corporate governance is implemented 
through a structured hierarchy, which includes the Board of 
Directors and four committees of the Board established by 
resolutions of the Board, namely the Audit Committee, the 
Nomination Committee, the Remuneration Committee and 
the Risk Committee. The Terms of Reference of the Board 
committees are available on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange’s 
and the Company’s websites. In addition, the Group Chief 
Executive has established a number of management 
committees including, among others, an Executive Committee 
and Operational and Financial Risk Committees.

Further details of the roles and functions and the composition 
of the Board committees are set out below.

Audit Committee
The Audit Committee consists of four members. This includes 
three Independent Non-executive Directors: Mr. Harrison, 
who serves as chairman of the Committee, Mr. So and Mr. Yeo 
as well as the Non-executive Chairman Mr. Tse, who has been 
a member since 25 February 2013. Dr. Qin and Mr. Cheung 
were members of the Audit Committee until 24 February 2013 
and 24 May 2013 respectively. The primary duties performed 
by the Audit Committee during the year were the oversight 
of the Group’s financial reporting system and internal 
control procedures, monitoring the integrity of preparation 
of the Company’s financial information including quarterly 
business highlights, interim and annual results of the Group, 
reviewing the Group’s financial and accounting policies and 
practices as well as the whistle-blowing arrangements and 
monitoring the effectiveness of the internal audit function. The 
Committee also provided oversight for and management of 
the relationship with the Group’s external auditor, including 
reviewing and monitoring the external auditor’s independence 
and objectivity and the effectiveness of the audit process in 
accordance with applicable standards.

Four meetings were held by the Audit Committee during the 
year ended 30 November 2013. The attendance records of 
Audit Committee members are as follows:

Name of Audit Committee Member

Mr. John Barrie Harrison (Chairman) 

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So 

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo 

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse (1)

Dr. Qin Xiao (2)

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (3)

No. of Meetings  
Attended /
Eligible to Attend

4/4

4/4

3/4

3/3

1/1

2/2

Notes:
(1)  Mr. Tse was appointed as a member of the Audit Committee with effect from 

25 February 2013.

(2)  Dr. Qin ceased to be a member of the Audit Committee with effect from  

25 February 2013.

(3)  Mr. Cheung ceased to be a member of the Audit Committee as a result of his 

resignation as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect 
from 25 May 2013.

Nomination Committee
The Nomination Committee consists of eight members. This 
includes the Non-executive Chairman, Mr. Tse, who serves 
as chairman of the Committee, and the seven Independent 
Non-executive Directors. Mr. Cheung was a member of the 
Committee until 24 May 2013 while the Board has approved 
the appointment of Tan Sri Azman as a member of the 
Committee with effect from 24 Febreary 2014. The primary 
duties of the Nomination Committee are to review and make 
recommendations to the Board on the structure, size and 
composition of the Board, including the skill, knowledge, 
experience and diversity of background of its membership, to 
oversee the identification and assessment of potential board 
candidates, to provide oversight and direction in respect of 
the succession planning for directors and to determine the 
composition of the Board committees.

The Committee’s processes and criteria for selecting 
and making recommendations for appointment of Board 
members are designed to satisfy high standards of corporate 
governance. These processes meet or exceed the Hong Kong 
Stock Exchange requirements to ensure that every director 
of the Company has the requisite character, experience 
and integrity and is able to demonstrate a standard of 

086

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
competence, commensurate with his position as a director of 
a listed issuer, and that where the nomination of Independent 
Non-executive Directors is under consideration the 
requirements of Rule 3.13 of the Listing Rules are satisfied.

One meeting was held by the Nomination Committee during 
the year ended 30 November 2013. During the year the 
Committee considered and adopted a Board Diversity Policy, 
which is available on the Company’s website. The attendance 
records of the Nomination Committee members are as 
follows:

Name of Nomination Committee Member

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse (Chairman) 

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow 

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So 

Dr. Qin Xiao

Mr. John Barrie Harrison 

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo 

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee 

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (Note)

No. of Meeting  
Attended /
  Eligible to Attend

1/1

1/1

1/1

0/1

1/1

0/1

1/1

1/1

Note:
Mr. Cheung ceased to be a member of the Nomination Committee as a result of 
his resignation as an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with 
effect from 25 May 2013.

Remuneration Committee
The Remuneration Committee consists of five members. This 
includes four Independent Non-executive Directors: Mr. So, 
the Committee chairman, Dr. Qin, Mr. Yeo and Tan Sri Azman 
as well as the Executive Director, Mr. Tucker. Mr. Yeo has been 
a member of the Committee since 17 January 2014 while the 
Board has approved the appointment of Tan Sri Azman as a 
member of the Committee with effect from 24 February 2014. 
They are entitled to an additional annual fee of US$20,000. 
Mr. Cheung was a member of the Committee until 24 May 
2013. The primary duties of the Remuneration Committee 
are to evaluate and make recommendations to the Board on 
the remuneration policy covering the Directors and senior 
management of the Group. Mr. Tucker is not present at or 
involved in discussion of his own remuneration.

Four meetings were held by the Remuneration Committee 
during the year ended 30 November 2013. Details of the 
attendance records and key activities performed by the 

Remuneration Committee during the year have been set out in 
the Remuneration Report, which forms part of this Corporate 
Governance Report.

Risk Committee
The Risk Committee consists of five members, three of  
whom are Independent Non-executive Directors including  
the Committee chairman Mr. Chow, Mr. Harrison and  
Dr. Narongchai. Also included on the Risk Committee are the 
Non-executive Chairman Mr. Tse; and the Executive Director, 
Mr. Tucker. The duties performed by the Risk Committee 
during the year included provision of advice to the Board on 
the risk profile and risk management strategy of the Group; 
considering, reviewing and approving risk management 
policies and guidelines; deciding on risk levels; and 
considering and endorsing the Company’s risk governance 
structure and major risks, including capital adequacy, asset-
liability management and operational risks.

During the year ended 30 November 2013, four meetings were 
held by the Risk Committee. The attendance records of the 
Risk Committee members are as follows:

Name of Risk Committee Member

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow (Chairman)

Mr. John Barrie Harrison

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

No. of Meetings  
Attended /
Eligible to Attend

4/4

4/4

4/4

4/4

4/4

EXTERNAL AUDITOR
The external auditor of the Company is 
PricewaterhouseCoopers. The Audit Committee is 
responsible for making recommendations to the Board as to 
the appointment, re-appointment and removal of the external 
auditor, which is subject to the approval by the Board and at 
the general meetings of the Company by its shareholders. In 
assessing the external auditor, the Audit Committee will take 
into account relevant experience, performance, objectivity and 
independence of the external auditor. The Audit Committee 
adopted a policy for hiring of current or former professional 
employees of the external auditor and reviews its application 
regularly to ensure no impairment of the auditor’s judgment 
or independence for the audit.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

087

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

The Audit Committee also reviews the non-audit services 
provided by the external auditor and its remuneration on 
a quarterly basis. For the year ended 30 November 2013, 
the total estimated remuneration payable by the Group to 
PricewaterhouseCoopers is US$12.5 million (2012: US$13.7 
million), an analysis of which is set out below:

Internal Control
Throughout this Corporate Governance Report, the Board 
of Directors seeks to set out the Company’s corporate 
governance structure and policies, inform shareholders of 
the corporate governance undertakings of the Company and 
demonstrate to shareholders the value of such practices.

US$ millions

Audit services (2)

Non-audit services, including:

Audit related services

Tax services

Other services

Total

2013(1)

10.7

0.7

0.9

0.2

12.5

2012 

9.7

3.6

0.2

0.2

13.7

In addition to those fees disclosed above, fees of 
US$0.6 million (2012: US$0.6 million) were payable to 
PricewaterhouseCoopers by funds for which the Group is the 
investment adviser, manager, or administrator.

Notes:
(1)  2013 is based upon estimated fees for 2013 audit services and non-audit 

services through 30 November 2013.

(2)  Audit services include US$0.2 million in 2013 related to 2012 services and 

US$0.3 million in 2012 related to 2011 services.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND AUDIT
Financial Report
The annual results of the Company and other financial 
information were published in accordance with the 
requirements of the Listing Rules and other applicable 
regulations and industry best practice. When preparing 
the Company’s financial reports, the Board of Directors 
has endeavoured to present such information in a 
comprehensible, informative and user-friendly manner.

The Directors acknowledge their responsibility for preparing 
the Company’s consolidated financial statements and 
ensuring that the preparation of the Company’s consolidated 
financial statements is in accordance with the relevant 
requirements and applicable standards.

The statement of the Company’s auditor concerning its 
reporting responsibilities on the Company’s consolidated 
financial statements is set out in the Independent Auditor’s 
Report on pages 101 and 102 of this Annual Report.

The Board of Directors has, through the Audit Committee, 
reviewed and is generally satisfied with the effectiveness of 
the Group’s internal control systems, including the adequacy 
of resources, qualifications and experience of staff, training 
programmes and budget of the Company’s accounting and 
financial reporting function.

ENGAGEMENT WITH SHAREHOLDERS
The Board recognises the importance of communication 
and undertakes to maintain an ongoing dialogue with the 
shareholders of the Company through general meetings, 
releases, announcements and corporate communications 
such as the annual report, interim report and circular. The 
Board is committed to the timely disclosure of information. 
The latest information regarding the Group’s activities, 
announcements, results presentation, webcasts and 
corporate communications are made available on the 
Company’s website at www.aia.com in a timely manner. The 
financial calendar highlighting the key dates for shareholders 
are set out on page 231 of this Annual Report.

The Group’s Investor Relations function oversees the 
Company’s engagement with investors. The Company’s 
institutional shareholder base is geographically diversified 
and the Company is also extensively covered by research 
analysts from a wide range of brokerage houses. An active 
and open dialogue with institutional investors is maintained 
through regular investor interactions, including meetings, 
investment conferences and roadshows. Investor feedback 
and analysts’ reports on the Company are circulated to the 
Board and the Executive Committee of the Group on a regular 
and systematic basis to promote an understanding of external 
views on the Group’s performance.

The Board adopted the latest version of the Shareholders’ 
Communication Policy in February 2013 and reviews 
the policy on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness 
and the Board welcomes views, questions and concerns 
from shareholders and stakeholders. Shareholders and 
stakeholders may at any time send their enquiries and 
concerns to the Board. The contact details are set out on 
pages 232 to 233 of this Annual Report.

088

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
 
2013 Annual General Meeting
The most recent general meeting of the Company was the 
2013 Annual General Meeting of the Company (2013 AGM) 
held at the Grand Ballroom, 2/F, Hotel Nikko Hongkong, 72 
Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong on 10 
May 2013 at 11:00 a.m. The Chairman and all other members 
of the Board, together with the Group’s senior management 
and external auditor, attended the 2013 AGM. The poll voting 
results are available on the Company’s website. The matters 
resolved thereat are summarised below.

•  Receipt of the audited consolidated financial statements 
of the Company, the Report of the Directors and the 
Independent Auditor’s Report for the year ended 30 
November 2012;

•  Declaration of a final dividend of 24.67 Hong Kong cents 

The forthcoming annual general meeting of the Company will 
be held on Friday, 9 May 2014. Further details will be set out 
in the circular to the shareholders of the Company to be sent 
together with this Annual Report.

SHAREHOLDERS’ RIGHTS
A substantial part of the Companies Ordinance (Chapter 622 
of the Laws of Hong Kong) (the “New Companies Ordinance”) 
will come into force on 3 March 2014. The relevant provisions 
regarding shareholders’ rights in the Companies Ordinance 
(Chapter 32 of the Laws of Hong Kong) (the “Existing 
Companies Ordinance”) apply prior to 3 March 2014. 

General Meeting 
Shareholder(s) of the Company may request to call a general 
meeting. 

per share for the year ended 30 November 2012;

Requests made before 3 March 2014: 

•  Re-election of Mr. Cheung, Mr. Yeo, Dr. Narongchai and  
Dr. Qin as Independent Non-executive Directors and  
Mr. Tucker as Executive Director of the Company;

•  Re-appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers as auditor of 
the Company until the conclusion of next annual general 
meeting and authorised the Board to fix its remuneration;

•  General mandate to Directors to cause the Company to 

issue additional shares of the Company, not exceeding 10 
per cent of the issued share capital of the Company at the 
date of the 2013 AGM and the discount for any shares to be 
issued not to exceed 10 per cent of the benchmarked price;

•  General mandate to Directors to cause the Company to 

repurchase shares of the Company, not exceeding 10 per 
cent of the issued share capital of the Company at the date 
of the 2013 AGM;

•  General mandate to Directors to cause the Company to 
issue additional shares of the Company, not exceeding 
2.5 per cent of the issued share capital of the Company at 
the date of the 2013 AGM under the restricted share unit 
scheme; and

•  Amendments to the Articles of Association of the Company 
to clarify the process for retirement and re-election of 
Directors by rotation.

If such a request is made by Shareholder(s) of the Company 
holding not less than one-twentieth of the paid-up capital of 
the Company, such general meeting must be called. Such a 
request must state the objects of the meeting, and must be 
signed by the relevant Shareholder(s) of the Company and 
may consist of several documents in like form, each signed 
by one or more of the relevant Shareholder(s). The request 
must be deposited at the registered office of the Company at 
35/F, AIA Central, No. 1 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong 
for the attention of the Company Secretary. Shareholder(s) of 
the Company should make reference to the provisions under 
section 113 of the Existing Companies Ordinance for calling a 
general meeting before 3 March 2014. 

Requests made on or after 3 March 2014: 

If such request is made by Shareholder(s) of the Company 
representing at least 5 per cent of the total voting rights of  
all the Shareholders of the Company having a right to vote  
at general meetings, such general meeting must be called. 
Such request, either in hard copy form or in electronic form 
and being authenticated by the person or persons making it, 
must be deposited at the registered office of the Company 
at 35/F, AIA Central, No. 1 Connaught Road Central, Hong 
Kong or sent by email to ir@aia.com for the attention of the 
Company Secretary. Shareholder(s) of the Company should 
make reference to the provisions under sections 566 to 568 of 
the New Companies Ordinance for calling a general meeting 
on or after 3 March 2014.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

089

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCorporate Governance Report

Moving a Resolution at an Annual General Meeting
Shareholder(s) of the Company may request the Company 
to give notice of a resolution and move such resolution at an 
annual general meeting.

Requests made before 3 March 2014: 

Such notice of resolution must be given by the Company if it 
has received such requests from: 

(a) Shareholder(s) of the Company representing not less 
than one-fortieth of the total voting rights of all the 
Shareholder(s) of the Company having at the date of the 
request a right to vote at the annual general meeting to 
which the request relates; or 

(b) not less than 50 Shareholder(s) of the Company holding 

shares in the Company on which there has been paid up an 
average sum, per member, of not less than HK$2,000. 

Such a request must state the resolution, accompanied by a 
statement of not more than 1,000 words with respect to the 
matter referred to in the proposed resolution or the business 
to be dealt with at the annual general meeting and signed 
by all the relevant Shareholder(s) of the Company. Such a 
request must be deposited at the registered office of the 
Company at 35/F, AIA Central, No. 1 Connaught Road Central, 
Hong Kong for the attention of the Company Secretary: (i) in 
case of a request requiring notice of a resolution, not less 
than six weeks before the meeting; and (ii) in case of any 
other request, not less than one week before the meeting, 
with a sum reasonably sufficient to meet the Company’s 
expenses in serving the notice of the proposed resolution and 
circulating the statement to all Shareholder(s) of the Company 
as required by applicable laws and regulations. Shareholders 
of the Company should make reference to section 115A of the 
Existing Companies Ordinance for the relevant procedures to 
move a resolution at an annual general meeting. 

Such a request must identify the resolution of which notice is 
to be given, be either in hard copy form or in electronic form 
and authenticated by the person or persons making it, and 
be received by the Company not later than six weeks before 
the annual general meeting to which the request relates or, 
if later, the time at which notice is given of that meeting. The 
request must be deposited at the registered office of the 
Company at 35/F, AIA Central, No. 1 Connaught Road Central, 
Hong Kong or sent by email to ir@aia.com for the attention of 
the Company Secretary. Shareholders of the Company should 
make reference to sections 615 and 616 of the New Companies 
Ordinance for the relevant procedures to move a resolution at 
an annual general meeting. 

Proposing a Person for Election as a Director
Shareholders can propose a person (other than a retiring 
Director or himself/herself) for election as a director at a 
general meeting of the Company. Relevant procedures are 
available on the Company’s website at www.aia.com.

CONSTITUTIONAL DOCUMENTS 
Shareholders of the Company approved amendments to the 
Articles of Association of the Company to clarify the process 
for retirement and re-election of Directors by rotation at the 
2013 AGM. Details of the amendments were set out in the 2013 
AGM notice and the accompanied circular to the Shareholders 
of the Company dated 25 March 2013. The latest version of 
the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company 
is available on the Company’s website at www.aia.com. In 
view of the coming into force of a substantial part of the 
New Companies Ordinance on 3 March 2014, corresponding 
amendments to the Articles of Association of the Company 
will be proposed for Shareholders’ approval at the 2014 AGM.

Requests made on or after 3 March 2014: 

By Order of the Board

Such notice of resolution must be given by the Company if it 
has received such requests from:

(a) Shareholder(s) of the Company representing at least 2.5 

per cent of the total voting rights of all the Shareholders of 
the Company who have a right to vote on the resolution at 
the annual general meeting to which the request relates; 
or

(b) at least 50 Shareholders of the Company who have the 
right to vote on the resolution at the annual general 
meeting to which the request relates.

Lai Wing Nga
Company Secretary

21 February 2014

090

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Remuneration Report

Dear Shareholders,

As the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee, I am 
pleased to present the Remuneration Report for the year 
ended 30 November 2013.

Our executive management has once again delivered strong 
financial returns and exceeded the Group’s demanding 
targets on all key financial performance measures in 2013. 
Over the year, the stock price has gone up by 30 per cent and 
dividends to shareholders increased by 15 per cent.

The remuneration environment continued to evolve during 
2013 and the Remuneration Committee (the Committee) 
decided that it was timely to undertake a review of our 
executive remuneration arrangements. 

Our objective as a Committee and in the review has been, 
as always, to ensure that AIA’s executive remuneration 
framework continues to provide a strong competitive base to 
enable the Group to:

•  Attract and retain talented employees in the global 

financial services marketplace; 

•  Motivate our executives to sustain high performance and 
achieve our financial and strategic goals leading to the 
creation of long-term sustainable shareholder value; and

•  Link a significant proportion of executive remuneration to 
our longer-term business achievement and share price 
performance and thereby align the interests of our senior 
executives with those of our shareholders.

Our review therefore encompassed all aspects of both basic 
and performance-linked remuneration including ensuring 
the adequacy of arrangements to exclude the possibility 
of executives profiting unduly from transitory short-term 
performance.

As an outcome of this review, given the experience in the past 
few years and the fast-growing nature of the business, and 
after seeking opinions from a range of our large institutional 
shareholders, the Committee has decided to: 

•  Maintain the performance measures and vesting 

schedules currently adopted in long-term incentive (LTI) 
schemes; and

•  Maintain the clawback and malus arrangements already in 
place, as they are fully adequate to protect investors given 
the nature of life insurance profit emergence. 

Considerations of risk appetite and alignment with the 
interests of policyholders and shareholders, over and above 
those secured by the high levels of internal monitoring 
and external interaction with regulators and professional 
bodies, is integral to our thinking as we take decisions on 
remuneration.

We will continue to keep the executive remuneration 
framework transparent, to ensure that such framework 
is in line with market practice, and to ascertain that the 
remuneration arrangements under the framework promote 
pay-for-performance and is aligned with the promotion at all 
times of the long-term interests of shareholders.

I trust that you will find this Remuneration Report clear and 
informative.

Jack Chak-Kwong So
Chairman, Remuneration Committee

21 February 2014

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

091

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRemuneration Report

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The Remuneration Committee is responsible for determining 
the specific remuneration packages of the Executive Director 
and Key Management Personnel (senior executives who, by 
the nature and accountabilities of their respective positions, 
participate directly in the development, monitoring and 
reporting of the overall business strategies of the Group) and 
making recommendations to the Board on the remuneration 
policy and structure to be applied for the Chairman and Non-
executive Directors. 

The Remuneration Committee is also responsible for 
establishing formal and transparent procedures for 
developing such remuneration policies and structures. 
In making its determinations and recommendations, 
the Remuneration Committee considers such factors 
as the responsibilities of the Executive Director and 
Key Management Personnel, the remuneration paid by 
comparable companies, remuneration levels within the Group 
and the application of performance-based remuneration 
programmes. The Remuneration Committee also oversees 
the operation of the Company’s share option scheme and 
other incentive schemes, recommending employee awards 
to the Board for approval as well as reviewing and where 
appropriate, amending terms of the schemes as may be 
required. 

The Remuneration Committee is authorised by the Board to 
discharge its duties as outlined in its terms of reference. It 
is also authorised to seek any remuneration information it 
requires from the Executive Director and/or Key Management 
Personnel and may obtain external independent professional 
advice if necessary.

The full terms of reference of the Remuneration Committee 
can be accessed at www.aia.com.

Meetings in 2013
As at 30 November 2013, the Committee consisted of three 
members: two Independent Non-executive Directors, 
being Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So, who is the Chairman of the 
Committee, and Dr. Qin Xiao; and one Executive Director, 
being Mr. Mark Edward Tucker. Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung 
was a member of the Committee until 24 May 2013. 

During the year ended 30 November 2013, four meetings 
were held by the Remuneration Committee. The attendance 
records of the Remuneration Committee members are as 
follows:

Name of Remuneration 
Committee Member

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So (Chairman)

Dr. Qin Xiao

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (1)

No. of Meetings 
Attended /
Eligible to Attend

4/4

3/4

4/4

1/1

Note:
(1)  Mr. Cheung ceased to be a member of the Remuneration Committee as a 
result of his resignation as Independent Non-executive Director of the 
Company with effect from 25 May 2013.

During the year, major activities performed by the 
Remuneration Committee in relation to the Executive Director, 
Key Management Personnel, Chairman and Non-executive 
Director remuneration were as follows:

•  Reviewed the executive benchmark results and approved 

the 2013 remuneration packages for the Executive Director 
and Key Management Personnel (the Executive Director 
was not involved in discussion of his own remuneration 
and the long-term incentive awards for the Executive 
Director were approved by the Independent Non-executive 
Directors);

•  Reviewed and approved the 2012 short-term incentive 

payout and the performance measures to be used for the 
2013 short-term incentive plan;

•  Reviewed and approved the 2013 long-term incentive 

award and the performance measures to be used in the 
2014 long-term incentive awards;

•  Reviewed and approved the peer group for benchmarking 

the compensation of the Group Chief Executive and 
President; and

•  Reviewed and approved the 2012 Remuneration Report.

092

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
REMUNERATION POLICY
Objectives 
The Company’s executive remuneration policy is based 
on the principle of providing an equitable, motivating and 
competitive remuneration package to foster a strong 
performance-oriented culture within an appropriate overall 
risk management framework.

The policy aims to ensure that rewards and incentives relate 
directly to the performance of individuals, the operations 
and functions in which they work or for which they are 
responsible, and the overall performance of the Group. The 

compensation and benefits arrangements designed under the 
policy provide incentives that are consistent with the interests 
of the Company’s stakeholders and do not encourage 
executives to take excessive risks that may threaten the value 
of the Group.

Main Components of Remuneration
The table below summarises the Company’s remuneration 
policies regarding the elements of the remuneration structure 
as it applied to the Executive Director and Key Management 
Personnel during the year.

Element

Purpose

Basis of determination

Notes on practices

Base salary

Fixed cash element of 
remuneration to recruit and retain 
talent

Short-term 
incentive

Long-term 
incentive

Benefits

Short-term incentives are 
delivered in the form of a 
performance-based cash 
award to recognise and reward 
achievement of the Group’s 
objectives and individual 
contribution

Long-term incentive plans focus 
key contributors on the long-term 
success of the Group and are used 
to align the interests of executives 
with those of shareholders using 
a range of share-based awards 
and share options to deliver a 
balanced mix of ownership and 
incentives

Benefits form part of the long-
term employment relationship 
and contribute to the value of total 
remuneration provided at market 
competitive levels

Base salary is determined with 
reference to the specific roles and 
responsibilities of the position, 
internal relativities, market 
practice, individual experience, 
performance and other factors to 
attract and retain employees with 
required capabilities to achieve 
the Group’s business objectives

Short-term incentive target and 
maximum opportunities are 
determined with reference to the 
market appropriateness of total 
compensation and the roles and 
responsibilities of the individual

Long-term incentive target 
awards are determined with 
reference to the competitiveness 
of the total compensation package 
and the roles and responsibilities 
of the individual

The benefits programme is 
determined such that it is market 
competitive. It remains fully 
compliant with local regulations

Employee 
share purchase 
plan (ESPP)

Share purchase plan with 
matching offer to facilitate and 
encourage AIA share ownership 
by employees, and provide a long-
term retention mechanism

The ESPP is open to all employees 
who have completed probation 
and subject to a maximum 
contribution indicated as a 
percentage of base salary or the 
plan maximum limit

The Remuneration Committee 
reviews salaries annually for the 
Executive Director against a peer 
group of publicly listed insurance 
companies and Key Management 
Personnel against relevant 
industry survey sources

Salary increases, if any, typically 
take effect from 1 March

Annual short-term incentive 
based on the achievement of 
financial performance measures 
and relevant strategic objectives, 
as well as individual contribution

Awards are discretionary and 
determined on an annual basis

Awards are made in restricted 
share units and/or share 
options, and generally vest after 
a three-year period, subject 
to performance and eligibility 
requirements

The Executive Director and Key 
Management Personnel receive 
certain benefits, for example, 
participation in pension schemes, 
medical and life insurance, use of 
company car and/or driver

Participants receive matching 
shares for shares purchased 
at a rate approved by the 
Remuneration Committee

Matching shares vest after three 
years

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

093

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRemuneration Report

SHORT-TERM INCENTIVES
For 2013, short-term incentive targets were determined and 
communicated to the Executive Director and Key Management 
Personnel at the beginning of the year. The performance 
measures for 2013 short-term incentive were:

•  Value of new business;

•  Excess embedded value growth; and

•  Operating profit after tax.

Value of new business (VONB) is an estimate of the economic 
value of one year’s sales as published by the Company.

Excess embedded value growth (EEV Growth) is the sum of 
the operating experience variances (current year performance 
against the operating assumptions for calculating embedded 
value or EV) and operating assumption changes (value of 
future operating outperformance considered permanent 
enough for recognition in the current year) in the EV operating 
profit.

Operating profit after tax (OPAT) is the IFRS operating profit 
after tax based on the IFRS results published by the Company.

The weighting of the three performance measures described 
above is 60 per cent, 15 per cent and 25 per cent for VONB, 
EEV Growth and OPAT respectively. Based on the level of 
achievement of the performance measures, short-term 
incentive awards in respect of 2013 will be paid to the 
Executive Director and Key Management Personnel in March 
2014. The total value of short-term incentive awards accrued 
for the Executive Director and Key Management Personnel for 
the financial year ended 30 November 2013 is US$11,175,679. 
Such amount is included in note 40 to the financial statements 
as the Bonuses to the Executive Director and as part of the 
“Salaries and other short-term employee benefits” to the Key 
Management Personnel.

LONG-TERM INCENTIVE (LTI) PLANS
Legacy LTI Plans
The Remuneration Committee continues to operate the two 
cash-based long-term incentive plans for 2009 and 2010 
in order to facilitate payments under the plans to eligible 
participants, after which time the plans will cease to operate. 
No further awards have been made under these plans since 
the date of listing of the Company and no further award will 
be made in the future. Only one existing member of the Key 
Management Personnel has an outstanding award at 30 
November 2013. Such awards all vested and paid in December 
2013.

50 per cent of the 2009 LTI award was vested and paid in April 
2011; 25 per cent was vested and paid in January 2012; and the 
remaining 25 per cent vested and paid in January 2013.

2010 LTI award vested one-third in December 2011 and 
paid in March 2012; another one-third vested and paid in 
December 2012; and the remaining one-third vested and paid 
in December 2013.

AIA LTI Plans
The Restricted Share Unit Scheme and the Share Option 
Scheme were adopted on 28 September 2010 and have a life 
of 10 years from the date of adoption. Summary details are 
provided in the pages that follow and in detail in note 39 to 
the financial statements. In future periods, the Remuneration 
Committee will continue to determine the appropriate awards 
and performance conditions for the Executive Director and 
Key Management Personnel under these schemes.

Restricted Share Unit Scheme 
Under the Restricted Share Unit Scheme, the Company 
may award restricted share units to employees, Directors 
(excluding Independent Non-executive Directors) or officers 
of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. The objectives of 
the Restricted Share Unit Scheme are to retain participants, 
align their interests with those of the Company’s investors 
and reward the creation of value for shareholders through the 
award of restricted share units to participants. 

During the year ended 30 November 2013, 20,645,534 
restricted share units were awarded by the Company under 
the Restricted Share Unit Scheme. Movements in restricted 
share unit awards are summarised on the next page:

094

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCERestricted  
share units  
outstanding  
as at 
1 December  
2012

Restricted  
share units  
awarded  
during the  
year ended
  30 November  
2013

Restricted  
share units  
  vested during  
 the year ended
  30 November  
2013

Restricted  
share units  
  reclassified/  
cancelled/ 
  lapsed during  
 the year ended  
  30 November 

2013(7)

Restricted  
share units  
outstanding  
as at  
  30 November  
 2013

Executive Director, Key 
Management Personnel 
and other eligible 
employees

Executive Director
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

Key Management 
Personnel (excluding 
Executive Director)

Other eligible employees  

Date of grant  
(day/
month/

year) (1)

1/6/2011

1/6/2011

1/6/2011

15/3/2012

 11/3/2013

1/6/2011

1/6/2011

15/3/2012

11/3/2013

1/6/2011

1/6/2011

1/6/2011

18/10/2011

18/10/2011

18/10/2011

15/3/2012

15/3/2012

6/9/2012

11/3/2013

1/8/2013

1/8/2013

738,066

1,433,149

806,147

15/3/2015 (3)

1,434,842

Vesting  
date(s)  
(day/
month/ 
year)

See note (2)

1/4/2014 (3)

See note (4)

11/3/2016 (3)

1/4/2014 (3)

See note (4)

15/3/2015 (3)

11/3/2016 (3)

See note (4)

See note (5)

-

1,314,873

2,958,575

5,246,778

2,645,704

-  

-  

-  

-

2,399,244  

1,989,145

31,079

1/4/2014 (3)

14,371,638

1/8/2014 (3)

146,193

18/10/2014 (3)

1,031,469

18/10/2014 (6)

59,581

15/3/2015 (3)

17,257,770

81,831

218,664

15/3/2015 (6)

6/9/2015 (3)

11/3/2016 (3)

1/8/2016 (3)

11/3/2016 (3)

-

-

-

16,590,558

264,994

75,865

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(246,021)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(31,079)

(29,240)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

492,045

1,433,149

806,147

1,434,842

1,314,873

(705,010)

2,253,565

(1,517,457)

(696,526)

(619,695)

636,928

-

3,729,321

1,949,178

1,779,549

2,626,073

-

(1,571,638)

12,770,760

-

-

-

146,193

1,031,469

59,581

(19,785)

(1,694,779)

15,543,206

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

81,831

218,664

(599,777)

15,990,781

-

-

264,994

75,865

Notes:
(1)  The measurement dates for awards made in 2011 were determined to be 15 June 2011 and 2 November 2011. The measurement dates for awards made in 2012 

were determined to be 15 March 2012 and 6 September 2012. The measurement dates for awards made in 2013 were determined to be 11 March 2013 and 1 August 
2013. The measurement dates were determined in accordance with IFRS 2.

(2)  The vesting of these restricted share units is service-based only (meaning there are no further performance conditions attached). 25 per cent of the restricted share 
units (246,021 restricted share units) vested on 1 June 2012; 25 per cent (246,021 restricted share units) vested on 1 June 2013; and 50 per cent vest on 1 June 2014.

(3)  The vesting of these restricted share units is subject to the achievement of performance conditions shown on the next page and to the terms and conditions of the 

grant.

(4)  The vesting of these restricted share units is service-based only. One-third of restricted share units vest on 1 April 2014; one-third vest on 1 April 2015; and one-third 

vest on 1 April 2016.

(5)  The vesting of these restricted share units is service-based only. 48,812 restricted share units vested on 1 April 2012; 71,847 restricted share units vested on 1 

August 2012; and the remaining 31,079 restricted share units vested on 1 April 2013.

(6)  The vesting of these restricted share units is service-based only. 

(7)  These restricted share units lapsed or were reclassified during the year ended 30 November 2013. The reclassification of restricted share units was a result of an 
executive who was previously categorised as “Key Management Personnel”, becoming “other eligible employees” during the year. 6,767,954 restricted share units 
lapsed and no restricted share unit was cancelled during the year.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

095

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Remuneration Report

Performance Measures and Vesting
Vesting of performance-based restricted share unit awards 
will be contingent on the extent of achievement of three-year 
performance targets as outlined below for the following 
metrics:

•  Value of new business;

•  Equity attributable to shareholders of the Company on the 

embedded value basis; and

•  Total shareholder return.

Value of new business (VONB) is an estimate of the economic 
value of one year’s sales.

Equity attributable to shareholders of the Company on the 
embedded value basis (EV Equity) is the total of embedded 
value, goodwill and other intangible assets. Embedded value 
is an estimate of the economic value of in-force life insurance 
business, including the net worth on the Group’s balance 
sheet but excluding any economic value attributable to future 
new business.

Value of new business and embedded value performance are 
based on the Group value of new business and embedded 
value results published by the Group.

Total shareholder return (TSR) is the compound annual 
return from the ownership of a share over a period of time, 
measured by calculating the change in the share price and 
the gross value of dividends received (and reinvested) during 
that period. AIA‘s TSR will be calculated in the same way 
and compared with the TSR of the peer companies in the 
Dow Jones Insurance Titans 30 Index (DJTINN) over the 
performance period.

The three performance measures are equally weighted. 
Achievement of each performance measure will 
independently determine the vesting of one-third of the award. 
Threshold performance levels are required for restricted 
share units to vest; at target performance levels (for TSR, 
median relative performance measured against the TSR 
of the peer companies in the DJTINN) 50 per cent of the 
restricted share units will vest; and at maximum performance 
levels (for TSR, top quartile relative performance measured 
against the TSR of the peer companies in the DJTINN) the full 
allocation of restricted share units will vest.

The line chart below shows the AIA’s TSR compared with 
the DJTINN during the period from 1 December 2010 
to 30 November 2013, which is the same period that the 
performance is measured for the purpose of Restricted Share 
Unit Scheme. The Hang Seng Index (HSI) performance for the 
same period is also shown for reference as it is a recognised 
Hong Kong equity market index of which AIA is a constituent.

AIA TSR Perfomance Against DJTINN and HSI

100%

80%

60%

40%

20%

0%

-20%

-40%
01 Dec 2010

01 Jun 2011

01 Dec 2011

01 Jun 2012

01 Dec 2012

01 Jun 2013

01 Dec 2013

AIA

DJTINN

HSI

Share Option Scheme
The objective of the Share Option Scheme is to align 
participants’ interests with those of the Company’s 
shareholders by allowing participants to share in the value 
created at the point they exercise their share options. Under 
the Share Option Scheme, the Company may award share 
options to employees, Directors (excluding Independent 
Non-executive Directors) or officers of the Company or any 
of its subsidiaries. During the year ended 30 November 2013, 
7,490,459 share options were awarded by the Company under 
the Share Option Scheme to employees and officers of the 
Company and employees, officers and directors of a number 
of its subsidiaries. The exercise price of such share options 
was determined by applying the highest of (i) the closing price 
of the shares on the date of grant, (ii) the average closing price 
of the shares for the five business days immediately preceding 
the date of grant and (iii) the nominal value of a share. 

The Share Option Scheme has a life of 10 years from the date 
of adoption. No amount is payable by the eligible participants 
on the acceptance of a share option.

096

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCEThe total number of share options that can be awarded under 
the scheme is 301,100,000, representing 2.5 per cent of the 
number of shares in issue as at the date of this Annual Report. 
Unless shareholders’ approval is obtained in accordance 
with the relevant procedural requirements under the Listing 
Rules, the maximum number of shares under options that 
may be awarded to any employee in any 12-month period up to 
and including a proposed date of grant is 0.25 per cent of the 
number of shares in issue as of the proposed date of grant. No 
share options have been awarded to substantial shareholders, 
or in excess of the individual limit. 

The share option awards in year 2013 will be vested entirely 
on 11 March 2016. In order to be eligible to receive the vested 
awards, participants are required to remain in employment 
with the Group as of the vesting date. The share options 
awarded expire 10 years from the date of grant and each 
share option entitles the eligible participant to subscribe for 
one ordinary share. Movements in share option awards are 
summarised below:

Executive Director, 
Key Management 
Personnel and other 
eligible employees

Executive Director
Mr. Mark Edward 
Tucker

Date of  
grant  
(day /  
  month /  

year) (1)

Period during  
  which share options  
exercisable (day /  
month / year)

Share 
options  
 outstanding  
as at
 1 December  
2012

Share 
options  
awarded  
during the  
year ended
  30 November  
2013

Share 
options 
vested 
during the 
year ended
  30 November  
2013

Share  
options  
reclassified/ 
cancelled/  
lapsed  
during the  
year ended  
  30 November 

2013(6) 

Share  
options  
exercised  
during the  
  year ended
 30 November  
2013

  Closing price  
of shares  
  immediately  
before the 
date on 
  which share  
  options were  
awarded
(HK$)

Share 
options  
  outstanding  
as at 30  
  November  
2013

  Exercise 
price  
(HK$)

  1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 - 31/5/2021 (2)

2,149,724  

  1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 - 31/5/2021 (3)

2,418,439  

  15/3/2012

  15/3/2015 - 14/3/2022 (4)

2,152,263  

-  

-  

-  

  11/3/2013

  11/3/2016 - 10/3/2023 (5)

-  

2,183,144  

Key Management 
Personnel (excluding 
Executive Director)

  1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 - 31/5/2021 (2)

4,437,861  

  1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 - 31/5/2021 (3)

6,831,120  

  15/3/2012

  15/3/2015 - 14/3/2022 (4)

3,968,554  

-  

-  

-  

Other eligible 
employees

  11/3/2013

  11/3/2016 - 10/3/2023 (5)

-  

3,983,573  

  1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 - 31/5/2021 (2)

1,462,698  

  1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 - 31/5/2021 (3)

3,055,048  

  15/3/2012

  15/3/2015 - 14/3/2022 (4)

1,695,550  

-  

-  

-  

  11/3/2013

  11/3/2016 - 10/3/2023 (5)

-  

1,323,742  

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

27.35  

2,149,724  

-  

27.35  

2,418,439  

-  

28.40  

2,152,263  

27.45

27.45

27.95

-  

34.35  

2,183,144  

33.80

(1,057,515)  

-  

27.35  

3,380,346  

(1,912,073)  

-  

27.35  

4,919,047  

(1,044,789)  

-  

28.40  

2,923,765  

27.45

27.45

27.95

(1,028,907)  

-  

34.35  

2,954,666  

33.80

281,739  

-  

27.35  

1,744,437  

640,918  

-  

27.35  

3,695,966  

292,290  

-  

28.40  

1,987,840  

27.45

27.45

27.95

457,742  

-  

34.35  

1,781,484  

33.80

Notes:
(1)  The measurement date for awards made in 2011 was determined to be 15 June 2011. The measurement date for awards made in 2012 was determined to be 15 

March 2012. The measurement date for awards made in 2013 was determined to be 11 March 2013. The measurement dates were determined in accordance with 
IFRS 2.

(2)  The vesting of share options is service-based only and has no further performance conditions. All share options vest on 1 April 2014.

(3)  The vesting of share options is service-based only and has no further performance conditions. One-third of share options vest on 1 April 2014; one-third vest on 1 

April 2015; and one-third vest on 1 April 2016.

(4)  The vesting of share options is service-based only and has no further performance conditions. All share options vest on 15 March 2015.

(5)  The vesting of share options is service-based only and has no further performance conditions. All share options vest on 11 March 2016.

(6)  These options lapsed or were reclassified during the year ended 30 November 2013. The reclassification of options was a result of an executive who was previously 

categorised as “Key Management Personnel”, becoming “other eligible employees” during the year. 3,370,595 share options lapsed and no share option was 
cancelled during the year.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

097

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Remuneration Report

Performance Measures and Vesting
Share options awarded under the Share Option Scheme 
have a life of 10 years before expiry. Generally, share options 
become exercisable three years after the grant date and 
remain exercisable for another seven years, subject to 
participants’ continued employment in good standing. There 
are no performance conditions attached to the vesting of 
share options. The share options awarded in 2011 will become 
exercisable on 1 April 2014. Benefits are realised only to the 
extent that share price exceeds exercise price. Details of the 
valuation of the share options are set out in note 39 to the 
financial statements.

DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGEMENT 
PERSONNEL EMOLUMENTS
Executive Director
The Group Chief Executive and President, Mr. Mark Edward 
Tucker, is the sole Executive Director on the Company’s 
Board. He receives his remuneration exclusively for his role 
as Group Chief Executive and receives no separate fees for his 
role as a Board Director.

The table below provides details of target remuneration for 
the Group Chief Executive during the years of 2012 and 2013. 
Details of remuneration cost incurred to the Company during 
the period from 1 December 2012 to 30 November 2013 are 
included in note 40 to the financial statements.

US$

Executive Director

Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

Year 2013

Year 2012

Target Pay Opportunity

Target
short-term  
incentive

Target
long-term  
incentive  

Total

Base salary

1,347,300

1,308,100

2,021,000

1,962,150

5,389,400

5,232,400

8,757,700

8,502,650

Non-executive Directors 
The remuneration of the Non-executive Director and 
Independent Non-executive Directors of the Company during 
the year ended 30 November 2013 is included in the table on 
the right. 

Remuneration for the Non-executive Director and 
Independent Non-executive Directors was paid in respect of 
the period from 1 December 2012 to 30 November 2013 and 
included the fees for their services provided to the Board 
Committees. Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung resigned as 
Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with 
effect from 25 May 2013 and his remuneration was paid in 
respect of the period between 1 December 2012 and 24 May 
2013. Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse was appointed as a member 
of the Audit Committee with effect from 25 February 2013 and 
was entitled to an additional annual fee of US$25,000 for his 
services provided to the Audit Committee in respect of the 
period from 25 February 2013 to 30 November 2013 on a pro-
rata basis. Dr. Qin Xiao ceased to be a member of the Audit 
Committee with effect from 25 February 2013 and did not 
receive any fees in that capacity since that date. Details of the 
changes have been set out on pages 86 to 87 of this Annual 
Report.

US$

Non-executive Chairman and 
Non-executive Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse (1)

Independent Non-executive Directors

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So 

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow 

Dr. Qin Xiao 

Mr. John Barrie Harrison 

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo 

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee 

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung (2)

Total

  2013 Directors’  
remuneration

646,537

220,000

205,000

190,890

235,000

190,000

190,000

100,685

1,978,112

Notes:
(1)  US$19,813 which represents the remuneration to Mr. Tse in respect of his 

services as a Director of a subsidiary of the Company and US$81,615 being the 
value of the benefits in kind received by Mr. Tse as a Director of the Company 
are included. 

(2)  Mr. Cheung resigned as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company 

with effect from 25 May 2013.

098

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Service Contracts 
No Director proposed for re-election at the forthcoming 
AGM has any service contract which is not determinable 
by the Company or any of its subsidiaries within one year 
without payment of compensation (other than statutory 
compensation).

Key Management Personnel
The total remuneration cost charged to the consolidated 
income statement for the Key Management Personnel during 
the year ended 30 November 2013 is US$40,545,797. Details 
of remuneration during the year are included in note 40 to the 
financial statements. 

EMPLOYEE SHARE PURCHASE PLAN
Under the Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP), in year 
2013 the employees of the Company and its subsidiaries 
participated in the plan to purchase shares and received a 
matching offer of shares from the Company. The objectives 
of the ESPP are to facilitate and motivate share ownership 
by employees and to align their interests with those of the 
Company’s shareholders. Currently the ESPP is designed 
such that participants are eligible to contribute up to 5 per cent  
of their base salary or the plan maximum limit of US$15,000 
per annum approved by the Remuneration Committee, 
whichever is lower, to purchase shares. For every two shares 
purchased by a participant, the Company will match with one 
additional share.

Performance Measures and Vesting
The ESPP has no performance conditions and vesting 
occurs after three years, at which time participants receive 
ownership over the matched shares. For employees 
that leave prior to the end of the vesting period, matched 
shares will generally be forfeited, subject to certain special 
circumstances, in which case pro rata vesting may be 
permitted.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

099

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONContents

 FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

Independent Auditor’s Report

101 
103  Consolidated Income Statement
104  Consolidated Statement of  
Comprehensive Income
105  Consolidated Statement of  

Financial Position

107  Consolidated Statement of  

Changes in Equity

108  Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
109  Notes to the Consolidated Financial 

Statements and Significant Accounting 
Policies
1.  Corporate information
2.  Significant accounting policies
3.  Critical accounting estimates  

and judgements
4.  Exchange rates
5.  Changes in group composition
6.  Operating profit after tax
7.  Total weighted premium income  
and annualised new premium

8.  Segment information
9.  Revenue
10.  Expenses
11.  Income tax
12. Earnings per share
13.  Dividends
14. Intangible assets
15. Investments in associates and  

joint venture

16.  Property, plant and equipment
17.  Investment property
18. Fair value of investment property  

and property held for use

19.  Reinsurance assets
20. Deferred acquisition and  

origination costs

100

AIA GROUP LIMITED

21. Financial investments
22. Derivative financial instruments
23. Fair value of financial instruments
24. Other assets
25. Impairment of financial assets
26. Cash and cash equivalents
27.  Insurance contract liabilities
28. Investment contract liabilities
29. Effect of changes in assumptions  

and estimates

30. Borrowings
31.  Obligations under securities lending  

and repurchase agreements

32. Provisions
33. Other liabilities
34. Share capital and reserves
35. Non-controlling interests
36. Group capital structure
37.  Risk management
38. Employee benefits
39.  Share-based compensation
40. Remuneration of directors and  
key management personnel

41.  Related party transactions
42. Commitments and contingencies
43. Subsidiaries
44. Events after the reporting period
204  Financial Statements of the Company

Statement of Financial Position of the Company
Notes to the Financial Statements of  
the Company

207  Supplementary Embedded Value Information 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
To The shareholders of aIa Group lImITed
(incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability)

We have audited the consolidated financial statements of AIA Group Limited (the Company) and its 
subsidiaries (together, “the Group”) set out on pages 103 to 206, which comprise the consolidated 
and company statements of financial position as at 30 November 2013 and the consolidated income 
statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated statement of 
changes in equity and the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and a summary 
of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

directors’ responsibility for the consolidated financial statements
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of consolidated financial statements 
that give a true and fair view in accordance with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards issued by 
the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA), and with the International Financial 
Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the Hong 
Kong Companies Ordinance, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to 
enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error.

auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our 
audit and to report our opinion solely to you, as a body, in accordance with section 141 of the Hong Kong 
Companies Ordinance and for no other purpose. We do not assume responsibility towards or accept 
liability to any other person for the contents of this report.

We conducted our audit in accordance with Hong Kong Standards on Auditing issued by the HKICPA. 
Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit 
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from 
material misstatement.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

101

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSIndependent Auditor’s ReportOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONauditor’s responsibility (continued)
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures 
in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, 
including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, 
whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control 
relevant to the entity’s preparation of consolidated financial statements that give a true and fair view 
in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose 
of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes 
evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting 
estimates made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated 
financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for 
our audit opinion.

opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of 
the Company and of the Group as at 30 November 2013 and of the Group’s profit and cash flows for 
the year then ended in accordance with both Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards issued by the 
HKICPA and with International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the IASB and have been properly 
prepared in accordance with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.

PricewaterhouseCoopers
Certified Public Accountants

Hong Kong
21 February 2014

102

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSIndependent Auditor’s ReportUS$m

revenue

Turnover

Premiums and fee income

Premiums ceded to reinsurers

Net premiums and fee income

Investment return

Other operating revenue

Total revenue

expenses

Insurance and investment contract benefits

Insurance and investment contract benefits ceded

Net insurance and investment contract benefits

Commission and other acquisition expenses

Operating expenses

Finance costs

Other expenses

Total expenses

Profit before share of profit from associates and joint venture

Share of profit from associates and joint venture

Profit before tax

Income tax expense attributable to policyholders’ returns

Profit before tax attributable to shareholders’ profits

Tax expense

Tax attributable to policyholders’ returns

Tax expense attributable to shareholders’ profits

Net profit

Net profit attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

earnings per share (us$)

Basic

Diluted

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

Notes

16,666

(959)

15,707

6,064

155

21,926

15,303

(816)

14,487

1,934

1,577

71

333

18,402

3,524

14

3,538

(47)

3,491

(691)

47

(644)

2,847

2,822

25

0.24

0.24

13,816

(762)

13,054

7,206

127

20,387

14,077

(703)

13,374

1,641

1,340

19

315

16,689

3,698

16

3,714

(104)

3,610

(685)

104

(581)

3,029

3,019

10

0.25

0.25

9

9

10

15

11

12

12

Dividends to shareholders of the Company attributable to the year:

US$m

Interim dividend declared and paid of 13.93 Hong Kong cents per share 

(2012: 12.33 Hong Kong cents per share)

Final dividend proposed after the reporting date of 28.62 Hong Kong cents 
  per share (2012: 24.67 Hong Kong cents per share)

Notes

13

13

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

215

442

657

191

382

573

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

103

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Income StatementOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
US$m

Net profit

other comprehensive (expense)/income

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

Fair value (losses)/gains on available for sale financial assets 

(net of tax of: 2013: US$555m; 2012: US$(211)m)

Fair value gains on available for sale financial assets 

transferred to income on disposal (net of tax of: 2013: 

  US$2m; 2012: US$3m)

Foreign currency translation adjustments

Share of other comprehensive (expense)/income from 
  associates and joint venture

Subtotal

Total comprehensive (expense)/income

Total comprehensive (expense)/income attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

2,847

3,029

(3,671)

2,617

(23)

(505)

(23)

(4,222)

(1,375)

(1,398)

23

(47)

377

12

2,959

5,988

5,956

32

104

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 
 
US$m

assets
Intangible assets
Investments in associates and joint venture
Property, plant and equipment
Investment property
Reinsurance assets
Deferred acquisition and origination costs
Financial investments:
  Loans and deposits
  Available for sale
  Debt securities

  At fair value through profit or loss

  Debt securities
  Equity securities
  Derivative financial instruments

Deferred tax assets
Current tax recoverable
Other assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Total assets

liabilities
Insurance contract liabilities
Investment contract liabilities
Borrowings
Obligations under securities lending and repurchase agreements
Derivative financial instruments
Provisions
Deferred tax liabilities
Current tax liabilities
Other liabilities
Total liabilities

Notes

14
15
16
17, 18
19
20
21, 23

22

11

24
26

27
28
30
31
22
32
11

33

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

1,321
93
480
1,128
1,379
15,738

272
91
412
1,035
1,153
14,161

7,484

6,425

64,763

62,268

20,988
26,968
445
120,648
6
44
3,520
2,228
146,585

103,401
8,698
2,126
1,889
89
169
2,036
242
3,104
121,754

18,594
23,656
638
111,581
5
46
2,735
2,948
134,439

90,574
8,865
766
1,792
41
204
2,229
328
2,812
107,611

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

105

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Financial PositionOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
US$m

equity
Issued share capital
Share premium
Employee share-based trusts
Other reserves
Retained earnings
  Fair value reserve
  Foreign currency translation reserve
Amounts reflected in other comprehensive income
Total equity attributable to:
  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited
  Non-controlling interests
Total equity
Total liabilities and equity

Approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 21 February 2014.

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

Notes

34
34
34
34

34
34

35

12,044
1,914
(274)
(11,995)
20,070
2,270
657
2,927

24,686
145
24,831
146,585

12,044
1,914
(188)
(12,060)
17,843
5,979
1,165
7,144

26,697
131
26,828
134,439

Mark Edward Tucker 
Director 

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Director

106

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Financial Position 
 
 
 
US$m

Notes

Issued
share
capital
and
share
premium

Employee
share-
based
trusts

Other
reserves

Retained
earnings

Fair
value
reserve

Foreign
currency
translation
reserve

Non-
controlling
interests

Total
equity

Balance at 1 December 2011

13,958

(105)

(12,101)

15,354

3,414

793

Net profit

Fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets

Fair value gains on available for 
  sale financial assets transferred 

to income on disposal

Foreign currency translation 
  adjustments

Share of other comprehensive 
income/(expense) from 

  associates

Total comprehensive income 

for the year

Dividends

Share-based compensation

Purchase of shares held by 
  employee share-based trusts

Transfer of vested shares from 
  employee share-based trusts

13

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(84)

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

41

–

–

Net profit

Fair value (losses)/gains on 
  available for sale financial 
  assets

Fair value gains on available for 
  sale financial assets transferred 

to income on disposal

Foreign currency translation 
  adjustments

Share of other comprehensive 
  expense from associates and 

joint venture

Total comprehensive income/

(expense) for the year

Dividends

13

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Acquisition of non-controlling 

interests

Share-based compensation

Purchase of shares held by 
  employee share-based trusts

Transfer of vested shares from 
  employee share-based trusts

Others

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(87)

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(8)

75

–

–

(2)

102

10

21,415

3,029

18

2,617

–

4

–

32

(3)

–

–

–

(47)

377

12

5,988

(533)

41

(84)

1

131

25

26,828

2,847

5

–

(3,671)

(23)

3,019

–

2,599

(47)

–

373

13

(1)

3,019

2,565

372

(530)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,822

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3,676)

(23)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(498)

(7)

(505)

(13)

(10)

–

(23)

2,822

(3,712)

(508)

(595)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

23

(9)

16

(16)

–

–

–

–

(1,375)

(604)

16

(21)

75

(87)

1

(2)

Balance at 30 November 2012

13,958

(188)

(12,060)

17,843

5,979

1,165

Balance at 30 November 2013

13,958

(274)

(11,995)

20,070

2,270

657

145

24,831

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

107

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Changes in EquityOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows presented in this statement cover all the Group’s activities and include flows from unit-linked contracts, participating 
funds, and other policyholder and shareholder activities.

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

Notes

3,538

3,714

(10,219)

(13,856)

8,346

121

(5,175)

4,330

472

(47)

(451)

915

(65)

(30)

1

(176)

(296)

82

(1,802)

(2,286)

2,868

(1,725)

(23)

324

(8)

(604)

(87)

(21)

724

(647)

2,948

(73)

2,228

8,613

1,081

(3,665)

3,848

387

(24)

(510)

(412)

(58)

–

4

(302)

(104)

–

–

(460)

–

–

–

490

(453)

(533)

(84)

–

(580)

(1,452)

4,303

97

2,948

US$m

Cash flows from operating activities

Profit before tax

Adjustments for:

  Financial investments

Insurance and investment contract liabilities

  Obligations under securities lending and repurchase agreements

31

  Other non-cash operating items, including investment income

  Operating cash items:

Interest received

  Dividends received

Interest paid

  Tax paid

Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Payments for intangible assets

Contribution to a joint venture

Distribution from investments in associates

Payments for investment property and property, plant and equipment

Payments for leasehold land

Proceeds from sale of investment property and property, plant and equipment

Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Issuance of medium term notes and drawdown of acquisition credit facility

Repayment of acquisition credit facility

Interest paid on medium term notes and acquisition credit facility

Proceeds from other borrowings

Repayment of other borrowings

Dividends paid during the year

Purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts

Acquisition of non-controlling interests

Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the financial year

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the financial year

14

15

15

16, 17

24

5

30

30

30

30

26

108

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Cash Flows 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1. CorporaTe InformaTIon
AIA Group Limited (the Company) was established as a company with limited liability incorporated in Hong Kong on 24 August 2009. 
The address of its registered office is 35/F, AIA Central, No. 1 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock code “1299” with 
American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) being traded on the over-the-counter market (ticker symbol: “AAGIY”).

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or “the Group”) is a life insurance based financial services provider 
operating in 17 jurisdictions throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The Group’s principal activity is the writing of life insurance 
business, providing life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans throughout Asia, and distributing related 
investment and other financial services products to its customers.

2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), 
Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (HKFRS) and the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. HKFRS is substantially consistent 
with IFRS and the accounting policy selections that the Group has made in preparing these consolidated financial statements are 
such that the Group is able to comply with both IFRS and HKFRS. References to IFRS, International Accounting Standards (IAS) 
and Interpretations developed by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRS IC) in these consolidated financial statements should 
be read as referring to the equivalent HKFRS, Hong Kong Accounting Standards (HKAS) and Hong Kong (IFRIC) Interpretations 
(HK(IFRIC) – Int) as the case may be. Accordingly, there are no differences of accounting practice between IFRS and HKFRS 
affecting these consolidated financial statements.

The consolidated financial statements have been approved for issue by the Board of Directors on 21 February 2014.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of 
available for sale financial assets, certain financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss and derivative 
financial instruments, all of which are carried at fair value.

Items included in the consolidated financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured in the currency of the primary 
economic environment in which that entity operates (the functional currency). The consolidated financial statements are presented 
in millions of US dollars (US$m) unless otherwise stated, which is the Company’s functional currency, and the presentation 
currency of the Company and the Group.

The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous financial year, except as described below.

(a)  The following amendments to standards are mandatory for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 December 2012 and 

have no material impact for the Group:

•  Amendment to IAS 1, Presentation of Items of Other Comprehensive Income; and

•  Amendments to IAS 12, Income Taxes, Recovery of underlying assets.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

109

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting PoliciesOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance (continued)
(b)  The following relevant new standards, interpretation and amendments to standards have been issued but are not effective 
for the financial year ended 30 November 2013 and have not been early adopted (the financial years for which the adoption 
is planned and required are stated in parentheses). The Group has assessed the full impact of these new standards on its 
financial position and results of operations and they are not expected to have a material impact on the financial position or 
results of operations of the Group but may require additional disclosures:

• 

IFRS 11, Joint Arrangements (2014);

• 

IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities (2014);

• 

IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement (2014);

• 

IAS 27, Separate Financial Statements (as revised in 2011) (2014);

• 

IAS 28, Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (as revised in 2011) (2014);

• 

IFRIC 21, Levies (2015);

•  Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, Clarification of the requirements for comparative information 

(2014);

•  Amendment to IAS 24, Related Parties Disclosures, Key management personnel (2015);

•  Amendments to IAS 32, Financial Instruments: Presentation on offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities (2015);

•  Amendments to IAS 32, Financial Instruments: Presentation, Tax effect of distributions to holders of equity instruments 

(2014);

•  Amendments to IAS 36, Recoverable Amount Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets (the Group plans to early adopt in 2014);

•  Amendment to IAS 40, Investment Property, Clarifying the interrelationship between IFRS 3 and IAS 40 when classifying 

property as investment property or owner-occupied property (2015);

•  Amendment to IFRS 2, Share-based Payment, Definition of vesting condition (2015);

•  Amendment to IFRS 3, Business Combinations, Accounting for contingent consideration in a business combination (2015);

•  Amendments to IFRS 7, Financial Instruments: Disclosures on offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities (2014);

•  Amendments to IFRS 8, Operating Segments, Aggregation of operating segments and Reconciliation of the total of the 

reportable segments’ assets to the entity’s assets (2015);

•  Amendments to IFRS 10, IFRS 11 and IFRS 12: Consolidated Financial Statements, Joint Arrangements and Disclosure of 

Interests in Other Entities: Transition Guidance (2014);

•  Amendments to IFRS 10, IFRS 12 and IAS 27: Investment Entities (2015);

•  Amendment to IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement, Scope of portfolio exception (2014); and

•  Amendment to IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement, Short-term receivables and payables (2014).

110

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance (continued)
(c)  The following relevant new standards and amendments to standards have been issued but are not effective for the financial 
year ended 30 November 2013 and have not been early adopted (the financial years for which the adoption is planned and 
required are stated in parentheses).

• 

• 

• 

IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, addresses the classification, measurement and recognition of financial assets and financial 
liabilities. It replaces the parts of IAS 39 that relate to the classification and measurement of financial instruments. IFRS 
9 requires financial assets to be classified into two measurement categories: those measured as at fair value and those 
measured at amortised cost. The determination is made at initial recognition. The classification depends on the entity’s 
business model for managing its financial instruments and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the instrument. 
For financial liabilities, the standard retains most of the IAS 39 requirements. The main change is that, in cases where the 
fair value option is taken for financial liabilities, part of the fair value change due to an entity’s own credit risk is recorded 
in other comprehensive income rather than profit or loss, unless this creates an accounting mismatch. In addition, the 
new standard revises the hedge accounting model to more closely align with the entity’s risk management strategies. 
The Group is yet to assess the full impact of the standard on its financial position and results of operations given the likely 
amendments and uncertain implementation date.

IFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements (2014), replaces the consolidation guidance in IAS 27, Consolidated and 
separate financial statements and SIC 12, Consolidation – Special purpose entities. It builds on existing principles by 
identifying the concept of control as the determining factor in whether an entity should be included within the consolidated 
financial statements of the parent company. The standard provides additional guidance to assist in the determination of 
control where this is difficult to assess. In the 2014 Group’s financial statements, the adoption of IFRS 10 will require a 
restatement of comparatives in respect of the 2013 period. It is expected that the application of the standard would result in 
the consolidation of certain funds and deconsolidation of certain others which would lead to a net increase of US$806m in 
total assets and total liabilities with no impact on shareholders’ equity as at 30 November 2013.

IAS 19, Employee Benefits (as revised in 2011) (2014), eliminates the corridor approach and calculates finance costs on 
a net funding basis. It would also require recognition of all actuarial gains and losses in other comprehensive income as 
they occur and of all past service costs in profit or loss. The amendments replace interest cost and expected return on plan 
assets with a net interest amount that is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability/(asset). 
As at 30 November 2013, the Group has an unrecognised actuarial loss of US$7m and an unrecognised past service cost of 
US$3m which will be recognised in other comprehensive income and retained earnings respectively upon adoption of the 
amendments.

All key items are defined upon the first time they are used and included in the glossary.

The significant accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the Group’s consolidated financial statements are set out below. 
These policies have been applied consistently in all periods presented.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

111

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.2 operating profit
The long-term nature of much of the Group’s operations means that, for management’s decision-making and internal performance 
management purposes, the Group evaluates its results and its operating segments using a financial performance measure 
referred to as “operating profit”. The Group defines operating profit before and after tax respectively as profit excluding the following 
non-operating items:

• 

investment experience (which consists of realised gains and losses, foreign exchange gains and losses, impairments and 
unrealised gains and losses on investments held at fair value through profit or loss);

• 

investment income related to unit-linked contracts (consisting of dividends, interest income and rental income);

• 

investment management expenses related to unit-linked contracts;

•  corresponding changes in insurance and investment contract liabilities in respect of unit-linked contracts and participating 

funds (see note 2.4) and changes in third-party interests in consolidated investment funds;

•  policyholders’ share of tax relating to changes in insurance and investment contract liabilities; and

•  other significant items that management considers to be non-operating income and expenses.

Whilst these excluded non-operating items are significant components of the Group’s profit, the Group considers that the 
presentation of operating profit enhances the understanding and comparability of its performance and that of its operating 
segments. The Group considers that trends can be more clearly identified without the fluctuating effects of these non-operating 
items, many of which are largely dependent on market factors.

Operating profit is provided as additional information to assist in the comparison of business trends in different reporting periods 
on a consistent basis and enhance overall understanding of financial performance.

2.3 Basis of consolidation
subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are those entities (including special purpose entities) over which the Group, directly or indirectly, has power to exercise 
control over financial and operating policies in order to gain economic benefits. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date on 
which control is transferred to the Group and are excluded from consolidation from the date at which the Group no longer has 
control. Intercompany transactions are eliminated.

The Group utilises the acquisition method of accounting to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries, unless the acquisition forms 
part of the Group reorganisation of entities under common control. Under this method, the cost of an acquisition is measured as 
the fair value of consideration payable, shares issued or liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. The excess of the cost of 
acquisition over the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired is recorded as goodwill (see note 2.10 below). The Group 
recognises, separately from goodwill, the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in 
the subsidiary. Any surplus of the acquirer’s interest in the subsidiary’s net assets over the cost of acquisition is credited to the 
consolidated income statement.

The consolidated financial statements of the Group include the assets, liabilities and results of the Company and subsidiaries in 
which AIA Group Limited has a controlling interest, using accounts drawn up to the reporting date.

112

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.3 Basis of consolidation (continued)
Investment funds
In several countries, the Group has invested in investment funds, such as mutual funds and unit trusts. These invest mainly in 
equities, debt securities and cash and cash equivalents. The Group’s percentage ownership in these funds can fluctuate from day to 
day according to the Group’s and third-party participation in them. Where the Group is deemed to control such funds, with control 
determined based on an analysis of the guidance in IAS 27 and SIC 12, they are consolidated, with the interests of parties other 
than the Group being classified as liabilities because there is a contractual obligation for the issuer to repurchase or redeem units 
in such funds for cash. These are presented as “Third-party interests in consolidated investment funds” within other liabilities in 
the consolidated statement of financial position. In instances where the Group’s ownership of investment funds declines marginally 
below 50 per cent and, based on historical analysis and future expectations, the decline in ownership is expected to be temporary, 
the funds continue to be consolidated as subsidiaries under IAS 27. Likewise, marginal increases in ownership of investment funds 
above 50 per cent which are expected to be temporary are not consolidated. Where the Group does not control such funds, they 
are not accounted for as associates and are, instead, carried at fair value through profit or loss within financial investments in the 
consolidated statement of financial position.

employee share-based trusts
Trusts are set up to acquire shares of the Company for distribution to participants in future periods through the share-based 
compensation schemes. The consolidation of these trusts is evaluated in accordance with SIC 12; where the Group is deemed to 
control the trusts, they are consolidated. Shares acquired by the trusts to the extent not provided to the participants upon vesting 
are carried at cost and reported as “employee share-based trusts” in the consolidated statement of financial position, and as a 
deduction from the equity in the consolidated statement of changes in equity.

non-controlling interests
Non-controlling interests are presented within equity except when they arise through the minority’s interest in puttable liabilities 
such as the unit holders’ interest in consolidated investment funds, when they are recognised as a liability, reflecting the net assets 
of the consolidated entity.

Acquisitions and disposals of non-controlling interests, except when they arise through the minority’s interest in puttable liabilities, 
are treated as transactions between equity holders. As a result, any difference between the acquisition cost or sale price of the non-
controlling interest and the carrying value of the non-controlling interest is recognised as an increase or decrease in equity.

associates and joint ventures
Associates are entities over which the Group has significant influence, but which it does not control. Generally, it is presumed that 
the Group has significant influence if it has between 20 per cent and 50 per cent of voting rights. Joint ventures are entities whereby 
the Group and other parties undertake an economic activity which is subject to joint control arising from a contractual agreement.

Gains on transactions between the Group and its associates and joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest 
in the associates and joint ventures. Losses are also eliminated, unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of an 
asset transferred between entities.

Investments in associates and joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Under this method, the 
cost of the investment in an associate or joint venture, together with the Group’s share of that entity’s post-acquisition changes 
to equity, is included as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial position. Cost includes goodwill arising on acquisition. 
The Group’s share of post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the consolidated income statement and its share of post-
acquisition movement in equity is recognised in other comprehensive income. Equity accounting is discontinued when the Group no 
longer has significant influence over the investment. If the Group’s share of losses in an associate or joint venture equals or exceeds 
its interest in the undertaking, additional losses are provided for, and a liability recognised, only to the extent that the Group has 
incurred legal or constructive obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate or joint venture. The Group also accounts 
for investments in joint ventures that are subject to joint control using the equity method of accounting.

The Company’s investments
In the Company’s statement of financial position, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures are stated at cost, unless impaired. The 
Company’s interests in investment funds such as mutual funds and unit trusts are designated at fair value through profit or loss.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

113

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts
Consistent accounting policies for the measurement and recognition of insurance and investment contracts have been adopted 
throughout the Group to substantially all of its business.

In a limited number of cases, the Group measures insurance contract liabilities with reference to statutory requirements in the 
applicable jurisdiction, without deferral of acquisition costs.

product classification
The Group classified its contracts written as either insurance contracts or investment contracts, depending on the level of 
insurance risk. Insurance contracts are those contracts that transfer significant insurance risk, while investment contracts are 
those contracts without significant insurance risk. Some insurance and investment contracts, referred to as participating business, 
have discretionary participation features, “DPF”, which may entitle the customer to receive, as a supplement to guaranteed 
benefits, additional non-guaranteed benefits, such as policyholder dividends or bonuses. The Group applies the same accounting 
policies for the recognition and measurement of obligations arising from investment contracts with DPF as it does for insurance 
contracts.

In the event that a scenario (other than those lacking commercial substance) exists in which an insured event would require the 
Group to pay significant additional benefits to its customers, the contract is accounted for as an insurance contract. For investment 
contracts that do not contain DPF, IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Measurement and Recognition, and, if the contract includes an 
investment management element, IAS 18, Revenue Recognition, are applied. IFRS 4 permits the continued use of previously applied 
accounting policies for insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF, and this basis has been adopted by the Group in 
accounting for such contracts. Once a contract has been classified as an insurance or investment contract, no reclassification is 
subsequently performed unless the terms of the agreement are later amended.

Certain contracts with DPF supplement the amount of guaranteed benefits due to policyholders. These contracts are distinct 
from other insurance and investment contracts as the Group has discretion in the amount and/or timing of the benefits declared, 
and how such benefits are allocated between groups of policyholders. Customers may be entitled to receive, as a supplement to 
guaranteed benefits, additional benefits or bonuses:

• 

that are likely to be a significant portion of the total contractual benefits;

•  whose amount or timing is contractually at the discretion of the Group; and

• 

that are contractually based on:

– 

the performance of a specified pool of contracts or a specified type of contract;

–  realised and/or unrealised investment returns on a specified pool of assets held by the issuer; or

– 

the profit or loss of the Company, fund or other entity that issues the contract.

The Group applies the same accounting policies for the recognition and measurement of obligations and the deferral of acquisition 
costs arising from investment contracts with DPF as it does to insurance contracts. The Group refers to such contracts as 
participating business.

In some jurisdictions participating business is written in a participating fund which is distinct from the other assets of the 
Company or branch. The allocation of benefits from the assets held in such participating funds is subject to minimum policyholder 
participation mechanisms which are established by regulation. The extent of such policy participation may change over time. The 
current policyholder participation in declared dividends for locations with participating funds is set out below:

Country

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Australia

Brunei

Current policyholder participation

90%

90%

70%

80%

80%

In some jurisdictions participating business is not written in a distinct fund and the Group refers to this as other participating 
business.

114

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
product classification (continued)
The Group’s products may be divided into the following main categories:

Policy type

Description of benefits payable

Insurance contract liabilities

Basis of accounting for:

Traditional 
participating 
life assurance  
with DPF

Participating 
funds

Other 
participating 
business

Non-participating 
life assurance, 
annuities and other 
protection products

Universal life

Participating products combine 
protection with a savings 
element. The basic sum 
assured, payable on death or 
maturity, may be enhanced by 
dividends or bonuses, the 
aggregate amount of which is 
determined by the performance 
of a distinct fund of assets and 
liabilities

The timing of dividend and 
bonus declarations is at the 
discretion of the insurer. Local 
regulations generally prescribe 
a minimum proportion of 
policyholder participation in 
declared dividends

Participating products combine 
protection with a savings 
element. The basic sum 
assured, payable on death or 
maturity, may be enhanced by 
dividends or bonuses, the 
timing or amount of which are 
at the discretion of the insurer 
taking into account factors such 
as investment experience

Benefits payable are not at the 
discretion of the insurer

Benefits are based on an 
account balance, credited with 
interest at a rate set by the 
insurer, and a death benefit, 
which may be varied by the 
customer

Unit-linked

These may be primarily savings 
products or may combine 
savings with an element of 
protection

Investment 
contract liabilities

Not applicable, as 
IFRS 4 permits 
contracts with 
DPF to be 
accounted for as 
insurance 
contracts

Insurance contract liabilities make 
provision for the present value of 
guaranteed benefits less estimated 
future net premiums to be collected 
from policyholders. In addition, an 
insurance liability is recorded for the 
proportion of the net assets of the 
participating fund that would be 
allocated to policyholders, assuming 
all performance would be declared as 
a dividend based upon local 
regulations

Insurance contract liabilities make 
provision for the present value of 
guaranteed benefits and non-
guaranteed participation less 
estimated future net premiums to be 
collected from policyholders

Not applicable, as 
IFRS 4 permits 
contracts with 
DPF to be 
accounted for as 
insurance 
contracts

Insurance contract liabilities reflect 
the present value of future policy 
benefits to be paid less the present 
value of estimated future net 
premiums to be collected from 
policyholders. In addition, deferred 
profit liabilities for limited payment 
contracts are recognised

Insurance contract liabilities reflect 
the accumulation value, representing 
premiums received and investment 
return credited, less deductions for 
front-end loads, mortality and 
morbidity costs and expense charges. 
In addition, liabilities for unearned 
revenue and additional insurance 
benefits are recorded

Insurance contract liabilities reflect 
the accumulation value, representing 
premiums received and investment 
return credited, less deductions for 
front-end loads, mortality and 
morbidity costs and expense charges. 
In addition, liabilities for unearned 
revenue and additional insurance 
benefits are recorded

Investment 
contract liabilities 
are measured at 
amortised cost

Not applicable as 
such contracts 
generally contain 
significant 
insurance risk

Investment 
contract liabilities 
are measured at 
fair value 
(determined with 
reference to the 
accumulation 
value)

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

115

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
product classification (continued)
In the notes to the financial statements, unit-linked contracts are presented together with pension contracts for disclosure 
purposes.

The basis of accounting for insurance and investment contracts is discussed in notes 2.4.1 and 2.4.2 below.

2.4.1 Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF
Premiums
Premiums from life insurance contracts, including participating policies and annuity policies with life contingencies, are recognised 
as revenue when due from the policyholder. Benefits and expenses are provided in respect of such revenue so as to recognise 
profits over the estimated life of the policies. For limited pay contracts, premiums are recognised in profit or loss when due, with 
any excess profit deferred and recognised in income in a constant relationship to the insurance in-force or, for annuities, the 
amount of expected benefit payments.

Amounts collected as premiums from insurance contracts with investment features but with sufficient insurance risk to be 
considered insurance contracts, such as universal life, and certain unit-linked contracts, are accumulated as deposits. Revenue 
from these contracts consists of policy fees for the cost of insurance, administration, and surrenders during the period.

Upfront fees are recognised over the estimated life of the contracts to which they relate. Policy benefits and claims that are charged 
to expenses include benefit claims incurred in the period in excess of related policyholder contract deposits and interest credited to 
policyholder deposits.

Unearned revenue liability
Unearned revenue liability arising from insurance contracts representing upfront fees and other non-level charges is deferred and 
released to the consolidated income statement over the estimated life of the business.

Deferred acquisition costs
The costs of acquiring new insurance contracts, including commissions and distribution costs, underwriting and other policy 
issue expenses which vary with and are primarily related to the production of new business or renewal of existing business, are 
deferred as an asset. Deferred acquisition costs are assessed for recoverability in the year of policy issue to ensure that these 
costs are recoverable out of the estimated future margins to be earned on the policy. Deferred acquisition costs are assessed 
for recoverability at least annually thereafter. Future investment income is also taken into account in assessing recoverability. To 
the extent that acquisition costs are not considered to be recoverable at inception or thereafter, these costs are expensed in the 
consolidated income statement.

Deferred acquisition costs for life insurance and annuity policies are amortised over the expected life of the contracts as a constant 
percentage of expected premiums. Expected premiums are estimated at the date of policy issue and are consistently applied 
throughout the life of the contract unless a deficiency occurs when performing liability adequacy testing (see below).

Deferred acquisition costs for universal life and unit-linked contracts are amortised over the expected life of the contracts based 
on a constant percentage of the present value of estimated gross profits expected to be realised over the life of the contract or on a 
straight-line basis. Estimated gross profits include expected amounts to be assessed for mortality, administration, investment and 
surrenders, less benefit claims in excess of policyholder balances, administrative expenses and interest credited. Estimated gross 
profits are revised regularly. The interest rate used to compute the present value of revised estimates of expected gross profits is 
the latest revised rate applied to the remaining benefit period. Deviations of actual results from estimated experience are reflected 
in earnings.

Deferred sales inducements
Deferred sales inducements, consisting of day one bonuses, persistency bonuses and enhanced crediting rates are deferred and 
amortised using the same methodology and assumptions used to amortise acquisition costs when:

• 

the sales inducements are recognised as part of insurance contract liabilities;

• 

they are explicitly identified in the contract on inception;

• 

they are incremental to amounts credited on similar contracts without sales inducements; and

• 

they are higher than the expected ongoing crediting rates for periods after the inducement.

116

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
2.4.1 Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF (continued)
Unbundling
The deposit component of an insurance contract is unbundled when both of the following conditions are met:

• 

• 

the deposit component (including any embedded surrender option) can be measured separately (i.e. without taking into account 
the insurance component); and

the Group’s accounting policies do not otherwise require the recognition of all obligations and rights arising from the deposit 
component.

Bifurcation
To the extent that certain of the Group’s insurance contracts include embedded derivatives that are not clearly and closely related 
to the host contract, these are bifurcated from the insurance contracts and accounted for as derivatives.

Benefits and claims
Insurance contract benefits reflect the cost of all maturities, surrenders, withdrawals and claims arising during the year, as well as 
policyholder dividends accrued in anticipation of dividend declarations.

Accident and health claims incurred include all losses occurring during the year, whether reported or not, related handling costs, a 
reduction for recoveries, and any adjustments to claims outstanding from previous years.

Claims handling costs include internal and external costs incurred in connection with the negotiation and settlement of claims, and 
are included in operating expenses.

Insurance contract liabilities (including liabilities in respect of investment contracts with DPF)
Insurance contract liabilities represent the estimated future policyholder benefit liability for life insurance policies.

Future policy benefits for life insurance policies are calculated using a net level premium valuation method which represents the 
present value of estimated future policy benefits to be paid, less the present value of estimated future net premiums to be collected 
from policyholders.

For contracts with an explicit account balance, such as universal life and unit-linked contracts, insurance contract liabilities 
are equal to the accumulation value, which represents premiums received and investment returns credited to the policy less 
deductions for mortality and morbidity costs and expense charges.

Settlement options are accounted for as an integral component of the underlying insurance or investment contract unless they 
provide annuitisation benefits, in which case an additional liability is established to the extent that the present value of expected 
annuitisation payments at the expected annuitisation date exceeds the expected account balance at that date. Where settlement 
options have been issued with guaranteed rates less than market interest rates, the insurance or investment contract liability does 
not reflect any provision for subsequent declines in market interest rates unless a deficiency is identified through liability adequacy 
testing.

The Group accounts for participating policies within participating funds by establishing a liability for the present value of guaranteed 
benefits less estimated future net premiums to be collected from policyholders. In addition, an insurance liability is recorded for the 
proportion of the net assets of the participating fund that would be allocated to policyholders assuming all performance were to be 
declared as a dividend based upon local regulations. The Group accounts for other participating business by establishing a liability 
for the present value of guaranteed benefits and non-guaranteed participation, less estimated future net premiums to be collected 
from policyholders.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

117

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
2.4.1 Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF (continued)
Liability adequacy testing
The adequacy of liabilities is assessed by portfolio of contracts, in accordance with the Group’s manner of acquiring, servicing and 
measuring the profitability of its insurance contracts. Liability adequacy testing is performed for each geographical market.

For traditional life insurance contracts, insurance contract liabilities reduced by deferred acquisition costs and value of business 
acquired on acquired insurance contracts, are compared to the gross premium valuation calculated on a best estimate basis, as of 
the valuation date. If there is a deficiency, the unamortised balance of deferred acquisition cost and value of business acquired on 
acquired insurance contracts are written down to the extent of the deficiency. If, after writing down the unamortised balance for the 
specific portfolio of contracts to nil, a deficiency still exists, the net liability is increased by the amount of the remaining deficiency.

For universal life and investment contracts, deferred acquisition costs, net of unearned revenue liabilities, are compared to 
estimated gross profits. If a deficiency exists, deferred acquisition costs are written down.

Financial guarantees
Financial guarantees are regarded as insurance contracts. Liabilities in respect of such contracts are recognised as loss is incurred 
by a holder.

2.4.2 Investment contracts
Investment contracts do not contain sufficient insurance risk to be considered insurance contracts and are accounted for as a 
financial liability, other than investment contracts with DPF which are excluded from the scope of IAS 39 and are accounted for as 
insurance contracts.

Revenue from these contracts consists of various charges (policy fees, handling fees, management fees and surrender charges) 
made against the contract for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrender. First year charges are amortised over the life of 
the contract as the services are provided.

Investment contract fee revenue
Customers are charged fees for policy administration, investment management, surrenders or other contract services. The 
fees may be fixed amounts or vary with the amounts being managed, and will generally be charged as an adjustment to the 
policyholder’s account balance. The fees are recognised as revenue in the period in which they are received unless they relate to 
services to be provided in future periods, in which case they are deferred and recognised as the service is provided.

Origination and other “upfront” fees (fees that are assessed against the account balance as consideration for origination of the 
contract) are charged on some non-participating investment and pension contracts. Where the investment contract is recorded 
at amortised cost, these fees are amortised and recognised over the expected term of the policy as an adjustment to the effective 
yield. Where the investment contract is measured at fair value, the front-end fees that relate to the provision of investment 
management services are amortised and recognised as the services are provided.

Deferred origination costs
The costs of acquiring investment contracts with investment management services, including commissions and other incremental 
expenses directly related to the issue of each new contract, are deferred and amortised over the period that services are provided. 
Deferred origination costs are tested for recoverability at each reporting date.

The costs of acquiring new investment contracts without investment management services are included as part of the effective 
interest rate used to calculate the amortised cost of the related investment contract liabilities.

118

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
2.4.2 Investment contracts (continued)
Investment contract liabilities
Deposits received in respect of investment contracts are not accounted for through the consolidated income statement, except for 
the investment income and fees attributable to those contracts, but are accounted for directly through the consolidated statement 
of financial position as an adjustment to the investment contract liability, which reflects the account balance.

The majority of the Group’s contracts classified as investment contracts are unit-linked contracts, with measurement directly linked 
to the underlying investment assets. These represent investment portfolios maintained to meet specific investment objectives 
of policyholders who generally bear the credit and market risks on those investments. The liabilities are carried at fair value 
determined with reference to the accumulation value (current unit value) with changes recognised in profit or loss. The costs of 
policy administration, investment management, surrender charges and certain policyholder taxes assessed against customers’ 
account balances are included in revenue, and accounted for as described under “Investment contract fee revenue” above.

Non unit-linked investment contract liabilities are carried at amortised cost, being the fair value of consideration received at the 
date of initial recognition, less the net effect of principal payments such as transaction costs and front-end fees, plus or minus 
the cumulative amortisation using the effective interest method of any difference between that initial amount and the maturity 
value, and less any write- down for surrender payments. The effective interest rate equates the discounted cash payments to the 
initial amount. At each reporting date, the unearned revenue liability is determined as the value of the future best estimate cash 
flows discounted at the effective interest rate. Any adjustment is immediately recognised as income or expense in the consolidated 
income statement.

The amortised cost of the financial liability is never recorded at less than the amount payable on surrender, discounted for the time 
value of money where applicable, if the investment contract is subject to a surrender option.

2.4.3 Insurance and investment contracts
Reinsurance
The Group cedes reinsurance in the normal course of business, with retentions varying by line of business. The cost of reinsurance 
is accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured policies, using assumptions consistent with those used to account for such 
policies.

Premiums ceded and claims reimbursed are presented on a gross basis in the consolidated income statement and statement of 
financial position.

Reinsurance assets consist of amounts receivable in respect of ceded insurance liabilities. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers 
are estimated in a manner consistent with the reinsured insurance or investment contract liabilities or benefits paid and in 
accordance with the relevant reinsurance contract.

To the extent that reinsurance contracts principally transfer financial risk (as opposed to insurance risk) they are accounted for 
directly through the consolidated statement of financial position and are not included in reinsurance assets or liabilities. A deposit 
asset or liability is recognised, based on the consideration paid or received less any explicitly identified premiums or fees to be 
retained by the reinsured.

If a reinsurance asset is impaired, the Group reduces the carrying amount accordingly and recognises that impairment loss in the 
consolidated income statement. A reinsurance asset is impaired if there is objective evidence, as a result of an event that occurred 
after initial recognition of the reinsurance asset, that the Group may not receive all amounts due to it under the terms of the 
contract, and the impact on the amounts that the Group will receive from the reinsurer can be reliably measured.

Value of business acquired (VOBA)
The VOBA in respect of a portfolio of long-term insurance and investment contracts, either directly or through the purchase of a 
subsidiary, is recognised as an asset. If this results from the acquisition of an investment in a joint venture or an associate, the VOBA 
is held within the carrying amount of that investment. In all cases, the VOBA is amortised over the estimated life of the contracts 
in the acquired portfolio on a systematic basis. The rate of amortisation reflects the profile of the value of in-force business 
acquired. The carrying value of VOBA is reviewed annually for impairment and any reduction is charged to the consolidated income 
statement.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

119

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
2.4.3 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
Shadow accounting
Shadow accounting is applied to insurance and certain investment contracts with discretionary participation feature where financial 
assets backing insurance and investment contract liabilities are classified as available for sale. Shadow accounting is applied to 
deferred acquisition costs, VOBA, deferred origination costs and the contract liabilities for investment contracts with DPF to take 
into account the effect of unrealised gains or losses on insurance liabilities or assets that are recognised in other comprehensive 
income in the same way as for a realised gain or loss recognised in the consolidated income statement. Such assets or liabilities 
are adjusted with corresponding charges or credits recognised directly in shareholders’ equity as a component of the related 
unrealised gains and losses.

Other assessments and levies
The Group is potentially subject to various periodic insurance-related assessments or guarantee fund levies. Related provisions are 
established where there is a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event. Such amounts are not included in 
insurance or investment contract liabilities but are included under “Provisions” in the consolidated statement of financial position.

2.5 financial instruments
2.5.1 Classification of and designation of financial instruments
Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss comprise two categories:

• 

financial assets or liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss upon initial recognition; and

• 

financial assets or liabilities classified as held for trading.

Management designates financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss if this eliminates a measurement 
inconsistency or if the related assets and liabilities are actively managed on a fair value basis, including:

• 

financial assets held to back unit-linked contracts and participating funds;

•  other financial assets managed on a fair value basis; consisting of the Group’s equity portfolio and investments held by the 

Group’s fully consolidated investment funds; and

•  compound instruments containing an embedded derivative, where the embedded derivative would otherwise require 

bifurcation.

Financial assets and liabilities classified as held for trading include financial assets acquired principally for the purpose of selling 
them in the near future and those that form part of a portfolio of financial assets in which there is evidence of short-term profit 
taking, as well as derivative assets and liabilities.

Dividend income from equity instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss is recognised in investment income in the 
consolidated income statement, generally when the security becomes ex-dividend. Interest income is recognised on an accrued 
basis. For all financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss, changes in fair value are recognised in investment 
experience.

Transaction costs in respect of financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are expensed as they are incurred.

Available for sale financial assets
Financial assets, other than those at fair value through profit or loss, and loans and receivables, are classified as available for sale.

The available for sale category is used where the relevant investments backing insurance and investment contract liabilities and 
shareholders’ equity are not managed on a fair value basis. These principally consist of the Group’s debt securities (other than 
those backing participating funds and unit-linked contracts). Available for sale financial assets are initially recognised at fair 
value plus attributable transaction costs. For available for sale debt securities, the difference between their cost and par value 
is amortised. Available for sale financial assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Interest income from debt securities 
classified as available for sale is recognised in investment income in the consolidated income statement using the effective interest 
method.

120

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.5 financial instruments (continued)
2.5.1 Classification of and designation of financial instruments (continued)
Available for sale financial assets (continued)
Unrealised gains and losses on securities classified as available for sale are analysed between differences resulting from 
foreign currency translation, and other fair value changes. Foreign currency translation differences on monetary available for 
sale investments, such as debt securities are calculated as if they were carried at amortised cost and so are recognised in the 
consolidated income statement as investment experience. For impairments of available for sale financial assets, reference is made 
to the section “Impairment of financial assets”.

Changes in the fair value of securities classified as available for sale, except for impairment losses and relevant foreign exchange 
gains and losses, are recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in a separate fair value reserve within equity. 
Impairment losses and relevant foreign exchange gains and losses are recognised in the income statement.

Realised gains and losses on financial assets
Realised gains and losses on available for sale financial assets are determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and 
amortised cost. Cost is determined by specific identification.

Recognition of financial instruments
Purchases and sales of financial instruments are recognised on the trade date, which is the date at which the Group commits to 
purchase or sell the assets.

Derecognition and offset of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the financial assets have expired or where the Group 
has transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership. If the Group neither transfers nor retains substantially all the 
risks and rewards of ownership of a financial asset, it derecognises the financial asset if it no longer has control over the asset. 
In transfers where control over the asset is retained, the Group continues to recognise the asset to the extent of its continuing 
involvement. The extent of continuing involvement is determined by the extent to which the Group is exposed to changes in the fair 
value of the asset.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the consolidated statement of financial position only when 
there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or realise the 
asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active 
market. They are initially recognised at fair value plus transaction costs. Subsequently, they are carried at amortised cost using 
the effective interest method less any impairment losses. Interest income from loans and receivables is recognised in investment 
income in the consolidated income statement using the effective interest method.

Term deposits
Deposits include time deposits with financial institutions which do not meet the definition of cash and cash equivalents as their 
maturity at acquisition exceeds three months. Certain of these balances are subject to regulatory or other restriction as disclosed 
in note 21 Loans and Deposits. Deposits are stated at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks and other short-term highly liquid investments 
with maturities at acquisition of three months or less, which are held for cash management purposes. Cash and cash equivalents 
also include cash received as collateral for securities lending as well as cash and cash equivalents held for the benefit of 
policyholders in connection with unit-linked products. Cash and cash equivalents are measured at amortised cost using the 
effective interest method.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

121

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.5 financial instruments (continued)
2.5.2 Fair values of non-derivative financial assets
The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an 
orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, having regard to the specific characteristics of the asset 
or liability concerned, assuming that the transfer takes place in the most advantageous market to which the Group has access. The 
fair values of financial instruments traded in active markets (such as financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss and 
available for sale securities) are based on quoted market prices at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position. The 
quoted market price used for financial assets held by the Group is the current bid price. The fair values of financial instruments 
that are not traded in active markets are determined using valuation techniques. The Group uses a variety of methods and makes 
assumptions that are based on market conditions at the date of each consolidated statement of financial position. The objective of 
using a valuation technique is to estimate the price at which an orderly transaction would take place between market participants 
at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position.

Financial instruments carried at fair value are measured using a fair value hierarchy described in note 23.

2.5.3 Impairment of financial assets
General
Financial assets are assessed for impairment on a regular basis. The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is 
objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. A financial asset, or group of financial assets, is 
impaired and impairment losses are incurred only if there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that 
have occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (a loss event) and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated 
future cash flows of the financial asset or group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated.

For loans and receivables, the Group first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists for financial assets that are 
individually significant. If the Group determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial 
asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and 
collectively assesses them for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss 
is or continues to be recognised are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.

Available for sale financial instruments
When a decline in the fair value of an available for sale asset has been recognised in other comprehensive income and there is 
objective evidence that the asset is impaired, the cumulative loss already recognised directly in other comprehensive income is 
recognised in current period profit or loss.

If the fair value of a debt instrument classified as available for sale increases in a subsequent period, and the increase can be 
objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised in profit or loss, the impairment loss is reversed 
through profit or loss. Where, following the recognition of an impairment loss in respect of an available for sale debt security, the 
asset suffers further falls in value, such further falls are recognised as an impairment only in the case when objective evidence 
exists of a further impairment event to which the losses can be attributed.

Loans and receivables
For loans and receivables, impairment is considered to have taken place if it is probable that the Group will not be able to 
collect principal and/or interest due according to the contractual terms of the instrument. When impairment is determined to 
have occurred, the carrying amount is decreased through a charge to profit or loss. The carrying amount of mortgage loans or 
receivables is reduced through the use of an allowance account, and the amount of any allowance is recognised as an impairment 
loss in profit or loss.

2.5.4 Derivative financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments primarily include foreign exchange contracts and interest rate swaps that derive their value mainly 
from underlying foreign exchange rates and interest rates. All derivatives are initially recognised in the consolidated statement of 
financial position at their fair value, which represents their cost excluding transaction costs, which are expensed, giving rise to a 
day one loss. They are subsequently remeasured at their fair value, with movements in this value recognised in profit or loss. Fair 
values are obtained from quoted market prices or, if these are not available, by using valuation techniques such as discounted cash 
flow models or option pricing models. All derivatives are carried as assets when the fair values are positive and as liabilities when 
the fair values are negative.

122

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.5 financial instruments (continued)
2.5.4 Derivative financial instruments (continued)
Derivative instruments for economic hedging
Whilst the Group enters into derivative transactions to provide economic hedges under the Group’s risk management framework, 
it does not currently apply hedge accounting to these transactions. This is either because the transactions would not meet the 
specific IFRS rules to be eligible for hedge accounting or the documentation requirements to meet hedge accounting criteria 
would be unduly onerous. These transactions are therefore treated as held for trading and fair value movements are recognised 
immediately in investment experience.

Embedded derivatives
Embedded derivatives are derivatives embedded within other non-derivative host financial instruments to create hybrid 
instruments. Where the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivatives are not closely related to the economic 
characteristics and risks of the host instrument, and where the hybrid instrument is not measured at fair value with changes in fair 
value recognised in profit or loss, the embedded derivative is bifurcated and carried at fair value as a derivative in accordance with 
IAS 39.

2.6 segment reporting
An operating segment is a component of the Group that engages in business activity from which it earns revenues and incurs 
expenses and, for which, discrete financial information is available, and whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the 
Group’s chief operating decision-maker, considered to be the Executive Committee of the Group (ExCo).

2.7 foreign currency translation
Income statements and cash flows of foreign entities are translated into the Group’s presentation currency at average exchange 
rates for the year as this approximates to the exchange rates prevailing at the transaction date. Their statements of financial 
position are translated at year or period end exchange rates. Exchange differences arising from the translation of the net 
investment in foreign operations, are taken to the currency translation reserve within equity. On disposal of a foreign operation, 
such exchange differences are transferred out of this reserve and are recognised in the consolidated income statement as part of 
the gain or loss on sale.

Foreign currency transactions are accounted for at the exchange rates prevailing at the date of the transactions. Gains and losses 
resulting from the settlement of such transactions, and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in 
foreign currencies into functional currency, are recognised in the consolidated income statement.

Translation differences on financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss are included in investment experience. For 
monetary financial assets classified as available for sale, translation differences are calculated as if they were carried at amortised 
cost and so are recognised in the consolidated income statement. Foreign exchange movements on non-monetary equities that are 
accounted for as available for sale are included in the fair value reserve.

2.8 property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. 
Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Depreciation is calculated using the 
straight-line method to allocate cost less any residual value over the estimated useful life, generally:

Furniture, fixtures and office equipment

Buildings

Other assets

Freehold land

5 years

20-40 years

3-5 years

No depreciation

Subsequent costs are included in the carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, when it is probable that 
future economic benefits will flow to the Group. Repairs and maintenance are charged to the consolidated income statement during 
the financial period in which they are incurred.

Residual values and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted, if applicable, at each reporting date. An asset is written down to its 
recoverable amount if the carrying value is greater than the estimated recoverable amount.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

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OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.8 property, plant and equipment (continued)
Any gain and loss arising on disposal of property, plant and equipment is measured as the difference between the net sale proceeds 
and the carrying amount of the relevant asset, and is recognised in the consolidated income statement.

Where the cost of the Group’s leasehold land is known, or can be reliably determined at the inception of the lease, the Group 
records its interest in leasehold land and land use rights separately as operating leases or finance leases depending on whether 
substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of the land are transferred to the Group. These leases are recorded 
at original cost and amortised over the term of the lease (see note 2.19).

2.9 Investment property
Property held for long-term rental that is not occupied by the Group is classified as investment property, and is carried at cost less 
accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses.

Investment property comprises freehold or leasehold land and buildings. Buildings located on leasehold land are classified as 
investment property if held for long-term rental and not occupied by the Group. Where the cost of the land is known, or can be 
reliably determined at the inception of the lease, the Group records its interest in leasehold land and land use rights separately as 
operating leases or finance leases depending on whether substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of the land 
are transferred to the Group (see note 2.19). These leases are recorded at original cost and amortised over the term of the lease. 
Buildings that are held as investment properties are amortised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 20 to 40 
years.

If an investment property becomes held for use, it is reclassified as property, plant and equipment. Where a property is partly used 
as an investment property and partly for the use of the Group, these elements are recorded separately within property, plant and 
equipment and investment property respectively, where the component used as investment property would be capable of separate 
sale or finance lease.

The fair value of investment property and property held for use is disclosed under note 18. It is the Group’s policy to obtain external 
property valuations annually except in the case of a discrete event occurring in the interim that has a significant impact on the fair 
value of the properties.

2.10 Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of 
the acquired subsidiary, associate or joint venture at the date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions prior to 1 December 2006 (the 
date of transition to IFRS) is carried at book value (original cost less cumulative amortisation) on that date, less any impairment 
subsequently incurred. Goodwill arising on the Group’s investment in subsidiaries since that date is shown as a separate asset 
and is carried at cost less any accumulated impairment losses, whilst that on associates and joint ventures is included within the 
carrying value of those investments. All acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.

other intangible assets
Other intangible assets consist primarily of acquired computer software and contractual relationships, such as access to 
distribution networks, and are amortised over their estimated useful lives. The amortisation charge for rights to access distribution 
networks is included in the consolidated income statement under “Commission and other acquisition expenses”.

Acquired computer software licences are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific 
software. Costs directly associated with the internal production of identifiable and unique software by the Group that will generate 
economic benefits exceeding those costs over a period greater than a year, are recognised as intangible assets. All other costs 
associated with developing or maintaining computer software programmes are recognised as an expense as incurred. Costs 
of acquiring computer software licences and incurred in the internal production of computer software are amortised using the 
straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, which does not generally exceed a period of 3 to 15 years. The 
amortisation charge for the year is included in the consolidated income statement under “Operating expenses”.

124

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.11 Impairment of non-financial assets
Property, plant and equipment, goodwill and other non-financial assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes 
in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised to the extent that the 
carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of the fair value of the asset less cost to sell and 
value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped into cash-generating units at the level of the Group’s 
operating segments, the lowest level for which separately identifiable cash flows are reported. The carrying values of goodwill and 
intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are reviewed at least annually or when circumstances or events indicate that there may 
be uncertainty over this value.

The Group assesses at the end of each reporting period whether there is any objective evidence that its investments in associates 
and joint ventures are impaired. Such objective evidence includes whether there has been any significant adverse changes in the 
technological, market, economic or legal environment in which the associates and joint ventures operate or whether there has 
been a significant or prolonged decline in value below their cost. If there is an indication that an interest in an associate or a joint 
venture is impaired, the Group assesses whether the entire carrying amount of the investment (including goodwill) is recoverable. 
An impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss for the amount by which the carrying amount is lower than the higher of the 
investment’s fair value less costs to sell or value in use. Any reversal of such impairment loss in subsequent periods is reversed 
through profit or loss.

Impairment testing of the investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures is required upon receiving dividends from 
these investments if the dividend exceeds the total comprehensive income of the subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures in the 
period the dividend is declared or if the carrying amount of the relevant investment in the Company’s statement of financial position 
exceeds its carrying amount in the consolidated financial statements of the investees’ net assets including goodwill.

2.12 securities lending including repurchase agreements
The Group has been a party to various securities lending agreements under which securities are loaned to third parties on a short-
term basis. The loaned securities are not derecognised and so they continue to be recognised within the appropriate investment 
classification.

assets sold under repurchase agreements (repos)
Assets sold under repurchase agreements continue to be recognised and a liability is established for the consideration received. 
The Group may be required to provide additional collateral based on the fair value of the underlying assets, and such collateral 
assets remain on the consolidated statement of financial position.

assets purchased under agreements to resell (reverse repos)
The Group enters into purchases of assets under agreements to resell (reverse repos). Reverse repos are initially recorded at the 
cost of the loan or collateral advanced within the caption “Loans and deposits” in the consolidated statement of financial position. 
In the event of failure by the counterparty to repay the loan, the Group has the right to the underlying assets.

2.13 Collateral
The Group receives and pledges collateral in the form of cash or non-cash assets in respect of derivative transactions, securities 
lending transactions, and repo and reverse repo transactions, in order to reduce the credit risk of these transactions. The amount 
and type of collateral depends on an assessment of the credit risk of the counterparty. Collateral received in the form of cash, 
which is not legally segregated from the Group, is recognised as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial position with a 
corresponding liability for the repayment. Non-cash collateral received is not recognised on the consolidated statement of financial 
position unless the Group either sells or repledges these assets in the absence of default, at which point the obligation to return 
this collateral is recognised as a liability. To further minimise credit risk, the financial condition of counterparties is monitored on a 
regular basis.

Collateral pledged in the form of cash which is legally segregated from the Group is derecognised from the consolidated statement 
of financial position and a corresponding receivable established for its return. Non-cash collateral pledged is not derecognised 
(except in the event of default) and therefore continues to be recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position within 
the appropriate financial instrument classification.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

125

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.14 Borrowings
Borrowings are recognised initially at their issue proceeds less transaction costs incurred. Subsequently, borrowings are stated at 
amortised cost, and any difference between net proceeds and redemption value is recognised in the consolidated income statement 
over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. All borrowing costs are expensed as they are incurred, 
except for borrowing costs directly attributable to the development of investment properties and other qualifying assets, which are 
capitalised as part of the cost of the asset.

2.15 Income taxes
The current tax expense is based on the taxable profits for the year, including any adjustments in respect of prior years. Tax is 
allocated to profit or loss before taxation and amounts charged or credited to equity as appropriate.

Deferred tax is recognised in respect of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying 
amounts in the consolidated financial statements, except as described below.

The principal temporary differences arise from the basis of recognition of insurance and investment contract liabilities, revaluation 
of certain financial assets and liabilities including derivative contracts, deferred acquisition costs and the future taxes arising on the 
surplus in life funds where the relevant local tax regime is distributions-based. The rates enacted or substantively enacted at the 
date of the consolidated statement of financial position are used to determine deferred tax.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the 
temporary differences can be utilised. In countries where there is a history of tax losses, deferred tax assets are only recognised in 
excess of deferred tax liabilities if there is evidence that future profits will be available.

Deferred taxes are not provided in respect of temporary differences arising from the initial recognition of goodwill or from goodwill 
for which amortisation is not deductible for tax purposes, or from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction which 
is not a business combination and which affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss at the time of the transaction.

Deferred tax related to fair value remeasurement of available for sale investments and other amounts taken directly to equity, is 
recognised initially within the applicable component of equity. It is subsequently recognised in the consolidated income statement, 
together with the gain or loss arising on the underlying item.

In addition to paying tax on shareholders’ profits, certain of the Group’s life insurance businesses pay tax on policyholders’ 
investment returns (policyholder tax) at policyholder tax rates. Policyholder tax is accounted for as an income tax and is included in 
the total tax expense and disclosed separately.

2.16 revenue
Investment return
Investment income consists of dividends, interest and rents receivable for the reporting period. Investment experience comprises 
realised gains and losses, impairments and unrealised gains and losses on investments held at fair value through profit or loss. 
Interest income is recognised as it accrues, taking into account the effective yield on the investment. Rental income on investment 
property is recognised on an accrual basis. Investment return consists of investment income and investment experience.

The realised gain or loss on disposal of an investment is the difference between the proceeds received, net of transaction costs, and 
its original cost or amortised cost as appropriate. Unrealised gains and losses represent the difference between the carrying value 
at the year end and the carrying value at the previous year end or purchase price if purchased during the year, less the reversal of 
previously recognised unrealised gains and losses in respect of disposals made during the year.

other fee and commission income
Other fee and commission income consists primarily of fund management fees, income from any incidental non-insurance 
activities, distribution fees from mutual funds, commissions on reinsurance ceded and commission revenue from the sale of 
mutual fund shares. Reinsurance commissions receivable are deferred in the same way as acquisition costs. All other fee and 
commission income is recognised as the services are provided.

126

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.17 employee benefits
annual leave and long service leave
Employee entitlements to annual leave and long service leave are recognised when they accrue to employees. A provision is made 
for the estimated liability for annual leave and long service leave as a result of services rendered by employees up to the reporting 
date.

post-retirement benefit obligations
The Group operates a number of funded and unfunded post-retirement employee benefit schemes, whose members receive 
benefits on either a defined benefit basis (generally related to salary and length of service) or a defined contribution basis (generally 
related to the amount invested, investment return and annuity rates), the assets of which are generally held in separate trustee-
administered funds. The defined benefit plans provide life and medical benefits for employees after retirement and a lump sum 
benefit on cessation of employment, and the defined contribution plans provide post-retirement pension benefits.

For defined benefit plans, the costs are assessed using the projected unit credit method. Under this method, the cost of providing 
benefits is charged to the consolidated income statement so as to spread the regular cost over the service lives of employees, in 
accordance with the advice of qualified actuaries. The obligation is measured as the present value of the estimated future cash 
outflows, using a discount rate based on market yields for high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in 
which the benefits will be paid and that have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related liability. The resulting 
scheme surplus or deficit appears as an asset or liability in the consolidated statement of financial position.

For each plan, the Group recognises a portion of its actuarial gains and losses in income or expense if the unrecognised actuarial 
net gain or loss at the end of the previous reporting period exceeds the greater of:

•  10 per cent of the projected benefit obligations at that date; or

•  10 per cent of the fair value of any plan assets at that date.

Any recognised actuarial net gain or loss exceeding the greater of these two values is generally recognised in the consolidated 
income statement over the expected average remaining service periods of the employees participating in the plans.

For defined contribution plans, the Group pays contributions to publicly or privately administered pension plans. Once the 
contributions have been paid, the Group, as employer, has no further payment obligations. The Group’s contributions are charged 
to the consolidated income statement in the reporting period to which they relate and are included in staff costs.

share-based compensation and cash incentive plans
Following the public listing of the Group on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited and the divestiture by AIG of more than 50 
per cent of the Group on 29 October 2010, the Group launched a number of share-based compensation plans, under which the 
Group receives services from the agents, employees, directors and officers as consideration for the shares and/or share options of 
the Company. These share-based compensation plans comprise the Share Option Scheme (SO Scheme), the Restricted Share Unit 
Scheme (RSU Scheme), the Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP) and the Agency Share Purchase Plan (ASPP).

The Group’s share-based compensation plans are predominantly equity-settled plans. Under equity-settled share-based 
compensation plan, the fair value of the employee services received in exchange for the grant of shares and/or share options is 
recognised as an expense in profit or loss over the vesting period with a corresponding amount recorded in equity.

The total amount to be expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair value of the share and/or share 
options awarded. Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of shares and/or share options 
that are expected to be vested. At each period end, the Group revises its estimates of the number of shares and/or share options 
that are expected to be vested. Any impact of the revision to original estimates is recognised in profit or loss with a corresponding 
adjustment to equity. Where awards of share-based payment arrangements have graded vesting terms, each tranche is recognised 
as a separate award, and therefore the fair value of each tranche is recognised over the applicable vesting period.

The Group estimates the fair value of share options using a binomial lattice model. This model requires inputs such as share price, 
implied volatility, risk-free interest rate, expected dividend rate and the expected life of the share option.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

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OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.17 employee benefits (continued)
share-based compensation and cash incentive plans (continued)
Where modification or cancellation of an equity-settled share-based compensation plan occurs, the grant date fair value continues 
to be recognised, together with any incremental value arising on the date of modification if non-market conditions are met.

For cash-settled share-based compensation plans, the fair value of the employee services in exchange for the grant of cash-settled 
award is recognised as an expense in profit or loss, with a corresponding amount recognised in liability. At the end of each reporting 
period, any unsettled award is remeasured based on the change in fair value of the underlying asset and the liability and expense 
are adjusted accordingly.

2.18 provisions and contingencies
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is probable 
that an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate of the amount of the 
obligation can be made. Where the Group expects a provision to be reimbursed, for example under an insurance contract held, the 
reimbursement is recognised as a separate asset only when the reimbursement is virtually certain.

The Group recognises a provision for onerous contracts when the expected benefits to be derived from a contract are less than the 
unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract.

Contingencies are disclosed if material and if there is a possible future obligation as a result of a past event, or if there is a present 
obligation as a result of a past event, but either a payment is not probable or the amount cannot be reliably estimated.

2.19 leases
Leases, where a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership is retained by the Group as a lessor, are classified as 
operating leases. Assets subject to such leases are included in property, plant and equipment or investment property, and are 
depreciated to their residual values over their estimated useful lives. Rentals from such leases are credited to the consolidated 
income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the relevant lease. Payments made by the Group as lessee under 
operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are charged to the consolidated income statement on a straight-
line basis over the period of the relevant lease. The Group classifies amounts paid to acquire leasehold land either as an operating 
lease prepayment or as a component of property, plant and equipment or investment property depending on whether substantially 
all the risks and rewards incidental to the ownership of the land are transferred to the Group.

There are no freehold land interests in Hong Kong. The Group classifies the amounts paid to acquire leasehold land under 
operating leases and finance leases as operating lease prepayments and property, plant and equipment or investment property 
respectively. Operating lease prepayments are included within “Other assets”. Amortisation is calculated to write off the cost of the 
land on a straight-line basis over the terms of the lease.

2.20 share capital
Issued capital represents the nominal value of shares issued plus any share premium received from the issue of share capital.

share issue costs
Incremental external costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the 
proceeds of the issue.

dividends
Interim dividends on ordinary shares are recognised when they have been paid. Final dividends on ordinary shares are recognised 
when they have been approved by shareholders.

2.21 presentation of the consolidated statement of financial position
The Group’s insurance and investment contract liabilities and related assets are realised and settled over periods of several years, 
reflecting the long-term nature of the Group’s products. Accordingly, the Group presents the assets and liabilities in its consolidated 
statement of financial position in approximate order of liquidity, rather than distinguishing current and non-current assets and 
liabilities. The Group regards its intangible assets, investments in associates and joint ventures, property, plant and equipment, 
investment property and deferred acquisition and origination costs as non-current assets as these are held for the longer-term use 
of the Group.

128

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies2. sIGnIfICanT aCCounTInG polICIes (continued)
2.22 earnings per share
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net profit available to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue during the year.

Earnings per share has also been calculated on the operating profit before adjusting items, attributable to ordinary shareholders, 
as the Directors believe this figure provides a better indication of operating performance.

For diluted earnings per share, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue is adjusted to assume conversion of all 
dilutive potential ordinary shares, such as share options granted to employees.

Potential or contingent share issuances are treated as dilutive when their conversion to shares would decrease net earnings per 
share.

2.23 fiduciary activities
Assets and income arising from fiduciary activities, together with related undertakings to return such assets to customers, are 
excluded from these consolidated financial statements where the Group has no contractual rights to the assets and acts in a 
fiduciary capacity such as nominee, trustee or agent.

2.24 Consolidated statement of cash flow
The consolidated statement of cash flow presents movements in cash and cash equivalents as shown in the consolidated 
statement of financial position.

Purchases and sales of financial investments are included in operating cash flows as the purchases are funded from cash flows 
associated with the origination of insurance and investment contracts, net of payments of related benefits and claims. Purchases 
and sales of investment property are included within cash flows from investing activities.

2.25 related party transactions
Transactions with related parties are recorded at amounts mutually agreed and transacted between the parties to the arrangement.

3. CrITICal aCCounTInG esTImaTes and judGemenTs
The Group makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, and revenue and expenses. All 
estimates are based on management’s knowledge of current facts and circumstances, assumptions based on that knowledge and 
predictions of future events and actions. Actual results can always differ from those estimates, possibly significantly.

Items that are considered particularly sensitive to changes in estimates and assumptions, and the relevant accounting policies are 
those which relate to product classification, insurance contract liabilities (including liabilities in respect of investment contracts 
with DPF), deferred acquisition and origination costs, liability adequacy testing, fair value of financial assets, impairment of financial 
assets, impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets and share-based compensation.

3.1 product classification
The Group issues contracts that transfer insurance risk or financial risk or both. Insurance contracts are those contracts that 
transfer significant insurance risk, while investment contracts are those contracts without significant insurance risk. The Group 
exercises significant judgement to determine whether there is a scenario (other than those lacking commercial substance) in which 
an insured event would require the Group to pay significant additional benefits to its customers. In the event the Group has to pay 
significant additional benefits to its customers, the contract is accounted for as an insurance contract. The judgements exercised 
in determining the level of insurance risk in product classification affect the amounts recognised in the consolidated financial 
statements as insurance and investment contract liabilities and deferred acquisition and origination costs. The accounting policy on 
product classification is described in note 2.4.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

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OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION3. CrITICal aCCounTInG esTImaTes and judGemenTs (continued)
3.2 Insurance contract liabilities (including liabilities in respect of investment contracts with dpf)
The Group calculates the insurance contract liabilities for traditional life insurance using a net level premium valuation method, 
whereby the liability represents the present value of estimated future policy benefits to be paid, less the present value of estimated 
future net premiums to be collected from policyholders. This method uses best estimate assumptions at inception adjusted for 
a provision for the risk of adverse deviation for mortality, morbidity, expected investment yields, policyholder dividends (for other 
participating business), surrenders and expenses set at the policy inception date. These assumptions remain locked in thereafter, 
unless a deficiency arises on liability adequacy testing. Interest rate assumptions can vary by geographical market, year of issuance 
and product. Mortality, surrender and expense assumptions are based on actual experience by each geographical market, modified 
to allow for variations in policy form. The Group exercises significant judgement in making appropriate assumptions.

For contracts with an explicit account balance, such as universal life and unit-linked contracts, insurance contract liabilities 
represent the accumulation value, which represents premiums received and investment returns credited to the policy less 
deductions for mortality and morbidity costs and expense charges. Significant judgement is exercised in making appropriate 
estimates of gross profits which are based on historical and anticipated future experiences, these estimates are regularly reviewed 
by the Group.

The Group accounts for insurance contract liabilities for participating business written in participating funds by establishing a 
liability for the present value of guaranteed benefits less estimated future net premiums to be collected from policyholders. In 
addition, an insurance liability is recorded for the proportion of the net assets of the participating fund that would be allocated to 
policyholders assuming all relevant surplus at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position were to be declared 
as a policyholder dividend based upon applicable regulations. Establishing these liabilities requires the exercise of significant 
judgement. In addition, the assumption that all relevant performance is declared as a policyholder dividend may not be borne out in 
practice. The Group accounts for other participating business by establishing a liability for the present value of guaranteed benefits 
and non-guaranteed participation, less estimated future net premiums to be collected from policyholders.

The judgements exercised in the valuation of insurance contract liabilities (including contracts with DPF) affect the amounts 
recognised in the consolidated financial statements as insurance contract benefits and insurance contract liabilities. Further 
details of the related accounting policy, key risk and variables, and the sensitivities of assumptions to the key variables in respect of 
insurance contract liabilities are provided in notes 2.4, 27 and 29.

3.3 deferred acquisition and origination costs
The judgements exercised in the deferral and amortisation of acquisition and origination costs affect amounts recognised in the 
consolidated financial statements as deferred acquisition and origination costs and insurance and investment contract benefits.

As noted in note 2.4.1, deferred acquisition costs for traditional life insurance and annuity policies are amortised over the expected 
life of the contracts as a constant percentage of expected premiums. Expected premiums are estimated at the date of policy issue 
and are applied consistently throughout the life of the contract unless a deficiency occurs when performing liability adequacy 
testing.

As noted in note 2.4.1, deferred acquisition costs for universal life and unit-linked contracts are amortised over the expected life 
of the contracts based on a constant percentage of the present value of estimated gross profits to be realised over the life of the 
contract or on a straight-line basis. As noted in note 3.2, significant judgement is exercised in making appropriate estimates of 
gross profits. The expensing of acquisition costs is accelerated following adverse investment performance. Likewise, in periods 
of favourable investment performance, previously expensed acquisition costs are reversed, not exceeding the amount initially 
deferred.

Additional details of deferred acquisition and origination costs are provided in notes 2.4 and 20.

130

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies3. CrITICal aCCounTInG esTImaTes and judGemenTs (continued)
3.4 liability adequacy testing
The Group evaluates the adequacy of its insurance and investment contract liabilities with DPF at least annually. Significant 
judgement is exercised in determining the level of aggregation at which liability adequacy testing is performed and in selecting best 
estimate assumptions. Liability adequacy is assessed by portfolio of contracts in accordance with the Group’s manner of acquiring, 
servicing and measuring the profitability of its insurance contracts. The Group performs liability adequacy testing separately for 
each geographical market in which it operates.

The judgements exercised in liability adequacy testing affect amounts recognised in the consolidated financial statements as 
commission and other acquisition expenses, deferred acquisition costs, insurance contract benefits and insurance and investment 
contract liabilities.

3.5 fair values of financial assets
The Group determines the fair values of financial assets traded in active markets using quoted bid prices as of each reporting date. 
The fair values of financial assets that are not traded in active markets are typically determined using a variety of other valuation 
techniques, such as prices observed in recent transactions and values obtained from current bid prices of comparable investments. 
More judgement is used in measuring the fair value of financial assets for which market observable prices are not available or are 
available only infrequently.

The degree of judgement used in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates with the level of pricing 
observability. Pricing observability is affected by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the 
financial instrument is new to the market and not yet established, the characteristics specific to the transaction and general market 
conditions.

Changes in the fair value of financial assets held by the Group’s participating funds affect not only the value of financial assets, but 
are also reflected in corresponding movements in insurance and investment contract liabilities. This is due to an insurance liability 
being recorded for the proportion of the net assets of the participating funds that would be allocated to policyholders if all relevant 
surplus at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position were to be declared as a policyholder dividend based on 
current local regulations. Both of the foregoing changes are reflected in the consolidated income statement.

Changes in the fair value of financial assets held to back the Group’s unit-linked contracts result in a corresponding change 
in insurance and investment contract liabilities. Both of the foregoing changes are also reflected in the consolidated income 
statement.

Further details of the fair value of financial assets and the sensitivity analysis to interest rates and equity prices are provided in 
notes 23 and 37.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

131

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION3. CrITICal aCCounTInG esTImaTes and judGemenTs (continued)
3.6 Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets, other than those at fair value through profit or loss, are assessed for impairment regularly. This requires the 
exercise of significant judgement. The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is objective evidence that a financial 
asset or a group of financial assets is impaired. Objective evidence that a financial asset, or group of assets, is impaired includes 
observable data that comes to the attention of the Group about the following events:

•  significant financial difficulty of the issuer or debtor;

•  a breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in payments;

• 

it becomes probable that the issuer or debtor will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation;

• 

the disappearance of an active market for that financial asset because of financial difficulties; or

•  observable data, including market prices, indicating that there is a potential decrease in the estimated future cash flows since 

the initial recognition of those assets, including:

–  adverse changes in the payment status of issuers; or

–  national or local economic conditions that correlate with increased default risk.

For loans and receivables, impairment loss is determined using an analytical method based on knowledge of each loan group or 
receivable. The method is usually based on historical statistics, adjusted for trends in the group of financial assets or individual 
accounts.

Further details of the impairment of financial assets during the year are provided in note 25.

3.7 Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets
For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill and other intangible assets are grouped into cash generating units. These assets 
are tested for impairment by comparing the carrying amount of the cash generating unit, including goodwill, to the recoverable 
amount of that cash generating unit. The determination of the recoverable amount requires significant judgement regarding the 
selection of appropriate valuation techniques and assumptions. Further details of the impairment of goodwill during the year are 
provided in note 14.

3.8 share-based compensation
The Group has adopted a number of share-based compensation plans to retain, motivate and align the interests of eligible 
employees, directors, officers and agents with those of the Group. These share-based compensation plans are predominantly 
accounted for as equity-settled plans under which shares or options to purchase shares are awarded. The Group utilises a binomial 
lattice model to calculate the fair value of the share option grants, a Monte-Carlo simulation model and/or discounted cash flow 
technique to calculate the fair value of the other share awards. These models require assumption inputs that may differ from actual 
results due to changes in economic conditions. Further details of share-based compensation are provided in notes 2.17 and 39.

132

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies4. exChanGe raTes
The Group’s principal overseas operations during the reporting period were located within the Asia-Pacific region. The results and 
cash flows of these operations have been translated into US dollars at the following average rates:

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Assets and liabilities have been translated at the following year-end rates:

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Exchange rates are expressed in units of local currency per US$1.

US dollar exchange rates

Year ended
30 November 
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

7.76

30.58

1.25

3.13

6.16

7.76

31.12

1.26

3.10

6.32

1,095.29

1,132.50

US dollar exchange rates

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

7.75

32.10

1.25

3.22

6.09

7.75

30.68

1.22

3.04

6.23

1,058.51

1,082.25

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

133

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION5. ChanGes In Group ComposITIon
This note provides details of the acquisitions of subsidiaries that the Group has made during the year ended 30 November 2013.

acquisitions
On 5 December 2012, the Group completed the acquisition of 92.3 per cent of the issued share capital in Sri Lankan insurer 
Aviva NDB Insurance (ANI). In addition, ANI has entered into an exclusive 20-year bancassurance agreement with the National 
Development Bank in Sri Lanka. The acquisition positions the Group to develop a significant operation in the expanding Sri Lankan 
market. The price, including purchase price adjustment, with respect to the transaction of US$111m was paid from existing cash 
resources.

In April 2013, the Group acquired a further 4.9 per cent of the share capital of ANI from the remaining shareholders by way of a 
voluntary offering for an aggregate price of US$4m.

On 18 December 2012, the Group acquired 100 per cent of the share capital of ING Management Holdings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. 
(ING Malaysia). ING Malaysia was the third largest life insurer in Malaysia based upon gross premiums earned for the year ended 
31 December 2011. The acquisition presents the Group with a high calibre distribution force of over 9,000 agents and a long-term 
bancassurance partnership with a leading Malaysian banking group, Public Bank. The price with respect to this transaction was 
EUR1,332m or US$1,754m at exchange rates on the date of the transaction, and was paid from cash financed initially through an 
acquisition credit facility which was subsequently largely repaid with a combination of internal cash resources and medium term 
notes. The Group utilised a foreign currency forward contract to economically hedge the purchase price.

The Group has the ability to exercise control over ANI and ING Malaysia through control of their voting rights. The Group incurred 
US$17m of acquisition-related costs which were recognised as “other expenses” in the Group’s consolidated income statement for 
the year ended 30 November 2013.

Details of the finalised fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired and the goodwill arising from the acquisition of ANI and ING 
Malaysia are set out as follows:

US$m

Intangible assets

Deferred acquisition costs (value of business acquired)

Property, plant and equipment

Investment property

Loans and deposits(1)

Investment securities

Other assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Insurance contract liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total net assets acquired

Less: non-controlling interests

Net assets acquired

Goodwill arising on acquisition

Fair value of purchase price

Less: cash and cash equivalents in acquired subsidiaries

Net cash outflow

Note:

(1)  Fair value approximates the gross contractual amount.

134

AIA GROUP LIMITED

Provisional fair 
values as at
 the date of 
acquisition

Adjustments

Finalised fair 
values as at 
the date of 
acquisition

51

318

38

115

900

4,876

245

63

(5,371)

(125)

(224)

886

(16)

870

995

1,865

(63)

1,802

–

4

–

–

–

–

1

–

(25)

7

(1)

(14)

–

(14)

14

–

–

–

51

322

38

115

900

4,876

246

63

(5,396)

(118)

(225)

872

(16)

856

1,009

1,865

(63)

1,802

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies5. ChanGes In Group ComposITIon (continued)
acquisitions (continued)
In March 2013, the Group acquired the remaining 30 per cent of the share capital of AIA AFG Takaful Bhd. from the remaining 
shareholder for an aggregate price of US$14m. The business of AIA AFG Takaful Bhd. and the acquired AIA PUBLIC Takaful 
Bhd. (formerly known as ING PUBLIC Takaful Ehsan Berhad, a subsidiary of ING Malaysia) is in the process of integration. The 
integration is expected to be completed in the first half of 2014.

During the year ended 30 November 2013, the Group acquired 0.22 per cent of the share capital of Philam Life from the remaining 
shareholders for an aggregate price of US$3m.

Goodwill
The goodwill recognised is mainly attributable to the distribution strength and synergies and other benefits from combining ING 
Malaysia with the Group’s Malaysian business. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

Impact of acquisitions on the results of the Group
As the acquired ING Malaysian business has been integrated into the Group’s Malaysian business, the post-acquisition stand-alone 
results of the acquired ING Malaysian business are not available.

The acquired ANI contributed revenue of US$106m and profit before tax of US$9m to the Group’s consolidated income statement 
for the year ended 30 November 2013; the impact of the acquisition would not be materially different had the acquisitions been 
completed at the beginning of the reporting period.

6. operaTInG profIT afTer Tax
Operating profit after tax may be reconciled to net profit as follows:

US$m

Operating profit after tax

Non-operating items, net of related changes in insurance and 

investment contract liabilities:

  Net gains from equity securities, net of tax

  Other non-operating investment experience and other items, net of tax

Net profit

Operating profit after tax attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Net profit attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

2,514

2,169

Note

8

424

(91)

2,847

2,504

10

2,822

25

787

73

3,029

2,159

10

3,019

10

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

135

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
7. ToTal weIGhTed premIum InCome and annualIsed new premIum
For management decision-making and internal performance management purposes, the Group measures business volumes 
during the year using a performance measure referred to as total weighted premium income (TWPI), while the Group measures 
new business activity using a performance measure referred to as annualised new premium (ANP).

TWPI consists of 100 per cent of regular premiums and 10 per cent of single premiums, before reinsurance ceded, and includes 
deposits and contributions for contracts that are accounted for as deposits in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies.

Management considers that TWPI provides an indicative volume measure of transactions undertaken in the reporting period that 
have the potential to generate profits for shareholders. The amounts shown are not intended to be indicative of premium and fee 
income recorded in the consolidated income statement.

ANP is a key internal measure of new business activities, which consists of 100 per cent of annualised first year premiums and 10 
per cent of single premiums, before reinsurance ceded. ANP excludes new business of pension business, personal lines and motor 
insurance.

TWPI
US$m

TWPI by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Total

Regular premiums by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Total

Single premiums by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Total

136

AIA GROUP LIMITED

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

3,770

3,364

2,150

2,036

1,599

2,049

2,840

3,372

3,119

2,035

964

1,446

1,942

2,482

17,808

15,360

3,680

3,335

2,042

2,017

1,596

2,029

2,776

3,304

3,101

1,947

952

1,442

1,937

2,438

17,475

15,121

897

285

1,079

193

29

201

641

3,325

678

187

881

123

39

45

445

2,398

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies7. ToTal weIGhTed premIum InCome and annualIsed new premIum (continued)

ANP
US$m

ANP by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Other Markets

Total

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

781

565

400

319

249

338

689

604

532

339

151

215

237

618

3,341

2,696

8. seGmenT InformaTIon
The Group’s operating segments, based on the reports received by the ExCo, are each of the geographical markets in which 
the Group operates. Each of the reportable segments, other than the “Group Corporate Centre” segment, writes life insurance 
business, providing life, pension and accident and health products to customers in its local market, and distributes related 
investment and other financial services products. The reportable segments are Hong Kong (including Macau), Thailand, Singapore 
(including Brunei), Malaysia, China, Korea, Other Markets and Group Corporate Centre. Other Markets includes the Group’s 
operations in Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and India. The activities of the Group 
Corporate Centre segment consist of the Group’s corporate functions, shared services and eliminations of intragroup transactions.

Because each reportable segment other than the Group Corporate Centre segment focuses on serving the life insurance needs of 
its local market, there are limited transactions between reportable segments. The key performance indicators reported in respect 
of each segment are:

•  ANP;

•  TWPI;

• 

investment income (excluding investment income in respect of unit-linked contracts);

•  operating expenses;

•  operating profit after tax attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited;

•  expense ratio, measured as operating expenses divided by TWPI;

•  operating margin, measured as operating profit before tax (see above) expressed as a percentage of TWPI; and

•  operating return on allocated equity, measured as operating profit after tax attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited 
expressed as a percentage of the simple average of opening and closing allocated segment equity (being the segment assets 
less segment liabilities in respect of each reportable segment less non-controlling interests, fair value and foreign currency 
translation reserves, and adjusted for intercompany debt).

In presenting net capital in/(out) flows to reportable segments, capital outflows consist of dividends and profit distributions to the 
Group Corporate Centre segment and capital inflows consist of capital injections into reportable segments by the Group Corporate 
Centre segment. For the Group, net capital in/(out) flows reflect the net amount received from shareholders by way of capital 
contributions less amounts distributed by way of dividends.

Business volumes in respect of the Group’s five largest customers are less than 30 per cent of premiums and fee income.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

137

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION8. seGmenT InformaTIon (continued)

Total expenses

3,626

3,751

2,706

2,103

1,700

1,695

1,985

US$m

Year ended 30 November 2013

ANP

TWPI

Net premiums, fee income and 
  other operating revenue 

(net of reinsurance ceded)

Investment income(1)

Total revenue

Net insurance and investment 
  contract benefits(2)

Commission and other acquisition 
  expenses

Operating expenses

Investment management 
  expenses and finance costs(3)

Share of profit/(loss) from 
  associates and joint venture

Operating profit before tax

Tax on operating profit before tax

Operating profit/(loss) after tax

Operating profit/(loss) after tax 
  attributable to:

  Shareholders of 

  AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Key operating ratios:

Expense ratio

Operating margin

Operating return on 
  allocated equity

Operating profit before tax 

includes:

Finance costs

Depreciation and amortisation

Notes:

Hong
Kong

Thailand Singapore Malaysia

China

Korea

Other
Markets

Group
Corporate
Centre

Total

781

3,770

565

3,364

400

2,150

319

2,036

249

1,599

338

2,049

689

2,840

–

–

3,341

17,808

3,344

1,121

4,465

3,498

943

4,441

2,369

791

3,160

1,899

525

2,424

1,498

437

1,935

1,504

389

1,893

1,740

564

2,304

10

188

198

15,862

4,958

20,820

2,959

2,959

2,345

1,768

1,342

1,345

1,286

(2)

14,002

381

231

55

559

188

45

191

153

17

144

172

19

145

194

19

206

138

6

308

356

35

–

839

(65)

774

–

690

(164)

526

–

454

(58)

396

1

322

(72)

250

–

235

(30)

205

–

198

(48)

150

19

338

(88)

250

770

4

526

–

396

–

250

–

205

–

150

–

244

6

6.1%

5.6%

7.1%

8.4%

22.3%

20.5%

21.1%

15.8%

12.1%

14.7%

6.7%

9.7%

12.5%

11.9%

20.0%

12.9%

22.9%

16.1%

17.4%

8.9%

11.7%

–

145

46

189

(6)

3

(40)

(37)

1,934

1,577

242

17,755

14

3,079

(565)

2,514

(37)

2,504

–

–

–

–

10

8.9%

17.3%

12.1%

16

10

10

12

2

13

2

16

12

9

–

6

3

26

26

15

71

107

(1)  Excludes investment income related to unit-linked contracts.

(2)  Excludes corresponding changes in insurance and investment contract liabilities from investment experience for unit-linked contracts and participating 
funds and investment income and investment management expenses related to unit-linked contracts. It also excludes policyholders’ share of tax relating 
to the change in insurance and investment contract liabilities.

(3)  Excludes investment management expenses related to unit-linked contracts.

138

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
8. seGmenT InformaTIon (continued)
Operating profit before tax may be reconciled to net profit as follows:

US$m

Year ended 30 November 2013

Operating profit before tax

Non-operating items

Profit before tax

Hong 
Kong

839

167

1,006

690

169

859

Tax on operating profit before tax

(65)

(164)

Policyholders’ tax on operating 
  profit before tax

Non-operating tax expense

Tax expense

Net profit/(loss)

Net profit/(loss) attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group 

  Limited

  Non-controlling interests

–

(10)

(75)

931

927

4

–

(80)

(244)

615

615

–

Allocated equity may be analysed as follows:

Thailand Singapore Malaysia

China

Korea

Other
 Markets

Group
 Corporate 
Centre

454

(56)

398

(58)

(41)

43

(56)

342

342

–

322

(27)

295

(72)

(25)

46

(51)

244

244

–

235

50

285

(30)

–

(12)

(42)

243

243

–

198

18

216

(48)

–

(5)

(53)

163

163

–

Total

3,079

459

3,538

3

16

19

(40)

(565)

–

(10)

(50)

(31)

(70)

(56)

(691)

2,847

338

122

460

(88)

(4)

(28)

(120)

340

319

21

(31)

2,822

–

25

US$m

30 November 2013

Assets before investments in 
  associates and joint venture

Investments in associates and 

joint venture

Total assets

Total liabilities(4)

Total equity

Hong 
Kong

Thailand(4) Singapore Malaysia

China

Korea

Other
Markets(4)

Group
Corporate

Centre(4)

Total

34,260

24,026

27,547

15,774

11,728

12,631

14,352

6,174

146,492

–

–

1

7

–

–

81

4

93

34,260

24,026

27,548

15,781

11,728

12,631

14,433

6,178

146,585

29,282

19,419

25,314

13,269

10,601

10,676

10,942

2,251

121,754

4,978

4,607

2,234

2,512

1,127

1,955

3,491

123

3,927

24,831

–

145

Non-controlling interests

13

–

–

9

–

–

Amounts reflected in other 
  comprehensive income:

  Fair value reserve

1,076

326

119

(8)

(378)

229

1,112

(206)

2,270

  Foreign currency translation 

  reserve

Allocated equity

–

3,889

245

4,036

323

1,792

Net capital (out)/in flows

(839)

(700)

(222)

Total assets include:

17

2,494

1,636

158

1,347

101

(27)

(85)

26

657

1,753

(27)

2,341

183

4,107

21,759

(748)

(616)

Additions to non-current assets(5)

338

17

27

1,170

19

8

83

27

1,689

Notes:

(4)  Group Corporate Centre segment, Thailand segment and Other Markets segment adjusted for intercompany debt provided to Thailand segment and 

Other Markets segment of US$13m and US$25m, respectively.

(5)  The non-current assets comprise intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, investment property and operating leases of leasehold land.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

139

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
8. seGmenT InformaTIon (continued)
Segment information may be reconciled to the consolidated income statement as shown below:

US$m

Segment
information

Investment
experience

Investment
income
related to
unit-linked
contracts

Investment
management
expenses
related to
unit-linked
contracts

Other
non-
operating
items

Unit-linked
contracts

Participating
funds

Third-party
interests in
consolidated
investment
funds

Consolidated
income
statement

Related changes in
insurance and investment
contract benefits

Year ended 30 November 2013

Total revenue

20,820

903

203

–

Of which:

  Net premiums, fee
income and other
  operating revenue

Investment return

Total expenses

Of which:

  Net insurance and 
investment 

15,862

4,958

17,755

–

903

–

–

203

–

  contract benefits

14,002

  Restructuring 
  and other 
  non-operating 
  costs

Investment 
  management 
  expenses and 
finance costs

  Change in third-party 

interests in 
  consolidated 

investment funds

Share of profit from 
  associates 
  and joint venture

Operating profit 
  before tax

–

242

–

14

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

89

–

–

89

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

21,926

Total revenue

Of which:

Net premiums, fee
income and other
  operating revenue

15,862

6,064

Investment return

–

–

(16)

861

(306)

19

18,402

Total expenses

(70)

861

(306)

–

14,487

Of which:

Net insurance
  and investment
  contract benefits

Restructuring
  and other
  non-operating costs

Investment
  management
  expenses and
finance costs

Change in third-party

interests in
  consolidated

–

–

54

331

19

19

investment funds

Share of profit from
  associates
  and joint venture

–

14

54

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3,079

903

203

(89)

16

(861)

306

(19)

3,538

Profit before tax

Other non-operating items in 2013 consist of restructuring and other non-operating costs of US$54m (see note 10).

140

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
8. seGmenT InformaTIon (continued)

Total expenses

3,021

3,466

2,279

US$m

Year ended 30 November 2012

ANP

TWPI

Net premiums, fee income and 
  other operating revenue 

(net of reinsurance ceded)

Investment income(1)

Total revenue

Net insurance and investment 
  contract benefits(2)

Commission and other acquisition 
  expenses

Operating expenses

Investment management 
  expenses and finance costs(3)

Share of profit/(loss) from 
  associates

Operating profit before tax(4)

Tax on operating profit before tax

Operating profit/(loss) after tax(4)

Operating profit/(loss) after tax 
  attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group 

  Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Key operating ratios:

Expense ratio

Operating margin

Operating return on allocated
  equity

Operating profit before tax 

includes:

Finance costs

Depreciation and amortisation

Notes:

Hong
Kong

Thailand Singapore Malaysia

China

Korea

Other
Markets

Group
Corporate
Centre

604

3,372

532

3,119

339

2,035

151

964

215

1,446

237

1,942

618

2,482

2,818

999

3,817

3,205

885

4,090

1,967

718

2,685

855

292

1,147

1,352

364

1,716

1,443

355

1,798

1,539

522

2,061

–

–

2

142

144

Total

2,696

15,360

13,181

4,277

17,458

2,476

2,808

1,930

778

1,217

1,304

1,184

(1)

11,696

299

212

34

451

173

34

196

139

14

–

796

(60)

736

(1)

623

(152)

471

–

406

(61)

345

88

81

6

953

–

194

(45)

149

127

180

12

199

127

4

281

299

31

1,536

1,634

1,795

–

180

(29)

151

–

164

(39)

125

17

283

(69)

214

732

4

471

–

345

–

150

(1)

151

–

125

–

207

7

6.3%

5.5%

6.8%

8.4%

23.6%

20.0%

20.0%

20.1%

12.4%

12.4%

6.5%

8.4%

12.0%

11.4%

18.9%

12.2%

23.6%

25.4%

16.7%

8.0%

12.3%

–

129

11

139

–

5

(27)

(22)

1,641

1,340

146

14,823

16

2,651

(482)

2,169

(22)

2,159

–

–

–

–

10

8.7%

17.3%

11.8%

6

9

3

9

2

12

1

8

7

10

–

6

3

21

(3)

13

19

88

(1)  Excludes investment income related to unit-linked contracts.

(2)  Excludes corresponding changes in insurance and investment contract liabilities from investment experience for unit-linked contracts and participating 
funds and investment income and investment management expenses related to unit-linked contracts. It also excludes policyholders’ share of tax relating 
to the change in insurance and investment contract liabilities.

(3)  Excludes investment management expenses related to unit-linked contracts.

(4)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made from Group Corporate Centre segment to key segments to conform to current year presentation. 
For the year ended 30 November 2012, operating profit before and after tax of Thailand segment have been increased by US$19m, Singapore segment 
have been increased by US$13m, Malaysia segment have been increased by US$8m and Group Corporate Centre segment have been decreased by 
US$40m. The reclassification has no impact to the operating profit before and after tax, allocated equity and net capital outflow of the Group for the year 
ended 30 November 2012.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

141

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
Thailand Singapore Malaysia

China

Korea

Other
Markets

Group
Corporate
Centre

8. seGmenT InformaTIon (continued)
Operating profit before tax may be reconciled to net profit/(loss) as follows:

Tax on operating profit before tax

(60)

(152)

US$m

Year ended 30 November 2012

Operating profit before tax

Non-operating items

Profit before tax

Policyholders’ tax on operating 
  profit before tax

Non-operating tax expense

Tax expense

Net profit/(loss)

Net profit/(loss) attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group 

  Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Hong
Kong

796

215

623

656

1,011

1,279

–

–

(60)

951

–

(91)

(243)

1,036

406

167

573

(61)

(29)

(36)

(126)

447

947

4

1,036

–

447

–

Allocated equity may be analysed as follows:

194

19

213

(45)

(14)

(12)

(71)

142

143

(1)

180

(70)

110

(29)

–

17

(12)

98

98

–

164

4

168

(39)

–

(17)

(56)

112

112

–

283

59

342

(69)

(4)

(12)

(85)

257

250

7

US$m

30 November 2012

Assets before investments in 
  associates

Investments in associates

Total assets

Total liabilities(5)

Total equity(6)

Non-controlling interests

Amounts reflected in other 
  comprehensive income:

Hong
Kong

Thailand(5) Singapore Malaysia

China

Korea

Other
Markets(5)

Group
Corporate

Centre(5)

Total

32,869

24,216

27,247

8,597

10,587

11,615

13,598

5,619

134,348

–

32,869

26,121

6,748

11

–

24,216

18,834

5,382

–

1

27,248

24,724

2,524

–

8

8,605

7,844

761

9

–

–

10,587

11,615

9,511

1,076

–

9,539

2,076

–

82

13,680

10,315

3,365

107

  Fair value reserve

2,936

798

463

42

(59)

524

1,274

  Foreign currency translation 

  reserve

Allocated equity

Net capital (out)/in flows

Total assets include:

–

3,801

(1,104)

463

4,121

(503)

389

1,672

(23)

96

614

(98)

132

1,003

100

Additions to non-current assets(7)

176

16

20

15

10

(65)

1,617

145

1,839

–

11

45

28

Notes:

(5)  Group Corporate Centre segment, Thailand segment and Other Markets segment adjusted for intercompany debt provided to Thailand segment and 

Other Markets segment of US$13m and US$29m, respectively.

(6)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made from Group Corporate Centre segment to key segments to conform to current year presentation. 
As at 30 November 2012, total equity of Thailand segment has been increased by US$19m, Singapore segment has been increased by US$13m, Malaysia 
segment has been increased by US$8m, and Group Corporate Centre segment has been decreased by US$40m. The reclassification has no impact to 
the total equity, allocated equity and net capital outflow of the Group as of 30 November 2012.

(7)  The non-current assets comprise intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, investment property and operating leases of leasehold land.

142

AIA GROUP LIMITED

Total

2,651

1,063

3,714

5

13

18

(27)

(482)

–

(5)

(32)

(14)

(47)

(156)

(685)

3,029

(14)

–

3,019

10

–

91

5,619

134,439

723

107,611

4,896

26,828

4

1

5

4,886

1,011

131

5,979

1,165

19,553

(572)

164

440

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
8. seGmenT InformaTIon (continued)
Segment information may be reconciled to the consolidated income statement as shown below:

US$m

Segment
information

Investment
experience

Investment
income
related to
unit-linked
contracts

Investment
management
expenses
related to
unit-linked
contracts

Other
non-
operating
items

Unit-linked
contracts

Participating
funds

Third-party
interests in
consolidated
investment
funds

Consolidated
income
statement

Related changes in
insurance and investment
contract benefits

Year ended 30 November 2012

Total revenue

17,458

2,743

186

–

–

(47)

1,147

578

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,147

578

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,743

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

186

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

86

–

–

–

–

53

80

86

20

–

–

–

–

–

20,387

Total revenue

Of which:

Net premiums, fee 
income and other 
  operating revenue

13,181

7,206

Investment return

16,689

Total expenses

Of which:

Net insurance and 

investment contract 

13,374

  benefits

Restructuring
  and other 
  non-operating costs

Investment 
  management 
  expenses and
finance costs

Change in 

third-party interests 
in consolidated 
investment funds

80

252

2

Share of profit 

16

from associates

–

–

2

–

–

–

2

–

Of which:

Net premiums, fee 
income and other 
  operating revenue

Investment return

Total expenses

Of which:

13,181

4,277

14,823

Net insurance and 

investment contract 

  benefits

11,696

Restructuring 
  and other 
  non-operating costs

Investment 
  management 
  expenses and
finance costs

Change in

third-party interests 
in consolidated 
investment funds

Share of profit 

from associates

Operating profit 
  before tax

–

146

–

16

2,651

2,743

186

(86)

(53)

(1,147)

(578)

(2)

3,714

Profit before tax

Other non-operating items in 2012 consist of restructuring and other non-operating costs of US$80m (see note 10).

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

143

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9. revenue
Investment return

US$m

Interest income

Dividend income

Rental income

Investment income

Available for sale

Net realised gains from debt securities

Net gains of available for sale financial assets reflected in the consolidated income statement

At fair value through profit or loss

Net gains/(losses) of financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss

Net (losses)/gains of debt securities

Net gains of equity securities

Net gains/(losses) of financial instruments held for trading

Net gains of debt investments

Net fair value movement on derivatives

Net gains in respect of financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss

Net foreign exchange gains/(losses)

Other net realised gains/(losses)

Investment experience

Investment return

Investment income

US$m

Income from listed investments

Income from unlisted investments

Total

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

4,539

506

115

5,160

25

25

(903)

1,623

1

(81)

640

167

72

904

6,064

3,957

409

97

4,463

50

50

579

2,328

1

140

3,048

(287)

(68)

2,743

7,206

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

3,248

1,912

5,160

2,867

1,596

4,463

Other net realised gains/(losses) include impairment of intangible assets of US$nil (2012: US$62m) and gains on disposal of 
properties of US$114m (2012: US$nil).

Foreign currency movements resulted in the following gains/(losses) recognised in the consolidated income statement (other than 
gains and losses arising on items measured at fair value through profit or loss):

US$m

Foreign exchange gains/(losses)

other operating revenue
The balance of other operating revenue largely consists of asset management fees.

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

94

(55)

144

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies10. expenses

US$m

Insurance contract benefits

Change in insurance contract liabilities

Investment contract benefits

Insurance and investment contract benefits

Insurance and investment contract benefits ceded

Insurance and investment contract benefits, net of reinsurance ceded

Commission and other acquisition expenses incurred

Deferral and amortisation of acquisition costs

Commission and other acquisition expenses

Employee benefit expenses

Depreciation

Amortisation

Operating lease rentals

Other operating expenses

Operating expenses

Investment management expenses and others

Restructuring and other non-operating costs(1)

Change in third-party interests in consolidated investment funds

Other expenses

Finance costs

Total

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

9,067

5,935

301

15,303

(816)

14,487

3,357

(1,423)

1,934

1,018

70

27

103

359

1,577

260

54

19

333

71

7,879

5,658

540

14,077

(703)

13,374

2,840

(1,199)

1,641

858

64

24

99

295

1,340

233

80

2

315

19

18,402

16,689

Other operating expenses include auditors’ remuneration of US$13m (2012: US$14m).

Note:

(1)  Restructuring costs represent costs related to restructuring programmes and are primarily comprised of redundancy and contract termination costs. 

Other non-operating costs primarily consist of acquisition-related and integration expenses.

Investment management expenses and others may be analysed as:

US$m

Investment management expenses

Depreciation on investment property

Total

Finance costs may be analysed as:

US$m

Securities lending and repurchase agreements (see note 31 for details)

Bank and other loans

Total

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

244

16

260

224

9

233

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

30

41

71

14

5

19

Finance costs include interest expense of US$29m (2012: US$5m) on bank loans, overdrafts and other loans wholly repayable 
within five years and US$12m (2012: US$nil) on bank loans, overdrafts and other loans not wholly repayable within five years.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

145

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION10. expenses (continued)
Employee benefit expenses consist of:

US$m

Wages and salaries

Share-based compensation

Pension costs – defined contribution plans

Pension costs – defined benefit plans

Other employee benefit expenses

Total

11. InCome Tax

US$m

Tax charged in the consolidated income statement

Current income tax – Hong Kong Profits Tax

Current income tax – overseas

Deferred income tax on temporary differences

Total

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

813

75

54

15

61

1,018

682

45

46

16

69

858

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

67

311

313

691

54

479

152

685

The tax benefit or expense attributable to Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Sri Lanka and the Philippines life 
insurance policyholder returns is included in the tax charge or credit and is analysed separately in the consolidated income 
statement in order to permit comparison of the underlying effective rate of tax attributable to shareholders from year to year. The 
tax attributable to policyholders’ returns included above is US$47m (2012: US$104m).

The provision for Hong Kong Profits Tax is calculated at 16.5 per cent. Taxation for overseas subsidiaries and branches is charged 
at the appropriate current rates of taxation ruling in the relevant jurisdictions of which the most significant jurisdictions are outlined 
below.

Thailand

Singapore

Korea

Malaysia

China

Hong Kong

Others

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

20%

17%

24.2%

25%

25%

16.5%

23%

17%

24.2%

25%

25%

16.5%

12% – 30%

12% – 30%

The table above reflects the principal rate of corporate income taxes, as at the end of each year. The rate changes reflect changes 
to the enacted or substantively enacted corporate tax rates throughout the year in each jurisdiction. For Thailand, the corporate 
income tax rate is assumed to be 20 per cent in assessment year 2014 and 30 per cent from assessment year 2015 onward.

During the year, Malaysia and Vietnam announced changes in corporate income tax rates. The corporate income tax rate for 
Malaysia will reduce to 24 per cent from assessment year 2016 onward. This resulted in a reduction of deferred tax liabilities of 
US$10m, of which US$9m is recognised as a non-operating item and US$1m is recognised in other comprehensive income.

146

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies11. InCome Tax (continued)
For Vietnam, the corporate income tax rate will reduce to 22 per cent for the assessment years 2014 and 2015 and 20 per cent 
from assessment year 2016 onward. This resulted in a reduction of deferred tax liabilities of US$1m, which is recognised as a non-
operating item.

US$m

Income tax reconciliation

Profit before income tax

Tax calculated at domestic tax rates applicable to profits/(losses) in the respective jurisdictions

Reduction in tax payable from:

  Life insurance tax(1)

  Exempt investment income

  Amount over-provided in prior years

  Changes in tax rate and law

  Others

Increase in tax payable from:

  Life insurance tax(1)

  Withholding taxes

  Disallowed expenses

  Amounts under-provided in prior years

  Unrecognised deferred tax assets

  Provisions for uncertain tax positions

  Others

Total income tax expense

Note:

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

3,538

671

(25)

(76)

–

(10)

–

(111)

–

37

27

1

10

7

49

131

691

3,714

720

–

(66)

(6)

(56)

(93)

(221)

35

31

18

–

40

62

–

186

685

(1)  Life insurance tax refers to the permanent differences which arise where the tax regime specific to the life insurance business does not adopt net income 

as the basis for calculating taxable profit, for example Hong Kong, where life business taxable profit is derived from life premiums.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

147

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION11. InCome Tax (continued)
The movement in net deferred tax liabilities in the period may be analysed as set out below:

Credited/(charged) to other
comprehensive income

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
1 December 

Acquisition of

subsidiaries(3)

Credited/
(charged) to
the income
statement

Fair value

reserve(2)

Foreign
exchange

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) 
at year end

(1,210)

(2,099)

1,678

(115)

119

25

(517)

(105)

(2,224)

(924)

(1,836)

1,495

(95)

99

6

(441)

(110)

(1,806)

(21)

(3)

–

–

3

–

(97)

–

(118)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

57

(277)

(37)

(37)

10

(10)

10

(29)

(313)

(73)

(209)

146

(15)

18

19

(48)

10

(152)

557

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

557

(208)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(208)

24

83

(73)

13

(3)

–

25

(1)

68

(5)

(54)

37

(5)

2

–

(28)

(5)

(58)

(593)

(2,296)

1,568

(139)

129

15

(579)

(135)

(2,030)

(1,210)

(2,099)

1,678

(115)

119

25

(517)

(105)

(2,224)

US$m

30 November 2013

Revaluation of financial 

instruments

Deferred acquisition costs

Insurance and investment 
  contract liabilities

Withholding taxes

Provision for expenses

Losses available for offset 
  against future taxable 

income

Life surplus (1)

Others

Total

30 November 2012

Revaluation of financial 

instruments

Deferred acquisition costs

Insurance and investment 
  contract liabilities

Withholding taxes

Provision for expenses

Losses available for offset 
  against future taxable 

income

Life surplus (1)

Others

Total

Notes:

(1)  Life surplus relates to the temporary difference which arises where the taxable profits are based on actual distributions from the long-term fund. This 

primarily relates to Singapore and Malaysia.

(2)  Of the fair value reserve deferred tax (credit)/charge of US$(557)m (2012: US$208m) for 2013, US$(555)m (2012: US$211m) relates to fair value gains 
and losses on available for sale financial assets and US$(2)m (2012: US$(3)m) relates to fair value gains and losses on available for sale financial assets 
transferred to income on disposal.

(3)  The amount of US$118m represents a one-time adjustment in respect of the acquisition of ING Malaysia and ANI.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that sufficient future taxable profits will be available for realisation. The Group 
has not recognised deferred tax assets on tax losses and the temporary difference on insurance and investment contract liabilities 
arising from different accounting and statutory/tax reserving methodology for certain branches and subsidiaries on the basis that 
they have histories of tax losses and there is insufficient evidence that future profits will be available.

148

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
11. InCome Tax (continued)
Temporary differences not recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position are:

US$m

Tax losses

Insurance and investment contract liabilities

Total

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

105

21

126

100

32

132

The Group has not provided deferred tax liabilities of US$47m (2012: US$51m) in respect of unremitted earnings of operations 
in two jurisdictions from which a withholding tax charge would be incurred upon distribution as the Group does not consider it 
probable that this portion of accumulated earnings will be remitted in the foreseeable future.

The Group has unused income tax losses carried forward in Hong Kong, Malaysia, New Zealand, Macau, the Philippines, Thailand, 
Korea and Taiwan. The tax losses of Hong Kong, Malaysia and New Zealand can be carried forward indefinitely. The tax losses of the 
remaining branches and subsidiaries are due to expire within the periods ending 2016 (Macau and the Philippines), 2018 (Thailand), 
and 2023 (Korea and Taiwan).

12. earnInGs per share
Basic
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net profit attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited by the weighted 
average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. The shares held by employee share-based trusts are not considered to 
be outstanding from the date of the purchase for purposes of computing basic and diluted earnings per share.

Net profit attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited (US$m)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (million)

Basic earnings per share (US cents per share)

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

2,822

11,974

23.57

3,019

11,997

25.16

diluted
Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume 
conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. As of 30 November 2013 and 2012, the Group has potentially dilutive instruments 
which are the share options, restricted share units, restricted stock purchase units and restricted stock subscription units granted 
to eligible employees, directors, officers and agents under various share-based compensation plans as described in note 39.

Net profit attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited (US$m)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (million)

Adjustment for restricted share units, restricted stock purchase units and restricted stock 
  subscription units granted under share-based compensation plans

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share (million)

Diluted earnings per share (US cents per share)

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

2,822

11,974

32

12,006

23.50

3,019

11,997

11

12,008

25.14

At 30 November 2013, 6,919,294 share options (2012: 28,171,257) were excluded from the diluted weighted average number of 
ordinary shares calculation as their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

149

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION12. earnInGs per share (continued)
operating profit after tax per share
Operating profit after tax (see note 6) per share is calculated by dividing the operating profit after tax attributable to shareholders of 
AIA Group Limited by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. As of 30 November 2013 and 2012, 
the Group has potentially dilutive instruments which are the share options, restricted share units, restricted stock purchase units 
and restricted stock subscription units granted to eligible employees, directors, officers and agents under various share-based 
compensation plans as described in note 39.

Basic (US cents per share)

Diluted (US cents per share)

13. dIvIdends
Dividends to shareholders of the Company attributable to the year:

US$m

Interim dividend declared and paid of 13.93 Hong Kong cents per share 

(2012: 12.33 Hong Kong cents per share)

Final dividend proposed after the reporting date of 28.62 Hong Kong cents per share 

(2012: 24.67 Hong Kong cents per share)(1)

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

20.91

20.86

18.00

17.98

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

215

442

657

191

382

573

Note:

(1)  Based upon shares outstanding at 30 November 2013 and 2012 that are entitled to a dividend, other than those held by employee share-based trusts.

The above final dividend was proposed by the Board on 21 February 2014 subject to shareholders’ approval at the AGM to be held 
on 9 May 2014. The proposed final dividend has not been recognised as a liability at the reporting date.

Dividends to shareholders of the Company attributable to the previous financial year, approved and paid during the year:

US$m

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

Final dividend in respect of the previous financial year, approved and paid during the year 
  of 24.67 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 22.00 Hong Kong cents per share)

380

339

150

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
14. InTanGIBle asseTs

US$m

Cost

At 1 December 2011

  Additions

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2012

  Additions

  Acquisition of subsidiaries

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2013

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

At 1 December 2011

  Amortisation charge for the year

Impairment

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2012

  Amortisation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2013

Net book value

At 30 November 2012

At 30 November 2013

Goodwill

Computer
software

Distribution
and other
rights

126

–

–

–

126

–

1,009

–

–

1,135

(6)

–

–

–

–

(6)

–

–

–

(6)

120

1,129

193

67

(4)

7

263

33

3

(1)

(9)

289

(84)

(22)

(57)

3

(3)

(163)

(26)

1

7

(181)

100

108

54

10

–

2

66

2

48

(5)

(7)

104

(7)

(2)

(5)

–

–

(14)

(11)

5

–

(20)

52

84

Total

373

77

(4)

9

455

35

1,060

(6)

(16)

1,528

(97)

(24)

(62)

3

(3)

(183)

(37)

6

7

(207)

272

1,321

Of the above, US$1,284m (2012: US$248m) is expected to be recovered more than 12 months after the end of the reporting period.

Impairment tests for goodwill
Goodwill arises primarily in respect of the Group’s insurance business in Malaysia. Goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing 
the carrying amount of the cash generating unit, including goodwill, to the recoverable amount of that cash generating unit. If the 
recoverable amount of the unit exceeds the carrying amount of the unit, the goodwill allocated to that unit shall be regarded as 
not impaired. The recoverable amount is the value in use of the cash generating unit unless otherwise stated. The value in use is 
determined by calculating the present value of expected future cash flows plus a multiple of the present value of the new business 
generated.

Value in use is calculated as an actuarially determined appraisal value, based on the embedded value of the business and the value 
from future new business.

The key assumptions used in the embedded value calculations include investment returns, mortality, morbidity, persistency, 
expenses, and inflation. The value from future new business is calculated based on a combination of indicators which include, 
among others, a multiple of the projected one-year value of new business (VONB), taking into account recent production mix, 
business strategy and market trends. The Group may apply alternative method to estimate the value of future new business if the 
described method is not appropriate under the circumstances.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

151

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
15. InvesTmenTs In assoCIaTes and joInT venTure

US$m

Group

At beginning of financial year

Additions

Distribution from associates

Share of net profit

Others

Foreign exchange movements

At end of financial year

The Group’s interest in its principal associates and joint venture is as follows:

Tata AIA Life Insurance
  Company Limited

Place of

Principal

incorporation

activity

India

Insurance

Type of

shares held

– Ordinary

AIA Vitality Company Limited(1)

Hong Kong

Development of wellness 
  programmes

– Ordinary
– Preference

Note:

(1)  The economic interest is 35%.

All associates and joint venture are unlisted.

Aggregated financial information of associates and joint venture

US$m

Share of income

Share of expenses

Share of net profit

US$m

Share of total assets

Share of total liabilities

Share of net assets

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

91

30

(1)

14

(31)

(10)

93

61

–

(4)

16

19

(1)

91

Group’s interest %

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

26%

50%
100%

26%

100%
–

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

157

(143)

14

144

(128)

16

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

843

(750)

93

854

(763)

91

Investments in associates and joint venture are held for their long-term contribution to the Group’s performance and so all 
amounts are expected to be realised more than 12 months after the end of the reporting period. The amount due from joint venture 
amounted to US$3m (2012: US$nil) is unsecured, non-interest bearing which is expected to be settled within one year.

152

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies16. properTy, planT and equIpmenT

US$m

Cost

At 1 December 2011

  Additions

  Disposals

  Net transfers to investment property

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2012

  Additions

  Acquisition of subsidiaries

  Disposals

  Net transfers from investment property

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2013

Accumulated depreciation

At 1 December 2011

  Depreciation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Net transfers to investment property

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2012

  Depreciation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Net transfers from investment property

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2013

Net book value

At 30 November 2012

At 30 November 2013

Property
held for use

Computer
hardware

Fixtures and
fittings and
others

438

25

(12)

(12)

18

457

13

33

(28)

35

(17)

493

(186)

(14)

7

7

(9)

(195)

(15)

15

(2)

7

(190)

262

303

190

25

(14)

–

6

207

29

4

(17)

–

(7)

216

(149)

(20)

11

–

(6)

(164)

(23)

10

–

6

298

76

(57)

–

8

325

59

1

(32)

–

(4)

349

(232)

(30)

50

–

(6)

(218)

(32)

30

–

3

(171)

(217)

43

45

107

132

Total

926

126

(83)

(12)

32

989

101

38

(77)

35

(28)

1,058

(567)

(64)

68

7

(21)

(577)

(70)

55

(2)

16

(578)

412

480

The Group holds freehold land outside Hong Kong and leasehold land under finance lease in the form of property, plant and 
equipment. An analysis of the carrying value of the Group’s interest in those land and land use rights is set out in note 24.

The Group holds property, plant and equipment for its long-term use and, accordingly, the annual depreciation charge approximates 
to the amount expected to be recovered through consumption within 12 months after the end of the reporting period.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

153

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION17. InvesTmenT properTy

US$m

Cost

At 1 December 2011

  Additions

  Disposals

  Net transfers from property, plant and equipment

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2012

  Additions

  Acquisition of subsidiaries

  Disposals

  Net transfers to property, plant and equipment

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2013

Accumulated depreciation

At 1 December 2011

  Charge for the year

  Disposals

  Net transfers from property, plant and equipment

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2012

  Charge for the year

  Disposals

  Net transfers to property, plant and equipment

  Foreign exchange movements

At 30 November 2013

Net book value

At 30 November 2012

At 30 November 2013

942

133

(1)

12

14

1,100

42

115

(3)

(35)

(18)

1,201

(46)

(9)

–

(7)

(3)

(65)

(16)

2

2

4

(73)

1,035

1,128

The Group holds investment property for long-term use, and so the annual amortisation charge approximates to the amount 
expected to be recovered within 12 months after the reporting period.

The Group leases out its investment property under operating leases. The leases typically run for an initial period of one to twelve 
years, with an option to renew the lease based on future negotiations. Lease payments are usually negotiated every one to three 
years to reflect market rentals. There were no material contingent rentals earned as income for the year. Rental income generated 
from investment properties amounted to US$115m (2012: US$97m). Direct operating expenses (including repair and maintenance) 
on investment property that generates rental income amounted to US$25m (2012: US$15m).

The Group owns investment property in the form of freehold land outside Hong Kong and leasehold land under finance lease. The 
Group does not hold freehold land in Hong Kong. An analysis of the carrying value of the Group’s interest in those land and land use 
right is set out in note 24.

154

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies17. InvesTmenT properTy (continued)
The future minimum operating lease rental income under non-cancellable operating leases that the Group expects to receive in 
future periods may be analysed as follows:

US$m

Leases of investment property

Expiring no later than one year

Expiring later than one year and no later than five years

Expiring after five years or more

Total

18. faIr value of InvesTmenT properTy and properTy held for use

US$m

Carrying value(1)

Investment property

Property held for use (classified as property, plant and equipment)

Leasehold land under operating lease (classified as prepayments in other assets)

Total

Fair value(1)

Investment property (including land)

Property held for use (including land)

Total

Note:

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

86

100

5

191

78

78

2

158

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

1,128

303

453

1,884

3,180

1,388

4,568

1,035

262

168

1,465

2,773

1,153

3,926

(1)  Carrying and fair values are presented before non-controlling interests and, for assets held in participating funds, before allocation to policyholders.

19. reInsuranCe asseTs

US$m

Amounts recoverable from reinsurers

Ceded insurance and investment contract liabilities

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

141

1,238

1,379

95

1,058

1,153

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

155

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION20. deferred aCquIsITIon and orIGInaTIon CosTs

US$m

Carrying amount

Deferred acquisition costs on insurance contracts

Deferred origination costs on investment contracts

Value of business acquired

Total

US$m

Movements in the year

At beginning of financial year

Deferral and amortisation of acquisition and origination costs

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Foreign exchange movements

Impact of assumption changes

Other movements

At end of financial year

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

14,836

13,465

603

299

677

19

15,738

14,161

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

14,161

1,432

322

(414)

(9)

246

12,818

1,210

–

356

(11)

(212)

15,738

14,161

Deferred acquisition and origination costs are expected to be recoverable over the mean term of the Group’s insurance and 
investment contracts, and liability adequacy testing is performed at least annually to confirm their recoverability. Accordingly, 
the annual amortisation charge, which varies with investment performance for certain universal life and unit-linked products, 
approximates to the amount which is expected to be realised within 12 months of the end of the reporting period.

21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs
The following tables analyse the Group’s financial investments by type and nature. The Group manages its financial investments in 
two distinct categories: Unit-linked Investments and Policyholder and Shareholder Investments. The investment risk in respect of 
Unit-linked Investments is generally wholly borne by our customers, and does not directly affect the profit for the year before tax. 
Furthermore, unit-linked contract holders are responsible for allocation of their policy values amongst investment options offered 
by the Group. Although profit for the year before tax is not affected by Unit-linked Investments, the investment return from such 
financial investments is included in the Group’s profit for the year before tax, as the Group has elected the fair value option for all 
Unit-linked Investments with corresponding changes in insurance and investment contract liabilities for unit-linked contracts. 
Policyholder and Shareholder Investments include all financial investments other than Unit-linked Investments. The investment 
risk in respect of Policyholder and Shareholder Investments is partially or wholly borne by the Group.

Policyholder and Shareholder Investments are further categorised as Participating Funds and Other Policyholder and Shareholder. 
The Group has elected to separately analyse financial investments held by Participating Funds within Policyholder and Shareholder 
Investments as they are subject to local regulations that generally prescribe a minimum proportion of policyholder participation in 
declared dividends. The Group has elected the fair value option for debt and equity securities of Participating Funds. The Group’s 
accounting policy is to record an insurance liability for the proportion of net assets of the Participating Fund that would be allocated 
to policyholders assuming all performance would be declared as a dividend based upon local regulations as at the date of the 
statement of financial position. As a result the Group’s net profit for the year before tax is impacted by the proportion of investment 
return that would be allocated to shareholders as described above.

156

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
Other Policyholder and Shareholder Investments are distinct from Unit-linked Investments and Participating Funds as there is no 
direct contractual or regulatory requirement governing the amount, if any, for allocation to policyholders. The Group has elected 
to apply the fair value option for equity securities in this category and the available for sale classification in respect of the majority 
of debt securities in this category. The investment risk from investments in this category directly impacts the Group’s financial 
statements. Although a proportion of investment return may be allocated to policyholders through policyholder dividends, the 
Group’s accounting policy for insurance and certain investment contract liabilities utilises a net level premium methodology that 
includes best estimates as at the date of issue for non-guaranteed participation. To the extent investment return from these 
investments either is not allocated to participating contracts or varies from the best estimates, it will impact the Group’s profit 
before tax.

In the following tables, “FVTPL” indicates financial investments classified at fair value through profit or loss and “AFS” indicates 
financial investments classified as available for sale.

debt securities
In compiling the tables, external ratings have been used where available. Where external ratings are not readily available an 
internal rating methodology has been adopted. The following conventions have been adopted to conform the various ratings.

External ratings

Standard and Poor’s

Moody’s

Internal ratings

Reported as

AAA

AA+ to AA-

A+ to A-

BBB+ to BBB-

BB+ and below

Aaa

Aa1 to Aa3

A1 to A3

Baa1 to Baa3

Ba1 and below

1

2+ to 2-

3+ to 3-

4+ to 4-

AAA

AA

A

BBB

5+ and below

Below investment grade(1)

Note:

(1)  Unless otherwise identified individually.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

157

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
debt securities (continued)
Debt securities by type comprise the following:

US$m

Rating

FVTPL

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

Total

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating 
funds

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Unit-linked

30 November 2013

Government bonds 
  – issued in local currency

Singapore

Thailand

Philippines

Malaysia

China

Indonesia

Korea

Other(1)

Subtotal

Government bonds 
  – foreign currency

Mexico

South Africa

Philippines

Malaysia

Indonesia

Korea

China

Other(1)

Subtotal

Government agency bonds(2)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Notes:

AAA

A

BBB

A

AA

BB

AA

BBB

BBB

BBB

A

BB

A

AA

1,694

–

–

2,288

390

2

–

13

4,387

7

–

–

75

71

17

–

20

190

1,112

486

574

275

17

–

2,464

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

5

5

12

8

16

–

8

–

–

134

178

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,305

10,217

3,016

674

2,072

555

3,189

552

2,999

10,217

3,016

2,962

2,462

557

3,189

570

21,580

25,972

171

131

409

98

296

219

15

504

190

139

425

173

375

236

15

658

1,843

2,211

914

1,597

4,597

1,247

148

–

2,026

2,083

5,171

1,522

165

–

281

–

57

5

10

99

154

4

610

–

–

81

2

4

8

1

15

111

120

57

22

10

2

2

3,280

10,217

3,073

2,967

2,472

656

3,343

574

26,582

190

139

506

175

379

244

16

673

2,322

2,146

2,140

5,193

1,532

167

2

8,503

10,967

213

11,180

(1)  Of the total government bonds listed as “Other” at 30 November 2013, 78 per cent are rated as investment grade and a further 10 per cent are rated BB- 

and above. The balance is rated below BB- or not rated.

(2)  Government agency bonds comprise bonds issued by government-sponsored institutions such as national, provincial and municipal authorities; 

government-related entities; multilateral development banks and supranational organisations.

158

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
debt securities (continued)

US$m

30 November 2013

Corporate bonds

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Structured securities(3)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Total(4)

Notes:

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating 
funds

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Unit-linked

FVTPL

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

Total

108

806

4,857

4,184

653

64

–

8

190

71

–

10

115

2,799

14,018

12,953

2,050

104

223

3,613

19,065

17,208

2,703

178

5

7

677

348

51

141

228

3,620

19,742

17,556

2,754

319

10,672

279

32,039

42,990

1,229

44,219

–

16

43

328

51

40

478

18,191

–

–

19

–

108

40

167

629

–

15

581

157

–

45

798

64,763

–

31

643

485

159

125

1,443

83,583

–

–

–

3

–

2

5

2,168

–

31

643

488

159

127

1,448

85,751

(3)  Structured securities include collateralised debt obligations, mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities.

(4)  Debt securities of US$2,067m are restricted due to local regulatory requirements or other pledge restrictions.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

159

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
debt securities (continued)

US$m

Rating

FVTPL

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

Total

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating 
funds

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Unit-linked

30 November 2012

Government bonds 
  – issued in local currency

Singapore

Thailand

Philippines

Malaysia

China

Indonesia

Korea

Other(1)

Subtotal

Government bonds 
  – foreign currency

Mexico

South Africa

Philippines

Malaysia

Indonesia

Korea

China

Other(1)

Subtotal

Government agency bonds(2)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Notes:

AAA

1,864

A

BB

A

AA

BB

AA

BBB

BBB

BB

A

BB

A

AA

–

–

1,352

407

2

–

15

3,640

8

–

7

77

68

20

–

51

231

1,238

358

433

111

–

–

2,140

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

10

10

19

5

14

–

18

–

–

135

191

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,230

10,568

2,901

288

2,325

870

3,044

406

3,094

10,568

2,901

1,640

2,732

872

3,044

431

21,632

25,282

203

180

474

105

293

232

18

456

230

185

495

182

379

252

18

642

216

–

43

–

–

145

128

3

535

2

2

115

2

2

4

2

7

3,310

10,568

2,944

1,640

2,732

1,017

3,172

434

25,817

232

187

610

184

381

256

20

649

1,961

2,383

136

2,519

1,000

1,147

4,731

1,313

87

–

2,238

1,505

5,164

1,424

87

–

118

46

24

2

–

–

2,356

1,551

5,188

1,426

87

–

8,278

10,418

190

10,608

(1)  Of the total government bonds listed as “Other” at 30 November 2012, 86 per cent are rated as investment grade and a further 11 per cent are rated BB- 

and above. The balance is rated below BB- or not rated.

(2)  Government agency bonds comprise bonds issued by government-sponsored institutions such as national, provincial and municipal authorities; 

government-related entities; multilateral development banks and supranational organisations.

160

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
debt securities (continued)

US$m

30 November 2012

Corporate bonds

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Structured securities(3)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Total(4)

Notes:

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating
 funds

Other policyholder and
shareholder

Unit-linked

FVTPL

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

Total

80

905

3,810

4,171

455

19

9,440

4

–

43

285

34

36

402

15,853

–

38

224

102

2

14

380

–

–

18

–

73

25

116

697

128

2,583

13,273

12,171

1,349

87

29,591

–

7

657

131

–

11

806

62,268

208

3,526

17,307

16,444

1,806

120

39,411

4

7

718

416

107

72

1,324

78,818

16

117

495

389

48

113

1,178

–

–

–

3

–

2

5

2,044

224

3,643

17,802

16,833

1,854

233

40,589

4

7

718

419

107

74

1,329

80,862

(3)  Structured securities include collateralised debt obligations, mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities.

(4)  Debt securities of US$1,967m are restricted due to local regulatory requirements or other pledge restrictions.

The Group’s debt securities classified at fair value through profit or loss can be analysed as follows:

US$m

Debt securities – FVTPL

Designated at fair value through profit or loss

Held for trading

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

20,944

44

20,988

18,545

49

18,594

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

161

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
equity securities
Equity securities by type comprise the following:

US$m

30 November 2013

Equity shares

Interests in investment funds

Total

US$m

30 November 2012

Equity shares

Interests in investment funds

Total

debt and equity securities

US$m

Debt securities

Listed

  Hong Kong

  Overseas

Unlisted

Total

Equity securities

Listed

  Hong Kong

  Overseas

Unlisted

Total

162

AIA GROUP LIMITED

Policyholder and 
shareholder

Other 
policyholder 
and 
shareholder

Participating 
funds

Unit-linked

Third-party 
interest

FVTPL

FVTPL

Subtotal

FVTPL

FVTPL

Total

3,032

1,537

4,569

5,026

1,289

6,315

8,058

2,826

10,884

3,325

12,333

15,658

–

426

426

11,383

15,585

26,968

Policyholder and 
shareholder

Other 
policyholder 
and 
shareholder

Participating 
funds

Unit-linked

Third-party 
interest

FVTPL

FVTPL

Subtotal

FVTPL

FVTPL

Total

2,246

1,288

3,534

4,708

948

5,656

6,954

2,236

9,190

3,077

11,157

14,234

–

232

232

10,031

13,625

23,656

As at
 30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

5,150

55,122

60,272

25,479

85,751

1,225

11,991

13,216

13,752

26,968

3,345

55,051

58,396

22,466

80,862

815

10,749

11,564

12,092

23,656

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
21. fInanCIal InvesTmenTs (continued)
loans and deposits

US$m

Policy loans

Mortgage loans on residential real estate

Mortgage loans on commercial real estate

Other loans

Allowance for loan losses

Loans

Term deposits

Promissory notes(1)

Total

Note:

(1)  The promissory notes are issued by a government.

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

2,384

1,998

650

15

718

(14)

3,753

2,127

1,604

7,484

433

16

674

(7)

3,114

1,632

1,679

6,425

Certain term deposits with financial institutions and promissory notes are restricted due to local regulatory requirements or other 
pledge restrictions. The restricted balance held within term deposits and promissory notes is US$1,772m (2012: US$1,073m).

Other loans include receivables from reverse repurchase agreements under which the Group does not take physical possession 
of securities purchased under the agreements. Sales or transfers of securities are not permitted by the respective clearing house 
on which they are registered while the loan is outstanding. In the event of default by the counterparty to repay the loan, the Group 
has the right to the underlying securities held by the clearing house. At 30 November 2013, the carrying value of such receivables is 
US$81m.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

163

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONNotional amount

Assets

Liabilities

Fair value

1,329

10,971

364

38

12,702

640

140

5

(369)

4

428

–

1

433

5

7

–

–

(3)

(86)

–

–

(89)

–

–

–

–

13,118

445

(89)

5,038

8,371

26

13,435

666

125

183

(183)

14,226

15

596

–

611

18

9

–

–

638

–

(41)

–

(41)

–

–

–

–

(41)

22. derIvaTIve fInanCIal InsTrumenTs
The Group’s non-hedge derivative exposure was as follows:

US$m

30 November 2013

Foreign exchange contracts

  Forwards

  Cross-currency swaps

  Foreign exchange futures

  Currency options

Total foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

Interest rate swaps

Other

  Warrants and options

  Equity index futures

Netting

Total

30 November 2012

Foreign exchange contracts

  Forwards

  Cross-currency swaps

  Currency options

Total foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

Interest rate swaps

Other

  Warrants and options

  Equity index futures

Netting

Total

164

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
 
22. derIvaTIve fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
Both pay and receive legs of the transaction have been disclosed in the column “notional amount”, as applicable.

Of the total derivatives, US$3m (2012: US$3m) are listed in exchange or dealer markets and the rest are over-the-counter (OTC) 
derivatives. OTC derivative contracts are individually negotiated between contracting parties and not cleared through an exchange. 
OTC derivatives include forwards, swaps, and options. Derivatives are subject to various risks including market, liquidity and credit 
risk, similar to those related to the underlying financial instruments.

Derivative assets and derivative liabilities are recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position as financial assets 
at fair value through profit or loss and derivative financial liabilities respectively. The Group does not employ hedge accounting, 
although most of its derivative holdings may have the effect of an economic hedge of other exposures. The notional or contractual 
amounts associated with derivative financial instruments are not recorded as assets or liabilities in the consolidated statement of 
financial position as they do not represent the fair value of these transactions. The notional amounts in the previous table reflect the 
aggregate of individual derivative positions on a gross basis and so give an indication of the overall scale of derivative transactions.

foreign exchange contracts
Foreign exchange forward and futures contracts represent agreements to exchange the currency of one country for the currency 
of another country at an agreed price and settlement date. Currency options are agreements that give the buyer the right to 
exchange the currency of one country for the currency of another country at agreed prices and settlement dates. Currency swaps 
are contractual agreements that involve the exchange of both periodic and final amounts in two different currencies. Exposure to 
gain and loss on the foreign exchange contracts will increase or decrease over their respective lives as a function of maturity dates, 
interest and foreign exchange rates, implied volatilities of the underlying indices, and the timing of payments.

Interest rate swaps
Interest rate swaps are contractual agreements between two parties to exchange periodic payments in the same currency, each 
of which is computed on a different interest rate basis, on a specified notional amount. Most interest rate swaps involve the net 
exchange of payments calculated as the difference between the fixed and floating rate interest payments.

other derivatives
Warrants and options are option agreements that give the owner the right to buy or sell securities at an agreed price and 
settlement date. Equity index futures contracts are exchange-traded cash-settled contracts on the value of particular stock market 
index. The Group entered into equity index futures contracts to manage its equity market exposure.

netting adjustment
The netting adjustment is related to futures contracts executed through clearing house where the settlement arrangement 
satisfied the netting criteria under IFRS.

Collateral under derivative transactions
At 30 November 2013, the Group had posted cash collateral of US$21m (2012: US$nil) and pledged debt securities with carrying 
value of US$31m (2012: US$12m) for liabilities and held cash collateral of US$230m (2012: US$321m), deposit collateral of US$6m 
(2012: US$nil) and debt securities collateral with carrying value of US$24m (2012: US$nil) for assets in respect of derivative 
transactions. The Group did not sell or repledge the collateral received. These transactions are conducted under terms that 
are usual and customary to collateralised transactions including, where relevant, standard securities lending and repurchase 
agreements.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

165

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs
The Group classifies all financial assets as either at fair value through profit or loss, or as available for sale, which are carried at 
fair value, or as loans and receivables, which are carried at amortised cost. Financial liabilities are classified as either at fair value 
through profit or loss or at amortised cost, except for investment contracts with DPF which are accounted for under IFRS 4.

The following tables present the fair values of the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities:

US$m

Notes

Fair value

Fair value 
through 
profit or 
loss

Available 
for sale

Cost/ 
amortised 
cost

Total 
carrying 
value

Total fair
 value

30 November 2013

Financial investments

  Loans and deposits

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Derivative financial instruments

Reinsurance receivables

Other receivables

Accrued investment income

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial assets

21

22

19

24

24

26

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Obligations under securities lending and 

  repurchase agreements

  Derivative financial instruments

  Other liabilities

Financial liabilities

–

20,988

26,968

445

–

–

–

–

–

7,484

64,763

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

141

1,472

1,354

2,228

7,484

85,751

26,968

445

141

1,472

1,354

2,228

7,517

85,751

26,968

445

141

1,472

1,354

2,228

48,401

64,763

12,679

125,843

125,876

Notes

28

30

31

22

33

Fair value
 through 
profit or
 loss

Cost/
amortised 
cost

Total 
carrying
 value

Total fair 
value

7,429

–

–

89

426

7,944

1,269

2,126

1,889

–

2,678

7,962

8,698

2,126

1,889

89

3,104

15,906

8,698

2,091

1,889

89

3,104

15,871

166

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)

US$m

Notes

Fair value

Fair value
 through 
profit or
 loss

Available 
for sale

Cost/ 
amortised 
cost

Total 
carrying 
value

Total fair
 value

30 November 2012

Financial investments

  Loans and deposits

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Derivative financial instruments

Reinsurance receivables

Other receivables

Accrued investment income

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial assets

21

22

19

24

24

26

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Obligations under securities lending and 

  repurchase agreements

  Derivative financial instruments

  Other liabilities

Financial liabilities

–

18,594

23,656

638

–

–

–

–

–

6,425

62,268

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

95

1,231

1,196

2,948

6,425

80,862

23,656

638

95

1,231

1,196

2,948

6,455

80,862

23,656

638

95

1,231

1,196

2,948

42,888

62,268

11,895

117,051

117,081

Notes

28

30

31

22

33

Fair value 
through
 profit or 
loss

Cost/ 
amortised 
cost

Total 
carrying
 value

Total fair
 value

7,533

–

–

41

232

7,806

1,332

766

1,792

–

2,580

6,470

8,865

766

1,792

41

2,812

14,276

8,865

766

1,792

41

2,812

14,276

The carrying amount of assets included in the above tables represents the maximum credit exposure.

Foreign currency exposure, including the net notional amount of foreign currency derivative positions, is shown in note 37 for the 
Group’s key foreign exchange exposures.

The fair value of investment contract liabilities measured at amortised cost is not considered to be materially different from the 
amortised cost carrying value.

The carrying value of financial instruments expected to be settled within 12 months (after taking into account valuation allowances, 
where applicable) is not considered to be materially different from the fair value.

fair value measurements on a recurring basis
The Group measures at fair value financial instruments classified at fair value through profit or loss, available for sale securities 
portfolios, derivative assets and liabilities, investments held by investment funds which are consolidated, investments in non-
consolidated investment funds and certain investment contract liabilities on a recurring basis. The fair value of a financial 
instrument is the amount that would be received on sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between 
market participants at the measurement date.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

167

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
fair value measurements on a recurring basis (continued)
The degree of judgement used in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates with the level of pricing 
observability. Financial instruments with quoted prices in active markets generally have more pricing observability and less 
judgement is used in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial instruments traded in other than active markets or that do not 
have quoted prices have less observability and are measured at fair value using valuation models or other pricing techniques that 
require more judgement. An active market is one in which transactions for the asset or liability being valued occur with sufficient 
frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

An other than active market is one in which there are few transactions, the prices are not current, price quotations vary substantially 
either over time or among market makers, or in which little information is released publicly for the asset or liability being valued. 
Pricing observability is affected by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument 
is new to the market and not yet established, the characteristics specific to the transaction and general market conditions.

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Group to estimate the fair value of financial instruments.

financial assets and liabilities
loans and receivables
For loans and advances that are repriced frequently and have had no significant changes in credit risk, carrying amounts represent 
a reasonable estimate of fair values. The fair values of other loans are estimated by discounting expected future cash flows using 
interest rates offered for similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings.

The fair values of mortgage loans are estimated by discounting future cash flows using interest rates currently being offered 
in respect of similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings. The fair values of fixed rate policy loans are estimated by 
discounting cash flows at the interest rates charged on policy loans of similar policies currently being issued. Loans with similar 
characteristics are aggregated for purposes of the calculations. The carrying values of policy loans with variable rates approximate 
to their fair values.

debt securities and equity securities
The fair values of equity securities are based on quoted market prices or, if unquoted, on estimated market values generally based 
on quoted prices for similar securities. Fair values for fixed interest securities are based on quoted market prices, where available. 
For those securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated using values obtained from brokers, private pricing services or 
by discounting expected future cash flows using a current market rate applicable to the yield, credit quality and maturity of the 
investment. Priority is given to values from independent sources when available, but overall the source of pricing and/or valuation 
technique is chosen with the objective of arriving at the price at which an orderly transaction would take place between market 
participants on the measurement date. The inputs to determining fair value that are relevant to fixed interest securities include, but 
not limited to risk-free interest rates, the obligor’s credit spreads, foreign exchange rates, and credit default rates. For holdings in 
hedge funds and limited partnerships, fair values are determined based on the net asset values provided by the general partner or 
manager of each investment, the accounts of which are generally audited on an annual basis. The transaction price is used as the 
best estimate of fair value at inception.

168

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
financial assets and liabilities (continued)
derivative financial instruments
The Group values its derivative financial assets and liabilities using market transactions and other market evidence whenever 
possible, including market-based inputs to models, model calibration to market clearing transactions, broker or dealer quotations 
or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. When models are used, the selection of a particular 
model to value a derivative depends on the contract terms of, and specific risks inherent in, the instrument as well as the availability 
of pricing information in the market. The Group generally uses similar models to value similar instruments. Valuation models 
require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices and rates, yield curves, credit curves, measures of volatility, 
prepayment rates and correlations of such inputs. For derivatives that trade in liquid markets, such as generic forwards, swaps 
and options, model inputs can generally be verified and model selection does not involve significant management judgement. 
Examples of inputs that are generally observable include foreign exchange spot and forward rates, benchmark interest rate curves 
and volatilities for commonly traded option products. Examples of inputs that may be unobservable include volatilities for less 
commonly traded option products and correlations between market factors.

Cash and cash equivalents
The carrying amount of cash approximates its fair value.

reinsurance receivables
The carrying amount of amounts receivable from reinsurers is not considered materially different to their fair value.

fair value of securities sold under repurchase agreements and the associated payables
The contract values of payables under repurchase agreements approximate their fair value as these obligations are short-term in 
nature.

other assets
The carrying amount of other assets is not materially different to their fair value. The fair values of deposits with banks are generally 
based on quoted market prices or, if unquoted, on estimates based on discounting future cash flows using available market interest 
rates offered for receivables with similar characteristics.

Investment contract liabilities
For investment contract liabilities, the fair values have been estimated using a discounted cash flow approach based on interest 
rates currently being offered for similar contracts with maturities consistent with those remaining for the contracts being valued. 
For investment contracts where the investment risk is borne by the policyholder, the fair value generally approximates to the fair 
value of the underlying assets.

Investment contracts with DPF enable the contract holder to receive additional benefits as a supplement to guaranteed benefits. 
These are referred to as participating business and are measured and classified according to the Group practice for insurance 
contract liabilities and hence are disclosed within note 27. These are not measured at fair value as there is currently no agreed 
definition of fair value for investment and insurance contracts with DPF under IFRS. In the absence of any agreed methodology, it 
is not possible to provide a range of estimates within which fair value is likely to fall. The IASB is expecting to address this issue in 
Phase II of its insurance contracts project.

Borrowings
The fair values of borrowings with stated maturities have been estimated based on discounting future cash flows using the interest 
rates currently applicable to deposits of similar maturities or prices obtained from brokers.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

169

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
financial assets and liabilities (continued)
other liabilities
The fair values of other unquoted liabilities is estimated by discounting expected future cash flows using current market rates 
applicable to their yield, credit quality and maturity, except for those with no stated maturity, where the carrying value approximates 
to fair value.

fair value hierarchy
Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated statement of financial position are measured and classified in a 
hierarchy for disclosure purposes consisting of three “levels” based on the observability of inputs available in the marketplace used 
to measure their fair values as discussed below:

•  Level 1: Fair value measurements that are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the 
Group has the ability to access as of the measurement date. Market price data is generally obtained from exchange or dealer 
markets. The Group does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments. Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis 
and classified as Level 1 are actively traded listed equities. The Group considers that government debt securities issued by G7 
countries (the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom) and traded in a dealer market to be 
Level 1, until they no longer trade with sufficient frequency and volume to be considered actively traded.

•  Level 2: Fair value measurements based on inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the 
asset or liability, either directly (as prices) or indirectly (derived from prices). Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar 
assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active 
and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset and liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that 
are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and classified 
as Level 2 generally include government securities issued by non-G7 countries, most investment grade corporate bonds, hedge 
fund investments and derivative contracts.

•  Level 3: Fair value measurements based on valuation techniques that use significant inputs that are unobservable. 
Unobservable inputs are only used to measure fair value to the extent that relevant observable inputs are not available, allowing 
for circumstances in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. Assets and liabilities measured at fair 
value on a recurring basis and classified as Level 3 include certain classes of structured securities, certain derivative contracts, 
private equity and real estate fund investments, and direct private equity investments.

In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the 
level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level 
input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Group’s assessment of the significance of a particular 
input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgement. In making the assessment, the Group considers factors 
specific to the asset or liability.

170

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
fair value hierarchy (continued)
A summary of investments carried at fair value according to fair value hierarchy is given below:

US$m

30 November 2013

Financial assets

Available for sale

  Debt securities

At fair value through profit or loss

  Debt securities

  Participating funds

  Unit-linked

  Other policyholder and shareholder

  Equity securities

  Participating funds

  Unit-linked

  Other policyholder and shareholder

Derivative financial instruments

Total

Total %

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

Other liabilities

Total

Total %

Fair value hierarchy

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

–

–

–

–

4,359

14,369

5,965

1

24,694

21.8

–

–

426

426

5.4

63,983

780

64,763

17,826

1,777

399

11

1,715

86

442

86,239

76.2

–

89

–

89

1.1

365

391

230

199

–

264

2

2,231

2.0

7,429

–

–

7,429

93.5

18,191

2,168

629

4,569

16,084

6,315

445

113,164

100.0

7,429

89

426

7,944

100.0

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

171

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
fair value hierarchy (continued)

US$m

30 November 2012

Financial assets

Available for sale

  Debt securities

At fair value through profit or loss

  Debt securities

  Participating funds

  Unit-linked

  Other policyholder and shareholder

  Equity securities

  Participating funds

  Unit-linked

  Other policyholder and shareholder

Derivative financial instruments

Total

Total %

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

Other liabilities

Total

Total %

Fair value hierarchy

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

–

–

–

–

3,331

12,700

5,461

3

21,495

20.4

–

–

232

232

3.0

61,750

518

62,268

15,544

1,757

474

72

1,534

152

631

81,914

77.9

–

41

–

41

0.5

309

287

223

131

–

275

4

1,747

1.7

7,533

–

–

7,533

96.5

15,853

2,044

697

3,534

14,234

5,888

638

105,156

100.0

7,533

41

232

7,806

100.0

172

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
 
 
23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
fair value hierarchy (continued)
The tables below set out a summary of changes in the Group’s Level 3 financial assets and liabilities for the year ended 30 
November 2013 and 2012. The tables reflect gains and losses, including gains and losses on financial assets and liabilities 
categorised as Level 3 as at 30 November 2013 and 2012.

level 3 financial assets and liabilities 

US$m

At 1 December 2012

Realised gains

Net movement on investment contract liabilities

Total gains/(losses) relating to instruments 
  still held at the reporting date

  Reported in the consolidated income statement

  Reported in the consolidated 

  statement of comprehensive income

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Purchases

Sales

Settlements

Transfer into Level 3

Transfer out of Level 3

At 30 November 2013

US$m

At 1 December 2011

Realised gains/(losses)

Net movement on investment contract liabilities

Total gains/(losses) relating to instruments 
  still held at the reporting date

  Reported in the consolidated income statement

  Reported in the consolidated 

  statement of comprehensive income

Purchases

Sales

Settlements

Transfer into Level 3

Transfer out of Level 3

At 30 November 2012

Debt
securities

Equity
securities

Derivative
financial 
assets

Derivative
financial
liabilities

Investment 
contracts

1,337

406

1

–

64

(25)

133

450

(23)

(70)

26

(127)

1,766

5

–

4

(8)

48

42

(34)

–

–

–

463

4

–

–

2

–

–

1

–

(5)

–

–

2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(7,533)

–

104

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(7,429)

Debt
 securities

Equity 
securities

Derivative 
financial 
assets

Derivative
 financial
 liabilities

Investment
 contracts

861

34

–

100

41

517

(18)

(78)

88

(208)

1,337

375

(1)

–

(12)

12

73

(33)

(1)

4

(11)

406

1

–

–

1

–

3

–

–

–

(1)

4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(7,048)

–

(485)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(7,533)

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

173

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
23. faIr value of fInanCIal InsTrumenTs (continued)
fair value hierarchy (continued)
level 3 financial assets and liabilities  (continued)
Realised gains and losses arising from the disposal of the Group’s Level 3 financial assets and liabilities are presented in the 
consolidated income statement.

Movements in investment contract liabilities at fair value are offset by movements in the underlying portfolio of matching assets. 
Details of the movement in investment contract liabilities are provided in note 28.

There are no differences between the fair values on initial recognition and the amounts determined using valuation techniques 
since the models adopted are calibrated using initial transaction prices.

During the year, there were no material transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements.

24. oTher asseTs

US$m

Prepayments

  Operating leases of leasehold land

  Other

Accrued investment income

Pension scheme assets

  Defined benefit pension scheme surpluses

Insurance receivables

  Due from insurance and investment contract holders

  Due from agents, brokers and intermediaries

Receivables from sales of investments

Other receivables

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

453

227

1,354

14

870

56

155

391

3,520

168

129

1,196

11

725

38

80

388

2,735

All amounts other than prepayments in respect of operating leases of leasehold land are expected to be recovered within 12 
months after the end of the reporting period. Prepayments in respect of operating leases of land are expected to be recovered over 
the period of the leases shown below.

174

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies24. oTher asseTs  (continued)
Below sets out an analysis of the Group’s interest in land and land use rights:

As at 30 November 2013

As at 30 November 2012

Property, 
plant and
 equipment

Investment 
property

Prepayments 
of operating 
leases

Property, 
plant and 
equipment

Investment 
property

Prepayments 
of operating
 leases

Total

US$m

Land held in Hong Kong

Long-term leases (>50 years)

Medium-term leases 
(10 to 50 years)

Short-term leases (<10 years)

589

292

924

43

–

–

–

–

–

–

232

58

105

–

–

–

–

56

105

–

453

43

–

–

81

1

–

–

590

–

–

114

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

58

110

–

168

1,319

125

704

Land held outside Hong Kong

Freehold

75

157

Long-term leases (>50 years)

Medium-term leases 
(10 to 50 years)

Short-term leases (<10 years)

2

–

–

–

–

–

Total

120

746

Total

633

–

–

195

59

110

–

997

25. ImpaIrmenT of fInanCIal asseTs
In accordance with the Group’s accounting policies, impairment reviews were performed for available for sale securities and loans 
and receivables.

available for sale debt securities
During the year ended 30 November 2013, no impairment losses (2012: US$nil) were recognised in respect of available for sale 
debt securities.

The carrying amounts of available for sale debt securities that are individually determined to be impaired at 30 November 2013 was 
US$66m (2012: US$64m).

loans and receivables
The Group’s primary potential credit risk exposure in respect of loans and receivables arises in respect of policy loans and a 
portfolio of mortgage loans on residential and commercial real estate (see note 21 Financial investments for further details). The 
Group’s credit exposure on policy loans is mitigated because, if and when the total indebtedness on any policy, including interest 
due and accrued, exceeds the cash surrender value, the policy terminates and becomes void. The Group has a first lien on all 
policies which are subject to policy loans.

The carrying amounts of loans and receivables that are individually determined to be impaired at 30 November 2013 was US$22m 
(2012: US$17m).

The Group has a portfolio of residential and commercial mortgage loans which it originates. To the extent that any such loans are 
past their due dates specific allowance is made, together with a collective allowance, based on historical delinquency. Insurance 
receivables are short-term in nature and cover is not provided if consideration is not received. An ageing of accounts receivable is 
not provided as all amounts are due within one year and cover is cancelled if consideration is not received.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

175

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
26. Cash and Cash equIvalenTs

US$m

Cash

Cash equivalents

Total(1)

Note:

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

1,205

1,023

2,228

1,581

1,367

2,948

(1)  Of cash and cash equivalents, US$428m (2012: US$735m) are held to back unit-linked contracts.

Cash comprises cash at bank and cash in hand. Cash equivalents comprise bank deposits and highly liquid short-term investments 
with maturities at acquisition of three months or less and money market funds. Accordingly, all such amounts are expected to be 
realised within 12 months after the reporting period.

27. InsuranCe ConTraCT lIaBIlITIes
The movement of insurance contract liabilities (including liabilities in respect of investment contracts with DPF) is shown as 
follows:

US$m

At beginning of financial year

Valuation premiums and deposits

Liabilities released for policy termination or other policy benefits paid and related expenses

Fees from account balances

Accretion of interest

Foreign exchange movements

Change in net asset values attributable to policyholders

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Other movements

At end of financial year

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

90,574

17,755

(10,917)

(843)

3,288

(2,674)

706

5,396

116

78,752

15,213

(9,906)

(702)

2,875

2,620

1,728

–

(6)

103,401

90,574

176

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies27. InsuranCe ConTraCT lIaBIlITIes (continued)
Business description
The table below summarises the key variables on which insurance and investment contract cash flows depend.

Type of contract

Material terms and conditions

Participating 
funds

Traditional 
participating 
life assurance 
with DPF

Other 
participating 
business

Traditional non-participating life

Participating products combine 
protection with a savings element. The 
basic sum assured, payable on death or 
maturity, may be enhanced by dividends, 
the aggregate amount of which is 
determined by the performance of a 
distinct fund of assets and liabilities. The 
timing of dividend declarations is at the 
discretion of the insurer. Local 
regulations generally prescribe a 
minimum proportion of policyholder 
participation in declared dividends

Participating products combine 
protection with a savings element. The 
basic sum assured, payable on death or 
maturity, may be enhanced by dividends, 
the timing or amount of which is at the 
discretion of the insurer taking into 
account factors such as investment 
experience

Benefits paid on death, maturity, 
sickness or disability that are fixed and 
guaranteed and not at the discretion of 
the insurer

Accident and health

These products provide morbidity or 
sickness benefits and include health, 
disability, critical illness and accident 
cover

Nature of benefits and 
compensation for claims

Factors
affecting
contract cash
flows

Minimum guaranteed 
benefits may be enhanced 
based on investment 
experience and other 
considerations

•  Investment
  performance
•  Expenses
•  Mortality
•  Surrenders

Key
reportable
segments

Singapore, 
China, 
Malaysia

Minimum guaranteed 
benefits may be enhanced 
based on investment 
experience and other 
considerations

•  Investment 
performance

•  Expenses
•  Mortality
•  Surrenders

Hong Kong, 
Thailand, 
Other Markets

All(1)

All(1)

Benefits, defined in the 
insurance contract, are 
determined by the contract 
and are not affected by 
investment performance or 
the performance of the 
contract as a whole

Benefits, defined in the 
insurance contract, are 
determined by the contract 
and are not affected by 
investment performance or 
the performance of the 
contract as a whole

•  Mortality
•  Morbidity
•  Lapses
•  Expenses

•  Mortality
•  Morbidity
•  Lapses
•  Expenses
•  Claims 

experience

Unit-linked

Universal life

Unit-linked contracts combine savings 
with protection, the cash value of the 
policy depending on the value of unitised 
funds

Benefits are based on the 
value of the unitised funds 
and death benefits

The customer pays flexible premiums 
subject to specified limits accumulated 
in an account balance which are credited 
with interest at a rate set by the insurer, 
and a death benefit which may be varied 
by the customer

Benefits are based on the 
account balance and death 
benefit

•  Investment 
performance

All(1)

•  Lapses
•  Expenses
•  Mortality

•  Investment 
performance

All(1)

•  Crediting 
rates
•  Lapses
•  Expenses
•  Mortality

Note:

(1)  Other than the Group Corporate Centre segment.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

177

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION27. InsuranCe ConTraCT lIaBIlITIes (continued)
methodology and assumptions
The most significant items to which profit for the year and shareholders’ equity are sensitive are market, insurance and lapse risks 
which are shown in the table below. Indirect exposure indicates that there is a second order impact. For example, whilst the profit 
for the year attributable to shareholders is not directly affected by investment income earned where the investment risk is borne by 
policyholders (for example, in respect of unit-linked contracts), there is a second-order effect through the investment management 
fees which the Group earns by managing such investments. The distinction between direct and indirect exposure is not intended 
to indicate the relative sensitivity to each of these items. Where the direct exposure is shown as being “net neutral”, this is because 
the exposure to market and credit risk is offset by a corresponding movement in insurance contract liabilities.

Type of contract

Traditional 
participating 
life assurance 
with DPF

Participating 
funds

Other 
participating 
business

Traditional non-participating life 
assurance

Accident and health

Pension

Market and credit risk

Direct exposure

Insurance and investment 
contract liabilities

Risks associated with related 
investment portfolio

Indirect exposure

Significant insurance
and lapse risks

• Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

• Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

• Guarantees

• Guarantees

• Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

• Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

• Guarantees

• Guarantees

• Investment  

performance subject 
to smoothing through 
dividend declarations

• Impact of persistency 
on future dividends

• Mortality

• Investment 
performance

• Impact of persistency 
on future dividends

• Mortality

• Investment  
performance

• Credit risk
• Asset-liability  
mismatch risk

• Loss ratio
• Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

• Net neutral
• Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

• Guarantees
• Asset-liability  
mismatch risk

• Investment  
performance

• Credit risk
• Asset-liability  
mismatch risk

• Net neutral
• Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

• Not applicable

• Mortality
• Persistency
• Morbidity

• Not applicable

• Claims experience
• Morbidity
• Persistency

• Performance-related 

• Persistency

investment  
management fees

Unit-linked

• Net neutral

• Net neutral

• Performance-related 

Universal life

• Guarantees
• Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

• Investment  
performance

• Credit risk
• Asset-liability  
mismatch risk

investment  
management fees

• Spread between 
earned rate and 
crediting rate to 
policyholders

• Persistency
• Mortality

• Mortality
• Persistency
• Withdrawals

The Group is also exposed to currency risk in respect of its operations, and to interest rate risk, credit risk and equity price risk 
on assets representing net shareholders’ equity, and to expense risk to the extent that actual expenses exceed those that can be 
charged to insurance and investment contract holders on non-participating business. Expense assumptions applied in the Group’s 
actuarial valuation models assume a continuing level of business volumes.

178

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies27. InsuranCe ConTraCT lIaBIlITIes (continued)
methodology and assumptions  (continued)
valuation interest rates
As at 30 November 2013 and 2012, the ranges of applicable valuation interest rates for traditional insurance contracts, which vary 
by territory, year of issuance and products, within the first 20 years are as follows:

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

China

Korea

Philippines

Indonesia

Vietnam

Australia

New Zealand

Taiwan

Sri Lanka

28. InvesTmenT ConTraCT lIaBIlITIes

US$m

At beginning of financial year

Effect of foreign exchange movements

Investment contract benefits

Fees charged

Net (withdrawals)/deposits and other movements

At end of financial year

As at 
30 November
 2013

As at
 30 November
 2012

3.50% – 7.50% 3.50% – 7.50%

3.25% – 9.00% 3.25% – 9.00%

2.00% – 7.25% 2.00% – 7.25%

3.70% – 8.90% 3.14% – 8.90%

2.75% – 7.00% 2.75% – 7.00%

3.33% – 6.50% 3.33% – 6.50%

2.20% – 9.20% 2.20% – 9.20%

3.10% – 10.80% 3.05% – 10.80%

5.07% – 12.25% 5.07% – 12.25%

3.83% – 7.11% 3.83% – 7.11%

3.83% – 5.75% 3.83% – 5.75%

1.75% – 6.50% 1.75% – 6.50%

9.69% – 12.69%

–

Year ended 
30 November
2013

Year ended 
30 November
2012

8,865

(83)

301

(187)

(198)

8,698

8,360

107

540

(189)

47

8,865

29. effeCT of ChanGes In assumpTIons and esTImaTes
The table below sets out the sensitivities of the assumptions in respect of insurance and investment contracts with DPF to key 
variables. This disclosure only allows for the impact on liabilities and related assets, such as reinsurance, and deferred acquisition 
costs and does not allow for offsetting movements in the fair value of financial assets backing those liabilities.

US$m

(Increase)/decrease in insurance contract liabilities, 
increase/(decrease) in equity and profit before tax

0.5 pps increase in investment return

0.5 pps decrease in investment return

10% increase in expenses

10% increase in mortality rates

10% increase in lapse/discontinuance rates

As at 
30 November 
2013

As at 
30 November
 2012

12

(15)

(3)

(19)

(18)

8

(10)

(2)

(16)

(19)

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

179

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
29. effeCT of ChanGes In assumpTIons and esTImaTes (continued)
Future policy benefits for traditional life insurance policies (including investment contracts with DPF) are calculated using a net 
level premium valuation method with reference to best estimate assumptions set at policy inception date unless a deficiency 
arises on liability adequacy testing. There is no impact of the above assumption sensitivities on the carrying amount of traditional 
life insurance liabilities as the sensitivities presented would not have triggered a liability adequacy adjustment. During the years 
presented there was no effect of changes in assumptions and estimates on the Group’s traditional life products.

For interest sensitive insurance contracts, such as universal life products and unit-linked contracts, assumptions are made at each 
reporting date including mortality, persistency, expenses, future investment earnings and future crediting rates.

The impact of changes in assumptions on the valuation of insurance and investment contracts with DPF was US$9m decrease in 
profit (2012: US$9m decrease).

30. BorrowInGs

US$m

Bank loans and bank credit facilities

Bank overdrafts

Medium term notes

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

809

176

1,141

2,126

493

273

–

766

Properties with a book value of US$882m at 30 November 2013 (2012: US$893m) and a fair value of US$2,020m at 30 November 
2013 (2012: US$2,008m) and cash and cash equivalents with a book value of US$19m (2012: US$2m) are pledged as security with 
respect to amounts disclosed as bank loans and bank credit facilities above. Interest on loans reflects market rates of interest. 
Interest expense on borrowings is shown in note 10. Further information relating to interest rates and the maturity profile of 
borrowings is presented in note 37.

On 30 November 2012, the Group obtained a 12-month bank loan facility of HK$2,507m (approximately US$323m). The loan 
bore interest based upon HIBOR. Subsequently on 9 July 2013, the Group entered into a 3-year multicurrency bank facility in an 
aggregate amount equal to US$323m with floating rate interest for refinancing the existing loan.

On 10 December 2012, the Group obtained an 18-month acquisition credit facility of US$1,725m. The loan bore interest based upon 
LIBOR and was fully repaid during the year ended 30 November 2013.

On 13 March 2013, the Group issued a 5-year and a 10-year fixed rate medium term notes at nominal amount of US$500m each; 
these notes bear annual interest of 1.750 per cent and 3.125 per cent respectively. On 4 November 2013, the Group issued a 3-year 
floating rate medium term note at nominal amount of HK$1,160m (approximately US$150m); the note bears interest based upon 
HIBOR. These medium term notes are listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The net proceeds from these notes are 
used for general corporate purposes and to refinance the unsecured credit facility associated with the acquisition.

On 8 October 2013, the Group entered into a committed multicurrency revolving credit facility in an aggregate amount equal to 
US$300m. The revolving credit facility bears floating rate interest.

180

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies31. oBlIGaTIons under seCurITIes lendInG and repurChase aGreemenTs
The Group has entered into securities lending agreement whereby securities are loaned to a national monetary authority. In 
addition, the Group has entered into repurchase agreements whereby securities are sold to third parties with a concurrent 
agreement to repurchase the securities at a specified date.

The securities related to these agreements are not derecognised from the Group’s consolidated statement of financial position, 
but are retained within the appropriate financial asset classification. During the term of the securities lending and repurchase 
agreements, the Group is restricted from selling or pledging the transferred debt securities. The following table specifies the 
amounts included within financial investments subject to securities lending or repurchase agreements which do not qualify for 
derecognition at each year end:

US$m

Debt securities – AFS

  Repurchase agreements

Debt securities – FVTPL

  Securities lending

  Repurchase agreements

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

1,552

1,799

312

332

2,196

–

47

1,846

Collateral
The securities lending transactions outstanding as at 30 November 2013 are conducted with a national monetary authority on 
securities denominated in local currency issued by the same authority.

The following table shows the obligations under repurchase agreements at each year end:

US$m

Repurchase agreements

32. provIsIons

US$m

At 1 December 2011

Charged to the consolidated income statement

Exchange differences

Released during the year

Utilised during the year

At 30 November 2012

Charged to the consolidated income statement

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Exchange differences

Released during the year

Utilised during the year

At 30 November 2013

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

1,889

1,792

Employee
benefits

Other

Total

84

16

1

(5)

(10)

86

15

2

(3)

(11)

(1)

88

96

78

3

(7)

(52)

118

59

10

(2)

(15)

(89)

81

180

94

4

(12)

(62)

204

74

12

(5)

(26)

(90)

169

other provisions
Other provisions comprise provisions in respect of regulatory matters, litigation, reorganisation and restructuring. In view of the 
diverse nature of the matters provided for and the contingent nature of the matters to which they relate, the Group is unable to 
provide an accurate assessment of the term over which provisions are expected to be utilised.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

181

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION33. oTher lIaBIlITIes

US$m

Trade and other payables

Third-party interests in consolidated investment funds

Payables from purchases of investments

Reinsurance payables

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

2,138

426

239

301

3,104

1,949

232

449

182

2,812

Third-party interests in consolidated investment funds consist of third-party unit holders’ interests in consolidated investment funds 
which are reflected as a liability since they can be put back to the Group for cash.

Trade and other payables are all expected to be settled within 12 months after the end of the reporting period. The realisation of 
third-party interests in investment funds cannot be predicted with accuracy since these represent the interests of third-party unit 
holders in consolidated investment funds held to back insurance and investment contract liabilities and are subject to market risk 
and the actions of third-party investors.

34. share CapITal and reserves
share capital

Authorised

Ordinary shares of US$1 each

Issued and fully paid

As at 30 November 2013

As at 30 November 2012

Million shares

US$m

Million shares

US$m

20,000

20,000

20,000

20,000

At beginning and end of the financial year

12,044

Share premium

12,044

1,914

12,044

12,044

1,914

There were no shares issued under share option schemes during the year ended 30 November 2013 (2012: nil).

Except for 74,598,995 shares (2012: 53,653,843 shares) of the Company held by the employee share-based trusts, neither the 
Company nor any of its subsidiaries purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company’s listed securities during the year ended 30 
November 2013. These purchases were made by the relevant scheme trustees on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. These shares 
are held on trust for participants of the relevant schemes and therefore were not cancelled. Please refer to note 39 for details.

Share premium of US$1,914m represents the difference between the net book value of the Group on acquisition by the Company of 
US$13,958m and the nominal value of the share capital issued of US$12,044m.

reserves
fair value reserve
The fair value reserve comprises the cumulative net change in the fair value of available for sale securities held at the end of the 
reporting period.

foreign currency translation reserve
The foreign currency translation reserve comprises all foreign currency exchange differences arising from the translation of the 
financial statements of foreign operations.

182

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies34. share CapITal and reserves (continued)
reserves (continued)
employee share-based trusts
Trusts have been established to acquire shares of the Company for distribution to participants in future periods through the share-
based compensation schemes. Those shares acquired by the trusts, to the extent not transferred to the participants upon vesting, 
are reported as “Employee share-based trusts”.

other reserves
Other reserves include the impact of merger accounting for business combinations under common control and share-based 
compensation.

35. non-ConTrollInG InTeresTs

US$m

Equity shares in subsidiaries

Share of earnings

Share of other reserves

Total

As at 
30 November
2013

As at 
30 November
2012

63

45

37

145

60

29

42

131

36. Group CapITal sTruCTure
Capital management approach
The Group’s capital management objectives focus on maintaining a strong capital base to support the development of its business, 
maintaining the ability to move capital freely and satisfying regulatory capital requirements at all times.

The Group’s capital management function oversees all capital-related activities of the Group and assists senior management in 
making capital decisions. The capital management function participates in decisions concerning asset-liability management, 
strategic asset allocation and ongoing solvency management. This includes ensuring capital considerations are paramount in the 
strategy and business planning processes and when determining the AIA’s capacity to pay dividends to shareholders.

regulatory solvency
The Group is in compliance with the solvency and capital adequacy requirements applied by its regulators. The Group’s primary 
insurance regulator at the AIA Company Limited (AIA Co.) and AIA International Limited (AIA International) levels is the Hong Kong 
Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (HKOCI), which requires that AIA Co. and AIA International meet the solvency margin 
requirements of the Hong Kong Insurance Companies Ordinance (HKICO). The HKICO (among other matters) sets minimum 
solvency margin requirements that an insurer must meet in order to be authorised to carry on insurance business in or from Hong 
Kong. The HKOCI requires AIA Co. and AIA International to maintain an excess of assets over liabilities of not less than the required 
minimum solvency margin. The amount required under the HKICO is 100 per cent of the required minimum solvency margin. The 
excess of assets over liabilities to be maintained by AIA Co. and AIA International required by the HKOCI is not less than 150 per 
cent of the required minimum solvency margin.

The capital positions of the Group’s two principal operating companies as of 30 November 2013 and 2012 are as follows:

US$m

AIA Co.

AIA International

30 November 2013

30 November 2012

Total
available
capital

6,057

4,752

Required
capital

Solvency
ratio

1,399

1,422

433%

334%

Total
available
capital

4,811

3,108

Required
capital

Solvency
ratio

1,362

1,415

353%

220%

For these purposes, the Group defines total available capital as the amount of assets in excess of liabilities measured in accordance 
with the HKICO and “required capital” as the minimum required margin of solvency calculated in accordance with the HKICO. The 
solvency ratio is the ratio of total available capital to required capital.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

183

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION36. Group CapITal sTruCTure (continued)
regulatory solvency (continued)
The Group’s individual branches and subsidiaries are also subject to the supervision of government regulators in the jurisdictions 
in which those branches and subsidiaries operate and, in relation to subsidiaries, in which they are incorporated. The various 
regulators overseeing the Group actively monitor our local solvency positions. AIA Co. and AIA International submit annual filings to 
the HKOCI of their solvency margin position based on their annual audited accounts, and the Group’s other operating units perform 
similar annual filings with their respective local regulators.

The ability of the Company to pay dividends to shareholders and to meet other obligations depends ultimately on dividends and 
other payments being received from its operating subsidiaries and branches, which are subject to contractual, regulatory and 
other limitations. The various regulators overseeing the individual branches and subsidiaries of the Group have the discretion to 
impose additional restrictions on the ability of those regulated subsidiaries and branches to make payment of dividends or other 
distributions and payments to AIA Co., including increasing the required margin of solvency that an operating unit must maintain. 
For example, capital may not be remitted from Thailand without the consent of the Office of the Insurance Commission in Thailand. 
The payment of dividends, distributions and other payments to shareholders is subject to the oversight of the HKOCI.

Capital and regulatory orders specific to the Group
As of 30 November 2013, the requirements and restrictions summarised below may be considered material to the Group and 
remain in effect unless otherwise stated.

hong Kong office of the Commissioner of Insurance
AIA Group Limited has given to the Insurance Authority an undertaking that AIA Group Limited will:

(i)  ensure that (a) AIA Co. and AIA International will at all times maintain a solvency ratio of not less than 150 per cent, both on an 
individual insurer basis and on an AIA Co./AIA International consolidated basis; (b) it will not withdraw capital or transfer any 
funds or assets out of either AIA Co. or AIA International that will cause AIA Co.’s or AIA International’s solvency ratio to fall 
below 150 per cent, except with, in either case, the prior written consent of the Insurance Authority; and (c) should the solvency 
ratio of either AIA Co. or AIA International fall below 150 per cent, AIA Group Limited will take steps as soon as possible to 
restore it to at least 150 per cent in a manner acceptable to the Insurance Authority;

(ii)  notify the Insurance Authority in writing as soon as the Company becomes aware of any person (a) becoming a controller 
(within the meaning of Section 9(1)(c)(ii) of the HKICO) of AIA Co. and AIA International through the acquisition of our shares 
traded on the HKSE; or (b) ceasing to be a controller (within the meaning of Section 9(1)(c)(ii) of the HKICO) of AIA Co. and AIA 
International through the disposal of our shares traded on the HKSE;

(iii)  be subject to the supervision of the Insurance Authority and AIA Group Limited will be required to continually comply with 
the Insurance Authority’s guidance on the “fit and proper” standards of a controller pursuant to Section 8(2) of the HKICO. 
The Insurance Authority is empowered by the HKICO to raise objection if it appears to it that any person is not fit and proper 
to be a controller or director of an authorised insurer. These standards include the sufficiency of a holding company’s 
financial resources; the viability of a holding company’s business plan for its insurance subsidiaries which are regulated by 
the Insurance Authority; the clarity of the Group’s legal, managerial and operational structures; the identities of any other 
holding companies or major regulated subsidiaries; whether the holding company, its directors or controllers is subject to 
receivership, administration, liquidation or other similar proceedings or failed to satisfy any judgement debt under a court 
order or the subject of any criminal convictions or in breach of any statutory or regulatory requirements; the soundness of the 
Group’s corporate governance; the soundness of the Group’s risk management framework; the receipt of information from 
its insurance subsidiaries which are regulated by the Insurance Authority to ensure that they are managed in compliance with 
applicable laws, rules and regulation; and its role in overseeing and managing the operations of its insurance subsidiaries 
which are regulated by the Insurance Authority; and

(iv)  fulfil all enhancements or improvements to the guidance referred to in subparagraph (iii) above, as well as administrative 
measures issued from time to time by the Insurance Authority or requirements that may be prescribed by the Insurance 
Authority in accordance with the HKICO, regulations under the HKICO or guidance notes issued by the Insurance Authority from 
time to time.

184

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies37. rIsK manaGemenT
risk management framework
The managed acceptance of risk is fundamental to the Group’s insurance business model. The Group’s Risk Management 
Framework seeks to effectively manage, rather than eliminate, the risks the Group faces.

The Group’s Risk Management Framework has been established for the identification, evaluation and management of the key risks 
faced by the organisation within stated Risk Appetite. The framework includes an established risk governance structure with clear 
oversight and assignment of responsibility for monitoring and management of financial and non-financial risks.

Insurance risk
The Group considers insurance risk to be a combination of the following component risks:

•  Product design risk;

•  Underwriting and expense overrun risk;

•  Lapse risk; and

•  Claims risk

product design risk
Product design risk refers to potential defects in the development of a particular insurance product. The Group manages product 
design risk through the New Product Approval Process where products are reviewed against pricing, design and operational risk 
benchmarks agreed by the Group Financial Risk Committee (FRC). Local business units work closely with a number of Group 
functions including product management, actuarial, legal, compliance, risk and underwriting.

The Group monitors closely the performance of new products and focuses on actively managing each part of the actuarial control 
cycle to minimise risk in the in-force book as well as for new products. A significant component of the Group’s long-term insurance 
business is participating in nature where the Group has the ability to adjust dividends to reflect market conditions. This reduces 
the Group’s exposure to changes in circumstances, in particular investment returns, that may arise during the life of long-term 
insurance policies.

underwriting and expense overrun risk
Underwriting and expense overrun risk refers to the possibility of product-related income being inadequate to support future 
obligations arising from an insurance product.

The Group manages underwriting risk by adhering to the Group underwriting guidelines. Each operating unit maintains a team of 
professional underwriters who review and select risks that are consistent with the underwriting strategy of the Group. A second 
layer of underwriting review is conducted at the Group level for complex and large risks. Any exceptions require specific approval 
and may be subject to separate risk management actions.

In certain circumstances, such as when entering a new line of business, products or markets for which insufficient experience data 
is available the Group makes use of reinsurance to obtain product pricing expertise.

In pricing insurance products the Group manages expense overrun risk by allowing for an appropriate level of expenses that 
reflects a realistic medium- to long-term view of the underlying cost structure. A disciplined expense budgeting and management 
process is followed that controls expenses within product pricing allowances over the medium to long term.

lapse risk
Lapse risk refers to the possibility that lapse experience diverges from that assumed when products were priced. It includes 
potential financial loss due to early termination of contracts where the acquisition cost incurred may not be recoverable from future 
revenue.

The Group carries out regular reviews of persistency experience. The results are assimilated into new and in-force business 
management. Target payback periods that form part of the product pricing controls enable monitoring of the Group’s exposure to 
lapse risk. In addition, many of the Group’s products include surrender charges that entitle the Group to additional fees on early 
termination by the policyholder, thereby reducing exposure to lapse risk.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

185

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
Insurance risk (continued)
Claims risk
Claims risk refers to the possibility that the frequency or severity of claims arising from insurance contracts exceeds the level 
assumed when the products were priced.

The Group seeks to mitigate claims risk by conducting regular experience studies, including reviews of mortality and morbidity 
experience, reviewing internal and external data, and considering the impact of these on product design, pricing and reinsurance 
needs. As a result of the Group’s history and scale, a substantial volume of experience data has been accumulated which assists in 
the evaluation and pricing of insurance risk.

Mortality and morbidity risk in excess of the respective retention limits are ceded to reduce volatility in claims experience for the 
Group. The Group’s capital position combined with its profitable product portfolio and diversified geographical presence are factors 
in management’s decision to retain (rather than reinsure) a high proportion of its written insurance risks.

The Group has a broad geographical footprint across the Asia-Pacific region which provides a degree of natural geographical 
diversification of claims experience. We mitigate and manage this risk by adhering to the underwriting and claims management 
policies and procedures that have been developed based on our extensive historical experience. Our broad product offering and 
large in-force product portfolio also reduce our exposure to concentration risk. Finally, we use reinsurance solutions to help reduce 
concentration and volatility risk, especially with large policies or new risks, and as protection against catastrophes.

financial risk exposures
The Group is exposed to a range of financial risks, including credit risk, market risk, and liquidity risk. The Group applies a 
consistent risk management philosophy that is embedded in management processes and controls such that both existing and 
emerging risks are considered and addressed.

The following section summarises the Group’s key risk exposures and the primary policies and processes used by the Group to 
manage its exposures to these risks.

Credit risk
Credit risk occurs wherever we are relying on a third party to satisfy their financial obligation to us. Although the primary source of 
credit risk is the Group’s investment portfolio, credit risk also arises in our reinsurance, settlement and treasury activities.

The management of credit risk occurs on two levels in AIA.

The Investment Credit Research team performs a detailed analysis of individual counterparties and recommends a rating within 
the internal ratings framework. The Group Risk function manages the Group’s internal ratings framework and agrees these 
recommendations. Internal ratings are then used to determine our appetite for exposure to each counterparty.

A matrix of risk tolerances has been approved by the FRC that ensures that credit risk in the investment portfolio is contained 
within AIA’s risk appetite. These tolerances cover individual counterparty, segmental concentration and cross-border exposures. 
The Investment function has discretion to shape the portfolio within those risk tolerances. If certain investments are technically 
within risk tolerances but there is a specific concern, Group Risk may bring these to the attention of the FRC.

market risk
Market risk arises from the possibility of financial loss caused by changes in financial instruments’ fair values or future cash flows 
due to fluctuations in key variables, including interest rates, equity market prices, foreign exchange rates and real estate property 
market prices.

The FRC approves all policies and metrics associated with the evaluation of market risk exposures.

186

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
financial risk exposures (continued)
market risk (continued)
Interest rate risk
The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk predominantly arises from any difference between the tenor of the Group’s liabilities 
and assets, or any difference between the return on investments and the return required to meet the Group’s commitments, 
predominantly its insurance liabilities. This exposure can be heightened in products with inherent interest rate options or 
guarantees.

We seek to manage interest rate risk by ensuring appropriate insurance product design and underlying assumptions as part of 
the product approval process and by matching, to the extent possible and appropriate, the duration of our investment assets with 
the duration of our insurance policies. For in-force policies, we regularly adjust the policyholder bonus payout and crediting rates 
applicable to policyholder account balances considering, amongst other things, the earned yields and policyholders’ reasonable 
expectations.

Exposure to interest rate risk
The table below summarises the nature of the interest rate risk associated with financial assets and financial liabilities. In 
preparing this analysis, fixed rate interest bearing instruments that mature or reprice within 12 months of the reporting date have 
been disclosed as variable rate instruments.

Variable
interest rate

Fixed
interest rate

Non-interest
bearing

Total

US$m

30 November 2013

Financial assets

  Loans and deposits

  Other receivables

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Reinsurance receivables

  Accrued investment income

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivative financial instruments

Total financial assets

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Obligations under securities lending

  and repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Total financial liabilities

6,198

29

78,549

–

–

114

–

–

28

1,440

–

26,968

141

1,240

151

445

7,484

1,472

85,751

26,968

141

1,354

2,228

445

84,890

30,413

125,843

1,258

3

7,202

–

–

–

2,077

–

10,540

–

962

1,889

–

–

–

1,000

–

–

–

2,851

1,000

8,698

164

–

3,104

89

12,055

8,698

2,126

1,889

3,104

89

15,906

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

187

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
financial risk exposures (continued)
market risk (continued)
Interest rate risk (continued)
Exposure to interest rate risk (continued)

US$m

30 November 2012

Financial assets

  Loans and deposits

  Other receivables

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Reinsurance receivables

  Accrued investment income

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivative financial instruments

Total financial assets

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Obligations under securities lending 

  and repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Total financial liabilities

Variable
interest rate

Fixed
interest rate

Non-interest
bearing

Total

995

66

5,932

–

–

–

2,767

–

9,760

–

492

1,792

–

–

2,284

5,386

1

74,930

–

–

92

–

–

44

1,164

–

23,656

95

1,104

181

638

6,425

1,231

80,862

23,656

95

1,196

2,948

638

80,409

26,882

117,051

–

–

–

–

–

–

8,865

274

–

2,812

41

11,992

8,865

766

1,792

2,812

41

14,276

Foreign exchange rate risk
At the Group level, foreign exchange rate risk arises mainly from our operations in multiple geographical markets in the Asia-
Pacific region and the translation of multiple currencies to US dollars for financial reporting purposes. Foreign currency risk 
associated with assets and liabilities denominated in non-functional currencies results in gains and losses being recognised in the 
consolidated income statement. Foreign currency risk associated with the translation of the net assets of operations with non-US 
dollar functional currencies results in gains or losses being recorded directly in other comprehensive income.

On a local operating unit level, we invest in assets denominated in currencies that match the related liabilities to the extent possible 
and appropriate in order to avoid currency mismatches.

The Group’s net foreign currency exposures and the estimated impact of changes in foreign exchange rates are set out in the tables 
below after taking into account the effect of economic hedges of currency risk. Whilst providing economic hedges that reduce the 
Group’s net exposure to foreign exchange risk, hedge accounting is not applied. Currencies for which net exposure is not significant 
are excluded from the analysis below. In compiling the table below the impact of a 5 per cent strengthening of original currency 
is stated relative to the functional currency of the relevant operation of the Group. The impact of a 5 per cent strengthening of the 
US dollar is also stated relative to functional currency. Currency exposure reflects the net notional amount of currency derivative 
positions as well as net equity by currency.

188

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
financial risk exposures (continued)
market risk (continued)
Foreign exchange rate risk (continued)
Net exposure

US$m

30 November 2013

Equity analysed by
  original currency

Net notional amounts of
  currency derivative positions

Currency exposure

5% strengthening of
  original currency

United
States
Dollar

Hong
Kong
Dollar

Thai
Baht

Singapore
Dollar

Malaysian
Ringgit

China
Renminbi

Korean
Won

14,867

(5,683)

9,184

200

401

601

2,894

(2,380)

1,495

1,533

2,327

1,830

4,724

3,566

1,186

–

1,495

19

1,552

162

2,489

Impact on profit before tax

78

(13)

5

28

4

24

30

5% strengthening of
the US dollar

Impact on other
  comprehensive income

US$m

30 November 2012

Equity analysed by
  original currency

Net notional amounts of
  currency derivative positions

Currency exposure

5% strengthening of
  original currency

(78)

10

(218)

(38)

(59)

(53)

(101)

United 
States
Dollar

Hong
Kong
Dollar

Thai
Baht

Singapore
Dollar

Malaysian
Ringgit

China
Renminbi

Korean
Won

15,990

(6,177)

9,813

153

301

454

3,713

(1,963)

1,609

5,322

3,149

1,186

837

–

837

1,377

2,567

2

1,379

–

2,567

Impact on profit before tax

107

(9)

4

29

5

20

29

5% strengthening of
the US dollar

Impact on other 
  comprehensive income 

(107)

11

(252)

(36)

(34)

(46)

(98)

Equity market and interest rate risk
Equity market risk arises from changes in the market value of equity securities and equity funds. Investment in equity assets on 
a long-term basis is expected to provide diversification benefits and return enhancements which can improve the risk-adjusted 
return of the portfolios.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

189

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
financial risk exposures (continued)
market risk (continued)
Equity market and interest rate risk (continued)
Sensitivity analysis
Sensitivity analysis to the key variables affecting financial assets and liabilities is set out in the table below. Information relating to 
sensitivity of insurance and investment contracts with DPF is provided in note 29. The carrying values of other financial assets are 
not subject to changes in response to movements in interest rates or equity prices. In calculating the sensitivity of debt and equity 
instruments to changes in interest rates and equity prices, the Group has made assumptions about the corresponding impact 
of asset valuations on liabilities to policyholders. Assets held to support unit-linked contracts have been excluded on the basis 
that changes in fair value are wholly borne by policyholders. Sensitivity analysis for assets held in participating funds has been 
calculated after allocation of returns to policyholders using the applicable minimum policyholders’ participation ratios described 
in note 2. Information is presented to illustrate the estimated impact on profits and net assets arising from a change in a single 
variable before taking into account the effects of taxation.

For the purpose of illustrating the sensitivity of profit before tax and net assets before the effects of taxation to changes in interest 
rates and equity prices, the impact of possible impairments of financial investments classified as available for sale which may 
arise in times of economic stress has been ignored, since default events reflect the characteristics of individual issuers. Because 
the Group’s accounting policies lock in interest rate assumptions on policy inception and the Group’s assumptions incorporate a 
provision for adverse deviations, the level of movement illustrated in this sensitivity analysis does not result in loss recognition and 
so there is no corresponding effect on liabilities.

US$m

Equity market risk

10 per cent increase in equity prices

10 per cent decrease in equity prices

Interest rate risk

+ 50 basis points shift in yield curves

- 50 basis points shift in yield curves

30 November 2013

30 November 2012

Impact
on profit
before tax

Impact on
net assets
(before the
effects of
taxation)

Impact
on profit
before tax

Impact on
net assets
(before the
effects of
taxation)

691

(691)

(98)

98

691

(691)

(2,827)

2,827

630

(630)

(92)

92

630

(630)

(2,770)

2,770

liquidity risk
Liquidity risk primarily refers to the possibility of having insufficient cash available to meet payment obligations to counterparties 
when they become due. The Group is exposed to liquidity risk in respect of insurance and investment policies that permit surrender, 
withdrawal or other forms of early termination for a cash surrender value specified in the contractual terms and conditions.

To manage liquidity risk the Group has implemented a variety of measures, including emphasising flexible insurance product 
design, so that it can retain the greatest flexibility to adjust contract pricing or crediting rates. The Group also seeks to match, to the 
extent possible and appropriate, the duration of its investment assets with the duration of insurance policies issued.

The maturity analysis presented in the tables below presents the estimated maturity of carrying amounts in the consolidated 
statement of financial position. The estimated maturity for insurance and investment contracts is proportionate to their carrying 
values based on projections of estimated undiscounted cash flows arising from insurance and investment contracts in force at that 
date. The Group has made significant assumptions to determine the estimated undiscounted cash flows of insurance benefits and 
claims and investment contract benefits, which include assumptions in respect of mortality, morbidity, future lapse rates, expenses, 
investment returns and interest crediting rates, offset by expected future deposits and premiums on in-force policies. The maturity 
profile of the Group’s borrowings is presented on the assumption that the Group will continue to satisfy loan covenants which, 
if breached, would cause the borrowings to be repayable on demand. The Group regularly monitors its compliance with these 
covenants and was in compliance with them at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position and throughout each of 
the periods presented. Due to the significance of the assumptions used, the maturity profiles presented below could be materially 
different from actual payments.

190

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
financial risk exposures (continued)
liquidity risk (continued)
A maturity analysis based on the earliest contractual repayment date would present the insurance and investment contract 
liabilities as falling due in the earliest period in the table because of the ability of policyholders to exercise surrender options. 
Financial assets and liabilities other than investment contract liabilities are presented based on their respective contractual 
maturities.

Total

No fixed
maturity

Due in
one year
or less

Due after
one year
through
five years

Due after
five years
through
ten years

Due after
ten years

US$m

30 November 2013

Financial assets

  Loans and deposits

  Other receivables

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Reinsurance receivables

  Accrued investment income

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivative financial instruments

7,484

1,472

85,751

26,968

141

1,354

2,228

445

2,387

70

–

26,968

–

–

–

–

Total

125,843

29,425

Financial and insurance contract liabilities

Insurance and investment contract 
liabilities (net of reinsurance)

  Borrowings

  Obligations under securities lending 

  and repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Total

Note:

110,861

2,126

1,889

3,104

89

118,069

–

176

–

426

–

602

(1) 

Includes amounts of US$719m falling due after 2 years through 5 years.

952

1,296

3,544

–

141

1,244

2,228

124

9,529

(699)

322

1,889

2,678

–

4,190

1,139

97

818

2

2,188

7

16,522

24,068

41,617

–

–

43

–

311

–

–

67

–

10

–

–

–

–

–

18,112

24,965

43,812

694

1,130(1)

9,075

498

–

–

29

–

–

54

101,791

–

–

–

6

1,853

9,627

101,797

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

191

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
Total

No fixed
maturity

Due in
one year
or less

Due after
one year
through
five years

Due after
five years
through
ten years

Due after
ten years

6,425

1,231

80,862

23,656

95

1,196

2,948

638

1,949

65

–

23,656

–

–

–

–

475

1,065

2,413

–

95

1,104

2,948

146

8,246

(871)

7

1,792

2,580

4

3,512

1,203

89

15,974

–

–

36

–

415

17,717

784

486(1)

–

–

16

1,286

728

4

2,070

8

22,089

40,386

–

–

56

–

79

–

–

–

–

(2)

22,956

42,462

8,553

89,915

–

–

–

21

8,574

–

–

–

–

89,915

37. rIsK manaGemenT (continued)
financial risk exposures (continued)
liquidity risk (continued)

US$m

30 November 2012

Financial assets

  Loans and deposits

  Other receivables

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Reinsurance receivables

  Accrued investment income

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivative financial instruments

Total

117,051

25,670

Financial and insurance contract liabilities

Insurance and investment contract 
liabilities (net of reinsurance)

  Borrowings

  Obligations under securities lending 

  and repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Total

Note:

98,381

766

1,792

2,812

41

103,792

–

273

–

232

–

505

(1) 

Includes amounts of US$486m falling due after 2 years through 5 years.

192

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
 
 
38. employee BenefITs
defined benefit plans
The Group operates funded and unfunded defined benefit plans that provide life and medical benefits for participating employees 
after retirement and a lump sum benefit on cessation of employment. The locations covered by these plans include Hong Kong, 
Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Korea. The latest independent actuarial valuations 
of the plans were at 30 November 2013 and were prepared by credentialed actuaries of Mercer (Hong Kong) Limited. All the 
actuaries are qualified members of professional actuarial organisations to render the actuarial opinions. The actuarial valuations 
indicate that the Group’s obligations under these defined benefit retirement plans are 51 per cent (2012: 34 per cent) covered by the 
plan assets held by the trustees. The fair value of plan assets as at year end at the date of valuation was US$87m (2012: US$60m). 
The total expenses relating to these plans recognised in the consolidated income statement was US$15m (2012: US$16m).

defined contribution plans
The Group operates a number of defined contribution pension plans. The total expense relating to these plans in the current year 
was US$54m (2012: US$46m). Employees and the employer are required to make monthly contributions equal to 2 per cent to 21 
per cent of the employees’ monthly basic salaries, depending on years of service and subject to any applicable caps of monthly 
relevant income in different jurisdictions. For defined contribution pension plans with vesting conditions, any forfeited contributions 
by employers on behalf of employees who leave the scheme prior to vesting fully in such contributions are used by the employer 
to reduce any future contributions. The amount of forfeited contributions used to reduce the existing level of contributions is not 
material.

39. share-Based CompensaTIon
share-based compensation plans
During the year ended 30 November 2013, the Group made further grants of share options, restricted share units (RSUs) and 
restricted stock purchase units to certain employees, directors and officers of the Group under the Share Option Scheme (SO 
Scheme), the Restricted Share Unit Scheme (RSU Scheme) and the Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP). As well, the Group 
made further grants of restricted stock subscription units to eligible agents under the Agency Share Purchase Plan (ASPP).

rsu scheme
Under the RSU Scheme, the vesting of the granted RSUs is conditional upon the eligible participants remaining in employment with 
the Group during the respective vesting periods. RSU grants are vested either entirely after a specific period of time or in tranches 
over the vesting period. For RSU grants that are vested in tranches, each vesting tranche is accounted for as a separate grant 
for the purposes of recognising the expense over the vesting period. For certain RSUs, performance conditions are also attached 
which include both market and non-market conditions. RSUs subject to performance conditions are released to the participants at 
the end of the vesting period depending on the actual achievement of the performance conditions. During the vesting period, the 
participants are not entitled to dividends of the underlying shares. Except in jurisdictions where restrictions apply, the granted RSUs 
are expected to be settled in equity; grants that the Group has the legal or constructive obligation to settle in cash are insignificant 
to the Group. The maximum number of shares that can be granted under this scheme is 301,100,000 (2012: 301,100,000), 
representing 2.5 per cent (2012: 2.5 per cent) of the number of shares in issue at 30 November 2013.

Restricted Share Units

Outstanding at beginning of financial year

Granted

Forfeited

Vested

Outstanding at end of financial year

Year ended 
30 November
2013
 Number of
shares

Year ended 
30 November
2012
  Number of
shares

50,450,631

20,645,534

31,202,819

22,348,056

(6,767,954)

(2,733,564)

(326,125)

(366,680)

64,002,086

50,450,631

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

193

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION39. share-Based CompensaTIon (continued)
share-based compensation plans (continued)
so scheme
The objectives of the SO Scheme are to align eligible participants’ interests with those of the shareholders of the Company by 
allowing eligible participants to share in the value created at the point they exercise their options. Share option (SO) grants are 
vested either entirely after a specific period of time or in tranches over the vesting period approximately three to five years, during 
which, the eligible participants are required to remain in employment with the Group. For SO grants vested in tranches, each 
vesting tranche is accounted for as a separate grant for the purposes of recognising the expense over the vesting period. The 
granted share options expire 10 years from the date of grant and each share option entitles the eligible participant to subscribe for 
one ordinary share. Except in jurisdictions where restrictions apply, the granted share options are expected to be settled in equity; 
grants that the Group has the legal or constructive obligation to settle in cash are insignificant to the Group. The total number of 
shares under options that can be granted under the scheme is 301,100,000 (2012: 301,100,000), representing 2.5 per cent (2012: 
2.5 per cent) of the number of shares in issue at 30 November 2013. The measurement dates for share option grants made in 
June 2011, March 2012 and March 2013 were determined to be 15 June 2011, 15 March 2012 and 11 March 2013 respectively, in 
accordance with IFRS 2.

Information about share options outstanding and share options exercisable by the Group’s employees and directors as at the end of 
the reporting period is as follows:

Share options

Outstanding at beginning of financial year

Granted

Forfeited or expired

Outstanding at end of financial year

Share options exercisable at end of financial year

Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)

Year ended
30 November 2013

Year ended
30 November 2012

Number of
share options

Weighted
average
exercise price
(HK$)

Number of
share options

Weighted
average
exercise price
(HK$)

28,171,257

7,490,459

(3,370,595)

32,291,121

–

8.05

27.64

34.35

28.77

29.08

–

20,426,519

7,816,367

(71,629)

28,171,257

–

8.72

27.35

28.40

27.35

27.64

–

The share options outstanding as of 30 November 2013 have an exercise price of between HK$27.35 and HK$34.35 (2012: between 
HK$27.35 and HK$28.40).

espp
Under the plan, eligible employees of the Group can purchase ordinary shares of the Company with qualified employee 
contributions and the Company will award one matching restricted stock purchase unit to them at the end of the vesting period for 
each two shares purchased through the qualified employee contributions (contribution shares). Contribution shares are purchased 
from the open market. During the vesting period, the eligible employees must hold the contribution shares purchased during the 
plan cycle and remain employed by the Group. The level of qualified employee contribution is limited to not more than 5 per cent of 
the annual basic salary subject to a maximum of US$15,000 per annum. The granted matching restricted stock purchase units are 
expected to be settled in equity. For the year ended 30 November 2013, eligible employees paid US$8m (2012: US$6m) to purchase 
1,745,775 ordinary shares (2012: 1,630,722 ordinary shares) of the Company.

194

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies39. share-Based CompensaTIon (continued)
share-based compensation plans (continued)
aspp
The structure of the ASPP generally follows that of the ESPP, the key difference being that the eligible agents are required to pay a 
subscription price of US$1 to subscribe for each new share in the Company at the end of the vesting period. Under the plan, eligible 
agents of the Group can purchase ordinary shares of the Company with qualified agent contributions and the Company will award 
one matching restricted stock subscription unit to them at the end of the vesting period for each two shares purchased through 
the qualified agent contributions (agent contribution shares). Each restricted stock subscription unit entitles eligible agents to 
subscribe for one new share of the Company. Agent contribution shares are purchased from the open market. During the vesting 
period, the eligible agents must hold the contribution shares purchased during the plan cycle and maintain their agent contracts 
with the Group. The granted matching restricted stock subscription units are expected to be settled in equity. The level of qualified 
agent contribution is subject to a maximum of US$15,000 per annum. For the year ended 30 November 2013, eligible agents paid 
US$11m (2012: US$4m) to purchase 2,365,707 ordinary shares (2012: 1,130,720 ordinary shares) of the Company.

valuation methodology
The Group utilises a binomial lattice model to calculate the fair value of the share option grants, a Monte-Carlo simulation model 
and/or discounted cash flow technique to calculate the fair value of the RSU, ESPP and ASPP awards, taking into account the 
terms and conditions upon which the awards were granted. The price volatility is estimated on the basis of implied volatility of 
the Company’s shares which is based on an analysis of historical data since they are traded in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange 
and takes into consideration the historical volatility of peer companies (the constituent companies in Dow Jones Insurance Titans 
30 Index) in view of the short trading history of the Company’s shares on the measurement date. The expected life of the share 
options is derived from the output of the valuation model and is calculated based on an analysis of expected exercise behaviour of 
the Company’s employees. The estimate of market condition for performance-based RSUs is based on one-year historical data 
preceding the grant date. No allowance for forfeiture prior to vesting is included in the valuation of the awards.

The fair value calculated for share options is inherently subjective due to the assumptions made and the limitations of the model 
utilised.

Year ended 30 November 2013

Share
options

Restricted
share units

ESPP
Restricted
stock
purchase
units

ASPP
Restricted
stock
subscription 
units

Assumptions

Risk-free interest rate

Volatility

Dividend yield

Exercise price (HK$)

Share option life (in years)

Expected life (in years)

Weighted average fair value per option/unit at 
  measurement date (HK$)

*  Applicable to RSU with market conditions.

1.26%

0.25% – 0.37%*

0.12% – 0.66%

30%

1.1%

34.35

10

7.41

10.54

30%

1.1%

n/a

n/a

n/a

28.94

26% – 30%

1.1% – 1.3%

n/a

n/a

n/a

0.34%

30%

1.1%

n/a

n/a

n/a

35.69

24.51

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

195

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION39. share-Based CompensaTIon (continued)
valuation methodology (continued)

Assumptions

Risk-free interest rate

Volatility

Dividend yield

Exercise price (HK$)

Share option life (in years)

Expected life (in years)

Weighted average fair value per option/unit at 
  measurement date (HK$)

*  Applicable to RSU with market conditions.

Year ended 30 November 2012

Share
options

Restricted
share units

ESPP
Restricted
stock
purchase
units

ASPP
Restricted
stock
subscription 
units

1.44% 0.20% – 0.36%*

0.19% – 0.49%

0.16% – 0.40%

30%

1.2%

28.40

10

7.40

8.71

30%

25% – 30%

30%

1.2% – 1.3%

1.2% – 1.3%

1.2% – 1.3%

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

23.74

27.43

18.96

The weighted average share price for share option valuation for grants made during the year ended 30 November 2013 is HK$34.35 
(2012: HK$28.40). The total fair value of share options granted during the year ended 30 November 2013 is US$9m (2012: US$9m).

recognised compensation cost
The total recognised compensation cost (net of expected forfeitures) related to various share-based compensation awards granted 
under the RSU Scheme, SO Scheme, ESPP and ASPP by the Group for the year ended 30 November 2013 is US$77m (2012: 
US$45m).

40. remuneraTIon of dIreCTors and Key manaGemenT personnel
directors’ remuneration
The Executive Director receives compensation in the form of salaries, bonuses, contributions to pension schemes, long-term 
incentives, housing and other allowances, and benefits in kind subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations. Bonuses and long-
term incentives represent the variable components in the Executive Director’s compensation and are linked to the performance of 
the Group and the Executive Director. Details of share-based payment schemes are described in note 39.

Salaries,
allowances
and benefits
in kind

Director’s
fees

Pension
scheme
contributions  

Post-
employment
benefits

Bonuses

Share-based

payments(1)

Inducement
fees

Termination
fees

Total

–

–

1,943,664

4,042,000

1,943,664

4,042,000

80,250

80,250

–

–

7,423,415 (2)

7,423,415

–

–

–

–

13,489,329

13,489,329

US$

Year ended 

  30 November 2013

Executive Director

Mr. Mark Edward
  Tucker

Total

Notes:

(1) 

Included SOs and RSUs awarded based upon the fair value at grant date assuming maximum performance levels  are achieved.

(2)  Share–based payments excluded a one–off adjustment of US$2,747,462 relating to a change in recognition of expense for accounting purposes.

196

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies40. remuneraTIon of dIreCTors and Key manaGemenT personnel (continued)
directors’ remuneration (continued)

Salaries,
allowances
and benefits
in kind

Director’s
fees

Pension
scheme
contributions  

Post-
employment
benefits

Bonuses

Share-based

payments(1)

Inducement
fees

Termination
fees

Total

–

–

1,905,036

3,924,300

1,905,036

3,924,300

77,732

77,732

15,994

5,646,971 (2)

15,994

5,646,971

–

–

–

–

11,570,033

11,570,033

US$

Year ended 

  30 November 2012

Executive Director

Mr. Mark Edward
  Tucker

Total

Notes:

(1) 

Included SOs and RSUs awarded based upon the fair value at grant date assuming maximum performance levels  are achieved.

(2)  Share-based payments excluded a one-off adjustment of US$1,509,697 relating to a change in recognition of expense for accounting purposes.

The remuneration of Non-executive Directors and Independent Non-executive Directors of the Company at 30 November 2013 and 
2012 are included in the tables below:

Salaries,
allowances
and benefits
in kind

Directors’
fees

Pension
scheme
contributions  

Post-
employment
benefits

Bonuses

Share-based
payments

Inducement
fees

Termination
fees

Total

US$

Year ended 

  30 November 2013

Non-executive
  Director

Mr. Edmund
  Sze-Wing Tse(1)

Independent
  Non-executive
  Directors

Mr. Jack
  Chak-Kwong So

Dr. Qin Xiao

Mr. John Barrie
  Harrison

Mr. George
  Yong-Boon Yeo

Dr. Narongchai
  Akrasanee

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen 
  Cheung(2)

Total

Notes:

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow

205,000

564,922

81,615

220,000

190,890

235,000

190,000

190,000

100,685

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,896,497

81,615

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

646,537

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

220,000

205,000

190,890

235,000

190,000

190,000

100,685

1,978,112

(1)  US$19,813 which represents remuneration to Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse in respect of his services as director of a subsidiary of the Company is included 

in his fees.

(2)  Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung resigned as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 25 May 2013.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

197

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION40. remuneraTIon of dIreCTors and Key manaGemenT personnel (continued)
directors’ remuneration (continued)

Salaries,
allowances
and benefits
in kind

Directors’
fees

Pension
scheme
contributions  

Post-
employment
benefits

Bonuses

Share-based
payments

Inducement
fees

Termination
fees

Total

US$

Year ended 

  30 November 2012

Non-executive Directors

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse(1)

535,541

75,168

Mr. Jeffrey Joy Hurd(3)

Mr. Jay Steven Wintrob(3)

Independent Non-executive 
  Directors

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So(4)

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow

Dr. Qin Xiao

Mr. John Barrie Harrison

Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen 
  Cheung(2)

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo(2)

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee(2)

Mr. Rafael Si-Yan Hui(3)

Total

Notes:

–

–

215,301

233,197

233,142

225,601

33,798

14,385

5,191

71,530

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,567,686

75,168

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

610,709

–

–

215,301

233,197

233,142

225,601

33,798

14,385

5,191

71,530

1,642,854

(1)  US$18,940 which represents remuneration to Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse in respect of his services as director of a subsidiary of the Company is included 

in his fees.

(2)  Mr. Barry Chun-Yuen Cheung, Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo and Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee were appointed as Independent Non-executive Directors of the 

Company on 20 September 2012, 2 November 2012 and 21 November 2012, respectively.

(3)  Mr. Jeffrey Joy Hurd and Mr. Jay Steven Wintrob resigned as Non-executive Directors of the Company on 8 March 2012 and Mr. Rafael Si-Yan Hui resigned 

as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company on 29 March 2012.

(4)  Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So was re-designated as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 26 September 2012.

remuneration of five highest paid individuals
The aggregate remuneration of the five highest paid individuals employed by the Group in each of the years ended 30 November 
2013 and 2012 is presented in the table below:

Salaries,
allowances
and benefits
in kind

Pension
scheme
contributions

Post-
employment
benefits

Bonuses

Share-based

payments(1)

Inducement
fees

Termination
fees

Total

US$

Year ended

30 November 2013

6,371,858

8,281,530

30 November 2012

6,307,954

8,359,300

189,753

199,762

–

16,521,742 (2)

47,438

12,731,677 (3)

–

–

–

–

31,364,883

27,646,131

Notes:

(1) 

Included SOs and RSUs awarded to the five highest paid individuals based upon the fair value at grant date assuming maximum performance levels are 
achieved.

(2)  Share-based payments excluded a one-off adjustment of US$5,941,198 relating to a change in recognition of expense for accounting purposes.

(3)  Share-based payments excluded a one-off adjustment of US$3,362,577 relating to a change in recognition of expense for accounting purposes.

198

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies40. remuneraTIon of dIreCTors and Key manaGemenT personnel (continued)
remuneration of five highest paid individuals (continued)
The emoluments of the five individuals with the highest emoluments are within the following bands:

HK$

25,000,001 to 25,500,000

26,000,001 to 26,500,000

28,500,001 to 29,000,000

29,500,001 to 30,000,000

32,500,001 to 33,000,000

37,000,001 to 37,500,000

38,000,001 to 38,500,000

45,500,001 to 46,000,000

89,500,001 to 90,000,000

104,500,001 to 105,000,000

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

–

1

–

1

–

1

–

1

–

1

1

–

1

–

1

–

1

–

1

–

Key management personnel remuneration
Key management personnel have been identified as the members of the Group’s Executive Committee.

US$

Key management compensation and other expenses

Salaries and other short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits – defined contribution

Post-employment benefits – medical & life

Other long-term benefits

Share-based payments(1)

Total

Notes:

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

21,695,497

23,356,919

397,034

–

180,911

395,984

100,397

468,426

18,272,355 (2)

17,730,158 (3)

40,545,797

42,051,884

(1) 

Included SOs and RSUs awarded to the key management personnel based upon the fair value at grant date assuming maximum performance levels are 
achieved.

(2)  Share-based payments excluded a one-off adjustment of US$7,761,839 relating to a change in recognition of expense for accounting purposes.

(3)  Share-based payments excluded a one-off adjustment of US$4,858,875 relating to a change in recognition of expense for accounting purposes.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

199

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION40. remuneraTIon of dIreCTors and Key manaGemenT personnel (continued)
Key management personnel remuneration (continued)
The emoluments of the key management personnel are within the following bands:

US$

1,000,001 to 1,500,000

1,500,001 to 2,000,000

2,000,001 to 2,500,000

2,500,001 to 3,000,000

3,000,001 to 3,500,000

3,500,001 to 4,000,000

4,000,001 to 4,500,000

4,500,001 to 5,000,000

5,500,001 to 6,000,000

11,500,001 to 12,000,000

13,000,001 to 13,500,000

Year ended
30 November
2013

Year ended
30 November
2012

–

2

1

–

3

1

–

1

1

–

1

1

1

–

2

3

1

1

1

–

1

–

41. relaTed parTy TransaCTIons
The amount due from joint venture is disclosed in note 15. Remuneration of directors and key management personnel is disclosed 
in note 40.

42. CommITmenTs and ConTInGenCIes
Commitments under operating leases
Total future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

US$m

Properties and others expiring

Not later than one year

Later than one and not later than five years

Later than five years

Total

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

86

125

31

242

79

103

32

214

The Group is the lessee in respect of a number of properties and items of office equipment held under operating leases. The leases 
typically run for an initial period of one to ten years, with an option to renew the lease when all terms are renegotiated. Lease 
payments are usually increased at the end of the lease term to reflect market rates. None of the leases include contingent rentals.

200

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies42. CommITmenTs and ConTInGenCIes (continued)
Investment and capital commitments

US$m

Not later than one year

Later than one and not later than five years

Later than five years

Total

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

693

14

1

708

641

63

4

708

Investment and capital commitments consist of commitments to invest in private equity partnerships and other assets.

Contingencies
The Group is subject to regulation in each of the geographical markets in which it operates from insurance, securities, capital 
markets, pension, data privacy and other regulators and is exposed to the risk of regulatory actions in response to perceived or 
actual non-compliance with regulations relating to suitability, sales or underwriting practices, claims payments and procedures, 
product design, disclosure, administration, denial or delay of benefits and breaches of fiduciary or other duties. The Group believes 
that these matters have been adequately provided for in these financial statements.

The Group is exposed to legal proceedings, complaints and other actions from its activities including those arising from commercial 
activities, sales practices, suitability of products, policies and claims. The Group believes that these matters are adequately provided 
for in these financial statements.

The Group is the reinsurer in a residential mortgage credit reinsurance agreement covering residential mortgages in Australia. Due 
to a change in law, further cessions under this contract ended in July 2008. This reinsurance was fully retroceded to a subsidiary of 
AIG and this retrocession was terminated in February 2012 on a run-off basis. The Group is exposed to the risk of losses in the event 
of the failure of the counterparty retrocessionaire to honour its outstanding obligations which is mitigated by a trust agreement put 
in place after the aforesaid termination. The principal balance outstanding of mortgage loans to which the reinsurance agreement 
relates were approximately US$1,248m at 30 November 2013 (2012: US$1,877m). The liabilities and related reinsurance assets, 
which totalled US$6m (2012: US$11m), respectively, arising from these agreements are reflected and presented on a gross basis 
in these financial statements in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies. The Group expects to fully recover amounts 
outstanding at the reporting date under the terms of this agreement from the retrocessionaire.

At 30 November 2013, the Group has issued capital guarantees and guarantees of indebtedness and minimum guaranteed rates of 
return ranging from 0 per cent to 5 per cent to holders of units of pension funds that have an accumulation value of approximately 
US$1,640m (2012: US$1,477m). The Group has the ability to reduce the guaranteed rates of return, subject to obtaining approvals 
of applicable regulators.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

201

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION43. suBsIdIarIes
The principal subsidiary companies which materially contribute to the net income of the Group or hold a material element of its 
assets and liabilities are:

Place of incorporation
and operation

Principal activity

Issued share capital

AIA Company Limited(1)

Hong Kong

Insurance

1,151,049,861 ordinary 
  shares of US$5 each

Group’s interest %

As at
30 November
2013

As at
30 November
2012

100%

100%

Bermuda

Insurance

3,000,000 ordinary shares 
  of US$1.20 each

100%

100%

(formerly known as American
International Assurance 

  Company, Limited)

AIA International Limited (formerly 
  known as American International 
  Assurance Company (Bermuda) 
  Limited)

AIA Australia Limited

Australia

Insurance

112,068,300 ordinary 
  shares of A$1 each

100%

100%

AIA Pension and Trustee 
  Co. Ltd.

AIA Bhd. (formerly known as
  American International
  Assurance Berhad)

British Virgin Islands Trusteeship

1,300,000 ordinary shares 
  of US$1 each

100%

100%

Malaysia

Insurance

767,438,174 ordinary 
  shares of RM1 each

100%

100%

AIA Singapore Private Limited

Singapore

Insurance

PT. AIA Financial

Indonesia

Insurance

The Philippine American Life and 
  General Insurance Company

Philippines

Insurance

AIA (Vietnam) Life Insurance 
  Company Limited

Vietnam

Insurance

AIA Insurance Lanka PLC (formerly 
  known as Aviva NDB Insurance)

Sri Lanka

Insurance

Bayshore Development
  Group Limited

British Virgin Islands

Investment 
  holding 
  company

BPI-Philam Life Assurance
  Corporation

Philippines

Insurance

AIA Reinsurance Limited

Bermuda

Reinsurance

Notes:

(1)  The Company’s subsidiary.

(2)  All of the above subsidiaries are audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers.

1,374,000,001 ordinary 
  shares of S$1 each

100%

100%

477,711,032 ordinary 
  shares of Rp1,000 each

100%

100%

199,560,671 ordinary 
  shares of PHP10 each
  and 439,329 treasury 
  shares

Contributed capital of 
  VND1,243,116,791,693

Contributed capital of 
  LKR 300,000,000

100 ordinary shares of 
  US$1 each

749,993,979 ordinary 
  shares of PHP1 each
  and 6,000 treasury
  shares

250,000 ordinary 
  shares of US$1 each

100%

99.78%

100%

100%

97.15%

–

90%

90%

51%

51%

100%

100%

All subsidiaries are unlisted except AIA Insurance Lanka PLC which is listed on the Main Board of the Colombo Stock Exchange.

202

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Significant Accounting Policies 
 
44. evenTs afTer The reporTInG perIod
On 19 December 2013, the Group entered into an agreement with Citibank to enter into an exclusive, long-term bancassurance 
partnership for a 15-year period that encompasses 11 markets in the Asia-Pacific region. The markets covered are: Hong Kong, 
Singapore, Thailand, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Australia, India and Korea. The agreement provided for a 
payment of US$800m to Citibank upon signing, together with future payments during the contract term.

On 21 February 2014, the Board of Directors proposed a final dividend of 28.62 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 24.67 Hong Kong 
cents per share).

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

203

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONsTaTemenT of fInanCIal posITIon of The Company

US$m

assets

Investment in a subsidiary

Amount due from subsidiary

Derivative financial instruments

Other assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

liabilities

Borrowings

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

equity

Issued share capital

Share premium

Employee share-based trusts

Retained earnings

Other reserves

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

Notes:

As at
30 November 
2013

As at
30 November
2012

Notes

2

3

4

5

6

7

7

7

8

15,741

910

–

22

10

13,994

1,040

8

18

86

16,683

15,146

1,201

11

1,212

12,044

1,914

(274)

1,652

135

15,471

16,683

–

13

13

12,044

1,914

(188)

1,303

60

15,133

15,146

(1)  The financial information of the Company should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

(2)  Net profit of the Company for the years ended 30 November 2013 and 2012 were US$944m and US$1,240m, respectively.

Approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 21 February 2014.

Mark Edward Tucker 
Director 

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Director

204

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSFinancial Statements of the Company 
 
 
 
noTes To The fInanCIal sTaTemenTs of The Company

1. aCCounTInG polICIes
Where applicable, the accounting policies of the Company are the same as for the Group as set out on pages 109 to 129. The 
Company’s financial statements comply with both IFRS and HKFRS.

2. InvesTmenT In a suBsIdIary

US$m

Unlisted shares, at cost

As at
30 November 
2013

As at
30 November
2012

15,741

13,994

See note 43 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements for further information of the Company’s subsidiary.

3. amounT due from suBsIdIary
The balance is unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

4. derIvaTIve fInanCIal InsTrumenTs
The Company’s non-hedge derivative exposure was as follows:

US$m

30 November 2012

Foreign exchange contracts

  Forwards

Total

Notional amount

Fair value

3,468

3,468

8

8

The Company did not have any derivative exposure as of 30 November 2013.

Details of derivative financial instruments are presented in note 22 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

5. Cash and Cash equIvalenTs
The cash and cash equivalents balance consists of cash of US$10m (2012: US$86m).

6. BorrowInGs
Details of the borrowings of the Company are provided in note 30 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements. On 22 November 
2013, the Company issued a 10-year unsecured floating rate medium term note to a subsidiary at a nominal value of US$60m; the 
medium term note bears interest upon LIBOR. The medium term note has been eliminated in the Group’s consolidated financial 
statements.

7. share CapITal, share premIum and employee share-Based TrusTs
Details of share capital, share premium and employee share-based trusts are presented in note 34 to the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements.

8. oTher reserves
Other reserves comprise share-based compensation recognised under the RSU Scheme, ESPP, ASPP and Share Option Scheme.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

205

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONnoTes To The fInanCIal sTaTemenTs of The Company (continued)

9. rIsK manaGemenT
Risk management in the context of the Group is discussed in note 37 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

The business of the Company is managing its investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint venture operations. Its risks are 
considered to be the same as those described in the context of the consolidated group. Such investments are held by the Company 
at cost in accordance with accounting policy discussed in note 2.3 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

Financial assets, other than investment in a subsidiary, largely consist of cash and cash equivalents.

10. relaTed parTy TransaCTIons
The Company receives dividend from subsidiaries and pays interest and expenses to those subsidiaries in the normal course of 
business.

Except as disclosed elsewhere in the financial statements, there are no other material related party transactions.

11. ConTInGenCIes
The Company has issued a guarantee to financial institutions in respect of a 3-year multicurrency bank facility of HK$2,507m 
(approximately US$323m) borrowed by its subsidiary. The Company is exposed to the risk in the event of default payment by its 
subsidiary.

12. evenTs afTer The reporTInG perIod
Details of the events after the reporting period of the Company are presented in note 44 to the Group’s consolidated financial 
statements.

206

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSFinancial Statements of the CompanyTowers waTson repor T  on The revIew  of The supplemenT ary emBedded v alue 
InformaTIon
AIA Group Limited (the Company) and its subsidiaries (together, “AIA” or “the Group”) have prepared supplementary embedded 
value results (EV Results) for the year ended 30 November 2013 (the Period). These EV Results, together with a description of the 
methodology and assumptions that have been used, are shown in the Supplementary Embedded Value Information section of this 
report.

Towers Watson Hong Kong Limited, trading as Towers Watson (Towers Watson), has been engaged to review the Group’s EV Results 
and prior year comparisons. This opinion is made solely to the Company and, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, 
Towers Watson does not accept or assume any responsibility, duty of care or liability to any third party for or in connection with its 
review work, the opinions it has formed, or for any statement set forth in this opinion.

sCope of worK
Our scope of work covered:

•  A review of the methodology used to calculate the embedded value and the equity attributable to shareholders of the Company 
on the embedded value basis as at 30 November 2013, and the value of new business for the 12-month period 1 December 
2012 to 30 November 2013;

•  A review of the economic and operating assumptions used to calculate the embedded value as at 30 November 2013 and the 

value of new business for the 12-month period 1 December 2012 to 30 November 2013; and

•  A review of the results of AIA’s calculation of the EV Results.

In carrying out our review, Towers Watson has relied on data and information provided by the Group.

opInIon
Towers Watson has concluded that:

•  The methodology used to calculate the embedded value and value of new business is consistent with recent industry practice 
for publicly listed companies in Hong Kong as regards traditional embedded value calculations based on discounted values of 
projected deterministic after-tax cash flows. This methodology makes an overall allowance for risk for the Group through the 
use of risk discount rates which incorporate risk margins and vary by Business Unit, together with an explicit allowance for the 
cost of holding required capital;

•  The economic assumptions are internally consistent and have been set with regard to current economic conditions; and

•  The operating assumptions have been set with appropriate regard to past, current and expected future experience, taking into 

account the nature of the business conducted by each Business Unit.

Towers Watson has performed a number of high-level checks on the models, processes and the results of the calculations, and 
has confirmed that no issues have been discovered that have a material impact on the disclosed embedded value and the equity 
attributable to shareholders of the Company on the embedded value basis as at 30 November 2013, the value of new business for 
the 12-month period 1 December 2012 to 30 November 2013, the analysis of movement in embedded value for the 12-month period 
ended 30 November 2013, and the sensitivity analysis.

Towers Watson

21 February 2014

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

207

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value InformationCauTIonary sTaTemenTs ConCernInG supplemenTary emBedded value InformaTIon
This report includes non-IFRS financial measures and should not be viewed as a substitute for IFRS financial measures.

The results shown in this report are not intended to represent an opinion of market value and should not be interpreted in that 
manner. This report does not purport to encompass all of the many factors that may bear upon a market value.

The results shown in this report are based on a series of assumptions as to the future. It should be recognised that actual future 
results may differ from those shown, on account of changes in the operating and economic environments and natural variations in 
experience. The results shown are presented at the valuation dates stated in this report and no warranty is given by the Group that 
future experience after these valuation dates will be in line with the assumptions made.

208

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information1. hIGhlIGhTs
The embedded value (EV) is a measure of the value of shareholders’ interests in the earnings distributable from assets allocated to 
the in-force business after allowance for the aggregate risks in that business. The Group uses a traditional deterministic discounted 
cash flow methodology for determining its EV and value of new business (VONB). This methodology makes implicit allowance for 
all sources of risk including the cost of investment return guarantees and policyholder options, asset-liability mismatch risk, credit 
risk, the risk that actual experience in future years differs from that assumed, and for the economic cost of capital, through the use 
of a risk-adjusted discount rate. The equity attributable to shareholders of the Company on the embedded value basis (EV Equity) 
is the total of EV, goodwill and other intangible assets attributable to shareholders of the Company. More details of the EV Results, 
methodology and assumptions are covered in later sections of this report.

Table 1.1 summarises the key results including the adjusted net worth (ANW) and value of in-force business (VIF).

Table 1.1
Summary of Key Metrics(1) (US$ millions)

Equity attributable to shareholders of the Company on the embedded 
  value basis (EV Equity)

Embedded value (EV)

Adjusted net worth (ANW)

Value of in-force business (VIF)

Value of new business (VONB) 

Annualised new premium (ANP) (2) (3)

VONB margin (3)

Notes:

As at 
30 November 
2013

As at 
30 November 
2012

34,875

33,822

13,466

20,356

31,657

31,408

13,170

18,238

12 months 
ended 
30 November 
2013

12 months 
ended 
30 November 
2012

1,490

3,341

44.1%

1,188

2,696

43.6%

Growth

10%

8%

2%

12%

YoY

25%

24%

0.5 pps

(1)  The results are after adjustments to reflect additional Hong Kong reserving and capital requirements and the after-tax value of unallocated Group Office 

expenses.

(2)  ANP represents 100 per cent of annualised first year premiums and 10 per cent of single premiums, before reinsurance ceded.

(3)  ANP and VONB margin exclude pension business.

VONB grew by 25 per cent compared with 2012 to US$1,490 million, net of tax, with each of our market segments delivering double-
digit growth over the year. ANP grew by 24 per cent compared with 2012 to US$3,341 million and VONB margin increased to 44.1 
per cent from 43.6 per cent in 2012.

EV Equity grew by US$3,218 million to US$34,875 million at 30 November 2013. This represents an increase of 10 per cent from 
US$31,657 million at 30 November 2012. EV Equity included goodwill and other intangible assets of US$1,053 million at 30 
November 2013 compared with US$249 million at 30 November 2012.

EV grew to US$33,822 million at 30 November 2013, an increase of 8 per cent over the year from US$31,408 million at 30 November 
2012. The growth in EV of US$2,414 million is shown after a deduction of US$808 million for the effect of acquisitions in the year.

EV operating profit grew by 14 per cent to US$3,975 million compared with 2012. The growth reflected a combination of a higher 
VONB of US$1,490 million, increased expected return on EV of US$2,387 million and positive operating experience variances and 
operating assumption changes which totalled US$124 million, less interest costs of US$26 million on medium term notes and an 
acquisition credit facility.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

209

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION1. hIGhlIGhTs (continued)
Non-operating EV movements included positive contribution of US$620 million from investment return variances and changes in 
economic assumptions and negative other non-operating variances. This was offset by the payment of total shareholder dividends 
of US$595 million, negative other capital movements of US$18 million and negative foreign exchange movements of US$760 
million.

EV as at 30 November 2013 included ANW of US$13,466 million and VIF of US$20,356 million, up 2 per cent and 12 per cent 
respectively compared with 30 November 2012.

2. ev resulTs
2.1 embedded value by Business unit
The EV as at 30 November 2013 is detailed in Table 2.1 below. Results are presented separately for the six largest Business Units, 
with those for the remaining Business Units presented together under the category “Other Markets”. This is consistent with the 
segment information in the IFRS financial statements. Section 4.1 of this report contains a full list of the entities included in the 
report and the mapping of these entities to “Business Units” for the purpose of the report.

Table 2.1
Summary of EV by Business Unit (US$ millions)

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

AIA Korea

Other Markets

Group Corporate Centre

Subtotal

Adjustment to reflect additional Hong Kong 
  reserving and capital requirements(3)

After-tax value of unallocated Group 
  Office expenses

Total

Notes:

As at 30 November 2013

VIF before 

VIF after 

As at 
30 November

2012

ANW(1)

CoC(2)

CoC(2)

CoC(2)

EV

EV(4)

4,438

4,884

1,520

1,318

509

1,292

3,040

4,469

6,714

2,604

2,936

1,359

2,757

972

1,190

(67)

436

620

449

234

160

358

266

–

6,278

1,984

2,487

1,125

2,597

614

924

(67)

10,716

10,059

6,868

4,007

2,443

3,106

1,906

3,964

4,402

6,750

3,746

1,286

2,192

1,731

3,929

5,348

21,470

18,465

2,523

15,942

37,412

35,041

(8,004)

5,196

132

5,064

(2,940)

(3,031)

–

(650)

13,466

23,011

–

2,655

(650)

(650)

20,356

33,822

(602)

31,408

(1)  ANW by Business Unit is after net capital flows between Business Units and Group Corporate Centre as reported in the IFRS financial statements.

(2)  CoC refers to the cost arising from holding the required capital as defined in Section 4.2 of this report.

(3)  Adjustment to EV for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International, as described in Section 4.4 of this report.

(4)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior year, mainly within VIF, to conform to current period presentation. The reclassification 

has no impact on the total EV of the Group as of 30 November 2012.

210

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.2 reconciliation of anw to Ifrs equity
Table 2.2 sets out the derivation of ANW from IFRS equity as at 30 November 2013.

Table 2.2
Derivation of the Group ANW from IFRS equity (US$ millions)

IFRS equity attributable to shareholders of the Company

Elimination of IFRS deferred acquisition and origination costs assets

Difference between IFRS policy liabilities and local statutory policy liabilities 

(for entities included in the EV Results)

Difference between net IFRS policy liabilities and local statutory policy liabilities 

(for entities included in the EV Results)

Mark-to-market adjustment for property and mortgage loan investments, 
  net of amounts attributable to participating funds

Elimination of intangible assets

Recognition of deferred tax impacts of the above adjustments

Recognition of non-controlling interests impacts of the above adjustments

Group ANW (local statutory basis)

Adjustment to reflect additional Hong Kong reserving requirements, net of tax

Group ANW (after additional Hong Kong reserving requirements)

As at 
30 November 
2013

As at 
30 November 
2012

24,686

(15,738)

26,697

(14,161)

10,725

6,659

(5,013)

(7,502)

2,250

(1,321)

1,006

(138)

21,470

(8,004)

13,466

2,163

(292)

795

(113)

21,748

(8,578)

13,170

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

211

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.3 Breakdown of anw
Table 2.3 shows the breakdown of the ANW for the Group between the required capital, as defined in Section 4.6 of this report, and 
the free surplus, which is the ANW in excess of the required capital.

Table 2.3
Free surplus and required capital for the Group (US$ millions)

Free surplus

Required capital

ANW

As at 30 November 2013

As at 30 November 2012

Hong Kong 
basis for 
branches 
of AIA Co. 
and AIA 
International

6,731

6,735

13,466

Local 
statutory 
basis

15,648

5,822

21,470

Hong Kong 
basis for 
branches of 
AIA Co. 
and AIA 
International

6,643

6,527

13,170

Local 
statutory 
basis

16,082

5,666

21,748

The Company’s subsidiaries, AIA Co. and AIA International, are both Hong Kong-regulated entities subject to Hong Kong statutory 
requirements. The business written in the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International is subject to the local reserving and capital 
requirements in the relevant territory and the Hong Kong reserving and capital requirements applicable to AIA Co. and AIA 
International at the entity level.

At 30 November 2013, the more onerous reserving basis for both AIA Co. and AIA International was the Hong Kong basis. Therefore, 
the Group’s free surplus at 30 November 2013 reduced by US$8,917 million (2012: US$9,439 million) under the Hong Kong basis 
compared with the local statutory basis, reflecting US$8,004 million (2012: US$8,578 million) higher reserving requirements 
and US$913 million (2012: US$861 million) higher required capital under the Hong Kong basis for branches of AIA Co. and AIA 
International.

212

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.4 earnings profile
Table 2.4 shows how the after-tax distributable earnings from the assets backing the statutory reserves and required capital of the 
in-force business of the Group are projected to emerge over future years. The projected values reflect the Hong Kong reserving and 
capital requirements for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International.

Table 2.4
Profile of projected after-tax distributable earnings for the Group’s in-force business (US$ millions)

Financial year

2014 – 2018

2019 – 2023

2024 – 2028

2029 – 2033

2034 and thereafter

Total

As at 30 November 2013

Undiscounted

Discounted

14,132

11,948

10,180

8,946

36,051

81,257

11,660

6,452

3,689

2,199

3,091

27,091

The profile of distributable earnings is shown on an undiscounted and discounted basis. The discounted value of after-tax 
distributable earnings of US$27,091 million (2012: US$24,765 million) plus the free surplus of US$6,731 million (2012: US$6,643 
million) shown in Table 2.3 is equal to the EV of US$33,822 million (2012: US$31,408 million) shown in Table 2.1.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

213

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.5 value of new Business
The VONB for the Group for the 12-month period from 1 December 2012 to 30 November 2013 is summarised in Table 2.5 below. 
The VONB is defined as the present value, at the point of sale, of the projected after-tax statutory profits less the cost of required 
capital. Results are presented separately for the six largest Business Units, with those for the remaining Business Units presented 
together under the category “Other Markets”. This is consistent with the segment information in the IFRS financial statements. 
Section 4.1 of this report contains a full list of the entities included in the report and the mapping of these entities to “Business 
Units” for the purpose of the report.

The Group VONB for the 12 months ended 30 November 2013 was US$1,490 million, an increase of US$302 million, or 25 per cent, 
from US$1,188 million for the same period in 2012.

Table 2.5
Summary of VONB by Business Unit (US$ millions)

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

AIA Korea

Other Markets

Total before unallocated Group Office expenses 

(local statutory basis)

Adjustment to reflect additional Hong Kong reserving and 
  capital requirements(2)

Total before unallocated Group Office expenses 

(after additional Hong Kong reserving and capital 

  requirements)

After-tax value of unallocated Group Office expenses

Total

Notes:

12 months ended 
30 November 2013

12 months 
ended 
30 November 
2012

VONB before 
CoC(1)

VONB after 

VONB after 

CoC(1)

CoC(1) (3)

CoC(1) (3) (4)

548

381

297

138

187

104

255

1,910

(77)

1,833

(96)

1,737

80

62

28

18

21

13

35

257

(10)

247

–

247

468

319

269

120

166

91

220

366

287

220

69

124

68

167

1,653

1,301

(67)

(41)

1,586

(96)

1,490

1,260

(72)

1,188

(1)  CoC refers to the cost arising from holding the required capital as defined in Section 4.2 of this report.

(2)  Adjustment to VONB for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International, as described in Section 4.4 of this report.

(3)  VONB for the Group is calculated before deducting the amount attributable to non-controlling interests. The amounts of VONB attributable to non-

controlling interests for the 12 months ended 30 November 2013 and 30 November 2012 were US$11 million and US$11 million respectively.

(4)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior period to conform to current period presentation. The reclassification has no impact on 

the total VONB of the Group for the 12 months ended 30 November 2012.

214

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information 
 
2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.5 value of new Business (continued)
Table 2.6 shows the VONB margin for the Group. The VONB margin is defined as VONB, excluding pension business, expressed as 
a percentage of ANP. The VONB for pension business is excluded from the margin calculation to be consistent with the definition of 
ANP.

The Group VONB margin for the 12 months ended 30 November 2013 was 44.1 per cent compared with 43.6 per cent for the same 
period in 2012.

Table 2.6
Summary of VONB Margin by Business Unit (US$ millions)

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

AIA Korea

Other Markets

Total before unallocated Group Office expenses 

(local statutory basis)

Adjustment to reflect additional Hong Kong reserving and 
  capital requirements(2)

Total before unallocated Group Office expenses 
(after additional Hong Kong reserving and 

  capital requirements)

After-tax value of unallocated Group Office expenses

Total

Notes:

12 months ended 
30 November 2013

12 months 
ended 
30 November 
2012

ANP(1)

VONB 
Margin(1)

VONB 
Margin(1) (3)

781

565

400

319

249

338

689

57.6%

56.3%

67.3%

37.8%

66.4%

26.8%

32.0%

58.4%

53.9%

65.1%

46.0%

57.5%

28.5%

27.0%

VONB 
Excluding 
Pension

449

318

269

121

166

91

221

1,635

3,341

48.9%

47.8%

(67)

–

1,568

(96)

1,472

3,341

–

3,341

46.9%

46.2%

44.1%

43.6%

(1)  ANP and VONB margin exclude pension business.

(2)  Adjustment to VONB for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International, as described in Section 4.4 of this report.

(3)  Certain segmental reclassifications have been made in the prior period to conform to current period presentation. The reclassification has no impact on 

the total VONB and VONB margin of the Group for the 12 months ended 30 November 2012.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

215

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.5 value of new Business (continued)
Table 2.7 shows the breakdown of the VONB, ANP and VONB margin for the Group by quarter for business written in the 12 months 
to 30 November 2013. For comparison purposes, the quarterly VONB, ANP and VONB margin for business written in the 12 months 
to 30 November 2012 are also shown in the same table.

Table 2.7
Summary of VONB, ANP and VONB Margin by quarter for the Group (US$ millions)

Quarter

Values for 2013

3 months ended 28 February 2013

3 months ended 31 May 2013

3 months ended 31 August 2013

3 months ended 30 November 2013

Values for 2012

3 months ended 29 February 2012

3 months ended 31 May 2012

3 months ended 31 August 2012

3 months ended 30 November 2012

Notes:

VONB after 
CoC(1)

ANP(2)

VONB 
Margin(2)

291

354

379

466

232

280

300

376

745

782

839

975

543

644

696

813

38.4%

44.7%

44.7%

47.3%

42.1%

43.1%

42.6%

45.8%

(1)  CoC refers to the cost arising from holding the required capital as defined in Section 4.2 of this report.

(2)  ANP and VONB margin exclude pension business.

216

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.6 analysis of ev movement
Table 2.8 shows the analysis of movement in EV from 30 November 2012 to 30 November 2013.

Table 2.8
Analysis of movement in EV (US$ millions)

Opening EV

Purchase price

Acquired EV

Effect of acquisitions

EV post acquisitions

Value of new business

Expected return on EV

Operating experience variances

Operating assumption changes

Interest costs on medium term notes 
  and acquisition credit facility

EV operating profit

Investment return variances

Effect of changes in economic assumptions

Other non-operating variances

Total EV profit

Dividends

Other capital movements

Effect of changes in exchange rates

Closing EV

12 months ended 
30 November 2013

12 months 
ended 
30 November 
2012

ANW

VIF

EV

EV

13,170

(1,865)

683

(1,182)

11,988

(957)

3,087

(255)

(83)

(26)

1,766

335

–

361

2,462

(595)

(18)

(371)

18,238

31,408

27,239

–

374

374

18,612

2,447

(700)

369

93

–

2,209

10

429

(515)

2,133

–

–

(389)

(1,865)

1,057

(808)

30,600

1,490

2,387

114

10

(26)

3,975

345

429

(154)

4,595

(595)

(18)

(760)

–

–

–

27,239

1,188

2,192

140

(29)

–

3,491

933

(105)

(113)

4,206

(530)

(42)

535

13,466

20,356

33,822

31,408

YoY

EV

15%

n/m

n/m

n/m

12%

25%

9%

(19)%

n/m

n/m

14%

(63)%

n/m

36%

9%

12%

(57)%

n/m

8%

EV grew to US$33,822 million at 30 November 2013, an increase of 8 per cent over the year from US$31,408 million at 30 November 
2012. The growth in EV of US$2,414 million is shown after a deduction of US$808 million for the effect of acquisitions in the year. 
The purchase price of US$1,865 million is in respect of the acquisitions of Sri Lankan insurer Aviva NDB Insurance (ANI) and ING 
Management Holdings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (ING Malaysia) completed on 5 December 2012 and 18 December 2012 respectively 
per note 5 to the IFRS financial statements. The acquired EV of US$1,057 million represents the EV of these two businesses at the 
respective completion dates of acquisition.

EV operating profit grew by 14 per cent to US$3,975 million in 2013 (2012: US$3,491 million). The increase reflected a higher VONB 
of US$1,490 million (2012: US$1,188 million), US$2,387 million (2012: US$2,192 million) from the expected return on the higher 
opening EV, positive operating experience variances of US$114 million (2012: US$140 million), positive operating assumption 
changes of US$10 million (2012: US$(29) million) offset by interest costs of US$26 million (2012: nil) on medium term notes and an 
acquisition credit facility.

The VONB shown in Table 2.8 is calculated at the point of sale for business written during the Period before deducting the amount 
attributable to non-controlling interests. The expected return on EV is the expected change in the EV over the Period plus the 
expected return on the VONB from the point of sale to 30 November 2013 less the VONB attributable to non-controlling interests. 
Operating experience variances reflect the impact on the ANW and VIF from differences between the actual experience over the 
Period and that expected based on the operating assumptions.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

217

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. ev resulTs (continued)
2.6 analysis of ev movement (continued)
The main operating experience variances (net of tax) are:

•  Expense variances of US$1 million (2012: US$(23) million) including non-recurring project expenses of US$(9) million (2012: 

US$(27) million);

•  Mortality and morbidity claims variances of US$116 million (2012: US$152 million); and

•  Persistency and other variances of US$(3) million (2012: US$11 million).

The overall effect of changes to operating assumptions during the Period was US$10 million (2012: US$(29) million).

The EV profit of US$4,595 million (2012: US$4,206 million) is the total of EV operating profit, investment return variances, the effect 
of changes in economic assumptions and other non-operating variances.

The investment return variances arise from the impact of differences between the actual investment returns in the Period and the 
expected investment returns. This includes the impact on the EV of changes in the market values and market yields on existing 
fixed income assets, and the impact on the EV of changes in the economic assumptions used in the statutory reserving bases for 
the Group. The investment return variances of US$345 million (2012: US$933 million) were largely caused by positive statutory 
reserve movements offset by negative market movements compared with the assumptions used in the EV calculation at the start of 
the Period.

The effect of changes in economic assumptions of US$429 million (2012: US$(105) million) includes the impact of changes in long-
term investment return assumptions of US$161 million (2012: US$(893) million) and the impact of changes in risk discount rates of 
US$268 million (2012: US$788 million).

Other non-operating variances amounted to US$(154) million (2012: US$(113) million) and included:

•  Tax adjustments resulting in a gain of US$195 million (2012: US$256 million);

•  Restructuring and other non-operating costs of US$44 million (2012: US$75 million), plus the current Period effect of US$(32) 
million (2012: US$(29) million) for the Agency Incentive Plan which was a one-off initiative to improve agent activity and 
productivity prior to the IPO of the Company; and

•  Modelling enhancements, accounting for the majority of the balance.

The Group paid total shareholder dividends of US$595 million (2012: US$530 million). Other capital movements of US$(18) million 
(2012: US$(42) million) were mainly due to the purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts.

The US$(760) million (2012: US$535 million) effect of changes in exchange rates reflects the translation gains and losses in respect 
of exchange rate movements over the Period.

2.7 ev equity
The EV as at 30 November 2013 included a deduction of US$808 million (2012: nil) for the effect of acquisitions in the year. The EV 
Equity grew to US$34,875 million at 30 November 2013, an increase of 10 per cent from US$31,657 million at 30 November 2012. 
Table 2.9 sets out the derivation of EV Equity from EV as at 30 November 2013.

Table 2.9
Derivation of EV Equity from EV (US$ millions)

EV

Goodwill and other intangible assets(1)

EV Equity

Note:

As at
30 November 
2013

As at
30 November 
2012

33,822

1,053

34,875

31,408

249

31,657

Growth

8%

323%

10%

(1)  Consistent with the IFRS financial statements, net of tax, amounts attributable to participating funds and non-controlling interests.

218

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information3. sensITIvITy analysIs
The EV as at 30 November 2013 and the VONB for the 12-month period 1 December 2012 to 30 November 2013 have been 
recalculated to illustrate the sensitivity of the results to changes in certain central assumptions discussed in Section 5.

The sensitivities analysed were:

•  Risk discount rates 200 basis points per annum higher than the central assumptions;

•  Risk discount rates 200 basis points per annum lower than the central assumptions;

• 

Interest rates 50 basis points per annum higher than the central assumptions;

• 

Interest rates 50 basis points per annum lower than the central assumptions;

•  The presentation currency (as explained below) appreciated by 5 per cent;

•  The presentation currency depreciated by 5 per cent;

•  Lapse and premium discontinuance rates increased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 110 per cent of the central assumptions);

•  Lapse and premium discontinuance rates decreased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 90 per cent of the central assumptions);

•  Mortality/morbidity rates increased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 110 per cent of the central assumptions);

•  Mortality/morbidity rates decreased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 90 per cent of the central assumptions);

•  Maintenance expenses 10 per cent lower (i.e. 90 per cent of the central assumptions); and

•  Expense inflation set to 0 per cent.

The EV as at 30 November 2013 has been further analysed for the following sensitivities:

•  Equity prices increased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 110 per cent of the prices at 30 November 2013); and

•  Equity prices decreased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 90 per cent of the prices at 30 November 2013).

For the interest rate sensitivities, the investment return assumptions and the risk discount rates were changed by 50 basis points 
per annum; the projected bonus rates on participating business, the statutory reserving bases at 30 November 2013 and the values 
of debt instruments held at 30 November 2013 were changed to be consistent with the interest rate assumptions in the sensitivity 
analysis, while all the other assumptions were unchanged.

The EV Results of each entity in Section 4.1 are measured in the currency of the primary economic environment in which that entity 
operates (the functional currency) and presented in US dollar (the presentation currency). In order to provide a sensitivity to EV 
and VONB of foreign currency movements to the translation from functional currencies, a change of 5 per cent to the presentation 
currency is included. This sensitivity does not include the impact of currency movements on the translation of transactions 
denominated in a foreign currency of an entity into its functional currency (including any impacts on VIF).

For the equity price sensitivities, the projected bonus rates on participating business and the values of equity securities and equity 
funds held at 30 November 2013 were changed to be consistent with the equity price assumptions in the sensitivity analysis, while 
all the other assumptions were unchanged.

For each of the remaining sensitivity analysis, the statutory reserving bases at 30 November 2013 and the projected bonus rates 
on participating business were changed to be consistent with the sensitivity analysis assumptions, while all the other assumptions 
remain unchanged.

The results of the above sensitivity analysis are shown below in Table 3.1 for the EV and in Table 3.2 for the VONB.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

219

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION3. sensITIvITy analysIs (continued)
The sensitivities chosen do not represent the boundaries of possible outcomes, but instead illustrate how certain alternative 
assumptions would affect the results.

Table 3.1
Sensitivity of EV as at 30 November 2013 (US$ millions)

Scenario

Central value

200 bps increase in risk discount rates

200 bps decrease in risk discount rates

10% increase in equity prices

10% decrease in equity prices

50 bps increase in interest rates

50 bps decrease in interest rates

5% appreciation in the presentation currency

5% depreciation in the presentation currency

10% increase in lapse/discontinuance rates

10% decrease in lapse/discontinuance rates

10% increase in mortality/morbidity rates

10% decrease in mortality/morbidity rates

10% decrease in maintenance expenses

Expense inflation set to 0%

Table 3.2
Sensitivity of VONB for the 12 months ended 30 November 2013 (US$ millions)

Scenario

Central value

200 bps increase in risk discount rates

200 bps decrease in risk discount rates

50 bps increase in interest rates

50 bps decrease in interest rates

5% appreciation in the presentation currency

5% depreciation in the presentation currency

10% increase in lapse rates

10% decrease in lapse rates

10% increase in mortality/morbidity rates

10% decrease in mortality/morbidity rates

10% decrease in maintenance expenses

Expense inflation set to 0%

220

AIA GROUP LIMITED

EV

33,822

29,976

39,314

34,459

33,168

34,031

33,418

32,874

34,770

33,440

34,275

31,226

36,497

34,280

34,217

VONB

1,490

1,068

2,104

1,564

1,399

1,434

1,546

1,378

1,614

1,213

1,766

1,551

1,540

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information4. meThodoloGy
4.1 entities Included in This report
The Group operates through a number of subsidiaries and branches. Its two main operating subsidiaries are AIA Company 
Limited (AIA Co., formerly known as American International Assurance Company, Limited), a subsidiary of the Company, and AIA 
International Limited (AIA International, formerly known as American International Assurance Company (Bermuda) Limited), a 
subsidiary of AIA Co. Furthermore, AIA Co. has branches located in Brunei, China and Thailand and AIA International has branches 
located in Hong Kong, Korea, Macau, New Zealand and Taiwan.

The following is a full list of the entities and their mapping to “Business Units” for the purpose of this report.

•  AIA Australia refers to AIA Australia Limited, a subsidiary of AIA Co.;

•  AIA China refers to the Chinese branches of AIA Co.;

•  AIA Hong Kong refers to the total of the following three entities:

• 

• 

the Hong Kong and Macau branches of AIA International;

the Hong Kong and Macau business written by AIA Co.; and

•  AIA Pension and Trustee Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of AIA Co.

•  AIA Indonesia refers to PT. AIA Financial, a subsidiary of AIA International;

•  AIA Korea refers to the Korean branch of AIA International;

•  AIA New Zealand refers to the New Zealand branch of AIA International;

•  AIA Malaysia refers to AIA Bhd. (formerly known as American International Assurance Bhd.), a subsidiary of AIA Co., its 
subsidiary AIA AFG Takaful Bhd., and AIA PUBLIC Takaful Bhd. (formerly known as ING PUBLIC Takaful Ehsan Berhad), a 60 
per cent owned subsidiary of AIA Co.;

•  Philam Life refers to The Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company, a subsidiary of AIA Co. and its 51 per cent 

owned subsidiary BPI-Philam Life Assurance Corporation;

•  AIA Singapore refers to AIA Singapore Private Limited, a subsidiary of AIA Co., and Brunei branch of AIA Co.;

•  AIA Thailand refers to the Thailand branches of AIA Co.;

•  AIA Taiwan refers to the Taiwanese branch of AIA International;

•  AIA Vietnam refers to AIA (Vietnam) Life Insurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of AIA International; and

•  AIA Sri Lanka refers to AIA Insurance Lanka PLC (formerly known as Aviva NDB Insurance), a 97.15 per cent owned subsidiary 

of AIA Co.

The Group completed the acquisitions of Aviva NDB Insurance and ING Management Holdings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. on 5 December 
2012 and 18 December 2012 respectively. The financial results of these two newly-acquired businesses are accounted for in the 
Group’s 2013 results from the respective dates of completion. The business of ING Management Holdings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. has 
been integrated into AIA Malaysia. See note 5 to the IFRS financial statements for more details.

In addition, the entity Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited, which is 26 per cent owned by AIA International, has been included 
in the Group ANW presented in this report on an equity method accounting basis.

The summary of the EV of the Group by Business Unit in this report also includes a segment for “Group Corporate Centre” results. 
The results shown for this segment consist of the ANW for the Group’s corporate functions and the present value of remittance 
taxes payable on distributable profits to Hong Kong. The ANW has been derived as the IFRS equity for this segment plus mark-to-
market adjustments less the value of excluded intangible assets.

Results are presented separately for the six largest Business Units, with those for the remaining Business Units presented together 
under the category “Other Markets”. This is consistent with the segment information in the IFRS financial statements. For the 
VONB, “Other Markets” includes the present value of allowance for remittance taxes payable on distributable profits to Hong Kong.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

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OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION4. meThodoloGy (continued)
4.2 embedded value and value of new Business
The Group uses a traditional deterministic discounted cash flow methodology for determining its EV and VONB. This methodology 
makes implicit allowance for all sources of risk including the cost of investment return guarantees and policyholder options, 
asset-liability mismatch risk, credit risk, the risk that actual experience in future years differs from that assumed, and for the 
economic cost of capital, through the use of a risk-adjusted discount rate. Typically, the higher the risk discount rate, the greater 
the allowance for these factors. This is a common methodology used by life insurance companies in Asia currently. Alternative 
valuation methodologies and approaches continue to emerge and may be considered by AIA.

The business included in the VIF and VONB calculations includes all life business written by the Business Units of the Group, plus 
other lines of business which may not be classified as life business but have similar characteristics. These include accident and 
health, group and pension businesses. The projected in-force business included in the VIF also incorporates expected renewals on 
short-term business with a term of one year or less.

The EV is the sum of the ANW and VIF. The ANW is the market value of assets in excess of the assets backing the policy reserves 
and other liabilities of the life (and similar) business of the Group, plus the IFRS equity value (excluding the value of intangible 
assets) of other activities, such as general insurance business. It excludes any amounts not attributable to shareholders of the 
Company. The market value of investment property and property held for use used to determine the ANW is based on the fair 
value disclosed in the Group’s IFRS financial statements as at the valuation date. It is the Group’s policy to obtain external property 
valuations annually except in the case of a discrete event occurring in the interim that has a significant impact on the fair value of 
the properties.

The VIF is the present value of projected after-tax statutory profits emerging in the future from the current in-force business less 
the cost arising from holding the required capital (CoC) to support the in-force business. CoC is calculated as the face value of 
the required capital as at the valuation date less the present value of the net-of-tax investment return on the shareholder assets 
backing required capital and the present value of projected releases from the assets backing the required capital. Where the 
required capital may be covered by policyholder assets such as surplus assets in a participating fund there is no associated cost of 
capital included in the VIF or VONB.

EV Equity is the total of EV, goodwill and other intangible assets attributable to shareholders of the Company.

The VONB is the present value, measured at point of sale, of projected after-tax statutory profits emerging in the future from new 
business sold in the period less the cost of holding required capital in excess of regulatory reserves to support this business. The 
VONB for the Group is calculated based on assumptions applicable at the point of measurement and before deducting the amount 
attributable to non-controlling interests. The VONB attributable to non-controlling interests was US$11 million for the 12-month 
period ended 30 November 2013 (2012: US$11 million).

A deduction has been made from the EV and VONB for the present value of future after-tax unallocated Group Office expenses, 
representing the expenses incurred by the Group Office which are not allocated to the Business Units. These unallocated Group 
Office expenses have been allocated to acquisition and maintenance activities, and a deduction made from the VONB and VIF 
respectively.

222

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information4. meThodoloGy (continued)
4.3 definition of new Business
New business includes the sale of new contracts during the period, additional single premium payments on recurrent single 
premium contracts and increments to existing contracts where these are not variations allowed for in the calculation of the VIF. 
The VONB also includes the present value of cash flows associated with new policies written during the reporting period but 
subsequently terminated before the valuation date.

For group renewable business including group yearly renewable term business, new business is composed of new schemes set up 
during the period plus any premium payable on existing schemes that exceeds the prior year’s premium.

For short-term accident and health business with a term of one year or less, renewals of existing contracts are not considered new 
business, and the value of expected renewals on this business is included in the VIF.

For pension business, sale of new contracts during the period and any new contribution, including assets transferred in, are 
considered as new business for the calculation of the VONB.

New business volumes shown in this report are measured using annualised new premium (ANP), which is an internal measure of 
new business sales. This represents 100 per cent of annualised first year premiums and 10 per cent of single premiums, before 
reinsurance ceded. It excludes new business sales for pension business.

4.4 Consolidation of hong Kong Branches
The Group’s subsidiaries, AIA Co. and AIA International, are both Hong Kong-regulated entities. AIA operates in a number of 
territories as branches of these entities. Therefore, the business written in these branches is subject to the local reserving and 
capital requirements in the relevant territory and the Hong Kong reserving and capital requirements applicable to AIA Co. and AIA 
International at the entity level.

For these branches, the EV Results shown in Section 2 have been calculated reflecting the more onerous of the Hong Kong 
and branch level regulatory reserving and capital requirements. This was done because the ultimate distribution of profits to 
shareholders of the Company from AIA Co. and AIA International will depend on both the Hong Kong and the local regulatory 
reserving and capital requirements. At the end of November 2013, the more onerous reserving basis for both AIA Co. and AIA 
International was the Hong Kong regulatory basis. This impact is shown as a Group-level adjustment to the EV and VONB. The EV 
and VONB for each Business Unit reflect only the local reserving and capital requirements, as discussed in Section 4.6.

4.5 valuation of future statutory losses
For certain lines of business, projected future statutory profits are negative due to the local statutory reserves being insufficient to 
meet the value of future policyholder cash flows. Within a traditional embedded value framework, there are a number of acceptable 
methods for determining the value of a combination of positive and negative statutory profits for different lines of business.

For the purposes of this valuation, future projected statutory losses have been valued by discounting them at the risk discount 
rate for the relevant Business Unit. This has been done because the allowance for risk in the range of selected risk discount rates 
for each Business Unit has been set taking into account the presence of any such business lines with projected statutory losses. 
Also, the currently more onerous Hong Kong regulatory reserving requirements for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International 
have the effect of reducing the level of any future projected statutory losses for these Business Units. Based on the assumptions 
described in Section 5, and allowing for the Hong Kong statutory reserving and capital requirements for the branches of AIA Co. 
and AIA International, the overall projected annual distributable profits from the current in-force business and the assets backing 
the required capital of the Group are positive over the remaining lifetime of the business. Therefore, it is not considered necessary 
to change the discounting approach described above.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

223

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION4. meThodoloGy (continued)
4.6 required Capital
Each of the Business Units has a regulatory requirement to hold shareholder capital in addition to the assets backing the insurance 
liabilities. The Group’s assumed levels of required capital for each Business Unit are set out in Table 4.1 below. Further, the 
consolidated EV Results for the Group have been calculated reflecting the more onerous of the Hong Kong and branch level local 
regulatory reserving and capital requirements for AIA Co. and AIA International.

Table 4.1
Required Capital by Business Unit

Business Unit

AIA Australia

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Indonesia

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA New Zealand

Philam Life

Required Capital

100% of the regulatory capital adequacy requirement(1)

100% of required minimum solvency margin

150% of required minimum solvency margin(2)

120% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement(3)

150% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

170% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

100% of the local regulatory requirement

100% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

AIA Singapore – Brunei business

100% of the local regulatory requirement

AIA Singapore – Singapore business

180% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Notes:

120% of proposed Risk-Based Capital requirement

250% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement(4)

140% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

100% of required minimum solvency margin

(1)  The Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority has implemented new capital standards which are effective 1 January 2013. The new requirements have 

been assumed to apply from 30 November 2012 in EV and VONB calculations.

(2)  The assumed level of required capital for AIA Hong Kong is also used for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International in the calculation of the 

consolidated EV Results.

(3)  The Ministry of Finance of Indonesia has implemented new capital standards which are effective 1 January 2013. The new requirements have been 

assumed to apply from 1 December 2012 in EV and VONB calculations.

(4)  Following an announcement by the Financial Supervisory Commission on 8 February 2013, the required capital assumed in EV and VONB calculations 

has been changed from 200% to 250% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement effective 1 December 2012.

224

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information5. assumpTIons
5.1 Introduction
This section summarises the assumptions used by the Group to determine the EV as at 30 November 2013 and the VONB for the 12 
months to 30 November 2013 and highlights certain differences in assumptions between the EV as at 30 November 2012 and the 
EV as at 30 November 2013.

5.2 economic assumptions
Investment returns
The Group has set the assumed long-term future returns for fixed income assets to reflect its view of expected returns having 
regard to historical returns, estimates of long-term forward rates from yields available on government bonds and current bond 
yields. In determining returns on fixed income assets the Group allows for the risk of default, and this allowance varies by the credit 
rating of the underlying asset.

Where these long-term views of investment return assumptions differ from current market yields on existing fixed income assets 
such that there would be a significant impact on value, an adjustment was made to make some allowance for the current market 
yields. In these cases, in calculating the VIF, adjustment was made to the investment return assumptions such that the investment 
returns on existing fixed income assets were set consistently with the current market yield on these assets for their full term, to be 
consistent with the valuation of the assets backing the policy liabilities.

The Group has set the equity return assumptions by reference to the return on 10-year government bonds, allowing for an internal 
assessment of equity risk premia that vary by territory.

For each Business Unit, the non-linked portfolio is divided into a number of distinct product groups, and the returns for each of 
these product groups have been derived by considering current and future targeted asset allocations and associated investment 
returns for major investment classes.

For unit-linked business, fund growth assumptions have been determined based on actual fund mixes at the valuation date and 
expected long-term returns for major asset classes.

risk discount rates
The risk discount rates for each Business Unit can be considered as the sum of the appropriate risk-free interest rate, to reflect the 
time value of money, and a risk margin to make allowance for the risk profile of the business.

The Group has generally set the risk discount rates to be equal to the estimated cost of equity capital for each Business Unit within 
the Group. The cost of equity capital is derived using an estimated long-term risk-free interest rate, an equity risk premium and a 
market risk factor. In some cases, adjustments have been made to reflect territorial or Business Unit-specific factors.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

225

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION5. assumpTIons (continued)
5.2 economic assumptions (continued)
risk discount rates (continued)
Table 5.1 summarises the risk discount rates and assumed long-term investment returns for the major asset classes for each 
Business Unit as at 30 November 2013. The investment returns on existing fixed income assets were set consistently with 
the market yields on these assets. Note that VONB results were calculated based on start-of-quarter economic assumptions 
consistent with the measurement at point of sale. The same risk discount rates were used for all the EV Results shown in Section 
1 and Section 2 of this report. In particular, for the branches of AIA Co. and AIA International, the consolidated EV Results reflecting 
the Hong Kong reserving and capital requirements were calculated using the branch-specific risk discount rates shown in the 
table. The present value of unallocated Group Office expenses was calculated using the AIA Hong Kong risk discount rate. The 
investment returns shown are gross of tax and investment expenses.

Table 5.1
Risk discount rates and long-term investment return assumptions by Business Unit (%)

Business Unit

Risk discount rates

10-year government bonds

Local equities

As at 
30 Nov 
2013

7.75

9.75

7.25

13.00

9.75

8.75

8.25

11.50

6.75

6.75

19.00

7.75

9.25

14.80

As at 
30 Nov 
2012

7.75

10.00

7.25

13.50

9.75

8.75

8.25

12.25

7.00

7.00

n/a(3)

7.75

9.50

16.00

As at 
30 Nov 
2013

As at 
30 Nov 
2012

3.37

3.74

2.68

6.50

3.85

4.20

3.99

4.00

2.23

2.23

13.33

1.48

3.87

9.00

3.37

3.74

2.43

6.50

3.85

4.20

3.99

5.25

1.93

1.93

n/a(3)

1.48

3.87

10.20

As at 
30 Nov 
2013

7.15

9.49

7.73

11.25

7.19

8.75

n/a(2)

9.16

7.00

7.00

15.00

6.62

9.62

14.80

As at 
30 Nov 
2012

7.15

9.74

7.73

11.25

7.19

8.09

n/a(2)

10.41

7.25

7.25

n/a(3)

6.62

9.87

16.00

AIA Australia

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong(1)

AIA Indonesia 

(Rupiah-denominated 

  business)

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA New Zealand

Philam Life 

(Peso-denominated 

  business)

AIA Singapore 
  – Brunei business

AIA Singapore 
  – Singapore business

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Notes:

(1)  The majority of AIA Hong Kong’s assets and liabilities are denominated in US dollars. The 10-year government bond assumption is for US dollar-

denominated bonds.

(2)  The assumed asset allocations do not include equities.

(3)  The Business Unit results have been included in the EV Results since the acquisition completion date of 5 December 2012.

226

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information 
 
5. assumpTIons (continued)
5.3 persistency
Persistency covers the assumptions required, where relevant, for policy lapse (including surrender), premium persistency, premium 
holidays, partial withdrawals and retirement rates for pension products.

Assumptions have been developed by each of the Business Units based on their recent historical experience, and their best 
estimate expectations of current and expected future experience. Persistency assumptions vary by policy year and product type with 
different rates for regular and single premium products.

Where experience for a particular product was not credible enough to allow any meaningful analysis to be performed, experience 
for similar products was used as a basis for future persistency experience assumptions.

In the case of surrenders, the valuation assumes that current surrender value bases will continue to apply in the future.

5.4 expenses
The expense assumptions have been set based on the most recent expense analysis. The purpose of the expense analysis is 
to allocate firstly total expenses between acquisition and maintenance activities, and then to allocate these acquisition and 
maintenance expenses to various product categories to derive unit cost assumptions.

Where the expenses associated with certain activities have been identified as being one-off, these expenses have been excluded 
from the expense analysis.

Expense assumptions have been determined for acquisition and maintenance activities, split by product type, and unit costs 
expressed as a percentage of premium, sum assured and an amount per policy. Where relevant, expense assumptions have been 
calculated per distribution channel.

Expense assumptions do not make allowance for any anticipated future expense savings as a result of any strategic initiatives 
aimed at improving policy administration and claims handling efficiency.

Assumptions for commission rates and other sales-related payments have been set in line with actual experience.

Group office expenses
Group Office expense assumptions have been set, after excluding non-recurring expenses, based on actual acquisition and 
maintenance expenses in the 12-month period to 30 November 2013. The Group Office acquisition expenses have been deducted 
from the VONB. The present value of the projected future Group Office maintenance expenses has been deducted from the Group 
EV. The maintenance expense assumptions in the VONB also allow for the allocation of Group Office expenses.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

227

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION5. assumpTIons (continued)
5.5 expense Inflation
The assumed expense inflation rates are based on expectations of long-term consumer price and salary inflation. The expense 
inflation assumptions are shown in Table 5.2 below.

Table 5.2
Expense inflation assumptions by Business Unit (%)

Business Unit

AIA Australia

AIA Brunei

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Indonesia

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA New Zealand

Philam Life

AIA Singapore

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Note:

As at 
30 November 
2013

As at 
30 November 
2012

3.25

3.25

2.0

2.0

2.0

6.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

3.5

2.0

6.5

1.0

2.5

5.0

2.0

2.0

2.0

6.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

4.5

2.0

n/a(1)

1.0

2.5

5.0

(1)  The Business Unit results have been included in the EV Results since the acquisition completion date of 5 December 2012.

Unallocated Group Office expenses are assumed to inflate by the weighted average of the Business Unit expense inflation rates.

5.6 mortality
Assumptions have been developed by each Business Unit based on their recent historical experience, and their expectations 
of current and expected future experience. Where historical experience is not credible, reference has been made to pricing 
assumptions supplemented by market data, where available.

Mortality assumptions have been expressed as a percentage of either standard industry experience tables or, where experience is 
sufficiently credible, as a percentage of tables that have been developed internally by the Group.

For products that are exposed to longevity risk, an allowance has been made for expected improvements in mortality; otherwise no 
allowance has been made for mortality improvements.

5.7 morbidity
Assumptions have been developed by each Business Unit based on their recent historical experience, and their expectations of 
current and expected future experience. Morbidity rate assumptions have been expressed as a percentage of standard industry 
experience tables or as expected claims ratios.

5.8 reinsurance
Reinsurance assumptions have been developed by each Business Unit based on the reinsurance arrangements in force as at the 
valuation date and the recent historical and expected future experience.

228

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value Information5. assumpTIons (continued)
5.9 policyholder dividends, profit sharing and Interest Crediting
The projected policyholder dividend, profit sharing and interest crediting assumptions set by each Business Unit that have been 
used in calculating the EV Results presented in this report, reflect contractual and regulatory requirements, policyholders’ 
reasonable expectations (where clearly defined) and each Business Unit’s best estimate of future policies, strategies and operations 
consistent with the investment return assumptions used in the EV Results.

Participating fund surpluses have been assumed to be distributed between policyholders and shareholders via future final bonuses 
or at the end of the projection period so that there are no residual assets at the end of the projection period.

5.10 Taxation
The projections of distributable earnings underlying the values presented in this report are net of corporate tax, based on current 
taxation legislation and corporate tax rates. The projected amount of tax payable in any year allows, where relevant, for the benefits 
arising from any tax loss carried forward.

The local corporate tax rates used by each Business Unit are set out in Table 5.3 below.

Table 5.3
Local corporate tax rates by Business Unit (%)

Business Unit

AIA Australia

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong – Hong Kong business

AIA Hong Kong – Macau business

AIA Indonesia

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA New Zealand

Philam Life

AIA Singapore – Brunei business

AIA Singapore – Singapore business

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand(3)

AIA Vietnam

Notes:

As at 
30 November 
2013

As at 
30 November 
2012

30.0

25.0

16.5

12.0

25.0

24.2

25.0 for assessment 
years 2013 to 2015; 
24.0 thereafter(1)

28.0

30.0

20.0

17.0

28.0

17.0

30.0

25.0

16.5

12.0

25.0

24.2

25.0

28.0

30.0

20.0

17.0

n/a(2)

17.0

20.0 for assessment 
years 2013 and 2014; 
30.0 thereafter

25.0 for assessment year 
2013; 22.0 for assessment 
years 2014 and 2015; 
20.0 thereafter(4)

23.0 for assessment 
year 2012; 20.0 for 
assessment years 2013 
and 2014; 30.0 thereafter

25.0

(1)  The Malaysian Government announced a corporate tax rate change in the Federal Government Budget 2014 which will be effective from assessment year 

2016.

(2)  The Business Unit results have been included in the EV Results since the acquisition completion date of 5 December 2012.

(3)  An extension of the current tax rate reduction beyond the 2014 assessment year remains uncertain upon expiry of the 2011 Royal Decree. The best 

estimate corporate tax rates for future assessment years will continue to be evaluated.

(4)  The amended law on corporate income tax has been passed and will be effective 1 January 2014.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

229

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION5. assumpTIons (continued)
5.10 Taxation (continued)
The tax assumptions used in the valuation reflect the local corporate tax rates set out above. Where applicable, tax payable on 
investment income has been reflected in projected investment returns.

The EV of the Group as at 30 November 2013 is calculated after deducting any remittance taxes payable on the anticipated 
distribution of both the ANW and VIF.

Where territories have an imputation credit system in place, e.g. Australia, no allowance has been made for the value of the 
imputation credits in the results shown in this report.

5.11 statutory valuation Bases
The projection of regulatory liabilities at future points in time assumes the continuation of the reserving methodologies used to 
value policyholder liabilities as at the valuation date.

5.12 product Charges
Management fees and product charges reflected in the VIF and VONB have been assumed to follow existing scales.

5.13 foreign exchange
The EV as at 30 November 2013 and 30 November 2012 have been translated into US dollar using exchange rates as at each 
valuation date. The VONB results shown in this report have been translated into US dollar using the corresponding average 
exchange rates for each quarter. The other components of the EV profit shown in the analysis of movement in EV have been 
translated using average exchange rates for the period.

6. evenTs afTer The reporTInG perIod
On 19 December 2013, the Group entered into an agreement with Citibank to enter into an exclusive, long-term bancassurance 
partnership for a 15-year period that encompasses 11 markets in the Asia-Pacific region. The markets covered are: Hong Kong, 
Singapore, Thailand, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Australia, India and Korea. The agreement provided for a 
payment of US$800 million to Citibank upon signing, together with future payments during the contract term.

On 21 February 2014, the Board of Directors proposed a final dividend of 28.62 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 24.67 Hong Kong 
cents per share).

230

AIA GROUP LIMITED

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSupplementary Embedded Value InformationanalysIs of reGIsTered shareholder aCCounTs

Size of registered shareholding

1,000 shares or below

1,001 – 5,000 shares

5,001 – 10,000 shares

10,001 – 100,000 shares

100,001 shares or above

30 November 2013

Number of 
shareholder 
accounts

% of total 
number of 
shareholder 
accounts

19,678

4,216

437

222

7

80.12

17.17

1.78

0.90

0.03

24,560

100.00

Number of 
shares

7,395,876

9,694,433

3,319,400

5,176,800

12,018,413,492

12,044,000,001

% of total 
number of 
shares

0.06

0.08

0.03

0.04

99.79

100.00

fInanCIal Calendar
Announcement of 2013 Full Year Results 
Book Close Period for 2014 Annual General Meeting 
2014 Annual General Meeting 
Ex-dividend date for proposed 2013 Final Dividend 
Record date for proposed 2013 Final Dividend 
Payment date for proposed 2013 Final Dividend 
Announcement of 2014 Interim Results 

21 February 2014
5 May 2014 to 9 May 2014 (both days inclusive)
9 May 2014
13 May 2014
14 May 2014
29 May 2014
25 July 2014

annual General meeTInG
The 2014 Annual General Meeting will be held at 11:00 a.m. Hong Kong time on Friday, 9 May 2014 at the Grand Ballroom, 2/F, 
Hotel Nikko Hongkong, 72 Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong. Details of the business to be transacted at the AGM 
are set out in the circular to the shareholders of the Company to be sent together with this Annual Report.

Details of voting results at the AGM can be found on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange at www.hkex.com.hk and the 
Company’s website at www.aia.com on Friday, 9 May 2014.

fInal dIvIdend
The Board has recommended a final dividend of 28.62 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 24.67 Hong Kong cents per share) in 
respect of the year ended 30 November 2013. If approved, the proposed final dividend together with the interim dividend will 
represent a total dividend of 42.55 Hong Kong cents per share (2012: 37.00 Hong Kong cents per share) in respect of the year ended 
30 November 2013.

Subject to shareholders’ approval at the AGM, the final dividend will be payable on Thursday, 29 May 2014 to shareholders whose 
names appear on the register of members of the Company at the close of business on Wednesday, 14 May 2014.

share reGIsTrar
If you have any enquiries relating to your shareholding, please contact the Company’s share registrar at the contact given below:

Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited
17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Telephone: 852 2862 8555
Email: hkinfo@computershare.com.hk
Website: www.computershare.com

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

231

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONInformation for ShareholdersOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONeleCTronIC CommunICaTIons
Shareholders are encouraged to elect to receive shareholder documents electronically. You may at any time send written notice to 
the Company c/o the Company’s share registrar or via email at aia.ecom@computershare.com.hk specifying your name, address 
and request to change your choice of language or means of receipt of all shareholder documents. This provides environmental 
benefits as well as reducing printing and distribution costs.

annual reporT
This Annual Report is printed in English and Chinese and is available at the website of the Company. If you would like to have a 
printed version of this Annual Report, please contact the Company’s share registrar using the contact details given below:

Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited
17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Email: aia.ecom@computershare.com.hk

The Company makes every effort to ensure consistency between the Chinese and English version of this Annual Report. However, 
in the event of any inconsistency, the English version shall prevail.

InvesTmenT CommunITy and news medIa
Enquiries may be directed to:

Investment Community

Paul Lloyd

Feon Lee

Joel Lieginger

+852 2832 6160

+852 2832 4704

+852 2832 4703

News Media

Stephen Thomas

Sonia Tsang

Emerald Ng

+852 2832 6178

+852 2832 1868

+852 2832 4720

forward-looKInG sTaTemenTs
This document contains certain forward-looking statements relating to the Group that are based on the beliefs of the Group’s 
management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Group’s management. These forward-
looking statements are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include, 
without limitation, statements relating to the Group’s business prospects, future developments, trends and conditions in the 
industry and geographical markets in which the Group operates, its strategies, plans, objectives and goals, its ability to control 
costs, statements relating to prices, volumes, operations, margins, overall market trends, risk management and exchange rates.

When used in this document, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “going forward”, “intend”, “may”, 
“ought to”, “plan”, “project”, “seek”, “should”, “will”, “would” and similar expressions, as they relate to the Group or the Group’s 
management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the Group’s views as 
of the date hereof with respect to future events and are not a guarantee of future performance or developments. You are strongly 
cautioned that reliance on any forward-looking statements involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results 
and events may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, 
including any changes in the laws, rules and regulations relating to any aspects of the Group’s business operations, general 
economic, market and business conditions, including capital market developments, changes or volatility in interest rates, foreign 
exchange rates, equity prices or other rates or prices, the actions and developments of the Group’s competitors and the effects 
of competition in the insurance industry on the demand for, and price of, the Group’s products and services, various business 
opportunities that the Group may or may not pursue, changes in population growth and other demographic trends, including 
mortality, morbidity and longevity rates, persistency levels, the Group’s ability to identify, measure, monitor and control risks in 
the Group’s business, including its ability to manage and adapt its overall risk profile and risk management practices, its ability 
to properly price its products and services and establish reserves for future policy benefits and claims, seasonal fluctuations 
and factors beyond the Group’s control. Subject to the requirements of the Listing Rules, the Group does not intend to update 
or otherwise revise the forward-looking statements in this document, whether as a result of new information, future events or 
otherwise. As a result of these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events and circumstances 
discussed in this document might not occur in the way the Group expects, or at all. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance 
on any forward-looking information or statements. All forward-looking statements in this document are qualified by reference to 
the cautionary statements set forth in this section.

232

AIA GROUP LIMITED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONInformation for Shareholdersregistered office
35/F, AIA Central
No. 1 Connaught Road Central
Hong Kong

website
www.aia.com

Company secretary
Ms. Wing-Nga Lai, FCIS, FCS

authorised representatives
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker
Ms. Wing-Nga Lai

share registrar
Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited
17M Floor
Hopewell Centre
183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai
Hong Kong

principal Bankers
Citibank, N.A.
Standard Chartered Bank

auditor
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Certified Public Accountants

Board of dIreCTors

non-executive Chairman and
non-executive director
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

executive director
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

Independent non-executive directors
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So
Mr. Chung-Kong Chow
Dr. Qin Xiao
Mr. John Barrie Harrison
Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo
Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee
Tan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya (with effect from 24 February 2014)

audit Committee
Mr. John Barrie Harrison (Chairman)
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So
Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

nomination Committee
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse (Chairman)
Mr. Chung-Kong Chow
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So
Dr. Qin Xiao
Mr. John Barrie Harrison
Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo
Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee
Tan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya (with effect from 24 February 2014)

remuneration Committee
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So (Chairman)
Dr. Qin Xiao
Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo
Tan Sri Mohamed Azman Yahya (with effect from 24 February 2014)
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

risk Committee
Mr. Chung-Kong Chow (Chairman)
Mr. John Barrie Harrison
Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Mr. Mark Edward Tucker

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

233

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCorporate InformationOVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONAccident and health (A&H)
 insurance products

A&H  insurance  products  provide  morbidity  or  sickness  benefits  and  include  health, 
disability,  critical  illness  and  accident  cover.  A&H  insurance  products  are  sold  both  as 
stand-alone policies and as riders that can be attached to our individual life insurance 
policies.

Acquisition cost

(of a financial instrument)

The  amount  of  cash  or  cash  equivalents  paid  or  the  fair  value  of  other  consideration 
provided, in order to acquire an asset at the date of its acquisition.

Active agent

An agent who sells at least one life insurance policy per month.

Active market

A market in which all the following conditions exist:

• 

the items traded within the market are homogeneous;

•  willing buyers and sellers can normally be found at any time; and

•  prices are available to the public.

A financial instrument is regarded as quoted in an active market if quoted prices are readily 
and regularly available from an exchange, dealer, broker, industry group, pricing service or 
regulatory  agency,  and  those  prices  represent  actual  and  regularly  occurring  market 
transactions on an arm’s length basis.

ANW is the market value of assets in excess of the assets backing the policy reserves and 
other liabilities of the life (and similar) business of AIA, plus the IFRS equity value (excluding 
the value of intangible assets) of other activities, such as general insurance business. It 
excludes any amounts not attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited. The market 
value  of  investment  property  and  property  held  for  use  used  to  determine  the  ANW  is 
based on the fair value disclosed in AIA’s IFRS financial statements as at the valuation 
date. It is AIA’s policy to obtain external property valuations annually except in the case of a 
discrete event occurring in the interim that has a significant impact on the fair value of the 
properties.

Adjusted net worth (ANW)

AGM

2014 Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held at 11:00 a.m. Hong Kong time on 
Friday, 9 May 2014.

AIA or the Group

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries.

AIA Co.

AIA International

AIA Vitality

AIG

ALICO

234

AIA GROUP LIMITED

AIA Company Limited (formerly known as American International Assurance Company, 
Limited), a subsidiary of the Company.

AIA  International  Limited  (formerly  known  as  American  International  Assurance 
Company (Bermuda) Limited), a subsidiary of AIA Co.

A  science-backed  wellness  programme  that  provides  participants  with  the  knowledge, 
tools and motivation to help them achieve their personal health goals. The programme is 
a joint venture between AIA and Discovery Limited, a specialist insurer headquartered in 
South Africa.

American International Group, Inc.

American Life Insurance Company.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGlossary 
 
Amortised cost

The  amount  at  which  the  financial  asset  or  financial  liability  is  measured  at  initial 
recognition minus principal repayments, plus or minus the cumulative amortisation using 
the effective interest method of any difference between the initial amount and the maturity 
amount, and minus any reduction for impairment or uncollectibility.

ANI

Aviva NDB Insurance.

Annualised new premium (ANP)

ANP represents 100 per cent of annualised first year premiums and 10 per cent of single 
premiums, before reinsurance ceded. It is an internally used measure of new business 
sales or activity for all entities within AIA. ANP excludes new business of pension business, 
personal lines and motor insurance.

Annuity

ASPP

A savings product where the accumulated amount can be paid out to the customer in a 
variety of income streams.

Agent Share Purchase Plan.

Asset-liability management 

ALM is the management of the relative risk profiles of assets and liabilities.

(ALM)

Available for sale (AFS) 

financial assets

Financial assets that may be sold before maturity and that are used to back insurance and 
investment contract liabilities and shareholders’ equity, and which are not managed on a 
fair value basis. Non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available for sale or 
are not classified as loans and receivables or as at fair value through profit or loss. Available 
for sale financial instruments are measured at fair value, with movements in fair value 
recorded in other comprehensive income.

Bancassurance

The distribution of insurance products through banks or other financial institutions.

Claims risk

Common control

The possibility that the frequency or severity of claims arising from insurance products 
exceeds the levels assumed when the products were priced.

A business combination involving entities under common control is a business combination 
in which all of the combining entities or businesses are ultimately controlled by the same 
party or parties both before and after the business combination.

The Company

AIA Group Limited.

Corporate Governance Code

Corporate Governance Code set out in Appendix 14 to the Listing Rules.

Cost of capital (CoC)

CoC is calculated as the face value of the required capital as at the valuation date less the 
present value of the net-of-tax investment return on the shareholder assets backing the 
required capital and the present value of projected releases from the assets backing the 
required capital. Where the required capital may be covered by policyholder assets such as 
surplus assets in a participating fund, there is no associated cost of capital included in the 
VIF or VONB.

Credit risk

The risk that third parties fail to meet their obligations to the Group when they fall due.

Currency risk

A substantial part of the risk that asset or liability values, cash flows, income or expenses 
will be affected by changes in exchange rates.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

235

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
Deferred acquisition costs 

(DAC)

Deferred origination costs

(DOC)

DAC are expenses of an insurer which are incurred in connection with the acquisition of 
new  insurance  contracts  or  the  renewal  of  existing  insurance  contracts.  They  include 
commissions and other variable sales inducements and the direct costs of issuing the 
policy, such as underwriting and other policy issue expenses. These costs are deferred and 
expensed to the consolidated income statement on a systematic basis over the life of the 
policy. DAC assets are tested for recoverability at least annually.

Origination costs are expenses which are incurred in connection with the origination of 
new investment contracts or the renewal of existing investment contracts. For contracts 
that involve the provision of investment management services, these include commissions 
and  other  incremental  expenses  directly  related  to  the  issue  of  each  new  contract. 
Origination costs on contracts with investment management services are deferred and 
recognised as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial position and expensed to 
the consolidated income statement on a systematic basis in line with the revenue generated 
by the investment management services provided. Such assets are tested for recoverability.

Defined benefit plans

Post-employment benefit plans under which amounts to be paid or services to be provided 
as post-retirement benefits are determined by reference to a formula usually based on 
employees’ earnings and/or years of service.

Defined contribution plans

Post-employment  benefit  plans  under  which  amounts  to  be  paid  as  post-retirement 
benefits are determined by contributions to a fund together with earnings thereon. The 
Group has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the fund does 
not hold sufficient assets to pay the post-retirement benefits.

Discretionary participation

features (DPF)

A contractual right to receive, as a supplement to guaranteed benefits, additional benefits 
or bonuses:

• 

that are likely to be a significant portion of the total contractual benefits;

•  whose amount or timing is contractually at the discretion of the Group; and

• 

that are contractually based on:

– 

the performance of a specified pool of contracts or a specified type of contract;

–  realised and/or unrealised investment returns on a specified pool of assets held by 

the issuer; or

– 

the profit or loss of the company, fund or other entity that issues the contract.

Effective interest method

A method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial asset or financial liability and of 
allocating the interest income or expense over the relevant period. The effective interest 
rate  is  the  rate  that  exactly  discounts  future  cash  payments  or  receipts  through  the 
expected life of the financial instrument, or when appropriate, a shorter period, to the net 
carrying value of the financial asset or financial liability.

Embedded value (EV)

An  actuarially  determined  estimate  of  the  economic  value  of  a  life  insurance  business 
based on a particular set of assumptions as to future experience, excluding any economic 
value attributable to future new business.

EPS

Earnings per share.

236

AIA GROUP LIMITED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGlossary 
 
 
Equity attributable to 
  shareholders of the Company 
  on the embedded value basis 

(EV Equity)

ESPP

ExCo

Fair value

EV Equity is the total of embedded value, goodwill and other intangible assets attributable 
to shareholders of the Company.

Employee Share Purchase Plan.

The Executive Committee of the Group.

The  amount  for  which  an  asset  could  be  exchanged,  or  a  liability  settled,  between 
knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.

Fair value through profit or loss 

(FVTPL)

Financial  assets  that  are  held  to  back  unit-linked  contracts  and  participating  funds  or 
financial assets and liabilities that are held for trading. A financial asset or financial liability 
that is measured at fair value in the statement of financial position with gains and losses 
arising  from  movements  in  fair  value  being  presented  in  the  consolidated  income 
statement as a component of the profit or loss for the year.

First year premiums

First year premiums are the premiums received in the first year of a recurring premium 
policy. As such, they provide an indication of the volume of new policies sold.

FRC

Financial Risk Committee.

Free surplus

ANW in excess of the required capital.

Functional currency

The currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates.

GAMA International

A worldwide association serving the professional development needs of field leaders in the 
insurance, investment and financial services industry.

Goodwill

Group insurance

Group Office

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of an acquisition over the fair value 
of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets including VOBA of the acquired subsidiary, 
associate or joint venture at the date of acquisition.

An insurance scheme whereby individual participants are covered by a master contract 
held by a single group or entity on their behalf.

Group Office includes the activities of the Group Corporate Centre segment consisting of 
the  Group’s  corporate  functions,  shared  services  and  eliminations  of  intragroup 
transactions.

HIBOR

Hong Kong Interbank Offered Rate.

High-net-worth (HNW) individuals

Individuals who have investable assets of US$1.0 million or more.

HKFRS

HKOCI

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards.

Hong Kong Office of the Commissioner of Insurance.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC; in the context of our reportable 
segments, Hong Kong includes Macau.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

237

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
Hong Kong Companies Ordinance/
  Existing Companies Ordinance

The Companies Ordinance (Laws of Hong Kong, Chapter 32), as amended from time to 
time.

Hong Kong Insurance Companies
  Ordinance (HKICO)

The Insurance Companies Ordinance (Laws of Hong Kong, Chapter 41) (HKICO) provides a 
legislative  framework  for  the  prudential  supervision  of  the  insurance  industry  in  Hong 
Kong. The objectives of the HKICO are to protect the interests of the insuring public and to 
promote the general stability of the insurance industry.

Hong Kong Stock Exchange

The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.

(HKSE)

IAS

IASB

IFA

IFRS

International Accounting Standards.

International Accounting Standards Board.

Independent financial adviser.

Standards and interpretations adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board 
(IASB) comprising:

• 

International Financial Reporting Standards;

• 

International Accounting Standards; and

• 

Interpretations  developed  by  the  International  Financial  Reporting  Interpretations 
Committee (IFRIC) or the former Standing Interpretations Committee (SIC).

ING Malaysia

ING Management Holdings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.

Insurance contract

Insurance risk

A contract under which the insurer accepts significant insurance risk from the policyholder 
by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if specified uncertain future events adversely 
affect the policyholder.

The potential loss resulting from inappropriate underwriting, mispricing, adverse expense, 
lapse, mortality and morbidity experiences. Under IFRS, insurance risk means risk, other 
than financial risk, transferred from the holder of a contract to the issuer.

Interactive Point of Sales (iPoS)

iPoS is a secure, mobile point-of-sale technology that features a paperless sales process 
from the completion of the customer’s financial-needs analysis to proposal generation 
with electronic biometric signature of life insurance applications on tablet devices.

Investment contract

An investment contract is an insurance policy that, whilst structured and regulated as a 
contract of insurance, does not meet the accounting definition of an insurance contract 
because it does not transfer significant insurance risk.

Investment experience

Realised  and  unrealised  investment  gains  and  losses  recognised  in  the  consolidated 
income statement.

Investment income

Investment income comprises interest income, dividend income and rental income.

Investment property

Property (land and/or a building or part of a building) held to earn rentals or for capital 
appreciation or both rather than for use by AIA.

238

AIA GROUP LIMITED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGlossary 
Investment return

Investment return consists of investment income plus investment experience.

IPO

Lapse risk

Initial public offering.

The risk that, having purchased an insurance policy from AIA, customers either surrender 
the policy or cease paying premiums on it and so the expected stream of future premiums 
ceases.  Lapse  risk  is  taken  into  account  in  formulating  projections  of  future  premium 
revenues, for example when testing for liability adequacy and the recoverability of deferred 
acquisition and origination costs.

LEED

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

Liability adequacy testing

An  assessment  of  whether  the  carrying  amount  of  an  insurance  liability  needs  to  be 
increased or the carrying amount of related deferred acquisition and origination costs or 
related intangible assets decreased based on a review of future cash flows.

LIBOR

London Interbank Offered Rate.

Life Insurance and Market
  Research Association (LIMRA)

A worldwide research, consulting and professional development organisation, established 
to  help  its  member  companies  from  life  insurance  and  financial  services  industries 
improve their marketing and distribution effectiveness.

Liquidity risk

The risk of having insufficient cash available to meet payment obligations to counterparties 
when they fall due.

Listing Rules

Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.

LTI

Market risk

Long-term incentive.

The risk of loss from adverse movements in the value of assets owing to market factors, 
including changes in interest and foreign exchange rates, as well as movements in credit, 
equity and property prices.

Million Dollar Round Table

(MDRT)

MDRT is a global professional trade association of life insurance and financial services 
professionals that recognises significant sales achievements and high service standards.

Model Code

Monetary items

Net book value

Net funds to Group Corporate 
  Centre

Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers set out in Appendix 
10 to the Listing Rules.

Units  of  currency  held  and  assets  and  liabilities  to  be  received  or  paid  in  a  fixed  or 
determinable number of units of currency.

The net value of an asset. Equal to its original cost (its book value) minus depreciation and 
amortisation.

In presenting net capital in/(out) flows to reportable segments, capital outflows consist of 
dividends  and  profit  distributions  to  the  Group  Corporate  Centre  segment  and  capital 
inflows  consist  of  capital  injections  into  reportable  segments  by  the  Group  Corporate 
Centre segment. For the Company, net capital in/(out) flows reflect the net amount received 
from  shareholders  by  way  of  capital  contributions  less  amounts  distributed  by  way  of 
dividends.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

239

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Net profit

Net  profit  is  calculated  by  subtracting  a  company’s  total  expenses  from  total  revenue, 
including share of loss from associates and after tax.

New Companies Ordinance

A substantial part of the Companies Ordinance (Laws of Hong Kong, Chapter 622) which 
will come into force on 3 March 2014.

Non-controlling interests

The equity in a subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent. Also referred to 
as “minority interests”.

Non-participating life assurance

Contracts of insurance with no DPF.

n/a

n/m

OPAT

Operating profit before tax and
  after tax

Not available.

Not meaningful.

Operating profit after tax attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited.

The Group defines operating profit before and after tax excluding investment experience; 
investment  income  and  investment  management  expenses  related  to  unit-linked 
contracts;  corresponding  changes  in  insurance  and  investment  contract  benefits  in 
respect of unit-linked contracts and participating fund; changes in third-party interests in 
consolidated  investment  funds,  policyholders’  share  of  tax  relating  to  the  change  in 
insurance and investment contract liabilities and other significant items of non-operating 
income and expenditure.

Operating return on allocated 
  equity

Operating return on allocated equity is calculated as operating profit after tax attributable 
to  shareholders  of  the  Company,  expressed  as  a  percentage  of  the  simple  average  of 
opening and closing total equity attributable to shareholders of the Company, less the fair 
value and foreign currency translation reserves, and adjusted for intercompany debt.

Operating segment

A component of an entity that:

•  engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses;

•  whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the entity’s chief operating decision-
maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess 
its performance; and

• 

for which discrete financial information is available.

Operational risk

The potential direct or indirect loss (including reputational loss) resulting from inadequate 
or failed internal processes, personnel and systems; or from external events.

ORC

OTC

Operational Risk Committee.

Over-the-counter.

Other comprehensive income

Items of income and expense that form part of total comprehensive income but, as required 
or permitted by IFRS, do not form part of profit or loss for the year, such as fair value gains 
and losses on available for sale financial assets.

240

AIA GROUP LIMITED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGlossaryParticipating funds

Participating policies

Participating funds are distinct portfolios where the policyholders have a contractual right 
to receive at the discretion of the insurer additional benefits based on factors such as the 
performance of a pool of assets held within the fund, as a supplement to any guaranteed 
benefits. The Group may either have discretion as to the timing of the allocation of those 
benefits  to  participating  policyholders  or  may  have  discretion  as  to  the  timing  and  the 
amount of the additional benefits.

Participating policies are contracts with DPF. Participating policies may either be written 
within  participating  funds  or  may  be  written  within  the  Company’s  general  account, 
whereby the investment performance is determined for a group of assets or contracts, or 
by  reference  to  the  Company’s  overall  investment  performance  and  other  factors.  The 
latter is referred to by the Group as “other participating business”. Whether participating 
policies are written within a separate participating fund or not largely depends on matters 
of local practice and regulation.

Persistency

The percentage of insurance policies remaining in force from month to month in the past 
12 months, as measured by premiums.

Philam Life

The Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company, a subsidiary of AIA Co.

Policyholder and shareholder

Investments other than those held to back unit-linked contracts.

investments

Policyholder dividends

Policyholder  dividends  are  the  means  of  participating  policyholders  receiving  the  non-
guaranteed element of the discretionary benefits, through which they participate in the 
investment return of the reference portfolio or pool of assets.

pps

PRC

Percentage points.

The People’s Republic of China.

Property held for use

Property held for use in AIA’s business.

Protection gap

Puttable liabilities

The  difference  between  the  resources  needed  and  resources  available  to  maintain 
dependants’ living standards after the death of the primary wage-earner.

A puttable financial instrument is one in which the holder of the instrument has the right 
to  put  the  instrument  back  to  the  issuer  for  cash  (or  another  financial  asset).  Units  in 
investment  funds  such  as  mutual  funds  and  open-ended  investment  companies  are 
typically puttable instruments. As these can be put back to the issuer for cash, the non-
controlling interest in any such funds which have to be consolidated by AIA are treated as 
financial liabilities.

RCSA

Risk and Control Self-Assessment.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

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OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Regular premiums

Regular premiums represent the total of first year premiums and renewal premiums. First 
year premiums are the premiums received in the first year of a recurring premium policy. 
As such, they provide an indication of the volume of new policies sold. Renewal premiums 
are the premiums receivable in subsequent years of a recurring premium policy.

Regulatory capital

A minimum solvency margin requirement set by the HKICO that an insurer must meet in 
order to be authorised to carry on insurance business in or from Hong Kong.

Related parties

Related parties may be related to AIA for any of the following reasons:

• 

they are directly or indirectly controlled by an AIA entity;

•  an AIA entity has significant influence on the party;

• 

they are in a joint venture arrangement with an AIA entity;

• 

they are part of AIA’s key management or a close member of the family of any key 
management or any entity that is controlled by these persons; or

• 

they are a post-retirement benefit plan for the employees of AIA.

A repurchase transaction involves the sale of financial investments by AIA to a counterparty, 
subject to a simultaneous agreement to repurchase those securities at a later date at an 
agreed price. Accordingly, for accounting purposes, the securities are retained on AIA’s 
consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  for  the  life  of  the  transaction,  valued  in 
accordance with AIA’s policy for assets of that nature. The proceeds of the transaction are 
reported in the caption “Obligations under securities lending and repurchase agreements”. 
Interest expense from repo transactions is reported within finance costs in the consolidated 
income statement.

Repurchase agreements 

(repos)

Reverse repurchase agreements

(reverse repos)

A  reverse  repurchase  transaction  (reverse  repo)  involves  the  purchase  of  financial 
investments with a simultaneous obligation to sell the assets at a future date, at an agreed 
price.  Such  transactions  are  reported  within  “Loans  and  deposits”  in  the  consolidated 
statement  of  financial  position.  The  interest  income  from  reverse  repo  transactions  is 
reported within investment return in the consolidated income statement.

Rider

A  supplemental  plan  that  can  be  attached  to  a  basic  insurance  policy,  typically  with 
payment of additional premium.

Risk-adjusted return

The return produced by an investment after accounting for the risks involved in producing 
that return.

Risk appetite

Risk appetite is the amount of risk that companies are willing to take in order to achieve 
their business targets.

RAS

Risk Appetite Statement.

Risk-Based Capital (RBC)

RBC represents an amount of capital based on an assessment of risks that a company 
should hold to protect customers against adverse developments.

RMF

Risk Management Framework.

242

AIA GROUP LIMITED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGlossary 
 
RSUs

Restricted share units.

RSU Scheme

Restricted Share Unit Scheme.

Securities lending

SFO

Shadow accounting

Securities lending consists of the loan of certain securities within the Group’s financial 
investments to third parties on a short-term basis. The loaned securities continue to be 
recognised  within  the  appropriate  financial  investment  classifications  in  the  Group’s 
consolidated statement of financial position.

The Securities and Futures Ordinance (Laws of Hong Kong, Chapter 571), as amended 
from time to time.

Investment experience (realised and unrealised investment gains and losses) has a direct 
effect on the measurement of insurance contract liabilities and related deferred acquisition 
costs  and  intangible  assets,  such  as  VOBA  (see  below).  Shadow  accounting  permits 
adjustments to insurance contract liabilities and the related assets to be reflected in other 
comprehensive  income  to  match  the  extent  to  which  unrealised  investment  gains  and 
losses are recognised in other comprehensive income.

Singapore

The Republic of Singapore; in the context of our reportable segments, Singapore includes 
Brunei.

Single premium

Single lump sum payment from a policyholder.

SME

SO Scheme

Solvency

Solvency ratio

Small-and-medium sized enterprise.

Share Option Scheme.

The  ability  of  an  insurance  company  to  satisfy  its  policyholder  benefits  and  claims 
obligations.

The ratio of actual capital to the minimum capital requirement applicable to the insurer 
pursuant to relevant regulations.

Statement of financial position

Formerly referred to as the balance sheet.

Strategic asset allocation (SAA)

SAA is the setting of strategic asset allocation targets, based on long-term capital market 
assumptions, to meet long-term requirements of the insurance business and shareholders.

Strategic risk

Stress tests

The risk of unexpected changes in the regulatory, market and competitive environment in 
which the Group operates.

The application of shocks to the assumptions underlying valuations. Stress tests are used 
to  observe  the  resilience  of  the  Company  to  stress  events  and  the  volatility  of  those 
valuations.

Takaful

Islamic insurance which is based on the principles of mutual assistance and risk sharing.

Total weighted premium income

(TWPI)

TWPI consists of 100 per cent of regular premiums and 10 per cent of single premiums, 
before reinsurance ceded. As such it provides an indication of AIA’s longer-term business 
volumes as it smoothes the peaks and troughs in single premiums.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

243

OVERVIEWFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Underwriting

The process of examining, accepting or rejecting insurance risks, and classifying those 
accepted, in order to charge an appropriate premium for each accepted risk.

Unit-linked investments

Financial investments held to back unit-linked contracts.

Unit-linked products

Universal life

Value of business acquired

(VOBA)

Unit-linked products are insurance products where the policy value is linked to the value 
of underlying investments (such as collective investment schemes, internal investment 
pools or other property) or fluctuations in the value of underlying investment or indices. 
Investment risk associated with the product is usually borne by the policyholder. Insurance 
coverage, investment and administration services are provided for which the charges are 
deducted from the investment fund assets. Benefits payable will depend on the price of the 
units prevailing at the time of death of the insured or surrender or maturity of the policy, 
subject to surrender charges.

A  type  of  insurance  product  where  the  customer  pays  flexible  premiums,  subject  to 
specified limits, which are accumulated in an account balance which are credited with 
interest  at  a  rate  either  set  by  the  insurer  or  reflecting  returns  on  a  pool  of  matching 
assets.  The  customer  may  vary  the  death  benefit  and  the  contract  may  permit  the 
policyholder to withdraw the account balance, typically subject to a surrender charge.

VOBA in respect of a portfolio of long-term insurance and investment contracts acquired 
is recognised as an asset, calculated using discounted cash flow techniques, reflecting all 
future cash flows expected to be realised from the portfolio. VOBA is amortised over the 
estimated life of the contracts in the acquired portfolio on a systematic basis. The rate of 
amortisation  reflects  the  profile  of  the  additional  value  of  the  business  acquired.  The 
carrying value of VOBA is reviewed annually for impairment and any impairment is charged 
to the consolidated income statement.

Value of in-force business (VIF)

VIF is the present value of projected after-tax statutory profits emerging in the future from 
the current in-force business less the cost arising from holding the required capital (CoC) 
to support the in-force business.

VONB  is  the  present  value,  measured  at  point  of  sale,  of  projected  after-tax  statutory 
profits emerging in the future from new business sold in the period less the cost of holding 
required capital in excess of regulatory reserves to support this business. VONB for AIA is 
stated after adjustments to reflect applicable Hong Kong reserving and capital requirements 
and the after-tax value of unallocated Group Office expenses. VONB by market is stated 
before adjustments to reflect applicable Hong Kong reserving and capital requirements 
and unallocated Group Office expenses, and presented on a local statutory basis.

VONB excluding pension business, expressed as a percentage of ANP. VONB margin for 
AIA  is  stated  after  adjustments  to  reflect  applicable  Hong  Kong  reserving  and  capital 
requirements and the after-tax value of unallocated Group Office expenses. VONB margin 
by  market  is  stated  before  adjustments  to  reflect  applicable  Hong  Kong  reserving  and 
capital requirements and unallocated Group Office expenses, and presented on a local 
statutory basis.

When a payment is made to a party in another country, the laws of the payer’s country may 
require withholding tax to be applied to the payment. International withholding tax may be 
required for payments of dividends or interest. A double tax treaty may reduce the amount 
of withholding tax required, depending upon the jurisdiction in which the recipient is tax 
resident.

Working  capital  comprises  debt  and  equity  securities,  deposits  and  cash  and  cash 
equivalents held at the Group Corporate Centre. These liquid assets are available to invest 
in building the Group’s business operations.

Value of new business (VONB)

VONB margin

Withholding tax

Working capital

244

AIA GROUP LIMITED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGlossary 
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